Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Dedicates Campus Lake Fountain in Memory of Alumnus Tilden “Tim” Parks

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Tilden “Tim” Parks Campus Lake Fountain
Southern Illinois University Carbondale dedicated the Tilden “Tim” Parks Campus Lake Fountain on Wednesday, Aug. 6, during a community celebration at Becker Pavilion.

By Britni Bateman

Southern Illinois University Carbondale dedicated the Tilden “Tim” Parks Campus Lake Fountain on Wednesday, Aug. 6, during a community celebration at Becker Pavilion. The 60-foot fountain honors the legacy of the late Parks, a proud 1976 graduate whose generosity helped bring the project to life.

A crowd of 50 gathered along the lake as Chancellor Austin A. Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, student leader Noah Farris, Director of Facilities and Energy Management Mark Owens, and Director of Recreational Sports and Services Corné Prozesky delivered remarks.

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane speaks to the crowd at the fountain dedication event.
SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane speaks to the crowd at the Campus Lake fountain dedication event.

“This is yet another great project,” Lane said. “The fountain is a beautiful addition to campus and another tradition that adds to what makes SIU such a special place.”

Chancellor Lane led the countdown as the crowd joined in. At zero, the fountain shot into the air for the first time, drawing cheers and capturing a shared moment of Saluki pride.

“This all is really due to the generosity of Tim Parks,” Kupec said. “He was a great Saluki who passed away in 2022. We honor his legacy tonight with this fountain that will continue to inspire future generations.”

Parks contributed more than $75,000 during the inaugural SIU Day of Giving in 2017, providing over 70 percent of the funding needed to launch the fountain project. The university named the fountain in his honor to recognize his transformational gift. Additional support from the AlZaben family helped complete the project.

“We also want to thank the AlZaben family for their gift to this effort that got us over the finish line,” Kupec said. “Campus Lake is one of our greatest assets. In our opinion, only one other university in the country, Notre Dame, has a lake as special as this.”

Several campus leaders and alumni attended, including SIU System President Dan Mahony, SIU Board of Trustees Chair Judge J. Phil Gilbert, and members of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors. Judge Gilbert shared that he learned to swim in Campus Lake as a child.

The fountain features a 25-horsepower motor and includes a floatovoltaic system, a floating solar array that helps power the fountain while reducing harmful algal blooms by cooling and aerating the water. The project received funding and support from the SIU Green Fund, the Sustainability Department, and student initiatives.

Noah Farris, a microbiology major, contributed to the sustainability work and addressed the crowd.

“I’m working on a solar panel project that helps power the fountain and reduce bacteria in the lake,” Farris said.

Mark Owens highlighted the practical benefits of the fountain and thanked the facilities team for their behind-the-scenes work.

“This is not just something beautiful, it’s functional,” Owens said. “Thanks to our team’s work, we’ve kept Campus Lake open for three years without issues. The fountain will help keep the water healthy.”

Corné Prozesky spoke about the emotional impact of the fountain and its presence on campus.

“Our students will look out their windows and see this beautiful fountain lit up at night,” he said. “Hopefully, every time the Salukis win, we’ll change the color to maroon and celebrate those victories with this incredible symbol of Saluki pride.”

The fountain dedication followed Demolition Day, an event earlier that afternoon that marked the beginning of clearing six long-vacant residence halls to make way for the proposed Saluki Village housing development. Together, both events showcased the university’s momentum and commitment to renewal.

These campus enhancements reflect the university’s ongoing momentum. SIU recently earned dual recognition as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide — and the only one serving a rural area — to receive both honors. These achievements align with the goals of Imagine SIU 2030, a comprehensive fundraising campaign that has raised more than $409 million toward its $500 million goal. The campaign is the fifth-largest in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17 percent of the student body.

To learn more or make a gift to support similar projects, visit siuf.org.

Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Kicks Off Demolition Day to Make Room for Proposed Student Housing

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An excavator crashed through the roof of Fulkerson Hall, drawing cheers as the building’s first wall gave way.
An excavator crashed through the roof of Fulkerson Hall, drawing cheers as the building’s first wall gave way.

By Britni Bateman

More than 250 Salukis and community members gathered Wednesday, Aug. 6, as Southern Illinois University Carbondale launched Demolition Day and took a bold step toward transforming its campus housing landscape.

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane addresses the crowd.
SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane addresses the crowd during the demolition event on old Greek Row.

