CARBONDALE – Thanks to a lead gift from the late Tilden “Tim” Parks, a 1976 SIU graduate, Campus Lake will soon have a new addition.
Final preparations are underway to install a new state-of-the-art fountain to the center of the lake. This much needed and long overdue fountain will help circulate the water of the lake, helping to prevent the growth of harmful algal blooms and improve all forms of life, such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. The university eradicated cyanobacteria from the lake with a massive cleanup effort in 2016, but left unchecked, they’ll start to take over again.
The gift from Parks helped spark the conversation about adding a fountain, but funding is still needed to secure and install the first of hopefully a few different fountains on the lake. The foundation is seeking an additional $30,000 to make this project a reality and to honor the legacy of Mr. Parks and his family.
The community will be invited to a dedication ceremony for the fountain this fall. Details are still being finalized for this event.
“I want to challenge everyone to give back to others and to what is important to them,” said the late Ralph E. Becker, who donated $1 million to renovate the lake’s boathouse in 2017. “It is extremely important to challenge others to do bigger and better than what I am able to accomplish. That is the only way progress will be made.”
Natural beauty often ranks highly in the promotional material of Southern Illinois University Carbondale . One of the campus’s most heavily photographed spots is the scenic landscape of Campus Lake. Campus Lake is a 43-acre spring-fed lake set amongst woodlands. The lake area is popular for students walking across campus to get to class, and is also the site of many campus-wide events like the Great Cardboard Boat Regatta, the Doc Spackman Memorial Triathlon, Moonlight Canoeing, and fundraising and awareness walks.
Purchased in 1956 from the Thompson family that gave its name to Thompson Point and Thompson Woods, Campus Lake was originally known as Thompson Lake. It was only after its purchase that it would be re-christened, when a new Thompson Lake was created just north of Carbondale to serve as a local reservoir.
Campus Lake Trail is a 2-mile paved trail around campus lake. Along the trail, there is a nature boardwalk and multiple workout areas. This trail is often used for everyday recreation by walkers, runners, and joggers. On average the trail sees about 1,500 users a week. The trail hosts multiple organized walks and runs throughout the year.
Your support of the Campus Lake fountain project will allow the university to preserve and maintain this for generations to come.
Drs. Dan Elkins and Amelia Noël-Elkins are uniquely aware of the obstacles facing college students.
Dan, a 1993 SIU graduate, is the associate vice president for academic fiscal management at Illinois State University, and Amelia is the associate provost at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Together, they established the Elkins Student Support Scholarship within SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences. The fund provides financial support to current students, particularly to those seeking an internship to advance their career experience.
Drs. Dan Elkins and Amelia Noël-Elkins attend the 2025 Saluki Ball.
“One of the big motivations for this was to help students who aren’t as fortunate, who do not have support in place,” Dan said.
While many scholarships are directed toward incoming students, both Dan and Amelia thought it was important to aid students who are already on their higher education journey.
“Sometimes we don’t openly acknowledge the fact that it’s almost harder to retain a student than it is to recruit them,” Amelia said. “The scholarship had to focus on helping students who might be facing a few hiccups along the way, might have a few roadblocks to be able to get over that hump and complete their degree.”
Many students, especially in the College of Health and Human Sciences, take on internships to gain valuable work experience and advance their education. Some of these internships last months and are unpaid.
“It was very intentional to make sure that the fund could be used for internships also to make sure students could advance their network and could be able to have professional opportunities and growth. We all know that sometimes internships lead to that first job.”
Dan’s father, Dr. Donald Elkins, worked at SIU as a professor of plant and soil sciences in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences. He established the college’s well-known Agbassadors program, and each year a faculty member is awarded the Donald M. Elkins Excellence Award. Donald Elkins passed away in 2013.
Dan was born and raised in Carbondale and earned a bachelor’s degree in recreation from the College of Health and Human Sciences in 1993. He then earned a master’s and doctoral degree from Indiana University.
“My dad was someone who knew what he wanted to do his whole life,” Dan said. “I, on the other hand, did not have a clear idea of what I wanted to do. I changed my major four times. It took me a long time to finish. My experience was a struggle of sorts, trying to find that direction. At SIU, I had tremendous support … so many people helped me. Many students do not have the support or resources that I did. We hope this gift affords students the opportunity to stay in school as they find their path.”
Amelia and Dan met while at Indiana University, and both have gone on to successful careers in higher education.
“I’m a Saluki by marriage,” Amelia said. “As we’ve become more engaged with the SIU community, I have been able to see the legacy that Dan and his dad have had at SIU.”
To learn more about making a similar impact, visit siuf.org.
Dr. Sunil Sinha’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep connection to his heritage. Born into a family originally from India, Sunil’s journey to the United States in the late ’60s marked the beginning of a remarkable path that would intertwine his professional achievements with his cultural roots.
