Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Saluki Takeover Tours, SIU

Saluki Takeover Tour draws nearly 250 to Springfield reception

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Chancellor Austin A. Lane speaks to a crowd of nearly 250 attendees seated at round tables and standing inside the LRS Hangar during the Saluki Takeover Tour Springfield Chancellor’s Reception.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale drew nearly 250 alumni, students, legislators, government leaders and friends to a Saluki Takeover Tour Chancellor’s Reception on March 24, capping a full day of outreach in the state capital. 

Held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the LRS Hangar at the Springfield Airport Complex, the reception marked the tour’s return to Springfield for the first time since October 2023. Guests connected with Chancellor Austin A. Lane, SIU System President Daniel Mahony and other university leaders while exploring a vintage car and motorcycle collection. 

“Springfield, we’re back,” Lane said. 

The Springfield stop was part of the annual Saluki Takeover Tour, which brings university leaders to communities in Illinois and across the country to strengthen alumni connections, recruit students and build partnerships. Lane said the receptions are only part of the effort, with much of the work taking place during visits to schools, community colleges and partner organizations. 

“The receptions are very nice, but a lot of the work takes place before the reception and after the reception,” Lane said. 

Earlier in the day, SIU leaders participated in Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day and SIU Day at the Capitol, meeting with lawmakers, state officials and partners to highlight the university’s impact on workforce development, research and economic growth. The day also included visits to Springfield Southeast High School and Lincoln Land Community College, where representatives connected with prospective students. 

During the reception, Lane recognized SIU students who represented the university throughout the day, along with faculty, staff and supporters advancing the institution’s mission. 

Several state and agency leaders also addressed the audience, including Illinois State Sen. Terri Bryant; Illinois State Rep. and Assistant Majority Leader Jehan Gordon-Booth; Jerry Costello II, director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture; and Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Each emphasized SIU’s impact across Illinois and the importance of continued investment in higher education. 

SIU System President Daniel Mahony speaks to attendees gathered inside the LRS Hangar during the Saluki Takeover Tour Springfield Chancellor’s Reception.

Mahony outlined the university system’s priorities during the legislative session, including increased appropriations and support for an adequate and equitable higher education funding model. 

“Increased funding allows us to keep students in Illinois, lower costs and continue investing in employees and facilities,” Mahony said. 

Lane encouraged attendees to share SIU’s momentum, noting the university’s designation as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University. 

“When you’re walking among your colleagues in this state, just know you graduated from a high-powered Research 1 institution that is doing some great things,” Lane said. 

The Springfield reception followed Saluki Women Connect and Inspire, held the night before and hosted by SIU alumna and Springfield Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase at 5th Street GEM. The event highlighted the Women’s Leadership Council and its support for scholarships and leadership opportunities. 

Together, the Springfield events reflected the broader purpose of the Saluki Takeover Tour: strengthening partnerships, engaging alumni and sharing the momentum driving SIU forward. 

The tour continues 

The Saluki Takeover Tour continues across Southern Illinois with upcoming Chancellor’s Receptions: 

  • Tuesday, March 31, 5 to 7 p.m. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, Makanda  
  • Tuesday, April 7, 6 to 8 p.m. — Pyramid Acres Marina, Lake of Egypt (Marion)  
  • Thursday, April 16, 6 to 8 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton, Mount Vernon  
  • Tuesday, April 21, 6 to 8 p.m. — The Historic 131 Building, Carterville  
  • Thursday, April 23, 6 to 8 p.m. — 1860 Public House, Red Bud  

The tour serves as a key outreach effort, strengthening relationships across Southern Illinois while supporting student recruitment and alumni engagement. 

SIU is one of 21 institutions nationwide to hold dual Carnegie classifications as both a Research 1 university and an Opportunity University, recognizing its high level of research activity and commitment to access and upward mobility. 

The 2025-26 Saluki Takeover Tour has included stops in Indianapolis, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Dallas, Austin, Houston, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Naples, St. Louis and central Illinois. Last year’s Southern Illinois tour included Makanda, Marion, Benton, Chester, Anna and Murphysboro. 

“We bring the campus to communities across the region and proudly say, ‘This is Saluki Country,’” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. 

The tour also supports the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has a goal of $500 million by June 2028. More than $464 million has been raised to date. 

For more information or to register, visit siuf.org/events.

Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Saluki Takeover Tours, SIU

SIU Saluki Takeover Tour returns to connect communities across region

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Southern Illinois University Carbondale will host five stops across the region during the 3rd Annual Saluki Takeover Tour Southern Illinois from March 31 through April 23, bringing Chancellor Austin A. Lane, university leadership and admissions representatives to all 17 Southern Illinois counties.

The tour includes visits to high schools and community colleges across the region, along with a series of Chancellor’s Receptions designed to connect alumni, students, donors and friends while highlighting the university’s continued momentum.

“This tour is about showing up for Southern Illinois,” Lane said. “We’re visiting schools, meeting future Salukis and connecting with the alumni and supporters who make this university so strong.”

There is no cost to attend any of the events. Each reception runs from 6 to 8 p.m., except for the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center event, which will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Receptions include complimentary hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets per registered attendee. The SIU Foundation hosts the events.

