CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is taking an exciting step toward reshaping its student housing landscape with the planned demolition of 14 aging structures, including 13 houses along the former Greek Row. The move clears the way for a proposed new development—Saluki Village—that aims to modernize on-campus living.
The SIU Foundation is playing a key role in advancing the project by providing a bridge loan to the university, funding environmental studies, demolition, and early construction work.
The buildings, long unused due to safety concerns and high renovation costs, will begin coming down in August. Phase 1 includes the removal of six halls: Colyer, Kaplan, Thalman, Fulkerson, Kesnar, and Wakeland. Demolition is expected to conclude in September.
“The role of the SIU Foundation is that of an accelerator, and we are proud to help move this vision forward,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Once approved and completed, it will lead to an even more vibrant, student-focused campus.”
Kupec presented early-stage plans for Saluki Village to the SIU Board of Trustees on July 10.
The board will hear more about the construction plans at its September meeting. If approved, construction could begin soon after with a target opening in August 2027.
Concept rendering of on-campus housing.
The proposed Saluki Village would include 898 new beds, a community building, and four to five houses for special interest housing, including fraternities and sororities.
Draft design of proposed new “Special Interest” House.
To make way for the demolition of Colyer Hall, the last inhabited building in the area, the SIU Foundation will soon move to a temporary office space in University Hall until permanently moving into the Tedrick Welcome Center when it opens in Spring 2026.
Economics alumna and former Wall Street analyst empowers students through hands-on learning opportunities
By Britni Bateman
When Susan Thrasher ’76 reflects on her time at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, she recalls the classes and faculty recommendations that helped shape a career she had not originally envisioned—but one that proved deeply rewarding.
“I was going to be a physician like my parents,” she said. “But I fell in love with economics. At SIU, I deepened my understanding of economic theory, and several professors encouraged me to take finance and accounting classes given my interest in research.”
That guidance launched a 25-year career as a research analyst on Wall Street, covering the pharmaceutical industry during an era of groundbreaking drug development. Today, Thrasher is giving back to the institution that shaped her by helping undergraduate students chart their own course through research.
The Susan C. Thrasher Undergraduate Research Fund supports students as they explore meaningful, faculty-mentored research projects across a wide range of disciplines. Five outstanding recipients of the 2024-25 award were celebrated for their contributions to innovative scholarship in fields spanning biochemistry, studio art, neuroscience, and more.
“Analysis and research have always been important to me,” Thrasher said. “When Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis suggested an undergraduate research scholarship, I was very intrigued. It’s been so good to see students embrace a topic or area of particular interest.”
Her support exemplifies the values behind SIU’s Research 1 designation—a distinction awarded by the Carnegie Classification for universities with “very high research activity.” SIU is one of just 21 universities nationwide that hold this designation while also being recognized as an Opportunity University, committed to access and equity.
“If the students’ hard work further sparks their interest, that would be outstanding,” Thrasher said. “The program speaks to the school’s R1 designation. I hope other alumni will join in and give back.”
The impact of her investment is already being felt.
Student Spotlights from the 2024–2025 Awards
Yin Sun
Yin Sun, a senior studying communication disorders and sciences and linguistics, focused her research on inner speech and its implications for people with aphasia, a neurogenic language disorder often caused by stroke. With guidance from mentor Dr. Juhi Kidwai, Sun’s project was accepted for presentation at the Clinical Aphasiology Conference 2025 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
“The award allowed me to fully dedicate myself to research without financial pressure,” said Sun, who plans to pursue graduate studies at Indiana University Bloomington. “I’m forever grateful for this support.”
Lisa Echols
Lisa Echols, a senior in physiology, studied neuronal density changes in the brain following tooth loss in the naked mole-rat, a unique model for sensory research. Mentored by Dr. Diana Sarko, her work earned the Top Poster Award at SIU’s CARP Forum.
“The award let me focus on research during my final year,” said Echols, who plans to attend medical school and serve in a rural emergency department.