After completing his residency in internal medicine, he joined the Carbondale Clinic and quickly established a busy practice. It was during this time that he began to consider how furthering his education might impact his career.
Sunil’s own academic journey led him to SIU, where he received an MBA at the College of Business Administration in 1998. Despite the challenges of balancing a busy clinical practice with his studies, Sunil found support and encouragement from faculty members, some of whom were family friends and even patients.
One of his most memorable experiences was a class with Dr. Reed Nelson, who taught organizational design and behavior.
“Dr. Nelson’s teaching style was quite entertaining, providing the class with a variety of perspectives on management styles and organizational cultures. His class was the one I enjoyed the most,” Sunil said.
The impact of his MBA was profound, opening doors for Sunil to transition from a full-time clinician to various roles in health care on a national stage. His first post-practice job was as the director of primary care at the VA Medical Center in Marion.
“A major consideration for me getting the job over several other more experienced candidates was the fact that I was the only one with an MBA. There was an assumption that the degree provided me with sufficient knowledge to lead the business side of medicine.” Sunil said.
Although that assumption turned out to be untrue, it opened the door to opportunities that built upon the experience he would go on to gain.
Sunil’s father, Dr. Atmesh Sinha, played a pivotal role in shaping his early life. As the first chairperson of the Department of Mining Engineering at Southern Illinois University, Dr. Sinha’s career spanned 25 years, leaving a legacy in Carbondale.
“My father has always been my strongest role model,” Sunil said. “His journey from a remote village in India to achieving degrees from several countries prior to arriving in the United States has been a constant source of inspiration for our family.”
Sunil’s career has been marked by groundbreaking moments and leadership roles. He proudly served as the second physician elected to the governing board of the American College of Healthcare Executives, an international professional society of over 40,000 health care leaders.
His ability to develop dyad partnerships in approaching complex clinical and operations challenges has been mutually beneficial, allowing him to navigate the intricacies of healthcare delivery with innovative solutions.
Reflecting on the challenges he faced in his field, Sunil emphasizes the importance of drawing on personal and team experiences to address situations, both new and old.
“Health care in general is a complex system with the expectation of delivering high-quality healthcare to diverse populations through a variety of payment mechanisms,” he explains. Sunil’s approach often involved taking calculated business risks to create sustainable solutions.
Sunil’s connection to SIU remains strong, driven by a desire to give back to the institution that played a crucial role in his career.
“My father had the opportunity to serve the university for 25 years. Including my wife (Rupali) and me, we have seven alumni from various colleges at SIU,” Sunil said.
He has served on the COBA External Advisory Board since 2000 and the Alumni Association Board since 2022. He is a member of the COBA Hall of Fame. Sunil and his wife have also created an endowed scholarship for current students at COBA, supporting initiatives that benefit both students and faculty.
As an advocate for young Asian American and Pacific Islander students aspiring to enter his industry, Sunil encourages them to embrace their diverse backgrounds and cultures as strengths.
“Don’t feel intimidated—let your diverse background and culture be the strength you bring to every role,” he said.
His message to the SIU community during AAPI Heritage Month is clear: “Be proud of your roots and origins. Share your passion, knowledge, and experiences to help address challenges and help others along their journeys of success.”
Sunil Sinha’s journey is a testament to the power of heritage, education, and perseverance. His story serves as an inspiration for future generations of AAPI leaders, reminding them to find their passion and pursue it with complete focus and energy.
As Sunil aptly puts it, “Paying it forward will help future generations of Salukis who, in turn, will hopefully keep the tradition going.”
Nearly 500 fill the SIU Student Center for major fundraiser
By Jeff Wilson
CARBONDALE – The third annual Saluki Ball packed the Southern Illinois University Student Center ballrooms with a sold-out crowd, as SIU’s premier fundraiser returned home after two successful years in Chicago.
Nearly 500 alumni, friends, students, and supporters joined Chancellor Austin Lane, President Dan Mahony, the SIU Foundation, and others on Saturday, April 26, for the black-tie optional event. Marc Silverman, ESPN radio host and 1993 SIU graduate, served as emcee.
Proceeds from the ball support the university’s Bridge the Gap Scholarship Fund, which helps students cover outstanding bursar bills.
“When something comes up during their journey, they need to know that we have their back,” Chancellor Lane said. “We need your support as we continue to build a fund that helps students stay on track to graduate on time.”
For the third consecutive year, Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard served as presenting sponsors.
“I guarantee you there’s someone right now hoping and praying that somebody will give them a scholarship — that there’s some way for them to go forward,” Jo Poshard said. “The need is huge. If you’re thinking about giving, don’t hold back. You could change a student’s life.”