The tour opens Tuesday, March 31, at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, with the event hosted at Little Grassy Lodge. Guests can explore recent improvements to Shawnee Lodge, Morris Lodge and Little Grassy Lodge. The evening includes guided tours, outdoor demonstrations and hands-on activities such as climbing, archery and the giant swing. Casual outdoor fare and a full bar will be provided. The tour schedule includes:

Tuesday, March 31, 5-7 p.m. — Makanda
Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, 206 Touch of Nature Rd.

Tuesday, April 7, 6-8 p.m. — Lake of Egypt (Marion)
Pyramid Acres Marina, 12057 Marina Rd.

Thursday, April 16, 6-8 p.m. — Mount Vernon
DoubleTree by Hilton, 222 Potomac Blvd.

Tuesday, April 21, 6-8 p.m. — Carterville
The Historic 131 Building, 131 S. Division St.

Thursday, April 23, 6-8 p.m. — Red Bud
1860 Public House, 102 S. Main St.

The Saluki Takeover Tour serves as a key outreach effort for the university, strengthening relationships with communities across Southern Illinois while supporting recruitment and engagement.

SIU is one of just 21 institutions nationwide to hold dual designations from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as both a Research 1 university and an Opportunity University. The distinction recognizes SIU’s high level of research activity alongside its strong commitment to access and upward mobility.

The 2025-26 Saluki Takeover Tour has also visited Indianapolis, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Dallas, Austin, Houston, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Naples, St. Louis and central Illinois. Last year’s Southern Illinois stops included Makanda, Marion, Benton, Chester, Anna and Murphysboro.

“We bring the campus, and we plant the flag in the ground, and we say, ‘This is Saluki Country!’” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation.

For the SIU Foundation, the Saluki Takeover Tour provides an opportunity to connect with donors as it advances the record-breaking Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of $500 million by June 2028, it is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. More than $464 million has already been raised.

For more information or to register, visit siuf.org/southern-illinois.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Scholarship Recipient, SIU

Scholarships Support Trinity Stroisch’s Path as a First-Generation Saluki

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Trinity is smiling while wearing a maroon SIU sweatshirt and blue jeans walks along a metal-railed bridge, with colorful autumn trees and sunlight in the background.By Ava Steffens

Trinity Stroisch, a senior, overcame the challenges of being a first-generation college student with the support of scholarships. She discovered a passion for marketing during her time at SIU

Although her parents did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education, they instilled the desire to learn in Stroisch from an early age. Her mother, who raised Stroisch and her sister on her own, and her father, who lives in Mexico, both encouraged her to pursue a college degree.

When financial challenges emerged in the months leading up to her final year, Stroisch searched for solutions and secured multiple scholarships. She completed SIU’s general scholarship application and pursued outside financial aid opportunities. Her persistence paid off, and she ultimately secured enough grants to fully cover her tuition.

“My mom cried,” Stroisch said. “She was so incredibly proud. It was no longer just something she wanted me to do. It became something she was preparing me to do.”

Stroisch received primary support from the College of Business and Analytics Student Scholarship, which includes contributions from multiple donors. She also received funding from the McPheeters Family Scholarship.

The COBA Student Scholarship supports students pursuing business-related majors, including finance, hospitality and marketing. Multiple donors help sustain the scholarship, which is awarded based on factors such as financial need and academic performance.

“I went down the list and applied for every single scholarship I was eligible for,” Stroisch said. “I was so relieved when I received the support because college was something I always knew I wanted to do.”

Drawn to SIU by its stunning campus, its wide range of academic programs, and its proximity to her hometown of Bement, Illinois, Stroisch said she knew SIU was the perfect place to pursue her goals.

In high school, she excelled academically and beyond the classroom, participating in numerous extracurricular activities and graduating as valedictorian.

She carried that momentum into college by embracing opportunities to grow. Stroisch joined Greek life, worked as a university tour guide, and became involved with the First Saluki Center. With graduation now on the horizon, she has multiple job offers in different cities.

Throughout her college journey, Stroisch explored several business majors before selecting marketing. She said the program’s blend of creativity and collaboration made the fieldclick for her.

“Marketing has something for everyone,” she said. “You have so many professions you can go into, and you can really leave your mark on the world.”

As a first-generation college student, Stroisch leaned on the support of professors and peers throughout her academic journey. Assistant Lecturer Christie Mitchell and mentors through the First Saluki Student Center provided her with the resources and framework to succeed at SIU.

One of these mentors was Dr. Lanel Love, assistant dean of students who oversees the First Saluki Center. Inspired by the impact that her role as a mentee had on her, Stroisch later became a mentor herself, helping other first-generation students adjust to college life.

“Dr. Love is so intelligent, and I learned so much from working with her,” Stroisch said. “Being able to lead other students who are having the same challenges that I once did was so rewarding.”

Stroisch hopes her Saluki journey will inspire her younger sister as she explores post-high school opportunities. Optimism about her and her family’s future has been reinforced by the transformative role scholarships played in Stroisch’s college career.

“I don’t take a single bit of it for granted because a lot of students struggle,” she said. “I wish every student had the ability to fully put themselves into their studies.”

Those inspired by Stroisch’s story can support student success by establishing or contributing to a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. To give online, visit siuf.org/give.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Dr. Mark and Susan Ashley: Building Centre for Neuro Skills and Giving Back to SIU

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Dr. Mark Ashley and Susan Ashley stand together outside the historic Fox Theater beneath a marquee reading “Centre for Neuro Skills Celebrates 40 Yrs of Excellence,” marking the organization’s milestone anniversary.
Dr. Mark Ashley and Susan Ashley stand together outside the historic Fox Theater beneath a marquee reading “Centre for Neuro Skills Celebrates 40 Yrs of Excellence,” marking the organization’s milestone anniversary.

