Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

WSIU wins Silver Dome Award for SIU Foundation’s ‘The Impact Report’

October 1, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

Watch WSIU’s award-winning “Tedrick Welcome Center” entry, which earned the 2026 Downstate Silver Dome Award for Best Continuing Coverage. The entry features coverage from Season 1 of the SIU Foundation’s The Impact Report, chronicling the development, construction and opening of the Tedrick Welcome Center.

By Britni Bateman

WSIU Public Broadcasting earned a 2026 Downstate Silver Dome Award for its coverage of the Tedrick Welcome Center featured during Season 1 of the SIU Foundation’s television series, The Impact Report.

The Illinois Broadcasters Association recognized WSIU in the Best Continuing Coverage category for “Tedrick Welcome Center,” honoring the ongoing storytelling surrounding the development, construction and opening of the new facility at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The award was presented Wednesday, Sept. 30, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield.

The annual Downstate Silver Dome Awards recognize outstanding achievement and excellence in radio and television broadcasting across downstate Illinois. WSIU’s recognition highlights its collaboration with the SIU Foundation to share stories of philanthropy, progress and impact across the university.

The team credited for the winning coverage includes Matt Kupec, Jeff Gleim, Britni Bateman, Anna Twomey and Prescott Doll of the SIU Foundation, along with Larry Hunter, Abby Asher, Darryl Moses, Paula Earls, Reggie Cosey and WSIU’s student production team.

“Great storytelling has the power to connect people to SIU and remind them why this university matters,” said Matt Kupec, CEO of the SIU Foundation. “We have built something special with The Impact Report, giving us a platform to showcase the incredible people, ideas and generosity driving SIU forward. This recognition reflects our creativity and hard work, as well as the strength of our partnership with WSIU.”

The Silver Dome Awards also recognized members of The Impact Report team in two individual categories. Britni Bateman, SIU Foundation assistant vice chancellor for development and alumni communications and chief marketing officer, was a finalist for Best TV Reporter, while cinematographer Prescott Doll was a finalist for Best Videographer.

WSIU also earned finalist recognition for “Illinois Backroads” in the Best Locally Produced TV Program, Series or Documentary category.

The Illinois Broadcasters Association presents the Silver Dome Awards to recognize outstanding achievement in Illinois broadcasting. For more than 70 years, the association has advocated for Illinois broadcasters and supported radio and television stations throughout the state.

“WSIU has always been committed to telling meaningful stories about the people and communities we serve,” said Larry Hunter, interim executive director of WSIU Public Broadcasting. “Our partnership with the SIU Foundation allows us to bring even more of those stories to viewers across the region. This recognition reflects the creativity, collaboration and commitment that go into producing programming that connects our audiences with SIU and Southern Illinois.”

Telling the stories of SIU

The SIU Foundation launched The Impact Report in collaboration with WSIU to showcase the people, programs and philanthropy moving SIU forward.

Anna Twomey, executive producer and host of The Impact Report, leads the 30-minute television series highlighting innovation, growth and opportunity across SIU and the region. Episodes take viewers behind the scenes of groundbreaking research, campus transformation, student success, philanthropy and community impact.

“From the beginning, we wanted The Impact Report to show people what is happening at SIU in a way that feels authentic, engaging and personal,” Twomey said. “There are so many remarkable stories here, and we have the opportunity to meet the people behind them and bring their work to life. Winning a Silver Dome Award in our first season is incredibly meaningful, and I’m proud of what our team and our partners at WSIU have built together.”

Season 1 featured more than 140 stories across 12 episodes, including extensive coverage of the Tedrick Welcome Center as the project progressed from construction to its grand opening in May 2026.

The 44,000-square-foot Tedrick Welcome Center serves as the university’s front door, welcoming prospective students, families, alumni, donors and visitors. The facility features interactive digital experiences that tell the story of SIU and houses the headquarters of the SIU Foundation.

The SIU Foundation funded the facility entirely through a combination of Foundation reserves, fundraising and borrowing, including a $6 million leadership gift from Roger and Sally Tedrick. No taxpayer dollars, tuition revenue, student fees or state funds were used to construct the Tedrick Welcome Center.

The Impact Report also highlights SIU’s position as a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University while showing how philanthropy supports students, faculty, research, facilities and communities throughout Southern Illinois.

New episodes of The Impact Report air monthly on WSIU Public Television. View previous episodes at siuf.org/impact-report.

Support WSIU and help public broadcasting continue sharing stories that inform, educate and connect communities throughout the region. Make a gift online at siuf.org/wsiu.

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

SIU Foundation celebrates impact of giving during first Week of Philanthropy

October 1, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

The SIU Foundation celebrated the impact of giving across Southern Illinois University during its first Week of Philanthropy, Sept. 21-25.

The five-day celebration brought students, faculty, staff, donors and campus partners together to give back, express gratitude and recognize the generosity that supports SIU students and programs.

At the center of the week was the 11th SIU Day of Giving on Sept. 23. Donors from all 50 states made gifts to SIU, successfully Painting the Map Maroon. In total, 1,085 donors contributed $1,029,459.

“The energy around our first Week of Philanthropy was inspiring,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Throughout the week, we saw students thanking the donors who support them, faculty and staff giving back, and Salukis across the country coming together for SIU. Most importantly, it gave us an opportunity to say thank you to the people whose generosity makes so much possible across this university.”

Gratitude in action

The week began Monday by recognizing the campus partners and advocates who help make SIU Day of Giving possible.

Advocates visited the Tedrick Welcome Center to pick up Day of Giving materials, record video messages and learn more about ways to engage their networks. Faculty, staff and campus partners also had opportunities throughout the day to share messages of gratitude and encourage others to participate.