“This isn’t just about buildings coming down, it’s about honoring the past while building toward the future,” said Chancellor Austin A. Lane.

The SIU Foundation hosted the event to celebrate the start of Phase 1 demolition of six long-vacant residence halls along the former Greek Row. Guests enjoyed live music from River Radio’s Steve FM and complimentary food from local vendors, including Winston’s Bagels by B-Rad, Honeybeez Snowballz and Hot Dogs, and the American Ice Cream Truck.

SIU System President Dan Mahony, SIU Board of Trustees Chair Judge J. Phil Gilbert, members of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors, and university leaders joined students, faculty, staff, and community members at the event. Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jeff Burgin delivered remarks.

SIU Foundation CEO addresses the crowd at the demolition event on old Greek Row.
SIU Foundation CEO addresses the crowd at the demolition event on old Greek Row.

“These buildings served generations of students, and while their time has passed, the memories created here remain powerful,” Kupec said. “We’re not just tearing down buildings, we’re building on the shoulders of those memories.”

Originally known as Small Group Housing when dedicated in 1959, the area became known as Greek Row in the 1980s. Many SIU fraternities and sororities called the halls home through the early 2000s. Due to safety regulations, including a 2004 Illinois law requiring fire sprinkler retrofits in dorms, the halls were officially closed in 2012.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jeff Burgin
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jeff Burgin

“We’re standing on hallowed ground,” Burgin said. “For many Salukis, joining a fraternity or sorority was a transformative part of their college experience. We honor those moments as we imagine what’s next.”

“Today’s demolition is part of a vision that started years ago through Imagine 2030, our strategic plan to reimagine the future of campus,” Lane said. “This is what progress looks like.”

As the ceremony concluded, the crowd counted down together. An excavator crashed through the roof of Fulkerson Hall, drawing cheers as the building’s first wall gave way.

Phase 1 includes the demolition of six buildings: Colyer, Kaplan, Thalman, Fulkerson, Kesnar, and Wakeland Halls, with work expected to be completed by mid-September. A second phase is tentatively scheduled to begin in December, pending approval from the SIU Board of Trustees.

The SIU Foundation is funding environmental studies, demolition, and early site preparation through a bridge loan. The foundation will temporarily relocate from Colyer Hall to University Hall before moving into the new Tedrick Welcome Center in spring 2026.

The demolition project reflects the university’s ongoing momentum to modernize and reimagine its campus footprint. SIU recently earned dual recognition as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide — and the only one serving a rural area — to receive both honors. These distinctions align with the goals of Imagine SIU 2030, a comprehensive fundraising campaign that has raised more than $409 million toward its $500 million goal. In the most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17 percent of the student body.

The event offered space for reflection and tribute, with several former residents in the audience. Alumni shared memories on social media and through the SIU Foundation’s website, recalling friendships, late-night walks to class, and the sense of belonging Greek Row once fostered. To share your Greek Row memories, visit siuf.org/greek-row.

Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Carbondale to Dedicate Campus Lake Fountain in Honor of Late Alumnus Tim Parks

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Ceremony Scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, at Becker Pavilion

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate the dedication of the Campus Lake Fountain with a community ceremony from 6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6, at Becker Pavilion. The brief program will include remarks from Chancellor Austin A. Lane and recognition of those who helped make the project possible.

Guests will enjoy punch and cookies as the university counts down and turns on the fountain for the first time.

The fountain is a tribute to the late Tilden “Tim” Parks (1953–2022), a proud 1976 SIU graduate and devoted Saluki whose generosity and spirit left a lasting mark on campus. Parks was the lead donor for the Campus Lake Fountain Project, contributing more than $75,000—over 70 percent of the project’s funding—during the inaugural SIU Day of Giving in 2017. His love for SIU was evident at athletic events, alumni gatherings, and in the countless students he supported through scholarships.

“Tim Parks was the kind of alum every university dreams of—passionate, generous, and fiercely proud,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “This fountain stands as a beautiful reminder of his legacy and commitment to future generations of Salukis.”

In addition to Parks’ lead gift, the university also received a significant contribution from the AlZaben family, whose members—Emad (’80), Abeer (’86), Ammar (’86), and Alaa (’83–’84)—joined the Fountain Club with a combined gift between $50,000 and $74,999.