By Britni Bateman

Dr. Mark and Susan Ashley came to Southern Illinois University as graduate students with a shared interest in speech pathology and left with an education that shaped both their careers and their commitment to giving back.

That commitment now extends far beyond Carbondale. The Ashleys are the founders of Centre for Neuro Skills, a nationally recognized provider of post-acute brain injury rehabilitation. Through their business success and philanthropy, they continue to strengthen SIU by supporting faculty excellence, student opportunity, and innovation in the field that launched their careers.

“We were happy with our experience at SIU,” Susan Ashley said. “I feel like I got a great education.”

From graduate students to innovators

Mark and Susan Ashley in the late 1980s.
Mark and Susan Ashley in the late 1980s.

The Ashleys met as children, dated in high school, and married after their first year of college. Both pursued undergraduate studies at the State University of New York at Geneseo before entering graduate programs to prepare for careers in speech pathology.

A visit to Carbondale proved pivotal.

Faculty members in SIU’s Communication Disorders and Sciences program welcomed them, introduced them to hands-on research, and demonstrated how interdisciplinary learning could expand their impact. Dr. Mark Ashley said the environment encouraged curiosity beyond a single discipline and supported collaboration across departments.

“That kind of thinking stays with you,” he said.

Graduate school was demanding. The Ashleys carried heavy course loads and worked multiple jobs to finish their master’s degrees in four semesters.

“We didn’t have a lot of money,” Dr. Mark Ashley said. “If we weren’t in school, we were working.”

Those years built both professional discipline and a lasting appreciation for the mentors who invested time and resources in them.

A business rooted in purpose

Dr. Mark Ashley’s professional path was shaped by personal experience. His brother suffered a severe brain injury while serving in the Navy, exposing him early to the long-term needs of individuals and families affected by neurologic injury.

While studying at SIU, Dr. Mark Ashley helped faculty members launch an experimental brain injury program in Carbondale. The work challenged prevailing assumptions in the field, particularly the belief that recovery plateaued after six months.

“The textbooks said that six months was it,” he said. “We’ve disproven that a multitude of times.”

After graduating in 1978, the Ashleys moved to California, where an unexpected career shift led Dr. Mark Ashley into private practice. Within a few years, he and his colleagues opened the first Centre for Neuro Skills facility in Bakersfield.

They started with a small building, modest staff, and personal loans. What they had, Dr. Mark Ashley said, was conviction.

“I didn’t believe we would fail,” he said. “I didn’t even think about failing.”

Dr. Mark Ashley and Susan Ashley cut a ribbon during the 2012 grand opening of the Centre for Neuro Skills San Francisco location, surrounded by employees and supporters gathered for the celebration.
Dr. Mark Ashley and Susan Ashley cut a ribbon during the 2012 grand opening of the Centre for Neuro Skills San Francisco location, surrounded by employees and supporters gathered for the celebration.

Today, Centre for Neuro Skills operates post-acute brain injury rehabilitation programs in seven locations across California and Texas, including Bakersfield, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and Austin. The organization employs about 1,000 people and serves hundreds of patients each year through highly structured treatment models that integrate therapy into daily living.

Susan Ashley said the work remains deeply meaningful.

“Seeing what someone couldn’t do at the beginning and what they can do later never gets old,” she said.

Investing back in SIU

The Ashleys’ success has translated into significant philanthropic impact at Southern, particularly through their support of faculty and research in Communication Disorders and Sciences.

They established the Dr. Mark and Susan Ashley Endowed Professorship of Audiology and the Dr. Mark and Susan Ashley Endowed Professorship of Speech Pathology, along with the Mark and Susan Ashley Professorship in Communication Disorders and Sciences Endowment Fund.

The professorship supports tenured or tenure-track faculty in the Communication Disorders and Sciences Program within the College of Health and Human Sciences.

Income from the endowment has been used to strengthen faculty recruitment and retention while advancing research, clinical training, and student support through graduate assistantships, professional travel, equipment upgrades, and other academic needs. Appointments are for five-year terms and may be renewed.

Since its establishment, the Mark and Susan Ashley Endowed Professorship has played a transformative role in the program. Endowment support has enabled major upgrades to the Communication Disorders and Sciences Lab and Student Resource Hub, funded research assistantships, and supported faculty participation in regional, national, and international conferences. Faculty research supported by the endowment spans areas such as augmentative and alternative communication in autism, simulation-based training for speech-language pathologists, and interprofessional collaboration in health sciences.

Dr. Valerie Boyer, a recipient of the Ashley Endowed Professorship, said the support has had a direct and lasting impact on both faculty and students.

“This endowment has allowed us to pursue research and professional development opportunities that simply would not have been possible otherwise,” Boyer said. “It strengthens our ability to train future clinicians while contributing meaningful scholarship to the field.”

Dr. Maria Claudia Franca, also an endowed professor, said the investment has elevated the program’s national and international engagement.

“The Ashley Endowed Professorship has expanded our capacity to collaborate, present, and publish at the highest levels,” Franca said. “It has enhanced our teaching, advanced our research, and enriched the student experience in tangible ways.”

Dr. Mark Ashley said supporting faculty was a deliberate choice rooted in his own graduate school experience.

