All posts by Jeff Wilson

Saluki Ball shines in Carbondale, bridges the gap for SIU students

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.

Saluki Takeover Tour smashes records in Southern Illinois

Chancellor Austin Lane
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.

Saluki Takeover Tour in Murphysboro
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.

Saluki Takeover Tour Chester
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 at Apple Creek Golf Club
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, Shad Zimbro, Rodney Cabaness
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.”

Lee Messersmith, Chancellor Lane, Carolin Harvey
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.

School Visit Photos

Marion students
Marion
Elverado students
Elverado
Hardin County students
Hardin County
Pinckneyville students
Pinckneyville
Pope County students
Pope County
Webber students
Webber
Nashville Students
Nashville
Mount Vernon students
Mount Vernon
Johnston City student
Johnston City
Carterville Students
Carterville
Crab Orchard students
Crab Orchard
Harrisburg
Harrisburg
Thompsonville
Thompsonville
Sesser-Valier
Sesser-Valier

Massac County
Massac County
Cairo
Cairo
Coulterville
Coulterville
Chester
Chester
West Frankfort
West Frankfort
Sparta
Sparta
Christopher
Christopher
Meridian
Meridian
NCOE
NCOE
Hamilton County
Hamilton County
Red Bud
Red Bud

Construction approved for Wildlife Habitat Education Center at SIU’s Touch of Nature

Touch of Nature

Project funded by anonymous $3 million donation

By Jeff Wilson

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.

 

Gilbert honors father with $250K gift to SIU Simmons Law School

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.”

Gower Translational Research Center dedicated

Gower Ribbon Cutting
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.

Leading from the front: Poshards sponsor Saluki Ball

Jo and Glenn Poshard
Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are sponsoring the third annual Saluki Ball.

By Jeff Wilson

For the second time in its three-year history, 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.

Get your tickets or become a sponsor at salukiball.siu.edu.

Rock Steady Boxing, a fitness program for Parkinson’s patients, receives $15K donation

Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing received a $15,538 donation from Com-Pac, International.

By Jeff Wilson

The mission of Rock Steady Boxing is to help people with Parkinson’s disease improve their quality of life. This unique program recently received support from Com-Pac, International in the form of a $15,538 gift.

Misty Wright
Misty Wright (second from left) leads a Rock Steady Boxing class.

The funds will help expand the program, which is hosted in SIU’s Student Recreation Center from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. every week, Monday through Thursday. Rock Steady Boxing was established in 2006 in Indianapolis and has expanded to more than 825 locations worldwide. SIU’s classes are instructed by Misty Wright and Barbara Tyler.

“We are blessed to be one of those 825-plus locations,” said Wright, who has been working with the program from more than 6 ½ years at SIU. “We started with one fighter, and now we have about 25 regulars. It’s being prescribed by doctors and has spread greatly through word of mouth.”

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. The exact cause is still unknown, and there is no cure.

Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing is a fitness class for people with Parkinson’s disease hosted in the SIU Student Recreation Center.

“These classes help Parkinson’s patients with fitness, mobility, and flexibility. It improves their cardiovascular function and hand-eye coordination.” Wright said. “It also provides them with a sense of community. Many of them say they couldn’t live without it. One of our main goals is to give them a better, happier life.”

The donation will allow Wright and Tyler to help cover the small registration fee for participants, help expand the offerings within the gym, and host special events to promote the program more broadly.

“This level of support is incredible. It’s really a blessing,” Wright said. “I want to thank Com-Pac for this gift, and I want to thank SIU for allowing us to help these people.”

To learn more about Rock Steady Boxing, visit https://rec.siu.edu/programs/fitness/access-inclusive-recreation/rock-steady-boxing.php or contact Sydney Devine at 618-453-1275 or sydney.devine@siu.edu to sign up for classes.

Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing

St. Louis shows up in record numbers for Saluki Takeover Tour

Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis
Chancellor Austin Lane introduces coach Scott Nagy and the Saluki Men’s Basketball team Wednesday, March 5, at the Budweiser 703 Club inside Busch Stadium in St. Louis.

By Jeff Wilson

ST. LOUIS – Hundreds of SIU’s alumni and friends came together during another incredible Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis during the week of the Arch Madness MVC Tournament.

Chancellor Austin Lane and many other representatives from campus visited six high schools and one college. The SIU Foundation hosted two corporate and networking events, 12 donor visits, and the Chancellor’s Reception on Wednesday, March 5, at the Budweiser 703 Club inside Busch Stadium.

“We have been all over the place promoting what it means to be a Saluki and recruiting students to come here,” Lane said to the record-breaking crowd of 275.

Wendell Williams, Frederick Polkinghorne, Austin Lane
Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management (from left), McKinley High School Assistant Principal Frederick Polkinghorne, a class of 2009 SIU graduate, and Chancellor Austin Lane met during the Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis.
McCleur High School
McCleur High School met with SIU Admissions officials during the Saluki Takeover Tour St. Louis.