Photo of female and male student smiling at the camera while writing a thank-you note to donors on a postcard.

The focus turned to students Tuesday during the Student Scholarship Festival at the Tedrick Welcome Center.

More than 250 recipients of SIU Foundation scholarships stopped by throughout the day to write postcards expressing their gratitude to donors, record video messages and learn more about philanthropy and the role donors play in creating opportunities for Salukis.

During the 2025-26 academic year, the SIU Foundation awarded a record $6.9 million in scholarships to more than 2,200 students, representing nearly 19% of the student body.

Painting all 50 states maroon

The 11th SIU Day of Giving served as the anchor of Week of Philanthropy on Wednesday, Sept. 23.

This year, the SIU Foundation challenged Salukis to Paint the Map Maroon with a gift from every state.

“Seeing all 50 states represented was an incredible moment and a powerful demonstration of the reach of the Saluki family,” said Kathryn Sime, assistant vice chancellor for major and planned giving. “Day of Giving is about giving every Saluki the opportunity to support something that matters to them. This year, our donors came together from across the country to make an impact on students and programs throughout SIU.”

Several significant gifts highlighted the range of impact made possible through Day of Giving.

SIU Credit Union helped kick off the day with a $35,000 gift, including $20,000 for New Student Programs and $15,000 for Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. The commitment continued the credit union’s longstanding support of programs that welcome students to SIU and create meaningful experiences beyond the classroom.

The Southern Illinois Builders Association (SIBA) and Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program (SICAP) made a $500,000 commitment to establish the first endowed professorship in the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology and Mathematics. The SIBA and SICAP Endowed Professorship will support the School of Civil, Environmental and Infrastructure Engineering, providing permanent resources to strengthen faculty excellence, advance research and support student success.

Dr. Judy Drolet and Dr. Larry Townsend also made a lasting investment in SIU students and the health of Southern Illinois. They established an endowed scholarship for Accelerated Nursing students and committed to name the Nursing Exam Suites within the future Saluki Health & Wellness Hub in the Community Care and Education Center.

Together, the gifts demonstrate the many ways donors can make an impact at SIU, from scholarships and student experiences to faculty excellence, research, workforce development and community health.

Recognizing faculty and staff donors

On Thursday, the SIU Foundation recognized faculty and staff members who support the university through payroll deduction.

Donors were invited to the Tedrick Welcome Center to receive certificates of appreciation and gifts and learn more about the impact of their giving.

The day recognized employees who not only dedicate their careers to SIU but also choose to financially support its students, programs and mission.

Celebrating what philanthropy makes possible

Week of Philanthropy concluded Friday with a campuswide celebration at the Tedrick Welcome Center. Students, faculty, staff and donors gathered in the afternoon for refreshments, giveaways and ice cream.

Chancellor Austin A. Lane joined the celebration and thanked the SIU Foundation, donors and university community for contributing to SIU’s continued momentum.

“I have been doing this for 30-plus years in higher education, and I have never, ever seen a foundation and the employees within the foundation so passionate about wanting to win,” Lane said. “I can feel the momentum year after year after year.”

Lane said that momentum can be seen in enrollment, support from alumni and the generosity of donors who continue to invest in SIU and its students.

“Most importantly, you, the donors, the folks that give to the university, you’re seeing, hopefully, the return on investment,” Lane said. “Everything that you give, you can bet that we are good stewards of the financial resources that you give us to go out and recruit or support students.”

Lane also pointed to the growing engagement of SIU alumni and the importance of continuing that momentum.

“We’re going to continue to keep our foot on the gas,” Lane said. “We’re going to continue to engage you and others as much as we can because we have even bigger goals for this university. We’re just getting started.”

Sime closed the celebration by bringing the focus back to students and the gratitude they expressed throughout the week.

“We had over 250 students here on Tuesday for our Student Scholarship Festival, and every student was so appreciative of all the gifts that come in that help them reach their educational goals,” Sime said. “On behalf of them, I want to say to you all, thank you for all you do to make things possible here and to help our students achieve.”

The celebration capped an inspiring week filled with energy around giving back to SIU and thanking the donors whose generosity makes opportunities possible across the university.

Learn more about the impact of philanthropy at siuf.org.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Southern Illinois Builders Association and Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program establish first endowed professorship in SIU engineering college

September 25, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

Southern Illinois Builders Association presents a $500,000 check for the first endowed professorship in the SIU College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics.

A $500,000 gift from the Southern Illinois Builders Association (SIBA) and Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program (SICAP) will establish the first endowed professorship in the SIU College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics, creating a permanent source of support to strengthen faculty excellence, research and student success.

The SIBA and SICAP Endowed Professorship will support the School of Civil, Environmental, and Infrastructure Engineering. It is also the first endowed professorship in the college.

The $500,000 commitment was included in the 11th SIU Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 23, the anchor of the SIU Foundation’s inaugural Week of Philanthropy. The Foundation is highlighting the gift Friday, Sept. 25, as the five-day celebration of philanthropy concludes.

Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation, said the historic investment will enhance SIU’s ability to recruit and retain outstanding faculty.

“Sometimes we go out there and we ask people to dream with us,” Kupec said. “We had a dream, and you believed in us with this commitment. Now it’s up to us. We’re going to show you truly the impact of being able to recruit and retain incredible faculty.”

Endowed faculty positions provide permanent, donor-funded resources that enhance teaching and research while helping universities recruit and retain accomplished faculty. The SIBA and SICAP Endowed Professorship will provide ongoing support for faculty distinction and research within the School of Civil, Environmental, and Infrastructure Engineering.