“Professors constantly face resource limitations,” he said. “When they want to take on a project, it can be frustrating and limiting for students. We wanted to help relieve some of that pressure.”

The Ashleys also support students through scholarships, remembering firsthand the strain of balancing coursework with multiple jobs.

“We made it,” Dr. Mark Ashley said. “But we had friends who didn’t have the same opportunities. If we can help a little, we should.”

A legacy of impact

Dr. Mark Ashley earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Geneseo in secondary education and speech pathology and audiology, followed by a master’s degree in speech pathology from SIU. He has received honorary degrees from both institutions. Susan Ashley also earned a master’s degree from SIU.

Their connection to SIU and Centre for Neuro Skills continues into the next generation. Their son, Dr. Matthew Ashley, and daughter-in-law, Dr. Jessica Ashley, both SIU Carbondale graduates who met as students, now serve in leadership roles at Centre for Neuro Skills. Dr. Matthew Ashley is the organization’s chief medical officer, and Dr. Jessica Ashley is a neuroscientist. Another son, Benjamin Ashley, serves as associate vice president of marketing and communications.

The Ashleys view their family’s involvement and their philanthropic support of SIU as part of the same commitment to advancing brain injury rehabilitation and investing in people.

“This is about continuing the work,” Dr. Mark Ashley said. “Helping people, supporting those who teach, and making sure the next generation has the resources to push the field forward.”

From graduate students in Carbondale to leaders in brain injury rehabilitation, the Ashleys’ story reflects the lasting impact of an SIU education and the power of giving back to the institution that helped make it possible.

An institution defined by access and excellence

Southern Illinois University Carbondale is one of only 21 universities nationwide to hold both Carnegie Research 1 (R1) and Opportunity University designations, reflecting its strength in high-level research and its commitment to expanding access and outcomes for students from all backgrounds. As SIU continues to advance as a national research institution focused on student success, the Ashleys’ investment helps ensure the university remains a place where education, access, and impact move forward together.

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

Tedrick Welcome Center Grand Opening Set for May 1

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Save-the-date graphic for the Tedrick Welcome Center Grand Opening Celebration at Southern Illinois University. The image features a maroon banner reading “Save the Date” above an illustration of the Tedrick Welcome Center. Text announces the SIU Foundation event at 1264 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, Illinois. A ribbon-cutting celebration will be held Friday, May 1, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. with heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. A public open house will follow Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., inviting guests to explore the new space, connect with the SIU community and enjoy food trucks.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale and the SIU Foundation will celebrate the grand opening of the Tedrick Welcome Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026, at the university’s main entrance off U.S. Highway 51.

The event recognizes the leadership and vision of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors and honors the generosity of Roger and Sally Tedrick, SIU Foundation emeritus board members and the many donors whose support made the Tedrick Welcome Center possible. The 44,000-square-foot facility is funded entirely through the SIU Foundation and required no taxpayer dollars, tuition revenue, student fees or state funds.

The Tedrick Welcome Center will serve as the home of the SIU Foundation and include a 14,000-square-foot welcome center designed as a central hub for campus engagement. The space will anchor campus tours, open houses, orientations, alumni and donor engagement, and special events, providing a welcoming introduction to SIU for prospective students, families and visitors.

“This building is going to blow students away and help us seal the deal,” SIU Chancellor Austin Lane said during the groundbreaking ceremony. “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

The southern wing of the building houses the SIU Foundation, creating a centralized home for fundraising and alumni engagement efforts. The main visitor center will be capable of hosting conferences, lectures, seminars and catered events for up to 300 people. Interactive exhibits throughout the facility highlight SIU’s academic programs, research and campus resources.

“Having a dedicated space for the SIU Foundation within the Tedrick Welcome Center strengthens how we engage alumni and donors on campus,” Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation, said. “It allows us to better share the impact of philanthropy, deepen relationships, and create more meaningful connections between our supporters and the students they help make successful.”

Guests attending the May 1 ribbon-cutting celebration will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar while commemorating this milestone for the university.

A public open house will follow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2. Community members are invited to tour the new facility, explore its interactive features and enjoy food trucks on site. All are welcome.

Located on the former site of McAndrew Stadium, the Tedrick Welcome Center represents SIU’s first major on-campus construction project in more than a decade and reflects the university’s continued investment in recruitment, engagement and student success.

For more information about the Tedrick Welcome Center, visit siuf.org/twc.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

Dr. Charlotte West helped shape women’s athletics at SIU and beyond

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Dr. Charlotte West headshot

By Britni Bateman

Dr. Charlotte West built a career on one unwavering belief: women deserve the same opportunity to compete, learn and lead as anyone else.

Surrounded by memories from a 42-year career at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, West reflected on the steady, determined work that helped transform women’s athletics at SIU from a modest program into a nationally recognized department with a $1 million budget supporting 11 varsity sports.

“It was an evolution,” West said. “What it is, is one step at a time.”

A reluctant arrival that became a calling

West came to Carbondale to interview for a position in women’s physical education after completing graduate study at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. At the time, women’s athletics operated within the physical education department, and SIU sought a faculty member who could teach multiple sports and activities.

She was not convinced Southern Illinois would become home.

On the drive out of town after her interview, she assumed she would never return.

“I said goodbye, Carbondale, I won’t see you again,” West said.

Then Dorothy Davies, a leader in SIU’s women’s athletics program and the namesake of Davies Gymnasium, called to offer her the position. West left her dorm room so she would not have to answer the phone, but Davies tracked her down.