Lane highlighted the university Research 1 designation and its continued commitment to affordability and student success, including:

  • Out-of-State Tuition Eliminated – All U.S. undergraduates now pay in-state tuition.
  • Saluki Step Ahead – A seamless transfer pathway for community college students.
  • Saluki Legacy Discount – Tuition savings for children and grandchildren of alumni.
  • Saluki Commitment – Covers tuition and fees for eligible in-state students.
  • Scholarships – Multiple options to help fund education.
McKinley Classic Leadership High School students met with campus leaders.
McKinley Classic Leadership High School students met with campus leaders.

Southern is one of only three public Illinois universities to be recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as an R1 institution.

“Our alumni should be walking tall. There are only 187 Research 1 institutions out of 4,000-plus universities. That is a big deal,” Lane said.

For the SIU Foundation, the takeover tours are an opportunity to connect with donors as it progresses through the 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.

The Saluki Men’s Basketball team and coaching staff stopped by the Chancellor’s Reception to thank the fans for their support during the MVC Tournament and throughout the season.

“When we started to put this thing together, hardly anybody – from the staff to the players – knew each other. We built this thing from the ground up, and this is just the start,” said Saluki Men’s Basketball Coach Scott Nagy. “We have such a great fanbase. Thank you all for coming out.”

Other events

The SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council hosted “Connect & Inspire,” an event celebrating Saluki women.

Dozens of women gathered on Tuesday, March 4, for the event, which kicked off the takeover tour by celebrating Women’s History Month.

Women's Leadership Council
The SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council hosted “Connect & Inspire” on Tuesday, March 4.

Hosted by SIU Foundation Board President Diane Compardo ’91 and Dr. Dawn Korte ’91, a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Council, the event at the Saint Louis Club featured Dr. Korte, who has had an impressive career in human resources, sharing powerful negotiation strategies for women in the workforce. Sherrica Hunt, assistant vice chancellor for development & alumni relations, anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion, highlighted the growing impact of the Women’s Leadership Council.

On the morning of Wednesday March 5, SIU leaders and St. Louis-area corporations came together at the Greater St. Louis Inc. Andrew C. Taylor Center for Civic Collaboration to explore opportunities at the Saluki Corporate Engagement Takeover event.

Corporate Networking
The SIU Foundation hosted a corporate networking event on Wednesday, March 5.

With 22,000+ SIU alumni in the St. Louis area, this event highlighted the many ways corporations can connect with SIU to recruit top talent and invest in innovation.

This collaboration strengthens SIU’s role in workforce development, research, and economic growth, ensuring a strong future for both our students and corporate partners.

Interested in partnering with SIU? Contact Sherrica Hunt at sherricah@foundation.siu.edu or Shane Bennett at shaneb@foundation.siu.edu.

The SIU Alumni Association hosted pregame events at PBR St. Louis inside Ballpark Village before each basketball game, and the Young Alumni Group hosted an all-ages event at McGurk’s Irish Pub on the evening of Friday, March 7.

On the court, the Salukis won their first-round matchup against Indiana State in thrilling fashion with a last-second 86-85 victory. The Dawgs ultimately ended their season with a 70-53 loss to No. 1-ranked Drake in the quarterfinals of the MVC Tournament.

Women’s History Month Spotlight: Dr. Dawn Korte, Ph.D. ’91

Dawn Korte
Dr. Dawn Korte

For Dr. Dawn Korte, Southern Illinois University Carbondale was more than a steppingstone—it was the foundation for a career defined by leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to others. A proud graduate of SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences with a major in paralegal studies, Korte has dedicated her career to fostering professional growth, advocating for women in leadership, and giving back to the institution that shaped her journey.

Raised in Carterville, Illinois, she initially enrolled at SIU to study piano performance, securing a scholarship that made her college education possible. However, a deep-rooted interest in the law led her to switch majors to paralegal studies—a decision that ultimately shaped her mindset.

“I had been interested in the law, so I changed my major and focused on law school after graduation,” she said. “That switch taught me to always keep an open mind, work hard, and accept ambiguity as a part of life.”

Korte credits her parents as her earliest role models, instilling in her the values of perseverance and dedication. At SIU, professors such as Dr. Steven Barwick and Dr. Albert Melone, along with lecturers Kenneth Hughes and Pamela Lacey, played instrumental roles in her academic development. One defining moment took place even before she was officially a Saluki—her scholarship audition in Shryock Auditorium.

“I was terrified, played way too fast, and made some mistakes,” she said. “When I finished, I thought I had blown my audition. But Professor Barwick stood up and said, ‘Welcome to SIUC—we will figure out the rest!’ That moment solidified SIU as my home.”

Leadership, Challenges, and Breaking Barriers

Throughout her career, Korte has been a strong advocate for people-focused leadership, emphasizing that the most valuable asset of any organization is its people.

“If people gave me their time and trusted me to lead them, I was going to create a place in which they could thrive,” she said. “I built relationships rooted in honesty and mutual respect, creating a strong foundation to weather professional storms.”