A Fountain of Power and Purpose

The new fountain sits just off Becker Pavilion, shooting water an impressive 60 feet into the air with the help of a powerful 25-horsepower motor. Beyond its visual impact, the fountain reflects SIU’s commitment to sustainability. Thanks to a student-led initiative, a floating solar array—also known as a floatovoltaic system—helps power the fountain while reducing harmful algal blooms in Campus Lake. The installation supports SIU’s sustainability goals and serves as a hands-on research platform for students.

During the dedication, the university will recognize the efforts of SIU Facilities and Energy Management, the SIU Sustainability Department, the Green Fund, and student leader Noah Farris for advancing this innovative, collaborative project.

“This is more than a fountain,” said Kupec. “It’s a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and the Saluki spirit that brings us together.”

All are welcome to attend the dedication and join in celebrating the lasting impact of Tim Parks and the bright future of Campus Lake.

This celebration follows SIU’s Demolition Day at 4 p.m. the same afternoon, during which the university will officially begin clearing six long-vacant residence halls along former Greek Row. The demolition marks a major step toward the proposed Saluki Village student housing development. Guests are encouraged to attend both events and witness this exciting day of transformation and renewal on campus.

To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

Women’s Leadership Council Awards Inaugural Grants to Dr. Kochel for Mentorship, Faculty Support at SIU

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By Ava Steffens

Dr. Tammy Rinehart Kochel, associate dean for research and personnel in SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences, was awarded two of the inaugural micro-grants presented by the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council this spring.

The $1,500 grants will support projects that promote mentorship and dialogue among female faculty and students, strengthening leadership and equity at SIU.

“When I heard about the micro-grants, it was an easy sell for me,” Kochel said. “I put together a couple of proposals for things that I had in my mind but did not have the resources to put into practice yet.”

Dr. Kochel plans to use part of the funding to create a workshop that fosters dialogue among female leaders at SIU, focusing on the challenges women face within the institution. The discussion will invite female faculty members and school directors to share their perspectives and personal experiences.

“We’re really excited for this opportunity for her and to see what comes out of her project,” said Mary Anderson, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council.

The second portion of the grant will support mentorship programs between female faculty members and graduate students. The initiative aims to “empower students by having them experience studying or conducting research under role model observation,” Dr. Kochel said.

“The objective is to be an example for what women can and do accomplish,” she said. “Having the female faculty member lead the experience is meant to build confidence and inspire female students to overcome possible gender barriers and pursue their own goals.”

Founded in 2020, the Women’s Leadership Council connects SIU students, parents, staff, and alumni to a women-focused network of Salukis who share their time, energy, resources, and experiences. The council also supports women’s initiatives across campus and provides multiple scholarships.

“Our mission is to promote SIU and to help empower women,” said Gloria Tison, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council. “By focusing on women faculty and related programs, we can offer more to our SIU community.”

The council’s mentorship program offers mentors leadership experience and networking opportunities while serving as role models for students in their respective fields. Mentors support the professional growth, development, and confidence of their mentees.

The Women’s Leadership Council hosts the annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, starting with the Women in Empowerment Conference on Friday, October 3. Events include the Women in Philanthropy Luncheon, Saluki Women’s Awards Presentation, Vendor Fair, and Networking Social. The weekend concludes with the Mentorship Breakfast and Saluki Women Tailgate Experience on Saturday. For the full schedule and registration, visit siuf.org/salukiwomen.

To learn more about the SIU Women’s Leadership Council or to make a gift in support of its initiatives, visit siuf.org/wlc.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

SIU Credit Union Trailhead Opens at Touch of Nature

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SIU Credit Union Trailhead
From left: SIU Foundation Director of Development, SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, Kim Babington, SIU Credit Union CEO Mike Lantrip, and Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center Director Brian Croft cut the ribbon on the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

By Jeff Wilson

MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and SIU Credit Union officially opened a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

The trailhead pavilion was funded by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.

“This project has been years in the making,” said Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature. “It marks the first major construction at Touch of Nature in decades”. 

SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting Southern Illinois University, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and other initiatives.

“We believe this trailhead will bring even more people into our community — and it’s already doing that,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We hope this is the beginning of something big for Touch of Nature and the region.”

Touch of Nature often serves as the first introduction to SIU for many through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.

More than 50,000 visitors came to Touch of Nature this year.

“Everyone who visits Touch of Nature leaves with a great impression,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “None of this would be possible without support from partners like SIU Credit Union. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you dream a little.”

The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will take place in August.

SIU was recently designated both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide — and the only one serving a rural area — to hold both honors.