Since its launch, the Saluki Ball has generated significant momentum for the Bridge the Gap Fund, providing critical assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardships. To date, dozens of students have received tens of thousands of dollars, helping them resolve bursar balances and stay enrolled.
“The research shows that if a student has to take a break because of financial issues, they’re less likely to graduate,” Dr. Poshard said. “When we support students with scholarships, we not only help them graduate and get jobs but also become engaged citizens.”
Guests enjoyed a full program, award ceremony, catered meal from Mary’s, and a live performance by dance music legends Exposé.
“Over the past few days, we spent time with business leaders, alumni leaders, and many others. We attended the 50th Boat Regatta and now cap it off with the Saluki Ball,” President Mahony said. “It’s a reminder of how special this place is and how fortunate we are to be part of the Saluki family.”
Student Impact
Students who received Bridge the Gap funds in previous years shared how the support affected their SIU experience.
“Finding out about the Bridge the Gap fund was life-changing for me,” said Iyanu Alabi. “When that money came through, I was smiling ear to ear.”
Jessica Hardges, a nontraditional student and mother, said the support made an immediate difference.
“When we found the Bridge the Gap funds, I was relieved,” she said. “It lifted a big weight off me.”
DJ Lovejoy, an SIU senior, said the help he received reminded him of the strength of the Saluki community.
“It takes a lot to come to school and get your degree,” he said. “When I found out about the Bridge the Gap funds, I felt blessed.”
Funds raised by the SIU Foundation are distributed by the Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion based on individual student needs.
“The funds raised tonight will have an incredible, direct impact on students who need your support to stay enrolled,” said Diane Compardo, president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors.
Honoring Achievement
During the first two Saluki Balls, five individuals were honored with the Saluki Lifetime Achievement Awards — Dr. Pam Pfeffer, Dr. Phil Pfeffer, Greg Cook, Scott Moller, and Toni Williams. All five were in attendance during the 2025 Saluki Ball.
This year, the honorees were Dr. John Jackson and Dr. James Rosser.
Dr. Jackson and his wife, Nancy, have been part of SIU and the Carbondale community for over 50 years. He has served in multiple leadership roles, including professor, associate dean and acting dean of the Graduate School, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, provost, and interim chancellor. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.
He is widely recognized for his thoughtful leadership and deep institutional knowledge, as well as his passion for promoting civic engagement and public service. Since 2002, he has served as a visiting professor at the Paul Simon Institute, where he directs the Demuzio Internship Program and contributes regularly to research, public commentary, and media analysis.
The Jacksons have dedicated their lives to education and community service. Together, they established the John S. and Nancy Jackson Scholarship Endowment to support political science students in the College of Liberal Arts. In 2002, the couple was named Carbondale Citizens of the Year, and in 2023, the lobby of the Paul Simon Institute was named in their honor.
“SIU and Carbondale and Southern Illinois have been a really great place for us,” he said. “Here it is 55 years later, and I’m glad I came, and I’m glad we stayed.”
Dr. James M. Rosser is a distinguished three-degree alumnus of SIU and a lifelong advocate for education, equity, and opportunity. A native of East St. Louis, he came to SIU on a basketball scholarship and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in microbiology, followed by a Ph.D. in health education administration. During his time at SIU, he also served as a resident assistant, faculty member, and founding director of the university’s Black American Studies program.
Dr. Rosser served as president of California State University, Los Angeles, from 1979 to 2013, making him the longest-serving president in the Cal State system. His career includes leadership roles at the state and national levels in higher education, science, and public policy, and he is widely recognized for his work advancing diversity and student achievement. A dedicated philanthropist, Dr. Rosser has established multiple scholarships at SIU, including a $1 million endowed scholarship for men’s basketball student-athletes pursuing STEM degrees—the largest of its kind in Saluki Athletics history.
He has received numerous honors for his work, including SIU’s Distinguished Alumni Award, an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, and national recognition for his leadership in higher education.
“I just would hope that people would remember why I did what I did. I did it because the university had done so much for me,” he said. “That all came about through being this poor kid from a segregated high school in East St. Louis, Illinois, who ran into some extraordinary people, who were not African Americans, who treated me with respect and helped create opportunities for me, and I never forgot that.”
Each year, two students are recognized with the Saluki Success Award. This year’s recipients were Gabe Kosco and Detrina McCoy.
Kosco is a senior from Marion, Illinois, in the College of Business and Analytics, preparing for a career with Amazon after graduation. A proud Saluki with deep family ties to SIU, Gabriel has been a leader on campus through the Student Alumni Council, the Association for Supply Chain Management, and as a student worker at the SIU Foundation.
“Through the SIU Foundation, I’ve been lucky enough to personally thank the donors who help make so much possible at SIU. And through the Student Alumni Council with the Alumni Association, I’ve been able to connect with our community through service and volunteer work — something that’s meant a lot to me,” he said.