“I said, OK, I’d come,” West said. “And what a wonderful decision because I had 42 years there.”

Dr. Charlotte West sits on wooden gym bleachers holding a basketball, smiling at the camera. She wears a white shirt and dark vest with an SIU logo. A volleyball, baseball bat and glove rest beside her, symbolizing the multiple sports she coached and supported during her career in women’s athletics.

Building something from the ground up

West entered the profession at a time when women had limited access to organized competition. She had played sports growing up in St. Petersburg, Florida, but when she enrolled at Florida State University, women did not compete at the intercollegiate level.

“What a shock when I went to Florida State University that women couldn’t compete,” she said. “There was nothing.”

At SIU, West taught physical education and coached softball, basketball, volleyball and golf. She started the volleyball program and later handed it to JoAnne Thorpe, who led the team to a national championship appearance. West coached basketball during a period when women’s athletics began to expand rapidly.

In those early years, women’s teams competed in “sports days,” large, one-day events that required careful coordination and creativity. There were few trained officials, so West helped teach athletes to serve as scorekeepers, timers and referees.

“We started training them to be officials, scorekeepers and timers,” she said. “That taught them respect.”

Opportunities were limited, but appreciation ran deep. When SIU received an invitation to compete in one of the first national women’s basketball championships, the program could afford only two cars for the trip to Pennsylvania. To make the trip possible, coaches had already reduced the roster and planned to cut additional players simply to fit everyone into the vehicles.

“The team asked if they could talk to us seriously,” West said. “They said they would ride four in the back seat if we wouldn’t cut anybody anymore.”

West agreed. They packed the cars, squeezed four players into each back seat and made the long drive east.

“We drove all the way to Pennsylvania and not one complaint the whole trip,” she said. “They were so thrilled to be able to go.”

Under her leadership as both coach and administrator, SIU women’s athletics grew into a nationally respected program. What began with limited funding and part-time coaching assignments developed into a structured department with 11 varsity sports and a $1 million budget.

Today, the programs she helped establish continue to thrive. Volleyball, women’s basketball and softball have combined for 15 conference championships and 20 NCAA tournament appearances, strengthening the powerhouse tradition West helped build and sustaining the competitive standard she set decades ago.

A national voice for equity

West’s influence extended beyond campus through her leadership with the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, formed in 1971. She served as commissioner of national championships and later as president, helping guide the organization during a pivotal era that coincided with the passage of Title IX in 1972.

“If I have given one lecture on Title IX, I have easily given 100,” West said.

She emphasized that Title IX reaches far beyond athletics.

“People think of it as just athletics, but it’s all of education,” she said.

Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity that receives federal funding. That includes athletics, but also admissions, academic programs, housing, financial aid, hiring practices and protections against sexual harassment and assault. The law requires institutions to provide equitable opportunities and resources based on their student population.

West said the law does not advantage one group over another. Instead, it protects fairness for all students.

“It requires schools to give women an equal opportunity in all of education,” West said. “And where men have not had opportunity, it protects them too.”

West met with federal officials, testified before congressional committees and worked alongside national advocates to protect and enforce the law. She later served on NCAA councils after the organization assumed control of women’s championships, where she championed student welfare, academic standards and institutional accountability.

The work was not without resistance. West said she faced criticism and threats for speaking out.

“But I believed in what we were doing,” she said.

Changing lives through scholarships

For West, the most meaningful outcomes were personal. She saw firsthand how athletic scholarships opened doors for women who might not otherwise attend college.

“We had some athletes that never could have gotten to college if we hadn’t offered them a scholarship,” she said.

She remembers visiting recruits in challenging circumstances and understanding how transformative an opportunity at SIU could be.

“The opportunity for these females that would not have had an opportunity, I think is most important,” West said.

That belief continues to guide her philanthropy. West regularly gives back to support Saluki athletic scholarships, ensuring future student-athletes receive the same access she fought to secure.

“As soon as I was able, I certainly wanted to give to SIU and help the program in any way I could,” she said.

The stadium that tells a story

In 1998, SIU honored West’s legacy by naming the softball stadium after her. The tribute reflects decades of leadership, mentorship and national influence.

“I was so happy that they named the softball stadium after me,” West said. “It meant a lot.”

The naming was supported by donors, colleagues and former student-athletes whose lives she influenced. A commemorative plaque inside the stadium features her image and lists individuals who contributed to the project, creating a permanent record of shared investment in women’s athletics.

When West returns to campus, she makes a point to pause there.

“I still like to enter the stadium and look at the scroll there,” she said, “that said all the people that had donated.”

For West, the stadium is not about personal recognition. It stands as a reminder of a community that chose to invest in women’s athletics and in the generations of student-athletes who would follow.

A legacy still unfolding

West remains proud of the progress she helped shape. She continues to emphasize the educational purpose of athletics and the importance of gratitude.

“One thing I hope I always taught was to appreciate the opportunity,” she said.

Through her work as coach, administrator, national advocate and donor, West helped reshape the landscape of women’s collegiate athletics at SIU and beyond. The scoreboard may not capture her full impact, but the scholarships awarded, the programs sustained and the stadium that bears her name tell a lasting story of leadership and persistence.

Learn how you can support Saluki Athletics by visiting give.siu.edu/athletics.

Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Saluki Takeover Tours, SIU

Record-breaking crowd attends Chancellor’s Reception during Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis

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SIU Chancellor Austin Lane addresses the crowd at the Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis Chancellor's Reception.