These developments align with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling more than $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the foundation.

To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

 

Events & Engagement, SIU

SIU to Host Demolition Day on Aug. 6 as Six Former Residence Halls Come Down

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Demolition Day
Fulkerson Hall (left) and Thalman Hall (right) are among six former residence halls scheduled for demolition as part of Phase 1 of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s effort to clear space for a proposed new student housing development. An excavator will knock down a portion of Fulkerson Hall during the Aug. 6 Demolition Day event.

By Britni Bateman

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale invites the campus and community to a Demolition Day event at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, as the university begins taking down six long-vacant residence halls along the former Greek Row. The event will mark a visible step forward in clearing space for a proposed new student housing development.

The brief outdoor ceremony will include remarks from Chancellor Austin Lane and Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. Following the remarks, an excavator will knock down a portion of Fulkerson Hall, officially beginning Phase 1 of the demolition project.

Guests can enjoy music and food from local favorites, including Winston’s Bagels by B-Rad, Honeybeez Snowballz and Hot Dogs, and the American Ice Cream Truck.

This event is open to the public. Guests and media are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early.

Phase 1 includes the demolition of Colyer, Kaplan, Thalman, Fulkerson, Kesnar, and Wakeland Halls—all former residence halls that have been closed for years due to safety concerns and high renovation costs. The demolition is expected to continue through September and is part of a broader effort to modernize SIU’s campus footprint.

“These buildings served generations of students, but they’ve reached the end of their life,” Kupec said. “This is a significant moment for SIU, and the Foundation is proud to help accelerate progress as we look to the future.”

The SIU Foundation is playing a key role by providing a bridge loan to support environmental studies, demolition, and early site preparation. The cleared area will make way for Saluki Village, a proposed housing development that is expected to go before the SIU Board of Trustees in September for approval. If approved, construction could begin soon after with a target opening in August 2027.

In preparation for the demolition of Colyer Hall—the last occupied building in the project zone—the SIU Foundation will temporarily relocate to University Hall before moving into the new Tedrick Welcome Center in Spring 2026.

To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

 

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Foundation Raises $39 Million, Supports More Than 2,000 Students in Second-Best Year Ever 

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By Britni Bateman

Supporters of Southern Illinois University Carbondale donated $39 million in Fiscal Year 2025, marking the second-highest fundraising total in SIU Foundation history. This incredible support advances scholarships, research, and capital projects across campus.

The Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.6 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 students, representing over 17 percent of the student body.

“Our donors are the heart of everything we do,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Their support provides real momentum, opening doors for students, investing in groundbreaking research and ensuring SIU continues to thrive for generations to come.”

The Foundation has increased scholarship support for five consecutive years. The FY25 total reflects a nearly 135 percent increase compared to FY19.

“I am extremely thankful,” said SIU junior and scholarship recipient Ema Dutcher. “Thanks to my scholarship, I was able to study abroad in Costa Rica. That experience shaped me both academically and personally. I will never forget it.”

Campaign Progress

The Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign continues to gain momentum with more than $400 million in commitments toward its historic $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest fundraising campaign in Illinois public university history.

Major Gifts and Milestones 

The most recent fiscal year featured several high-impact gifts and building dedications:

  • Dr. Bob and Beth Gower made a $2.5 million gift to support research, and the McLafferty Annex was renamed the Gower Translational Research Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
  • A $250,000 gift from Judge Phil Gilbert established the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of his father. The Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite at Simmons Law School was unveiled on April 17.
  • Oyd and Annette Craddock made a $25,000 gift to the College of Business and Analytics Dean’s Club Endowment Fund. In their honor, the Oyd Craddock Dean’s Conference Room was dedicated in Rehn Hall.
  • SIU also marked the Simmons Law School ribbon cutting on August 16 and broke ground on the Tedrick Welcome Center on October 11.

 Saluki Takeover Tour Expands 

In its fourth year, the Saluki Takeover Tour reached new heights with stops in Chicago, Memphis, Texas, Florida, St. Louis, and Southern Illinois. More than 1,500 alumni gathered for 14 Chancellor’s Receptions.

The Southern Illinois leg of the tour spanned 17 counties and included nearly 50 school visits and six Chancellor’s Receptions:

  • The kickoff at Apple Creek Golf Club drew 200 guests.
  • TJ’s Diamond Club at Mtn Dew Park in Marion welcomed 115 Salukis.
  • Café Bloom in Benton hosted 50 guests.
  • St. Nicholas Landmark in Chester saw 60 alumni attend.
  • Pizza Villa in Anna welcomed more than 80 guests.
  • The tour concluded at Faye in Murphysboro with nearly 100 attendees.