Dr. Xiaoqing “Frank” Liu, Dean of the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics, said the endowed professorship will strengthen the college’s ability to compete for top faculty while preparing students to meet workforce needs.

“Endowed professor positions are critical for recruiting and retaining top faculty members at R1 research institutions,” Liu said. “This endowed professorship will strengthen teaching and research and enhance student success at our college. It will allow us to educate and train students in civil engineering to meet demands for talent in Southern Illinois and beyond.”

Liu also recognized SIBA and SICAP for its previous support of the college, including investments in laboratories and other resources that enhance education and research.

Building Southern Illinois’ workforce

The gift builds on the relationship among SIU, the Southern Illinois Builders Association and the Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program. Their partnership connects the university’s educational mission with the workforce needs of the construction industry throughout the region.

Donna Richter, chief executive officer of the Southern Illinois Builders Association, said the investment reflects the organizations’ commitment to preparing students for successful careers while strengthening the construction industry’s talent pipeline.

“Southern Illinois Builders Association and Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program are proud to support a program that consistently demonstrates excellence in preparing students for successful careers in construction,” Richter said. “This partnership reflects our commitment to strengthening the talent pipeline and ensuring the long-term success of the construction industry in Southern Illinois.”

Richter said the gift also represents an investment in the longstanding relationship between the organizations and SIU Carbondale.

“We value the strong relationship between Southern Illinois Builders Association, Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program and SIU Carbondale and are excited to continue building on that partnership through this investment,” she said. “Together, we can help address workforce challenges while creating meaningful opportunities for students entering the profession.”

Chancellor Austin A. Lane said the partnership aligns with SIU’s focus on providing opportunities for students in the region and preparing graduates who can build their careers close to home.

“We’re all about Southern Illinois,” Lane said. “We have folks right here in our own backyard that would love to come to a Research 1 Opportunity University. Being our engineering programs, there’s no reason for them to go anywhere north or south or east or west of this university.”

Lane said the investment will help SIU continue building on the university’s momentum while serving the region.

“We take great pride in partnering with what we’re doing today to keep even more of that momentum right here at home,” Lane said. “This is so important for us as we continue the momentum that the university is experiencing right now.”

Celebrating what philanthropy makes possible

The SIBA and SICAP $500,000 commitment was included in the 11th SIU Day of Giving, the anchor of the SIU Foundation’s first Week of Philanthropy, Sept. 21-25.

Throughout the 24-hour Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 23, Salukis supported the colleges, schools, programs, scholarships and initiatives they are most passionate about. The SIBA and SICAP Endowed Professorship is one example of how philanthropic investments can create lasting opportunities for SIU students, faculty and programs.

The five-day Week of Philanthropy has celebrated generosity across SIU through Day of Giving advocate activities, a Student Scholarship Festival, the 11th SIU Day of Giving and recognition of faculty and staff donors.

The week concludes Friday with a campuswide celebration at the Tedrick Welcome Center. Students, faculty and staff can stop by from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. for refreshments, giveaways and activities. Chancellor Austin A. Lane is scheduled to join the celebration from 2 to 4 p.m.

Through scholarships, faculty support, facilities, research, student experiences and academic programs, donor generosity continues to expand opportunities throughout SIU. Learn more about the impact of philanthropy at siuf.org.

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

SIU Credit Union commits $35,000 to kick off 11th SIU Day of Giving

September 23, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

SIU Credit Union representatives present a check for $35,000 with SIU leadership.

SIU Credit Union kicked off the 11th SIU Day of Giving with a $35,000 commitment supporting programs that welcome new students to Southern Illinois University and connect them with transformational outdoor experiences.

SIU Credit Union presented the gift Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the Tedrick Welcome Center as part of the SIU Foundation’s inaugural Week of Philanthropy. The commitment includes $20,000 for New Student Programs and $15,000 for Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.

The gift continues a longstanding partnership between SIU Credit Union and the university, with support reaching students from their first experiences on campus through programs that help them build connections and become part of the Saluki community.

“We’re honored to kick this off,” said Mark Dynis, vice president of marketing at SIU Credit Union. “It’s great to see all the enthusiasm and excitement that comes from all these groups.”

Chancellor Austin A. Lane thanked SIU Credit Union for its continued investment in the university and Southern Illinois. He highlighted the importance of partnerships as SIU builds on recent momentum in enrollment, retention and its designation as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University.

“Thank you for partnering with us. We know you could partner with anybody, and we appreciate you staying right here at home,” Lane said.

Supporting the Saluki experience from the start

SIU Credit Union representatives present a check for $20,000 with SIU New Student Programs. The $20,000 designated for New Student Programs will support efforts that introduce students and their families to SIU and help new Salukis build connections from the moment they arrive.

Charles Walker, associate director of New Student Programs, said SIU Credit Union consistently engages with students and families throughout the new student experience, including orientation and Light Up the Lake.

“Your commitment to our new students is something to be applauded,” Walker said. “You all show up. You’re engaging with the parents, you’re engaging with the students from the moment they walk through the door.”

SIU Credit Union representatives present a check for SIU Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. SIU Credit Union’s additional $15,000 commitment to Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center will support the outdoor education center as it continues to expand opportunities for students and the broader community.

Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, said strong partnerships have helped transform the facility and provide resources to advance its mission.

“What I love about the SIU Credit Union is you get it. You understand what a partnership is,” Croft said. “It’s not just about putting your name on something. It’s about making it better.”

Croft also thanked SIU Credit Union for trusting the Touch of Nature team to use its support where it can make the greatest impact.

“Thank you for the support, but also thank you for trusting us with the resources that you give to hopefully do the most amount of good with it,” he said.

Week of Philanthropy

The check presentation marks the start of the 11th SIU Day of Giving, the centerpiece of the SIU Foundation’s first Week of Philanthropy, Sept. 21-25.