By Britni Bateman

ST. LOUIS — A record-breaking crowd of nearly 400 alumni, students and friends gathered Wednesday, March 4, at Sports & Social St. Louis for the Chancellor’s Reception during the 5th Annual Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis, the largest attendance in the event’s history.

Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the reception brought together Salukis from across the St. Louis region for an evening of connection, university updates and celebration of Southern Illinois University Carbondale during Arch Madness.

Chancellor Austin Lane welcomed the crowd and highlighted the broader purpose of the Saluki Takeover Tour, which combines alumni engagement with student recruitment and community partnerships.

“It’s about the game, but it’s a lot more than just the game,” Lane said. “We’re interacting with principals, superintendents, counselors and prospective Salukis while we’re here, making sure we continue bringing new students into the Saluki family.”

The evening also highlighted the critical role philanthropy plays in expanding opportunities for SIU students. Leaders from the SIU Foundation shared updates about donor impact and ongoing efforts to grow scholarship support and student success initiatives.

“The foundation exists to help students like the ones we introduced earlier tonight,” said Dan Korte, president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors. “We are raising more scholarships and more resources to change the trajectory of students’ lives, and we couldn’t do it without all of you.”

Alumni Richard and Nancy Klassen address the crowd at the Chancellor's Reception.

During the reception, Marc Morris, dean of the College of Business and Analytics, announced a new philanthropic commitment supporting the Harvey N. Michaels Center for Academic Success and Engagement in Rehn Hall.

Alumni Richard and Nancy Klassen are making a gift to name the Richard & Nancy Klassen Mentorship Lounge, a welcoming space where students can meet with mentors, advisers and alumni for guidance and career conversations.

Richard Klassen, a longtime member of the College of Business and Analytics Dean’s External Advisory Board and former member of the college’s Marketing Advisory Board, has mentored SIU business students for many years. He and Nancy, a 1957 SIU alumna, attended the reception to celebrate the announcement.

The mentorship lounge will feature comfortable seating and semi-private spaces designed to encourage face-to-face conversations between students and mentors.

Admissions efforts were also highlighted during the event. Josi Rawls, associate director for transfer relations in SIU Admissions, shared updates about recruitment initiatives taking place throughout the week and introduced two committed students who attended the reception as part of the tour’s outreach.

Earlier in the day, the SIU Alumni Association hosted “Salukis on the Run,” a corporate visit at Bayer’s North American headquarters in Chesterfield. SIU students toured the facility and participated in a panel discussion with Bayer professionals, gaining insights into career pathways and industry opportunities.

On Tuesday, March 3, the Women’s Leadership Council launched the St. Louis tour with Saluki Women Connect and Inspire, an event hosted by SIU Foundation Board member Diane Compardo at Moneta in Clayton.

Laura Sawyier, founder and CEO of LKS Styling and Consulting, speaks into a microphone during the Saluki Women Connect and Inspire event at Moneta in Clayton, Missouri, while another attendee stands beside her as guests listen from tables in the room.

The gathering celebrated Women’s History Month and featured nationally recognized stylist and confidence coach Laura Sawyier, founder and CEO of LKS Styling and Consulting. In her presentation, “The Power of Style: Designing the Way You Show Up,” Sawyier shared insights from her research on the psychology of style and how personal presentation can strengthen confidence, credibility and leadership.

Additional Saluki Takeover Tour activities included visits to area high schools, meetings with education partners and recruitment events designed to connect prospective students with SIU.

On Thursday, March 5, Chancellor Austin Lane joined Lewis and Clark Community College President Ken Trzaska to sign a new Saluki Step Ahead transfer agreement between the two institutions. The agreement strengthens pathways for Lewis and Clark students to transfer seamlessly to Southern and complete their bachelor’s degrees.

The partnership expands access to Saluki Step Ahead, a program that allows students to apply to SIU during their first year at a participating community college, secure a designated degree track and complete their bachelor’s degree through select online programs.

University leaders say the program helps remove barriers for transfer students who may not be able to relocate to Southern Illinois while still providing access to SIU’s research-level academic programs.

Through Saluki Step Ahead, students can secure a clear transfer pathway, benefit from lower costs and transition directly from community college to SIU as they work toward completing their bachelor’s degrees.

Saluki spirit continued throughout the day as alumni and fans gathered for a basketball pregame event hosted by the SIU Alumni Association at PBR St. Louis inside Ballpark Village. The gathering, held on the lower level of Ballpark Village, gave Salukis an opportunity to connect and build excitement ahead of the Missouri Valley Conference tournament game.

Later that afternoon, SIU faced Drake in the opening round of Arch Madness. The Salukis battled throughout the game but ultimately fell to Drake 67-63, ending their season.

Despite the loss, the week’s events highlighted the strong presence of the Saluki community in St. Louis, with alumni, students and university leaders coming together to celebrate SIU and strengthen connections across the region.

About the Tour

The Saluki Takeover Tour is part of SIU’s ongoing efforts to strengthen alumni engagement and build support for the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has approximately 2½ years remaining. To date, the campaign has raised more than $462 million toward its $500 million goal, making it the fifth-largest fundraising effort in Illinois higher education.

In the most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17% of the student body.

The tour continues with stops across the country, bringing SIU’s mission, momentum and Saluki spirit directly to alumni and communities nationwide.