Prisha Kittu
Prisha Kittu, a junior in physiology, investigated the development of the pituitary gland through a grant-funded research project on congenital hypopituitarism. Under the mentorship of Dr. Buffy Ellsworth, she sharpened her skills in experimental design and lab work.
“Winning this award helped me cover college expenses and boosted my confidence,” said Kittu, who will apply to medical school for fall 2026.
Chloe Dennison
Chloe Dennison, a senior in nursing, researched the effects of vaping on youth mental health in rural schools and later gave in-person presentations to over 150 students.
“Even though our data didn’t confirm our original hypothesis, I know we made a difference,” Dennison said. She will begin her nursing career at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in the Heart Center.
Cohen Poe
Cohen Poe, a sophomore majoring in music, explored pre-college music education through the SIU Youth Orchestra. He composed and conducted a piece titled “Fanfare for a Fish” and taught music theory and aural skills.
“This experience expanded my résumé and gave me meaningful experience for graduate school,” Poe said. “I got paid to do something I enjoy. I’ll hold on to this experience my whole life.”
These stories demonstrate how Thrasher’s generosity is inspiring Salukis to embrace discovery, connect with mentors, and prepare for careers and graduate study.
“SIU emphasizes the value of undergraduate research, as reflected by our recognition as an R1 institution,” said Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis, vice chancellor for research and dean of the Graduate School. “Investment from our alumni is integral to continuing this mission. Thank you for providing the support that acts as a guiding light for our student researchers.”
For Thrasher, who once followed her professors’ advice into a career that combined science and finance, there is a sense of coming full circle.
“I’m grateful SIU gave me that opportunity—and I’m honored to help create it for others,” she said.
Dr. Clay DeMattei, a general surgeon, wanted to give back to the people who supported his medical practice over the years. That is why he and his wife established the Dr. Clay and Leticia Soria DeMattei Scholarship Endowment Fund, which benefits students who come to SIU from Marion, Crab Orchard, and Goreville.
“Those are the main towns where my patients have come from,” Dr. DeMattei said. “I wanted to give back to the communities that have given to me.”
The donation comes in the form of a $1 million estate gift that will support students from those areas who major in art history or enter the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences.
After receiving his bachelor’s degree in science from Southern in 1978, Dr. DeMattei attended medical school at Loyola Stritch School of Medicine, graduating in 1981, and then Baylor College of Medicine for his surgical residency. He has practiced in Southern Illinois for decades.
“The university had a very good science department,” he said. “I was more than prepared for medical school when I left SIU. The science department is doing well, as shown by the school’s recent designation as R1.”
In February, Southern was named as a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale. More recently, SIU was also included in Carnegie’s list of Opportunity Colleges and Universities, making it one of only 21 institutions in the nation to earn both recognitions.
Dr. DeMattei’s parents, Clarence and Mary DeMattei, both graduated from SIU’s School of Education in the 1950s. Both were highly respected educators in the region, and his father was a well-known coach at Marion High School.
When choosing a college, medical school was not even on Dr. DeMattei’s mind. As a pole vaulter, he was interested in the Saluki Track & Field team.
“At the time, SIU had a top 10 track program, and they were recruiting local and afar,” he said. “They had just gotten a top-tier pole vault coach, Jan Johnson. He was an Olympian, who finished third in the Munich Olympics.”
A four-year letter winner at Southern, Dr. DeMattei participated in the NCAA Track and Field Championships in 1977. He was named SIU’s top male scholar athlete in 1978 and earned Missouri Valley Conference Scholar Athlete honors on several occasions.
The DeMatteis hope their gift eases the financial burden on the local families who send their children to SIU as the university looks to keep enrollment rising.
“It would be nice to have 15,000 students on campus,” Dr. DeMattei said. “That would do wonders for the people in those areas.”
To learn more about estate planning through the SIU Foundation, visit siufgiving.org or contact Michael Moore at michaelmo@foundation.siu.edu.