During the 24-hour online giving experience Wednesday, Sept. 23, Salukis in all 50 states and around the world are encouraged to “Paint the Map Maroon.” Donors can support the colleges, schools, programs, scholarships and initiatives they are most passionate about at siuday.siu.edu.

The five-day celebration includes:

Monday, Sept. 21 — The week began by equipping Day of Giving advocates with resources to help them successfully promote the campaign and thanking them for their efforts. Campus partners visited the Tedrick Welcome Center to pick up Day of Giving materials, record video messages and learn more about ways to engage their networks. Faculty, staff and campus partners also had the opportunity to record messages later in the day.
Tuesday, Sept. 22 — A Student Scholarship Festival highlighted the impact of philanthropy on students and celebrated the opportunities made possible through donor-funded scholarships. Held exclusively for SIU Foundation scholarship recipients, the festival recognized students’ achievements and connected their success to the generosity of donors who invest in their education and future.
Wednesday, Sept. 23 — The Week of Philanthropy continues with the 11th SIU Day of Giving, a 24-hour digital giving experience. Throughout the day, donors can support the areas of SIU they are most passionate about, participate in scheduled challenges and matching opportunities, and follow giving activity from Salukis around the world. The SIU Foundation is encouraging donors in all 50 states and across the globe to participate and help paint the map maroon. Gifts can be made online at siuday.siu.edu.
Thursday, Sept. 24 — The SIU Foundation will recognize faculty and staff who support the university through payroll deduction. Donors can visit the Tedrick Welcome Center to receive a certificate of appreciation and a gift and learn more about the impact of their giving.
Friday, Sept. 25 — The week concludes with a campuswide celebration at the Tedrick Welcome Center. Students, faculty and staff can stop by from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. for refreshments, giveaways and activities. Chancellor Austin A. Lane is scheduled to join the celebration from 2 to 4 p.m.

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

Record 380 women participate in 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend

September 21, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

A record 380 women participated in the 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, Sept. 10-12, the largest turnout in the event’s history.

Presented by Moneta and SIU Credit Union, the three-day event brought together SIU alumnae, students, faculty, staff and community leaders for professional development, philanthropy, mentorship and networking. The theme, “Cultivate. Connect. Lead.,” highlighted women in agriculture in recognition of the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer.

“This fifth anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate how much Saluki Women’s Weekend has grown and, more importantly, the relationships and opportunities that have grown with it,” said Sherrica Hunt, assistant vice chancellor for affinity philanthropy and strategic initiatives. “Bringing 380 women together demonstrates the strength of this network and the desire women have to support, learn from and invest in one another.”

Weekend begins with connection and celebration

Saluki Women’s Weekend opened Thursday, Sept. 10, with the Women’s Leadership Council Welcome Reception at Hangar 9.

Attendees embraced the evening’s “Cowboy Chic” theme as Kyle Erickson of Urban Cowboy Line Dancing taught new moves and led participants onto the dance floor. The reception offered attendees an informal opportunity to reconnect with longtime friends and meet new members of the growing Saluki women’s network.

Midland States Bank and Melissa Hahn sponsored the Welcome Reception, with Hangar 9 serving as an in-kind sponsor and host. St. Nicholas Brewing Company provided food for the evening.

Women’s Empowerment Conference focuses on leadership and agriculture

The Women’s Empowerment Conference brought attendees to the Tedrick Welcome Center on Friday, Sept. 11.

Following a moment of silence marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, WLC Co-Chairs Gloria Tison and Mary Anderson welcomed attendees alongside SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane and SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec. Melissa Kinnard of SIU Credit Union delivered remarks, and Diane Compardo of Moneta shared a video message.

Keynote speaker Tess Feagans, an SIU Simmons Law School alumna and general counsel for the Illinois Department of Agriculture, shared perspectives on leadership and agriculture.

Dr. Kristina Boone, dean of the SIU College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, moderated “Seeds of Security: Women, Food, and the Future.” Panelists Emily Sharkey, Karen Schieler, Michelle Aycock and Haley Bode shared perspectives from farming, business, education and agricultural media.

The conference also honored seven recipients of the 2026 Saluki Woman Agriculture Excellence Award: Michelle Aycock, Dr. Karla Gage, Dr. Amanda Martin, Alex Russell, Karen Schieler, Emily Sharkey and Michelle Sirles.

Philanthropy creates opportunities for women and students

The Farm-to-Table Philanthropy Luncheon, sponsored by the SIU Foundation and catered by Mary’s Restaurant, celebrated the region with a menu featuring fresh, locally sourced produce and ingredients from area farms, including Bass Farms, Rendleman Orchards, Flock Farm and Sweitzer Farm. The luncheon highlighted the importance of supporting local farmers while bringing guests together around food, community and philanthropy.

Illinois State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth delivered remarks, and Martin, an SIU alumna and WLC board member, shared her philanthropy story and reflected on creating opportunities for future generations. WLC board member Tami Kupec also recognized microgrant recipients and projects supported across campus.

The council recognized four 2026 EmpowerHER Grant recipients: Honey Heist Mead Co., Cottonwood Craftsman, Kamp Kan and Sisters Rise Womens Ministry. The grants support initiatives ranging from business development and locally grown agriculture to disability safety and resources for women in crisis.

Three SIU students received WLC Mentee Scholarships: Myra Anderson, a sophomore studying biochemistry; Abbie Coch, a junior studying biochemistry and physiology; and Journey Walok, a junior studying civil engineering.

Legence Bank sponsored the 2026 EmpowerHER Grants and WLC Mentee Scholarships.