McCoy, a senior from Chicago studying mortuary science, is driven by compassion and service. She’s made the Dean’s List, led the TRIO Achievers program, and volunteered with local nonprofits and schools. After completing an internship at Calahan Funeral Home, she’s pursuing her dream of opening her own funeral home to support families in need.
“I’m also incredibly grateful to my mentors and peers—your support, encouragement, and sometimes even your tough love has helped shape me into the person I am today. This award is not just a reflection of my efforts, but a tribute to all of you who have walked alongside me throughout this journey,” she said.
Previous Saluki Success Award winners are Emily Bakri, Luis Barrera, Dylan Chambers, and BriYanna Robinson.
Rolling Out the Maroon Carpet
The Student Center ballrooms provided a luxurious setting, welcoming Illinois State Rep. Paul Jacobs, SIU Board of Trustees Chair Phil Gilbert, Carbondale Community High School Superintendent Daniel Booth, and many local business owners, educators, and dignitaries.
The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour, sponsored by Moneta, in the International Lounge. A maroon carpet led guests from photo booths to a live broadcast hosted by Swinford Media Group. Guests were also interviewed by the SIU Alumni Association and SIU Foundation for social media features.
The program opened with a surprise performance by the Saluki Pep Band and nationally recognized trumpet ensemble, the Saluki Shakers, along with Grey Dawg. After remarks from Lane, Mahony, Compardo, and the awardees, Steve Falat and Silverman led the paddle raise for the Bridge the Gap Fund.
“There’s an energy and excitement that’s palpable,” Silverman said. “I hope you can feel it.”
The night concluded with an outstanding performance by Exposé and music from DJ Mystify.
Drs. Pam and Phil Pfeffer were the Decorations Sponsor for the event, and Southern Illinois Healthcare and SIU Credit Union were Saluki Silver sponsors.
Oyd Craddock knows firsthand how one opportunity can lead to a lifetime of success. That’s what he’s hoping to accomplish through his support of Southern Illinois University students.
He and his wife, Annette, recently donated $25,000 COBA Dean’s Club Endowment Fund. In honor of his generosity, the College of Business and Analytics named the Oyd Craddock Dean’s Conference Room inside Rehn Hall.
“It brings me tremendous joy to announce a remarkable gift from a tremendous supporter, Oyd Craddock,” said Dr. Marc Morris, dean of the College of Business and Analytics. “This conference room is much more than a space for meetings. It’s a place where innovative ideas will flourish. Every conversation held here, every decision made, and every new initiative developed will carry forward the legacy of generosity.”
Craddock ’80 led a stout Salukis defense in the late-70s. He was inducted into the Saluki Hall of Fame in 2004. He earned his bachelor’s degree in management from the College of Business. He is a Saluki Hall of Fame football player and member of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors.
“I’m a first-generation college graduate. I didn’t have role models in my home or community of folks who had gone on to graduate from college,” he said. “I was a kid in the 1960s. The opportunities for us in the Deep South, they just weren’t there. I was part of the generation that was going to break through.”
He credits his grandfather for pushing him toward education.
“The original inspiration for giving back comes from my upbringing,” he said. “My grandfather was a champion for us focusing on getting a great education. When I got my degree, my grandparents came to Carbondale to attend my graduation.”
Experiences he had at SIU led him directly to a fulfilling career.
“I worked for IBM for 31 years, and I was able to get started there with the assistance of the SIU Placement Office. They helped me with my résumé and interviews, and the director sent a letter of recommendation to IBM and other companies,” he said. “From start to finish, I had a wonderful experience at SIU.”
He attended New Orleans’ St. Augustine High School in the 1970s. His high school’s football team famously integrated the Louisiana High School Athletic Association in 1967. Craddock later decided to produce a film about the journey of the team’s coaches and players during that time, titled “Before the West Coast: A Sports Civil Rights Story.”
“This film is really a part of my life story,” Craddock said. “It tells the story of the trials and triumphs of the all-Black, boys’ Catholic high school that integrated the all-white athletic league in Louisiana. It was a breakthrough event to have integrated competition in sports in high schools back then.”
All of this has led Craddock to see the impact that Black alumni can have by giving back to Southern.
“It has tremendous meaning for Black students who are there today and who we hope will experience SIU in the future,” he said. “One of the things I’m very excited about is that I lived to see the day … our chancellor is a Black man … the dean of the business school that I attended is a Black man … and I’m here being a part of that.”
Chancellor Austin Lane addresses packed crowd of 200 on Thursday, April 3, at Apple Creek Golf Club during the Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois.
By Jeff Wilson
The Saluki Takeover Tour had a record-breaking run through Southern Illinois this April.