Matt Arnold, a 2000 Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumnus, remembers the moment he heard about the launch of the Saluki Student Investment Fund (SSIF). It was his final semester, and the finance major with a minor in accounting immediately saw the opportunity.
“As soon as I heard about it, I knew I had to be involved,” Arnold said.
Arnold joined the inaugural class of just eight students. Their mission: build the foundation of a student-run investment fund seeded by a $25,000 donation. Today, that fund has grown into a $4.2 million operation.
“I saw the dirt mounting and the foundation being built,” he said. “What was done after I left was a beautiful job constructing something that now has a 25-year history.”
A Launching Pad
Arnold has met many students who launched successful careers thanks to their SSIF experience. He said employers value the skills students gain through the fund—teamwork, investment analysis, and the ability to accept and apply feedback.
“It shows that a student knows how to invest, work with others, and use constructive feedback to improve,” he said.
He also noted that the fund helps students build professional networks, which often lead to their first jobs.
“Beyond hands-on experience, it gives access to professionals who are established in their field and know how difficult it is to break into this business,” Arnold said.
Arnold grew up in Waterloo, Illinois, and moved to Jackson County, where his father owned an automotive business. Following in his parents’ footsteps, he chose SIU for its proximity and strong business programs.
He explored several areas within the College of Business and Analytics before a finance class “just clicked,” he said. Inspired by the media’s portrayal of stock analysts, Arnold pursued a career in finance and has since become a respected financial research analyst in St. Louis.
At Edward Jones Investments, he leads half of the Equity Research department’s analysts, helping financial advisors make informed investment decisions.
“My job is telling advisors the best place for their clients’ money to appreciate over time, while managing risk and avoiding dire financial outcomes,” he said.
Giving Back
Arnold’s connection to SSIF didn’t end at graduation. He returned to support the fund when it began competing in the CFA Institute’s annual Chartered Financial Analyst Challenge in Virginia. Students pitch investment recommendations and develop detailed theses.
“I was asked to join as an advisor for a group,” he said. “Since then, that has been a big piece of how I dedicate my time to the fund.”
Though his time as a student member was brief, Arnold said mentoring current students is his favorite way to support SIU.
“Anytime I’ve been asked to give back to the fund or department, I’m inclined to help,” he said. “I remember how I wished I had more of a network, especially toward the end of my college career.”
Under the guidance of faculty advisor Dr. Tim Marlo, the SSIF continues to provide students with real-world experience and mentorship. Arnold hopes the program will continue to thrive for future generations of Salukis.
“Supporting the SSIF gives future students the same incredible opportunities,” he said. “As precious a commodity as time is, you will feel so rewarded when you invest some of it into young people. It brings you back to what it was like when you were there.”
Saluki fans — you’re invited to the first stop of the Saluki Coaches Unleashed Tour at 22 & Vine inside Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort on Tuesday, July 15 from 5-7 p.m.
Throughout the summer, Saluki Athletics is coming to you. Join coaches and leadership for an evening of updates, connection and Saluki spirit. Enjoy free food, a cash bar and exclusive season ticket offers for football and men’s basketball.
Season ticket offers for attendees-only include the chance for new buyers to get half-price football season tickets in sections 12-16, and men’s basketball season tickets as low as $99.
Upcoming tour stops include: July 22 – Marion at 618 Taphouse July 29 – Du Quoin at Tomahawk Bar & Grill July 31 – Murphysboro at Southpaw Bar & Grill Coming in August – Metropolis and Pinckneyville stops
The Saluki Student Investment Fund (SSIF) at SIU Carbondale offers hands-on experience in investment research and management. The student-led organization is modeled after real-world investment management firms, enhancing students’ academic and professional experience. The program provides access to the necessary resources while fostering relationship building among peers, alumni, and industry professionals.