The luncheon culminated with the 2026 Saluki Woman of the Year Awards. Anahit Amiri received the Rising Star Award, Jacari Henderson received the Emerging Leader Award, Quianya Enge received the Trailblazer Award, and Judge Christy Solverson was named the 2026 Saluki Woman of the Year.

Professional development puts attendees into action

Friday afternoon featured two interactive professional development sessions.

Alex Russell, an SIU alumna and U.S. Soybean Seedcare product manager at Syngenta, led “Personality and Color Assessment,” exploring how understanding different personalities can strengthen communication, trust and relationships.

Camelle Logan, chief accessibility officer for SMART AI Communities, followed with “Resilience in the Face of Rapid Change,” challenging participants to consider how artificial intelligence can enhance their lives and work.

Attendees closed Friday with a Networking Celebration on the Tedrick Welcome Center’s outdoor portico, featuring ice cream from 4-Ways Dairy Barn, sponsored by American Farm Mortgage & Financial Services, and a champagne toast sponsored by TJ’s Fine Jewelry & Repair.

Mentorship brings the weekend full circle

Saluki Women’s Weekend concluded Saturday, Sept. 12, with the Mentorship Brunch at the Tedrick Welcome Center.

Southern Illinois Healthcare, Dawn Korte, Ph.D., and Align Wealth Management sponsored the brunch. Dr. Deb Barnett, vice president of community affairs and chief development officer at Southern Illinois Healthcare, delivered remarks on behalf of SIH.

Korte presented “Executive Presence: How Leaders Inspire Confidence, Command Respect, and Drive Meaningful Impact,” sharing strategies for building trust, strengthening leadership presence and creating impact.

The brunch gave mentors and mentees an opportunity to exchange advice, strengthen relationships and continue building connections beyond the weekend.

With a record 380 women participating across three days, the 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend celebrated five years of building connections, developing leaders and creating opportunities for Saluki women and the Southern Illinois community.

Learn more about the Women’s Leadership Council at siuf.org/wlc.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Nick and Amanda Martin give back to help future Salukis build their own stories

September 21, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

Family photo of Nick and Amanda Martin with their daugther, Miracle. — Family photo of Nick and Amanda Martin with their daughter, Miracle.

Nick and Amanda Martin’s Saluki story began at Southern Illinois University, where they found opportunity, belonging, lifelong friendships and each other. Now, they are giving back to help future students build their own SIU stories.

Both SIU alumni, Nick in 2006 and Amanda in 2007 and 2008, the Martins credit the College of Agricultural, Life and Physical Sciences, student organizations and the campus community with shaping their lives, careers and relationship. Nick also serves on the SIU Foundation Board of Directors.

Through the Martin First-Generation Agriculture Student Scholarship Endowment Fund and a gift to the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences Dean’s Fund, Nick and Amanda are helping future Salukis find the same support, belonging and opportunity they experienced at SIU.

In recognition of the Martins’ generosity, the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences will name an office suite the Nicholas and Amanda Martin Student Services Center. The Martins also commissioned a sculpture installed outside the Agriculture Building in honor of Salukis who found a spouse or partner at SIU.

“Amanda and I owe so much of our life and successes to the time we spent at SIU, in the college and as active members of Sigma Alpha and Alpha Gamma Rho,” Nick said. “We are honored to be able to give back to SIU and help others begin their journey as fellow lifelong Salukis.”

For Amanda, their philanthropy also reflects the opportunities she received as the first in her family to attend college.

“As a first-generation college student, SIU changed the trajectory of my life. It gave me an education, a sense of belonging and the confidence to lead,” Amanda said. “Nick and I give back because we want future Salukis to know that someone believes in their potential and is willing to invest in the possibilities ahead of them.”

Celebrating philanthropy

The SIU Foundation is celebrating the Martins’ generosity as part of its inaugural Week of Philanthropy, Sept. 21-25, a five-day celebration highlighting the impact of giving across SIU.

The week features a different celebration of philanthropy each day:

Monday, Sept. 21: The week begins by equipping SIU Day of Giving advocates with resources to promote the campaign and thanking them for their efforts.

Tuesday, Sept. 22: A Student Scholarship Festival exclusively for SIU Foundation scholarship recipients celebrates students and the opportunities made possible through donor-funded scholarships.

Wednesday, Sept. 23: The 11th SIU Day of Giving invites Salukis in all 50 states and around the world to “Paint the Map Maroon” during a 24-hour online giving experience. Donors can support the colleges, schools, programs, scholarships and initiatives they are most passionate about.

Thursday, Sept. 24: The SIU Foundation recognizes faculty and staff members who support the university through payroll deduction.

Friday, Sept. 25: The week concludes with a campuswide celebration at the Tedrick Welcome Center recognizing the impact of philanthropy across SIU.

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

Salukis turn out in force for first Saluki Takeover Tour Champaign

September 18, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane addresses the crowd at Champaign.

Saluki spirit took over Champaign on Thursday, Sept. 17, as more than 175 alumni, prospective students, families and friends of Southern Illinois University Carbondale packed the Chancellor’s Reception during SIU’s first Saluki Takeover Tour stop in the community.

The energy was high as Salukis gathered ahead of SIU Football’s Saturday matchup against the University of Illinois at Memorial Stadium, bringing together a weekend of alumni engagement, student recruitment and Saluki pride.

“We weren’t really sure about what we would get in Champaign,” SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane told the crowd. “Now we know. … You guys showed up.”

The Sept. 17-19 visit marks the second stop of the 6th Annual Saluki Takeover Tour and the tour’s first visit to Champaign. The 2026-27 tour kicked off earlier this month in Atlanta and continues SIU’s efforts to connect with alumni and donors, recruit prospective students and build partnerships in communities across the country.