Upcoming Saluki Takeover Tour stops: 
Mar. 23–27 – Central Illinois (Peoria and Springfield) 
Mar. 31–Apr. 21 – Southern Illinois

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

Day of Giving raises $648,700 for School of Medicine needs

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Group of people wearing matching “SIU Day of Giving Champion” shirts pose energetically in front of a geometric wall, holding a sign that reads “SIU School of Medicine – SIU Day of Giving – 2.25.26.”

The SIU School of Medicine community came together in an extraordinary show of generosity during this year’s Day of Giving on Feb. 25, raising $648,700 to support education, research, patient care and community programs. The total represents more than a 20% increase over 2025.

Colleagues across SIU School of Medicine stepped up as Day of Giving Champions, helping drive a strong social media push and encouraging participation throughout the day. Their efforts helped amplify the school’s mission and engage supporters across campus and beyond.

“Our donors continue to inspire us with their generosity,” said Jerry Kruse, MD, dean and provost of SIU School of Medicine. “Every gift reflects a strong belief in our mission, support for our students, advancement of lifesaving research and high-quality care for the people of central and southern Illinois. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who chose to invest in the future of SIU Medicine.”

Top areas of support during this year’s Day of Giving included medical student scholarships and resources, the Smith Alzheimer’s Center, emergency medicine and Simmons Cancer Institute, highlighting donors’ commitment to both learner success and critical clinical care.

Gifts ranged from $5 to a single-largest contribution of $200,000, underscoring the extraordinary benevolence of donors at every level.

In total, 224 donors contributed to SIU’s Day of Giving, illustrating the collective impact of its alumni, faculty, staff, friends and community partners.

SIU School of Medicine extends its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s fundraiser a success.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Scholarship Recipient, SIU

The Impact of Giving: Shaping Phillip Hartke’s Path at SIU

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Phillip Hartke poses for a portrait with arms crossed beside a campus building. On-screen text identifies him as 2023-2024 Undergraduate Student Government president and highlights his leadership and service roles.

By Ava Steffens

Phillip Hartke, a senior from Sidney, Illinois, is a scholarship recipient majoring in industrial management and applied engineering at Southern Illinois University. His involvement in Undergraduate Student Government, Greek Life and service as a volunteer firefighter has allowed him to positively impact student life and shape his own future.

Saluki spirit runs deep in his family, he said, as Hartke is the 17th member to attend SIU. His parents met on campus, and his younger sister is now continuing the tradition as a first-year student.

Phillip Hartke speaks into a microphone while holding notes during a campus event.

Hartke said that his goal in attending SIU is to pay it forward and help other students find their place at the university. A large part of his college experience has been the sense of community SIU provides. Unlike many other universities, he said that Carbondale cultivates a unique student base that is tightly bound.

“I could have chosen any other school in the state,” he said. “But whenever I came to SIU, it was apparent to me that the teachers actually cared, and that I wasn’t just a number.”

He began his time at SIU as a civil engineering major but later switched to industrial management and applied engineering to better align with his career goals. Through this program, he secured an internship with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, supporting operations and program management efforts.

Hartke has also been extensively involved with Undergraduate Student Government, serving as president during his second year at SIU. He learned he had received his scholarship at the end of the following year’s election cycle, an experience that he refers to as the “wind in his sails.”

“Even if things didn’t work out, which they ultimately didn’t, I still had a lot to be grateful for,” he said. “This was the first time I’ve received an extra scholarship while I’ve been at SIU, so it was a very welcome surprise.”

Hartke received the Friends of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Scholarship, which is funded through the institute’s donor pool. This past fall, he attended the annual scholarship dinner, where he recalled a meaningful interaction with his scholarship donor, Matt Baughman.

“He’s gotten to know just about everything at the whole university,” Hartke said. “Anyone that’s ever come around, the history of it, and the goals of the university going forward.”

Phillip Hartke, second from left, stands on the football field with friends in front of a scoreboard at a football game following a Saluki victory.

Oftentimes, students must find a balance between working in college and remaining engaged in academics and campus leadership. Although Hartke held a range of paid and unpaid roles during his time at SIU — including a nightclub bouncer, distributor, intern and volunteer firefighter — the scholarship allowed him to focus more on his studies and extracurricular involvement.

“I’ve worked throughout college, but receiving this scholarship gave me the margin to lead at a higher level,” he said. “It allowed me to invest more time into service, student government, and building organizations that will outlast my time here.”

Firefighters spray water onto a mobile home engulfed in flames during an active structure fire response.In addition to his academics, Hartke and several peers reestablished the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity chapter at SIU in 2022. The organization provided him with valuable connections and leadership experience, motivating him to take on roles such as serving on the advisory board for Saluki Athletics. He described TKE as a community‑focused, philanthropic group of “like‑minded men” committed to doing good and preparing for future success.

Phillip Hartke, center, stands with two peers in front of large “St. Jude” letters at a conference event.During his time in TKE, he has helped conduct numerous fundraising events benefiting organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The chapter focuses on community service goals and mentoring younger fraternity members. Hartke said that he admires those who try to give their time or resources to their institution, as he hopes to do so through his own work.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding,” he said. “You can’t buy back the time, but you can help someone else take advantage of the time that they have in front of them.”

After he graduates in May, Hartke plans to attend law school and pursue a career involving engineering, business, and public service. When thinking about his future, he said he is optimistic, as he will have no debt.