The SSIF began as a small student-run portfolio in 2000, starting at $25,000. 25 years later, students have grown the program and now handle $4.3 million in assets. They primarily focus on making investment decisions for their main client, the SIU Foundation. Members also manage funds for the College of Business and Analytics portfolio.
Noe Estrada
“There are few college funds that reach the size of ours,” said Noe Estrada, a junior and the team leader of the SSIF’s consumer discretionary and staples sector. “It’s a lot of work, and it’s a testament to the resilient nature of this team.”
Estrada explained the RSO’s strategy for calculating and analyzing the amount of funds generated from trading stocks. The process begins with looking at a company’s competitive advantage, and what drives its overall growth. From there, the fund calculates and analyzes sectors driving the company’s performance, using that data to determine strategic outcomes.
Through the SSIF, Estrada had access to a $30,000 Bloomberg Terminal yearly subscription. He was also able to use the knowledge he gained from the organization to build his own three-statement financial model.
“The Saluki Student Investment Fund changed my life. I’m going to enter a competitive job market with a significant skillset. What is being done in here sets the foundation to our future success.”
Jimmy Lin
Jimmy Lin, a sophomore finance major who serves as an analyst for the healthcare sector, emphasizes the importance of the impact that the SSIF has on professional development.
“Since the SSIF is the primary asset manager of the SIU Foundation, trading stocks using real money may seem intimidating at first. But once you are trained, it becomes second nature,” he said. “Those capabilities and abilities that we learned during our time in the organization will carry over into the corporate world.”
Although he agrees that the idea of students managing millions of dollars may seem daunting, Lin assures that the money contributed to the fund is in “good hands.”
“It makes us think a lot harder about the decisions we make. We must remain diligent, meaning we spend money with caution. It helps us strategize through the process and take it seriously.”
Kate DeGrazia
Kate DeGrazia, a senior and the team leader for the real estate sector, explained that the SSIF operates in a way that parallels the S&P 400 index. “Depending on how it’s divided up, the SSIF sectors are structured the same. We pick the strongest stocks so we can beat out the index,” she said.
Community building and networking are also crucial aspects of the SSIF. “Meeting alumni is one of my favorite parts of the fund. It’s nice to see what my peers who are a couple years older than me accomplish,” said DeGrazia. “It’s like having big brothers and big sisters; knowing that alumni care and will extend their hard-earned money back to us has really shaped my experience.”
The program is not only open to business majors, according to DeGrazia. “We’ve had premed, automotive, and engineering students too, and that uniqueness helps us out. There are so many different minds collaborating on each task, and we can all share our own perspectives.”
Sarah Farris
Sarah Farris, a senior who is the team leader for the health care sector, originally joined the RSO to learn more about investing in her own future. The fund also dives deeper into subject matter learned in her marketing classes.
“While it was scary handling real-world money at first, it provided a good experience and helped us gain confidence. It’s an honor that they trust students to be able to manage that amount of money.”
Farris says that leading the organization was a crucial part of her college experience. She said the knowledge gained through the fund is comparable to working a job for all 4 years. The SSIF has led to a variety of post-graduate opportunities for her and her classmates.
“Knowing that we have money in our back pockets to use for different experiences helps ease our minds,” said Farris.
Presley Ornelas
Presley Ornelas, a sophomore and an analyst for the real estate sector, first learned about SSIF when visiting his friends at SIU, who were involved with the organization. He attributed the SSIF to helping him grow a network of supportive peers and mentors. “Whether it’s visiting financial firms, competitions, or helping the community, it’s a great experience.”
This year, Ornelas and 16 other SSIF students went to NYC to visit Dow Jones and Bloomberg. They received invaluable insight from established professionals while growing their network. Through experiences like this field trip, he learned more about professional and strategic development.
“Thanks to the SSIF, I’ll already be prepared to take the CFA exam, and I’ll have my Bloomberg marketing certification,” says Ornelas.
Beyond building connections with alumni and potential job recruiters, members shadow industry professionals in their day-to-day experiences. This offers a chance to learn from these mentors.