The Champaign stop comes as SIU celebrates growing enrollment. Fall 2026 enrollment reached 12,066 students, an increase of 281 students, or 2.4%, from fall 2025 and the university’s highest overall enrollment in eight years. The new undergraduate incoming class grew 16% to 1,779 students, while transfer enrollment increased 7% and online enrollment grew 14%.

SIU System President Dan Mahony credited consistent university leadership and the support of alumni and advocates for helping fuel that progress.

“Part of the reason our momentum is going up is because of all of you,” Mahony said. “It’s our alumni and our persistent support and all the things you say about how great SIU is.”

Taking SIU directly to students

While the Chancellor’s Reception brought Salukis together Thursday evening, the Saluki Takeover Tour extended throughout the region with SIU admissions representatives meeting prospective students, families, counselors and education leaders.

“The takeovers allow us to engage our alumni and our donors and the communities we’re in,” Lane said. “But most importantly, it allows us to get into the high schools and talk with our superintendents and our principals and our counselors and, most importantly, our potential students.”

During the trip, SIU representatives visited high schools and colleges across Central Illinois, including Urbana, St. Joseph-Ogden, Centennial and Central high schools and Parkland College, with additional visits planned in Danville. The admissions team also connected with prospective students from communities including Mattoon and Mahomet-Seymour.

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane introduces prospective students to the crowd at the Chancellor's Reception in Champaign.

Several prospective students and their families attended the Chancellor’s Reception, where university leaders introduced them to the crowd and invited alumni to help welcome the next generation of Salukis.

Lane encouraged alumni to serve as ambassadors for SIU by sharing their experiences and connecting prospective students with the university.

“Everywhere you go, you’re going to be the chancellor, the admissions director,” Lane said. “Help us out so we can continue to move those numbers up.”

Strengthening partnerships in Central Illinois

The Champaign stop also highlighted SIU’s growing partnership with Parkland College. Through Saluki Step Ahead, students can begin their education at Parkland and transfer seamlessly to SIU Carbondale after earning their associate degree.

Parkland College President Pam Lau highlighted aviation as an example of how the institutions are working together. Parkland students can complete their flight training in Champaign while earning a Bachelor of Science in aviation management from SIU.

“We are very, very privileged to be able to partner with SIU Carbondale,” Lau said. “I’ve been talking to some of your staff to say, ‘Can we do it for more programs?’ Because we would truly love to have that opportunity for our students.”

The partnership allows students to continue their education while remaining in Central Illinois, an option Lau said is particularly important for students in applied science programs who may prefer to stay in the region.

More than 1,000 Salukis ready for Saturday

The excitement surrounding SIU’s first Champaign takeover stop will continue Saturday when the Salukis face the Fighting Illini at 1 p.m. at Memorial Stadium. The matchup will be the first between the programs since 2013.

More than 1,000 Salukis are expected to gather before kickoff for a sold-out Saluki tailgate, extending the Takeover Tour celebration into game day.

SIU Director of Athletics Tim Leonard added to the excitement at Thursday’s reception as he spoke about the momentum surrounding Saluki Athletics and the football program.

The Salukis enter Saturday’s game 2-1 after rallying from a seven-point deficit to defeat Southeast Missouri State 34-20 at Saluki Stadium. SIU scored 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to retain the War for the Wheel.

For Lane, the turnout Thursday demonstrated the reach of the Saluki community and the value of bringing SIU directly to alumni, prospective students and partners throughout Illinois.

“There’s a lot of energy in Saluki Nation,” Lane said.

About the Saluki Takeover Tour

The 2026-27 Saluki Takeover Tour kicked off Sept. 2 in Atlanta, with Champaign marking the tour’s second stop and first visit to the community. Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the tour began in 2021 and has expanded its reach each year, with previous stops in Chicago, Springfield, Indianapolis, Memphis, Nashville, Florida, Texas, St. Louis, Southern Illinois, Hollywood and Washington, D.C.

The Saluki Takeover Tour strengthens alumni engagement, supports student recruitment and builds momentum for the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. The campaign has raised more than $490 million toward its $500 million goal, making it the fifth-largest fundraising campaign in Illinois higher education. Approximately two years remain in the campaign.

In fiscal year 2026, the SIU Foundation awarded $6.9 million in scholarships to more than 2,200 students, representing nearly 19% of the student body.

Through stops across the country, the tour brings SIU leaders together with alumni, prospective students, donors and community partners while sharing the university’s momentum and expanding the Saluki network nationwide.

The 2026-27 Saluki Takeover Tour continues with:

October 27-30, 2026 — Chicago
November 16-20, 2026 — Dallas and Houston
February 10-12, 2027 — St. Petersburg and Naples, Florida
March 23-24, 2027 — Central Illinois
March 30, 2027 — Detroit
April 1-16, 2027 — Southern Illinois
June 1-4, 2027 — Los Angeles
Denver — Date tentative
St. Louis — Date to be announced

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

Hamilton Hangout creates community for SIU students at Mae Smith

September 8, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

Chuck and Tracy Hamilton cut the ribbon in front of the newly dedicated Hamilton Hangout in SIU's Mae Smith Hall.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale celebrated the opening of the new Hamilton Hangout at Mae Smith, a residence hall on East Campus, giving students a new place to gather, connect and build community.

The student recreation and gathering space was made possible by a $25,000 gift from alumni Chuck and Tracy Hamilton.

University leaders, students and members of the SIU community joined the Hamiltons to celebrate the completed space, which encourages students to leave their rooms, connect with their peers and build friendships.