Beginning on Thursday, April 3, with a packed house at Apple Creek Golf Club in Makanda and continued through late-April, the takeover tour will make its way to 50 high schools across all 17 Southern Illinois counties.
Amy Mills, owner of Faye, speaks during the Saluki Takeover Tour event in Murphysboro.
More than 200 people joined Chancellor Austin Lane, the SIU Foundation, and university leaders at the kickoff event at Apple Creek. Guests enjoyed complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks while engaging with their alma mater in an intimate setting.
More than 115 Salukis came together for the second reception at TJ’s Diamond Club in Mtn Dew Park in Marion on Tuesday, April 8. On Thursday, April 10, the takeover tour stopped at Café Bloom in Benton, hosting a crowd of about 50. The fourth Chancellor’s Reception hosted 60 Salukis at St. Nicholas Landmark in Chester. Then, on Thursday, April 17, SIU hosted more than 80 guests at Pizza Villa in Anna. The takeover tour wrapped up Tuesday, April 22, with nearly 100 people coming to Faye in Murphysboro.
The Saluki Takeover Tour made its way to Chester with a stop at St. Nicholas Landmark.
“We are going to be all over this region. We are recruiting like we are coaches giving offers to students, telling them there is nowhere else you need to go other than Southern Illinois University Carbondale,” Lane said.
Chancellor Austin Lane addresses the crowd on Thursday, April 3, at Apple Creek Golf Club during the Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois.
The Office of Innovation and Economic Development also hosted Business Resource Meetups before every Chancellor’s Reception.
Lane and admissions staff promoted programs such as the Saluki Commitment, which guarantees that tuition and mandatory fees are fully covered for four (transfer students) or eight (freshman students) consecutive semesters at no cost to students or families.
Chancellor Austin Lane introduces Shad Zimbro (middle) and Rodney Cabaness during the Saluki Takeover Tour stop in Marion in TJ’s Diamond Club at Mtn Dew Park.
Recipients must meet all of the following criteria:
Be a first-time incoming freshman enrolling full-time on-campus in the fall 2021 semester or later.
Have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or higher.Have an annual family income less than $103,040 with assets less than $50,000 based on your FAFSA.
Be an Illinois resident who attended an Illinois high school.
Be a dependent student under age 24.
Be eligible for federal financial aid.
SIU also recently joined the ranks of the Ivy League, being named a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Southern is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale.
“As we go out and recruit, you will be surprised how many students are interested in research. Students that are thinking about their future, when they’re thinking about what school to select, we go right to the top,” Lane said. “We have incredible faculty. I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank our faculty for getting us there.”
The Saluki Takeover Tour stopped at Café Bloom in Benton. The event was attended by 50 people, including Benton Mayor Lee Messersmith (left) and Carbondale Mayor Carolin Harvey.
For the SIU Foundation, the takeover tours are an opportunity to connect with donors as it progresses through the record-breaking Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of raising $500 million by June 2028, it is the fifth largest such campaign in the history of Illinois higher education. More than $390 million has already been raised, and the Saluki Takeover Tour helps spread the excitement.
“We have 270,000 alumni. There are only 50 universities with more. I think you all agree that there’s something in the sauce about being a Saluki,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation.
CARBONDALE, Ill. – The Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees has approved the design and construction of the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. This significant project will enhance the university’s commitment to outdoor education and community outreach.
The Wildlife Habitat Education Center will serve as a vital support area for Touch of Nature, providing a visitor check-in point for scheduled programs and offering information to visitors. The center will feature a modern meeting room and an indoor space for activities, ensuring that programs can continue regardless of weather conditions. This new venue will allow the center to host private events and gatherings, providing a versatile space for individuals and groups to rent for celebrations, retreats, and other special occasions.
“The Wildlife Habitat Education Center is a testament to our commitment to environmental education and community engagement,” said Brian Croft, Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center director. ““This facility will provide invaluable resources for our visitors and support our mission to enhance the lives of all people through outdoor experiences.”
A Growing Campus
The project is funded by a generous $3 million anonymous donation, which will cover all construction expenses. The SIU Foundation will manage the construction in close coordination with the university. Upon completion, the building and all accompanying accoutrements will be conveyed to the university, following the recommendation of the Director of Facilities and Energy Management at SIUC.
A formal agreement between the university and the SIU Foundation will be signed to permit the construction of the facility on university-owned property. The project is anticipated to be bid this spring, with the Board of Trustees being informed of the award of contracts at the July 2025 meeting.
This will become the second major construction project underway on the Carbondale campus, including the erection of the Tedrick Welcome Center on the former McAndrew Stadium site. Much like the welcome center, no state fund, tuition, or student fee money will be used in the construction of the Wildlife Habitat Education Center.