“No matter how an alum decides to give back to the SSIF, knowing we have their support is priceless,” he said.
Costs relating to operational expenses, student support, advisor stipends, and subscriptions are preserved primarily through external support. Those who wish to support the SSIF can get involved by meeting critical funding needs that maintain the organization’s impact. To learn more about how to make a difference in the lives of future investment leaders or to make a gift, visit give.siu.edu/ssif.
In October 1971, Man Nguyen arrived in Carbondale from Vietnam with three high school friends, the support of his family, and a dream of one day returning to his homeland. Encouraged by the older brother of one of his friends who was already attending Southern Illinois University, Nguyen applied and was accepted—a decision that would mark the beginning of a life-changing chapter.
“I feel blessed by fate to have ended up in Carbondale,” Nguyen said. “I had never heard of Southern Illinois University or seen what Carbondale looked like back in Vietnam.”
Upon arrival, Nguyen and his friend Long Nguyen (no relation) were welcomed into the home of Mr. Earl Caspers, a lecturer in SIU’s School of Education who was pursuing a doctoral degree. “Mr. Caspers acted like a father figure,” Nguyen recalled. “He made us breakfast and dinner, took us to and from campus—what a wonderful human being. I still think of him as a saint. I’ve often asked myself, would I have done the same?”
All Vietnamese students at the time were required to complete the Center for English as a Second Language (CESL) program before beginning SIU coursework. Eventually, Nguyen and Long moved into their own apartment but remained close with Caspers. “After he finished his Ph.D. in 1973, he moved to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville but returned for our graduation in 1975. What a touching moment. He was a true friend to all the Vietnamese students.”
Nguyen’s academic path was further supported by Jared Dorn, SIU’s international student advisor at the time, who awarded him a tuition waiver. This enabled Nguyen to remain at the university and complete his undergraduate studies. To cover room and board, he worked part-time as a janitor at the Student Center, earning $1.60 per hour. Nguyen and other Vietnamese students lived off campus at 319 1/2 E. College, paying $96 per quarter in rent during the university’s quarter system years.
“We enjoyed college life, studied hard, and had fun too,” he said. “We hung out at Jim’s Pizza, Dairy Queen, and the Varsity Theater downtown.”
After graduating in 1975 with a degree in mathematics, Nguyen embarked on a career in information technology. He first joined Lockheed Electronics in Houston, a NASA contractor supporting the space shuttle program. He later worked for Marathon Oil as an IT consultant, where he had an unexpected encounter with SIU alumna and retired NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham. She autographed a photo of herself featured on the cover of the March 2007 SIU Alumni Magazine, which he still keeps.
Nguyen eventually retired after a distinguished career with Lockheed, Marathon Oil, and SAIC, a global technology company. His work allowed him to travel internationally to countries such as Ireland, Tunisia, Egypt, India, and Indonesia. Throughout his life, Nguyen has returned to SIU Carbondale many times to reflect, reconnect, and enjoy the campus—especially in the fall.
This year, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of his graduation, Nguyen established the Man and Lien Nguyen Mathematics & Computer Science Scholarship Fund with a $25,000 gift. The fund will provide two annual scholarships: one for a student majoring in mathematics or computer science, and another for a student majoring in mechanical engineering. The latter is in memory of his friend Long Nguyen, who graduated alongside him in 1975 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
“Retention is so important,” Nguyen said. “I want students to finish their SIU degrees. I’m thankful for that tuition waiver that kept me at SIU, and I want my scholarship to do the same for someone else.”
Nguyen returned to SIU this May to celebrate his 50th reunion—an emotional experience that also gave him the opportunity to reconnect with Mr. Dorn, who still resides in Carbondale.
“We spent countless hours sharing SIU stories, then and now,” Nguyen said. “I feel so thankful—grateful—for Mr. Caspers’ generosity and Mr. Dorn’s kindness more than half a century ago that allowed me to stay and earn an SIU degree.”