The Hamilton Hangout, located within the College of Health and Human Sciences Living Learning Community at Mae Smith, features arcade and video games and gives students a dedicated place to gather and recharge where they live.

For Chuck and Tracy, seeing the finished space was also a homecoming. More than three decades ago, the towers were where they lived and built lifelong friendships.

“We’ve used the word ‘surreal’ a couple of times,” Chuck said. “Certainly nothing we would have imagined as an 18-year-old college student, to think you’d be back here later in life.”

An idea that came from students

Arcade games and a pool table bring students together at the Hamilton Hangout in Mae Smith at SIU.

The Hamilton Hangout grew from conversations between students and Dr. Robert Morgan, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences.

The college has continued to invest in its Living Learning Community at Mae Smith, working with Housing and Residence Life to create an environment that supports students academically and socially.

During an event on the Mae Smith patio, Morgan asked students what would encourage them to leave their rooms and spend more time connecting with one another. Gaming and recreation quickly emerged as a way to bring students together.

Morgan shared the concept with the college’s advisory board, and the Hamiltons saw an opportunity to help create the kind of community they remembered from their own years in the towers.

“This is about much more than a gaming space,” Morgan said. “It is about creating an environment where students want to be, where they can connect with others and where they feel a sense of belonging. Those experiences matter, and they are an important part of helping our students thrive at SIU.”

Dr. Jeffery Burgin, vice chancellor for student affairs, said the partnership demonstrates how experiences outside the classroom can complement students’ academic lives.

“We are here to assist in the full academic and social development of our students so that, wherever they go after graduation, they can contribute significantly to their communities,” Burgin said.

Where their Saluki story began

The Hamiltons understood the importance of that sense of community because they experienced it themselves.

Chuck arrived at SIU from Geneseo, Illinois, drawn by the reputation of the university’s aviation program. Tracy came from a community outside Memphis, Tennessee. She initially studied radio and television before switching to education.

Chuck lived in Mae Smith, and Tracy lived next door in Schneider Hall. Both participated in Greek life, and they first met at a Greek event during Chuck’s sophomore year and Tracy’s freshman year.

They walked back to the towers together that night but went their separate ways. About a year later, they reconnected. They have been married for more than three decades.

“SIU brought us together,” Chuck said. “We have a strong passion for SIU and what it’s done for us.”

Their time in the towers gave them more than their relationship. It created friendships they still maintain today.

“I came with four or five people that I knew, but when I left, I had a family,” Tracy said. “We still keep in touch with college roommates.”

That experience became central to what they wanted the Hamilton Hangout to offer students.

“I think it goes back to what I was talking about. It feels like home,” Tracy said. “It feels like friendships that turn into family.”

SIU experiences that lasted a lifetime

SIU also helped prepare the Hamiltons for their professional lives.

Chuck earned degrees in aviation flight and aviation management, while Tracy earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in 1994.

Their student worker jobs in university administration gave them early professional experience and kept them connected to campus. They also volunteered through Greek life, supporting blood drives and local charities.

After graduation, Tracy began her career as a pre-K teacher. Chuck completed internships with United Airlines and St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

Both eventually joined State Farm, where they have worked for about 30 years. They now work from the company’s regional hub in the Dallas area.

The couple credits SIU with giving them the education, scholarships, professional experiences and relationships that helped launch their lives after college.

“SIU set us off on the right foot,” Chuck said. “Hopefully this will be one small thing that sets future generations of Salukis off on the right foot, too.”

Creating community for the next generation

SIU announced the Hamiltons’ $25,000 gift to the College of Health and Human Sciences Development Fund during the 2025 SIU Day of Giving, but their connection to the annual fundraising event began years earlier.

Chuck credits the “Carbondale in the ’80s and ’90s” Facebook group with building grassroots enthusiasm for Day of Giving among alumni from that era. That momentum encouraged the Hamiltons to support areas of the university that shaped their own experiences, including aviation, education and Morris Library.

“The ’80s and ’90s group built some grassroots support around the Day of Giving,” Chuck said. “That really started the energy around Day of Giving.”

As more colleges, schools and programs became involved, the Hamiltons continued to find opportunities to support areas that held personal meaning for them.

“It was just the little things where we spent time that we felt were important,” Chuck said.

When the opportunity to support the Hamilton Hangout emerged, the couple saw a natural connection between their Day of Giving tradition and a project rooted in their own SIU experience.

“When the Hamilton Hangout opportunity came, it just made sense to align it around SIU Day of Giving,” Chuck said.

The gift brought together several parts of their Saluki story: their commitment to giving back, Chuck’s connection to Mae Smith and the friendships they formed while living in the towers.

The Hamiltons also recognize that building community can look different for today’s students. With phones and laptops making it easier to spend time alone, they wanted the Hamilton Hangout to give students another reason to interact face to face.

“We really wanted to bring that sense of community and give the students a space to do that, to just hang out,” Chuck said. “Get out of your room. Maybe get away from your phone for a minute and hang out with some other students.”

Tracy said the connections students make where they live can also help them feel at home at SIU.

“I think it’s a good retention tool,” she said. “We want to make those new students feel at home and want to stay and have that Saluki spirit.”

The Hamiltons hope those everyday interactions lead to friendships that extend far beyond a student’s time at SIU.

“I hope they sense that community and that they build friendships that last throughout their SIU career and beyond,” Chuck said. “Hopefully down the road, they’ll have a memory of their time in Mae Smith, just like we have our memories of the towers.”

Building momentum for Imagine SIU 2030

The Hamiltons’ gift adds to the momentum of the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has reached more than $485 million in commitments toward its $500 million goal. With two years remaining, the campaign has achieved 97% of its goal and remains one of the largest fundraising efforts in Illinois public university history.