“I feel like I’ve seen everything that SIU Carbondale has to offer,” he said. “And for that reason, I’m not scared of what comes next.”

The Friends of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Scholarship is funded through a pool of contributions from multiple donors. This initiative helps position SIU as one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of 4,000 — classified as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University. This designation underscores the university’s commitment to discovery, access and expanding student opportunities.

For those inspired by Phillip Hartke’s story, supporting scholarships through the SIU Foundation is a meaningful way to invest in future Salukis. Your contribution opens pathways and help create life‑changing opportunities. To give, visit siuf.org/give.

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

Deaconess Illinois, SIU formalize partnership to support healthcare workforce and student wellbeing

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SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane, seated left, and William Davis, Deaconess Illinois Region President, sign partnership agreements at a table draped with an SIU College of Health and Human Sciences tablecloth Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion. Leaders and team members from Deaconess Illinois and the college stand behind them in front of a Deaconess Illinois backdrop.
SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane, seated left, and William Davis, Deaconess Illinois Region President, sign partnership agreements Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion. The agreements establish the Deaconess Illinois Scholars Program, the Deaconess Illinois Serenity Room and the Deaconess Illinois Wellness Suite in collaboration with SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences. Leaders and team members from Deaconess Illinois and the college stand behind them.

MARION, Ill. — Leaders from Deaconess Illinois Medical Center and Southern Illinois University Carbondale gathered Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at Deaconess Illinois in Marion to sign a series of agreements establishing the Deaconess Illinois Scholars Program, the Deaconess Illinois Serenity Room and the Deaconess Illinois Wellness Suite.

The partnership expands support for students in SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences and strengthens the regional healthcare workforce pipeline.

Chancellor Austin A. Lane said the agreement reflects a shared commitment to student success and regional impact.

“Partnerships are a major pillar of our Imagine 2030 strategic plan,” Lane said. “This collaboration represents exactly what public higher education should look like. When healthcare leaders and universities work together, we create real pathways for students to succeed and for communities to thrive. Deaconess Illinois is investing not only in scholarships and spaces, but in the future of healthcare access across southern Illinois.”

The Deaconess Illinois Scholars Program will provide tuition support for students pursuing degrees in nursing, radiological sciences and accelerated master’s of social work. The program prioritizes students from southern Illinois who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities.

Through a competitive application process, selected scholars will receive mentorship from Deaconess Illinois clinicians and access to shadowing, clinical placements and professional development opportunities. As graduation approaches, scholars will receive priority consideration for employment within the Deaconess Illinois system.

“Our partnership with Southern Illinois University Carbondale reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the future of healthcare in our region,” said William Davis, Deaconess Illinois Region President. “By investing in scholarships for students pursuing critical healthcare fields, we are helping build a sustainable workforce while creating opportunities for local talent to learn, grow and serve close to home.”

Dr. Robert Morgan, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences, said the initiative strengthens both academic preparation and workforce readiness.

“Our students are preparing for professions that demand both technical excellence and emotional resilience,” Morgan said. “Through the Deaconess Illinois Scholars Program and the new wellness spaces, we are supporting them academically, clinically and personally. This partnership strengthens our ability to prepare compassionate, highly skilled professionals who will serve communities across southern Illinois.”

Katie Warren, Regional Director of Imaging, Peri-Operative Services and Central Scheduling for Deaconess Illinois, said the scholarship investment supports critical healthcare access.

“Imaging is a critical access service that plays a vital role in early diagnosis, timely treatment and quality patient outcomes,” Warren said. “Supporting students through this scholarship partnership helps ensure we have skilled professionals ready to meet the growing needs of our communities, especially in rural and underserved areas.”

In addition to scholarship support, the agreements include the creation of the Deaconess Illinois Serenity Room in Mae Smith Hall and the Deaconess Illinois Wellness Suite in the new Community Care and Education Center. The spaces will serve students in the College of Health and Human Sciences by providing a dedicated environment for stress management, mindfulness and restorative wellbeing.

The serenity room will feature specialized stress-management equipment, calming design elements and programming intended to help students balance the demands of rigorous academic and clinical preparation. All CHHS students residing in Mae Smith Hall will have access to the space.

The wellness suite in the Community Care and Education Center will be a space for our CHHS faculty and students to provide free community resources to our rural and underserved populations such as nutrition education, chronic disease prevention, preventative health screenings, and referral support.

Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation, said the collaboration demonstrates the power of regional partnerships.

“This collaboration demonstrates how philanthropy and partnership can align workforce needs with student opportunity,” Kupec said. “Deaconess Illinois is making a strategic investment in talent development, ensuring students have the support, mentorship and professional connections they need to launch meaningful careers right here in our region.”

Together, the Deaconess Illinois Scholars Program and the new wellness spaces create a pathway from tuition support and mentorship to clinical experience and career opportunity, reinforcing a shared goal: where local talent becomes local care.

The Deaconess Illinois investment advances the goals of SIU’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has a goal of $500 million. To date, the SIU Foundation has raised more than $460 million, making Imagine SIU 2030 the fifth-largest fundraising effort in Illinois higher education. 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 university’s student body.

The initiative also reinforces SIU’s standing as one of just 21 institutions nationwide designated as both a Research 1 university and an Opportunity University under the Carnegie Classification. By combining high-level research activity with a commitment to access and upward mobility, SIU continues to demonstrate that excellence and opportunity can go hand in hand.

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