Would he relive his college days at SIU if given the chance?
“Absolutely,” Nguyen said. “I’m proud of my alma mater, proud to be a Saluki, and most importantly, proud to be an American.”
Man Nguyen (center) joins Jen Badiu, director of development, and Chancellor Austin Lane at the Chancellor’s Reception during the Saluki Takeover Tour in Houston.
Thomas Brewer, Ph.D., an accomplished artist and educator, is a strong advocate for visual art education in public schools and universities.
To honor that passion, he established the Dr. Thomas M. Brewer Art Education Scholarship. The scholarship supports students pursuing teaching careers in the visual arts, reflecting his purpose of making the field accessible to young, creative minds.
“For a student to receive a few thousand dollars to use to attend a nearby conference during their undergraduate years is major. Who knows where the opportunity will lead them from there,” said Brewer, a 1973 graduate of Southern Illinois University’s College of Arts and Media.
Brewer attended Southern between 1969 and 1973, graduating with a bachelor’s in art education and ceramics. He and other students had an art studio near former SIU architecture professor Buckminster Fuller’s Dome-style home in Carbondale.
After graduation, he worked as a full-time artist and obtained a master’s in art from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a Ph.D. in art education from Florida State University. Now a professor emeritus of art education at the University of Central Florida, Brewer taught for 35 years and served as the coordinator of art education at UCF for 20 of those years. He currently works and lives in Urbana, and his artwork continues to be featured worldwide.
Brewer established the scholarship in his name, allowing art and design students to kick-start their careers just as SIU helped him. The aim is to provide recipients with the necessary resources to foster an experience beyond the classroom while inspiring real-world professional development.
“Because of how it helped me, I could at least contribute back to SIU for a few students, especially for whom a scholarship might be helpful,” he said.
Throughout his educational journey, Brewer credits teachers for opening the doors to success, inspiring him to do the same for others.
“There’s an inherent accomplishment when art is taught in a way that is consecutive, sequential, and that has continuity,” he said. “Beyond exercising creativity, problem-solving, and motor skills, art, in any form, can be a driving force for academic growth. My teaching and advocacy for the visual arts in education is more far-reaching than my own artwork.”
Brewer hopes his continued commitment to SIU will motivate students, inspire others to donate, and strengthen the university’s dedication to art and ceramic education.
To learn more about making a gift, visit siuf.org.
Chris Sims visited SI Airport during the United Career Day in October 2024.
By Ava Steffens
Chris Sims, a 30-year United Airlines pilot and SIU School of Aviation alumnus, believes those who share a boundless passion for flying deserve to be uplifted just as he was.
In support of that belief, he recently established the John and Carol Sims Aviation Scholarship. The scholarship is named after his parents.
“A dream is only a dream until it becomes reality. It does not become a reality unless you have some help along the way,” he said.
Originally from Naperville, Illinois, he attended SIU from 1990 to 1994.
“Between the location, price, and convenience, the decision was a no-brainer,” he said.
Soon after graduating, he interned at United Airlines through a program offered by the School of Aviation, which provided a direct pathway to becoming a United Airlines pilot after college.
Sims’ passion for aviation began when he was 5 years old during his first plane ride. This moment ignited a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. Thrilled by the idea of flying, his love for aviation deeply influenced him throughout his entire life.
“You couldn’t even tell me what colors my walls were, my room was so full of airplane models,” he said.
He found the United Airlines internship at SIU while he was still a junior in high school.
“My father told me to look at this little school in Southern Illinois. I remember seeing the Saluki logo next to the United logo, and knowing it was meant to be,” Sims said.
Working weekends at SI Airport as a student and flight instructor, he did not even have time to attend a football game until after he graduated. Although he pushed himself as a Saluki, he credits SIU and its unique programs with helping him transition from a student to a professional full-time pilot.
“There was a lot of work, but there was also a lot of opportunity,” he said.