During the most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation awarded a record $6.9 million in scholarships to more than 2,200 students, benefiting nearly 19% of the student body.

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

6th Annual Saluki Takeover Tour makes first stop in Atlanta, draws more than 200 to reception

September 3, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane addresses the crowd at the Saluki Takeover Tour Atlanta.

ATLANTA — Southern Illinois University Carbondale made its first Saluki Takeover Tour stop in Atlanta Sept. 1-4, kicking off the sixth annual tour with four days of student recruitment, educational outreach and alumni engagement across the metropolitan area.

The inaugural Atlanta stop drew an enthusiastic response from the Saluki community, with more than 200 alumni, donors, university leaders and friends of SIU packing SweetWater Brewing Company for the Chancellor’s Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

The reception brought Salukis together to reconnect, hear the latest from Carbondale and celebrate SIU’s growing presence in Georgia. The strong turnout underscored the alumni network already established in the region and the opportunity university leaders see to expand SIU’s reach in the state.

“We have been targeting Georgia for quite some time, just like we did Texas a few years ago,” SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane said. “We knew that we could come down to Georgia and compete.”

Lane encouraged Atlanta-area alumni to play an active role in that effort by connecting SIU with local schools, sharing their Saluki stories and helping prospective students discover opportunities in Carbondale.

“When our alumni reach out to us and say, ‘You need to get to Georgia,’ our alumni are going to get us in the door,” Lane said.

SIU System President Dan Mahony thanked Atlanta-area alumni for supporting the university and emphasized the importance of alumni engagement as SIU continues building momentum.

“Clearly, there are a lot of people here in Atlanta who are behind us,” Mahony said. “We appreciate all your support. That makes a difference.”

During the reception, university leaders shared updates about SIU and highlighted advantages available to prospective students, including SIU’s elimination of the out-of-state tuition differential and scholarship opportunities.

They also highlighted SIU’s recognition by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as both a Research 1 university and an Opportunity University. SIU is one of only 21 universities out of 4,000 nationwide to hold both designations.

Building a Saluki pipeline in Georgia

The energy of the Chancellor’s Reception complemented an extensive recruitment effort throughout the Atlanta area. University leaders, admissions staff, SIU Foundation representatives and other campus partners spent four days meeting directly with students, educators and community leaders.

The visit included recruitment stops at Carver Early College, Booker T. Washington High School, South Atlanta High School, Daniel McLaughlin Therrell High School, Westlake High School, Kell High School, Phoenix Academy and North Springs Charter High School, among others.

SIU leaders also met with representatives from Atlanta Metropolitan State College, the National Institute for Student Success, the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Goodwill of North Georgia and school districts throughout the region. The meetings focused on developing relationships and pathways that can connect more Georgia students with opportunities at SIU.

Lane pointed to the success of the Saluki Takeover Tour in Texas as an example of what sustained outreach in a new market can accomplish. After SIU added Dallas, Austin and Houston to the tour, Texas grew to become one of the university’s leading states for applications.

“We think Atlanta and Georgia are going to fit in that same space, and that’s why we’re here,” Lane said.

Lane said the Saluki Takeover Tour grew from a desire to take SIU directly into communities and proudly share the university’s story.

“We started the Saluki Takeover Tour about five years ago, and the plan was to put the Saluki flag in the ground in an unapologetic way,” Lane said. “We thought we needed to brag about this institution. We needed to brag about you and what you have done to make this institution what it is today.”

The first Atlanta stop marked the beginning of SIU’s efforts to establish a stronger presence in Georgia. University leaders plan to return as they continue developing relationships with schools, prospective students, alumni and community partners throughout the region.

“We will be back,” Lane said. “We need your help when we send those students off to Carbondale.”

About the Saluki Takeover Tour

The Atlanta event marked the first stop of the 2026-27 Saluki Takeover Tour. Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the tour began in 2021 and has expanded its reach each year, with previous stops in Chicago, Springfield, Indianapolis, Memphis, Nashville, Florida, Texas, St. Louis, Southern Illinois, Hollywood and Washington, D.C.

In fiscal year 2026, the SIU Foundation awarded $6.9 million in scholarships to more than 2,200 students, representing nearly 19% of the student body.

The 2026-27 Saluki Takeover Tour continues with:

September 17-19, 2026 — Champaign, Illinois
October 27-30, 2026 — Chicago
November 16-20, 2026 — Dallas and Houston
February 10-12, 2027 — St. Petersburg and Naples, Florida
March 23-24, 2027 — Central Illinois
March 30, 2027 — Detroit
April 1-16, 2027 — Southern Illinois
June 1-4, 2027 — Los Angeles
Denver — Date tentative
St. Louis — Date to be announced

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

SIU Foundation launches first Week of Philanthropy Sept. 21-25

September 1, 2026 Britni Bateman Leave a comment

The SIU Foundation will launch its first Week of Philanthropy Sept. 21-25, a five-day celebration of the generosity that creates opportunities across Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

“The Week of Philanthropy gives us an opportunity to celebrate the impact of generosity across SIU and, just as importantly, to thank the people who make that impact possible,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation.

Each day will highlight a different aspect of philanthropy through events at the Tedrick Welcome Center, culminating in a campuswide celebration Friday. At the center of the week is the 11th SIU Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 23, a 24-hour online giving event that will invite Salukis around the world to “Paint the Map Maroon.”

“Day of Giving gives every Saluki the opportunity to make an impact on something that matters to them. Whether you are supporting a scholarship, an academic program, athletics or another area you love, every gift helps us paint the map maroon and demonstrates the reach of the Saluki family,” said Kathryn Sime, assistant vice chancellor for major and planned giving.