These events brought together alumni and community leaders and strengthened SIU’s partnerships across the region.

Celebrating Community and Leadership 

  • The 3rd Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend Conference, held Friday, Sept. 20, 2025, welcomed more than 200 women for a day of connection, inspiration, and leadership development.
  • Nearly 500 guests attended the 3rd Annual Saluki Ball on Saturday, April 26, 2025, celebrating Saluki pride and raising valuable funds to support student scholarships.

SIU Day of Giving Raises $1.2 Million 

The 9th SIU Day of Giving on Sept. 18 raised nearly $1.2 million from more than 1,500 donors in just 24 hours. Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the event allows supporters to give directly to the college, program, or initiative of their choice.

“This was our second Day of Giving in 2024, and moving it to the fall brought incredible energy,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Between the two events, donors contributed more than $4.3 million to support our students and the Imagine SIU 2030 campaign.”

Since its launch in 2017, the SIU Day of Giving has raised more than $17 million for scholarships, research, and campus priorities. The College of Health and Human Sciences led in dollars raised, while the B.E.E.R. Scholarship Endowment Fund received the most individual gifts.

A kickoff event, the Night of B.E.E.R., streamed live from the Fermentation Science Institute, added to the excitement and featured donor matches, student stories, and special guests.

A Nationally Distinctive Institution 

This year, SIU Carbondale was named one of only 21 universities nationwide to earn dual recognition from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as both a Research 1 (R1) and an Opportunity College and University (OCU).

“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.”

These designations reflect SIU’s commitment to excellence and access. The university serves a diverse student body, with nearly 40 percent receiving Pell Grants and two in five identifying as first-generation college students.

“Salukis have always known SIU Carbondale is exceptional,” Lane said. “These national recognitions affirm our commitment to both excellence and opportunity.”

Showcasing the Saluki Spirit 

In June, the SIU Foundation launched the inaugural episode of The Impact Report, a new television series highlighting extraordinary stories of innovation, opportunity, and transformation at SIU and throughout the region. Airing on WSIU, the 10-episode series will spotlight groundbreaking research, student success, and the power of philanthropy. From personal triumphs to community impact, The Impact Report brings Saluki pride to the screen in a whole new way.

Looking Ahead 

With continued momentum in the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign and strong engagement from alumni and donors across the country, the SIU Foundation is poised for another successful year.

To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

SIU Credit Union Trailhead to Open at Touch of Nature

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SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center
SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center

By Jeff Wilson

MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center will soon unveil a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at the trailhead. SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, Touch of Nature Director Brian Croft, and representatives from SIU Credit Union will attend the event. The trailhead pavilion was made possible by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.

“Touch of Nature is the premier outdoor education center in America,” Lane said. “This area will provide our students and the community with an inviting gathering space that connects more people with the beauty of our region and our campus.”

SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting the university, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and more.

“We wanted to do something for SIU and the region,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We think it’s going to help put Southern Illinois on the map even more.”

For many, Touch of Nature serves as their first introduction to SIU through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.

More than 50,000 visitors came through Touch of Nature this year. The upcoming Wildlife Habitat Education Center will further expand outdoor experiences for the region.

“Nature has tremendous value and power. At Touch of Nature, we pride ourselves on embracing those qualities and sharing our passion with students and the community,” Croft said. “This trailhead is now a centerpiece of that experience, and we are thrilled to have such terrific partners in SIU Credit Union.”

The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center is scheduled for August.

SIU was recently designated both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide—and the only one serving a rural area—to hold both honors.

These developments coincide with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling over $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the Foundation.

“The SIU Foundation is dedicated to its mission as an accelerator, and we are seeing that in action,” Kupec said. “Our goal is to help this university thrive by supporting students, faculty and staff, and laying the groundwork for major projects that enhance our beautiful campus. With the support of our donors and corporate partners, we will continue turning big dreams into reality.”

To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

SIU

SIU Launches Demolition of Former Greek Row Buildings, Eyes Future Student Housing Development

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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.
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.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, Scholarship Recipient, SIU

Thrasher Champions Undergraduate Research at SIU

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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.

Sharing stories of philanthropy