Sims felt inspired to give back while reflecting on his time as a student. Now in his 50s, he remains grateful for the support he received. Along with establishing a scholarship, he is now dedicated to serving as an Aviate Ambassador to SIUC, United Career Day Flight Facilitator, and Aviate Program Mentor at flight schools nationwide.
United Career Day
“I reached a point when I realized how fortunate I was and that now was the time to give back. So many people’s handprints lined the path for me to get here,” he said.
Sims named the scholarship after his parents, who were his inspiration to pursue an aviation career.
“My parents would take me to the airport just to watch the planes on the runway,” he said.
To apply for the scholarship, students must write about the day, moment, or event that made them realize they wanted to pursue a career in flight.
“If a student has passion, they should at least be provided with the opportunity to make that happen,” Sims said.
CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 17.
This 24-hour online fundraiser engages alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and students in a day of philanthropy and Saluki pride. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $17 million. Gifts can be made at siuday.siu.edu.
“The dollars raised during the Day of Giving not only help SIU students reach their goals, but they also represent the power of the community that makes this university special,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Salukis from around the globe come together, make gifts of all sizes, and witness their collective impact. It’s always one of the most exciting days of the year.”
SIU is one of only 21 institutions nationwide included on the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education’s lists for both Research 1 and Opportunity Colleges and Universities.
“Many institutions can say they conduct top-level research, and many schools can say they offer affordability and a great return on investment,” said Chancellor Austin A. Lane. “These designations from Carnegie show very few – less than 1 percent, in fact – can say both. At Southern, we can.”
The Day of Giving offers every Saluki a chance to support the university’s growing momentum. Gifts of any size can be amplified through challenges and matching donations. Many companies offer matching gift programs, which can double or even triple the impact of a donor’s contribution. Visit the website to see if your employer participates.
One standout Day of Giving success story is the Balancing Education, Experience, and Reality (B.E.E.R.) Scholarship. Established in 2019 after a conversation in the “Carbondale in the 80s and 90s” Facebook group, the scholarship has received hundreds of donations annually from alumni who celebrate their Saluki experience. The group has funded multiple B.E.E.R. Scholarships since its creation.
Other projects that have benefited from Day of Giving support include Campus Lake, Saluki Alumni Plaza, the Green Fund, Saluki Athletics, and every college and unit on campus.
All gifts count toward the SIU’s Foundation’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of raising $500 million by 2028, the campaign is the fifth largest in the history of Illinois higher education. To date, the campaign has surpassed $400 million.
During the current fiscal year, the SIU Foundation has provided a record-breaking number of scholarships. More than 2,000 SIU students, representing over 17 percent of the student doby, received a scholarship from the SIU Foundation, amounting to nearly $5.6 million in financial support.
To learn more about the campaign and the SIU Foundation, visit siuf.org.
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is taking an exciting step toward reshaping its student housing landscape with the planned demolition of 14 aging structures, including 13 houses along the former Greek Row. The move clears the way for a proposed new development—Saluki Village—that aims to modernize on-campus living.
The buildings, long unused due to safety concerns and high renovation costs, will begin coming down in August. Phase 1 includes the removal of six halls: Colyer, Kaplan, Thalman, Fulkerson, Kesnar, and Wakeland. Demolition is expected to conclude in September.
By Ava Steffens
In October 1971, Man Nguyen arrived in Carbondale from Vietnam with three high school friends, the support of his family, and a dream of one day returning to his homeland. Encouraged by the older brother of one of his friends who was already attending Southern Illinois University, Nguyen applied and was accepted—a decision that would mark the beginning of a life-changing chapter.
After graduating in 1975 with a degree in mathematics, Nguyen embarked on a career in information technology. He first joined Lockheed Electronics in Houston, a NASA contractor supporting the space shuttle program. He later worked for Marathon Oil as an IT consultant, where he had an unexpected encounter with SIU alumna and retired NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham. She autographed a photo of herself featured on the cover of the March 2007 SIU Alumni Magazine, which he still keeps.