“The SIU Foundation is proud to facilitate this spectacular project at one of the crown jewels of the SIU campus – Touch of Nature,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Working with our campus partners, we look forward to being part of another exciting construction project at Southern.”
The funds raised for the wildlife center and welcome center are both part of the ongoing Imagine SIU 2030 campaign, which has raised nearly $400 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth largest campaign in the history of Illinois higher education. During the campaign, the SIU Foundation has increased the amount of scholarship support available to students. In its most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation provided $5.4 million in scholarships to 1,842 students, impacting more than 16 percent of all SIU students. Those numbers continue to rise.
Research Meets Experience
The approval of this project underscores the university’s dedication to enhancing its facilities and providing state-of-the-art resources for environmental education. The new Wildlife Habitat Education Center, along with the recently added mountain bike trail system, demonstrates a significant investment in the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. This investment is expected to attract additional donors and support the center’s mission of fostering environmental stewardship and education.
For many, Touch of Nature is their first introduction to the university through school programs, camps, and community offerings. Beyond the incredible educational opportunities presented by Touch of Nature, this also helps the university develop relationships with future Salukis.
“SIU is dedicated to providing high-quality education, fostering research and innovation, and serving the community through various outreach programs,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “The Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center is a key component of SIU’s commitment to environmental education and sustainability.”
Over 50,000 visitors came through Touch of Nature this year, and the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will help continue to grow the available outdoors experiences for the people of Southern Illinois.
The Wildlife Habitat Education Center reinforces SIU’s prestigious Research 1 (R1) designation. This state-of-the-art facility will contribute to SIU’s ongoing efforts to advance research and strengthen its status as a top-tier research institution. This will not only benefit students and faculty but also position SIU as a premier destination for outdoor education and research.
School unveils the Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite
By Jeff Wilson
CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University’s Simmons Law School announced a generous $250,000 gift from Judge Phil Gilbert, a monumental contribution that will establish the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of Judge Gilbert’s father. This transformative donation promises to significantly enhance the educational experiences and opportunities available to SIU’s law students.
In honor of this remarkable gift, SIU Simmons Law School unveiled the newly named Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite on Thursday, April 17.
“This name is more than just a sign on a wall, it reflects our vision, our mission, and the values that guide us every day,” said Angela Upchurch, acting dean of the SIU Simmons Law School. “SIU and the law school are thriving today because of pioneers like Senator Gilbert.”
Gilbert’s dedication to education and his legacy of public service are exemplified through this contribution. The Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund will directly support initiatives that enrich the student experience, provide scholarships, and facilitate groundbreaking research in the field of law.
“With distinction and honor, Judge Phil Gilbert has carried forward his father’s commitment to justice and public service,” said John Simmons, SIU Board of Trustees member and founder of the Simmons Hanly Conroy law firm. “Following in his father’s footsteps, Judge Gilbert has built an exemplary career. His thoughtful jurisprudence, unwavering integrity, and dedication to the rule of law have earned him the respect of the legal community and the citizens he serves.”
A father’s legacy
John G. Gilbert, a native of Carbondale, graduated from SIU in 1933 and later attended the University of Illinois School of Law before starting his private practice.
He served as Jackson County state’s attorney and was a state senator. He played a key role in the development of SIU Edwardsville and the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, working alongside SIU President Delyte Morris. He was also integral to the establishment of the law school at SIU Carbondale.
“Seeing the impact this law school has had on Southern Illinois, my father would be very proud,” said Judge Gilbert. “My father was labeled as the ‘education senator,’ and that was not just because of what he did at SIU. He was a strong supporter of education at all levels.”
When Gilbert passed away in 1989, then-U.S. Sen. Paul Simon acknowledged Gilbert’s significant contributions to education, stating that “SIU wouldn’t be what it is today without John Gilbert’s efforts.”
Although SIU System President Dan Mahony never had the chance to meet Sen. John G. Gilbert, he recognizes the impact he made on his son, Phil, and the SIU community.
“Judge Gilbert really is Mr. SIU,” Dr. Mahony said. “He cares about this place, he is passionate about this place, he puts this place first. While I never met Sen. Gilbert, I feel like I have because I know a lot of what Phil does was impacted by his father.”
Continuing the mission
A lifelong resident of Carbondale, Judge Gilbert joined the SIU Board of Trustees in 2015 and was reappointed in 2021. He served on the Illinois State Board of Elections, acting as chair and vice chair. He also served on the Election Reform Commission and the National Council on Governmental Ethics Laws.
“Today we celebrate a legacy that spans generations and has left an indelible mark on Southern Illinois,” said Ed Hightower, vice chair of the SIU Board of Trustees. “We’re not just honoring one Gilbert, we’re celebrating two – two men who dedicated themselves to making a difference, two men whose commitment to SIU has helped shape its past, present, and future.”
Gilbert was a partner at Gilbert, Kimmel, Huffman & Prosser, Ltd. He was then appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court as a circuit judge in the First Judicial Circuit, serving as a state court judge until his federal appointment. He later became a United States district judge for the Southern District of Illinois and served as chief judge. During his federal tenure, he completed a six-year term on the Judicial Conference Committee on Criminal Law.
In March 2014, Gilbert assumed Senior Status but continues to contribute significantly as a senior judge. Gilbert received the Silver Gavel Award from the criminal defense bars of the Southern District of Illinois and the Eastern District of Missouri, the SIU School of Law Founders’ Medal, and Loyola School of Law’s Distinguished Jurist Award.
“Judge Gilbert, thanks to you and thanks to your family,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “This is an incredible gift, and your legacy will live on.”
The Gower Translational Research Center was dedicated Friday, April 11.
Dr. Bob and Beth Gower honored for continued support of research at SIU
By Jeff Wilson
CARBONDALE – The impact made by Dr. Bob and Beth Gower will be forever imprinted into the university’s future at the Gower Translational Research Center.
The Gowers have been generous donors to Southern for many years. Most recently, they dedicated $2.5 million to advance the mission and support the research activities taking place across campus.
“A lot of what we’re trying to accomplish moving forward isn’t possible without the support of people like Beth and Bob, who help carry us forward,” Chancellor Austin Lane said.
In honor of this transformational gift, the SIU Board of Trustees voted Thursday, Dec. 5, that the McLafferty Annex, located at 1785 University Press Drive in Carbondale, be named the Gower Translational Research Center. The ribbon-cutting and naming ceremony for the center was Friday, April 11.
“I expect SIU to be a leader here,” Dr. Bob Gower said. “Innovation, in the future, will come from research universities like SIU working in cooperation with entrepreneurs. This building may one day be considered the heart of SIU.”
The Impact
Their $2.5 million gift is yet another major step in the SIU Foundation’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of raising $500 million by July 2028, the campaign currently sits at more than $396 million. It is the fifth largest campaign in the history of public universities in Illinois.
“This ribbon cutting marks more than a new name on a building, it represents a legacy of vision, innovation, and generosity,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “With their transformational gift, Bob and Beth have made an investment not just in bricks and mortar but in the ideas that will change the world.”
This event comes on the heels of the recent news of SIU joining the ranks of the Ivy League this February when it was named a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Southern is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale.
The Gowers
Bob Gower, a West Frankfort native, graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry in 1958 and 1960, respectively. He met his wife, Beth, while both were studying at SIU. She graduated in 1961. Dr. Gower earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. He is the founder and executive chairman of Ensysce Biosciences, a biotech company that develops tamper-proof and abuse-resistant prescription drugs.
Before their latest gift, the Gowers established the Bob G. & Mary Beth Gower Scholarship Endowment in SIU’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, which has benefited more than 50 students. They also established the Beth & Bob Gower Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences.
Dr. Gower is a two-time recipient of the SIUC Alumni Achievement Award from the College of Science (1988, 2008). He is a Distinguished Alumnus of the college and was inducted into the Chemistry & Biochemistry Hall of Fame in 1997. He served as a member of the steering committee for the university’s Opportunity Through Excellence campaign and as a member of the Chemistry & Biochemistry Advisory Committee. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the university in 2018. The Gowers, who reside in Houston, have three adult daughters and several grandchildren.
“This is a really special day for our family,” Beth Gower said. “I love this university. It’s perfect. What I hope other people see is this: These Gower people must have a lot of faith in Southern Illinois University. They must feel that translational research is exciting and important to the future of the world. They must feel sure that the scientists at SIU are ready to do this work.”
The Center
The Gower Translational Research Center is a hub of high-level research. In October 2024, SIU dedicated a $7.2 million BioLaunch lab in the center. The 10,000-square-foot space is dedicated to life sciences research and more.
Funded in part by a $2.7 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Wet Lab Program, BioLaunch is the newest addition to the Illinois Food, Entrepreneurship, Research, and Manufacturing (iFERM) Hub, a state-of-the-art research and training suite for faculty use, students, start-up companies, and private firms in the region. iFERM capitalizes on the university’s research and innovation into food, fermentation, and biotechnology. In 2021, the SIU Foundation provided a $1.1 million grant to advance the progress on the Fermentation Science Institute, which is inside the center.
“Research at SIU Carbondale is moving from the lab to the real world—leading to patents, small businesses, and even partnerships with large corporations,” said Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis, vice chancellor of research and dean of the graduate school.
The center is also home to the Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, and an ultra-fast laser facility, further enhancing its role as a center for diverse research initiatives.
Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are sponsoring the third annual Saluki Ball.
By Jeff Wilson
For the third straight year, Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are the presenting sponsor of the Saluki Ball.
After two years in Chicago, this year’s Saluki Ball will be Saturday, April 26, in the SIU Student Center Ballrooms in Carbondale. The ball is a major fundraiser for funds that bridge the gap for students who are pursuing their degree at Southern. The funds are given to deserving students who need assistance with their bursar bill to stay enrolled and graduate on time.
“The research shows that if a student has to take a break because of financial issues, they have less of a chance of graduating,” Dr. Poshard said. “When we support young students with scholarships, we make it more possible for them, not just to graduate and get a job, but to be good citizens of a democracy.”
Since its launch, the Saluki Ball has fueled powerful momentum for the Bridge the Gap Fund—an initiative that is changing lives across campus. This fund ensures that students facing unexpected financial hardship can stay enrolled and on track toward graduation.
To date, dozens of students have received tens of thousands of dollars through the Bridge the Gap Fund, allowing them to resolve bursar balances and continue their education without disruption. Its ability to respond quickly to each student’s unique circumstances makes it one of the most impactful and actively used funds at SIU.
The Poshards encourage other SIU alumni and donors to follow their lead, purchase tickets to the ball or become a sponsor at salukiball.siu.edu.
“I can guarantee you there is someone out there right now hoping and praying that somebody will give them a scholarship, that there’s some way for them to go forward,” Jo Poshard said. “It’s not a question of ‘Is there a need?’ The need is huge! If anybody is thinking about it, don’t hold back. There is a student out there whose life is going to be changed by you stepping up.”
Lifetimes of service
Dr. Poshard is a three-degree graduate of SIU, receiving a bachelor’s in secondary education in 1970, a master’s in educational administration in 1974, and a Ph.D. in administration of higher education in 1984.
“I credit SIU with whatever success I’ve been able to have in my life,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do any of the things I’ve been blessed to do without my roots being right here at this university.”
He taught high school and served as the director of the Southern Illinois Educational Service Center in Benton until 1984 after being elected to the Illinois State Senate. In 1989, he earned a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. He ran for governor in 1998 and left Congress the following year.
Dr. Poshard returned to SIU in 1999 as the vice chancellor of administration, where he served until his appointment to the SIU Board of Trustees in 2004. At the start of 2006, he was hired as the SIU system president, serving in that role until 2014.
“I was always proud of the academic prowess of this university, in fact the whole system,” Dr. Poshard said. “The SIU campus always had a place in my heart. I would get out and walk campus myself from time to time to remember what it’s about and who it’s for.”
Jo Poshard is a 1971 alumna of SIU’s College of Education. She is a retired schoolteacher, who has served on numerous university and community boards.
“SIU is very important to me. It means a lot to our family. We have quite a history here, and we’re very proud of SIU,” she said.
Together, they started the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, which raises funds to care for abused children and victims of domestic abuse throughout Southern Illinois. The Poshards are longtime benefactors of SIU and many local charities.
The Saluki Ball
This black-tie optional event raises funds that bridge the financial gap for students who need assistance staying enrolled at SIU. When a student needs help with their bursar bill, these funds help keep them in school and on track for graduation. This support is invaluable in Southern’s mission to increase enrollment, enhance retention efforts, and support its students from start to finish.
Each of the past two years, hundreds of Salukis and SIU supporters have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through the ball.
“Our focus is on our students, especially those who need your help the most,” said Chancellor Lane. “We must ensure the students that we bring to Carbondale or who enroll in online courses are able to stay enrolled and finish with their degree.”
Students who have received funds that help them stay in school have shared the impact it has made on them.
“People who didn’t even know me believe in me and took the time to invest in my future,” said SIU student Francesca Stewart. “It prevented me from having to go back home.”
The funds that bridge the gap between semesters are core to the university’s mission of accessibility. Keeping students enrolled is integral to continuing the momentum at SIU.
“Receiving bridge-the-gap funds was major for me because I was on that line of whether I was going to finish my semester,” said student George Douglas IV. “That call saying I was getting alumni support, it changed everything. It changed my future.”
The evening will begin with a cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. There will be a live musical performance from multi-platinum recording artists Exposé at 8:30 p.m., and the evening will wrap up with a DJ and dancing at 9:30 p.m.
The Saluki Ball features numerous sponsorship opportunities, ranging from $50,000 to $5,000. Each sponsorship includes varying levels of benefits and recognition before and during the event. Tables of 8 are $1,600, and individual tickets are $200.
Dr. Sunil Sinha’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep connection to his heritage. Born into a family originally from India, Sunil’s journey to the United States in the late ’60s marked the beginning of a remarkable path that would intertwine his professional achievements with his cultural roots.