As a woman in the workplace, Korte faced challenges in establishing herself in executive leadership roles. She navigated these obstacles with a combination of preparation, networking, and relentless effort.

“I remained crystal clear on my goals, asked for honest feedback, and used it as fuel to improve,” she said. “I worked relentlessly to produce meaningful results that benefited both the organization and myself.”

Among her proudest achievements, Korte became the first in her family to earn a Ph.D. after completing her MBA, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and excellence.

The Power of Mentorship and Giving Back

Korte is passionate about mentoring young women and supporting SIU programs that foster female leadership. As a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Council, she recognizes the power of mentorship in shaping future generations.

“Women need to support other women because we understand the demands of life and work,” she said. “Every woman has a story that can inspire another if she shares it. The Women’s Leadership Council provides a space for those stories to thrive and motivate others.”

She believes philanthropy at SIU—through scholarships and mentorship—has a measurable impact.

“We track metrics to see our impact, but the true success is in the continuation of mentor-mentee relationships long after graduation,” she said. “The heartfelt thank-yous, the stories of students helping each other through challenges—these are the untold metrics that prove what we’re doing is working.”

As SIU continues to nurture future leaders, Korte hopes the work of the Women’s Leadership Council and other initiatives will instill confidence in young women.

“I hope we give them a light that shines in their soul through dark moments,” she said. “That light is the confidence that they can, and will, prevail.”

Women’s History Month holds special significance for Korte, serving as a time to honor those who paved the way. She draws inspiration from her mother, a dedicated nurse and community leader whose legacy of service continues to guide her.

“She made an indelible mark on the lives of her patients and those around her,” Korte said. “I work to have her spirit, values, and wisdom live on through me.”

Reflecting on her career, Korte hopes to leave a legacy of commitment rather than mere contributions.

“My dad always used to say that the difference between making a commitment and a contribution is like bacon and eggs—the chicken makes the contribution, but the pig makes a commitment,” she said. “That’s what I’ve tried to do in my personal and professional life—make a commitment to something bigger than myself.”

For Korte, giving back to SIU is a way to invest in the future and ensure that young Salukis—especially women—have the support and resources they need to succeed.

“SIUC helped chart a course for my life, and I will be forever grateful,” she said.

To learn more about the Women’s Leadership Council and how you can get involved, visit siuf.org/wlc.

Saluki Takeover Tour to enhance connections in Southern Illinois

By Jeff Wilson

The Saluki Takeover Tour Southern Illinois returns for a second trip through the state’s southernmost 17 counties.

After an incredible inaugural year in 2024, excitement is building for this year’s events. Chancellor Austin Lane and other campus leaders will meet with students and educational partners throughout the region, and there will be six Chancellor’s Receptions:

  • Thursday, April 3 – Apple Creek Country Club, 503 Stone Creek Drive, Makanda – REGISTER HERE
  • Tuesday, April 8 – TJ’s Diamond Club, Mtn Dew Park, 1000 Miners Drive, Marion – REGISTER HERE
  • Thursday, April 10 – Café Bloom, 1104 Public Square, Benton – REGISTER HERE
  • Tuesday, April 15 – St. Nicholas Landmark Brewery, 111 Ferry Street, Chester – REGISTER HERE
  • Thursday, April 17 – Pizza Villa, 169 E. Vienna Street, Anna – REGISTER HERE
  • Tuesday, April 22 – Faye, 1616 Walnut Street, Murphysboro – REGISTER HERE

There is no cost to attend any of these events. Each reception runs from 6 to 8 p.m. and includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets per registered attendee. These events are hosted by the SIU Foundation.

“Southern Illinois is a very large area, and we have been all over,” Lane said during last year’s takeover tour. “It has been amazing to see all the students and administrators from Chester to Mount Vernon, from Pope County to Cairo.”

Chancellor Austin Lane speaks Saturday, May 4, at Walker's Bluff Casino Resort.
Chancellor Austin Lane speaks Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort.

While visiting more than 20 high schools and community colleges during the Saluki Takeover Tour Southern Illinois last year, 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.

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 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.

“There is no reason in the world for a student from any county in Southern Illinois to attend any other university than the one in their backyard,” Lane said. “You’re not going to find another school that’s close to you that’s an R1 higher research institution.”

The Saluki Takeover Tour has also visited Chicago, St. Louis, Springfield, Hollywood, Tampa, Miami, Naples, West Palm Beach, St. Petersburg, The Villages, Houston, Dallas, Memphis, and Nashville. Last year’s events in Southern Illinois took place in Mount Vernon, Harrisburg, Carterville, Metropolis, Alto Pass, and Du Quoin. The objective is clear: Take the SIU campus on the road and engage with prospective students, fellow educators, alumni, and donors. Each stop on the takeover tour is packed with visits to schools, campus, and events that connect SIU’s leaders with corporate leaders and friends of the university.

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

For the SIU Foundation, the 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.

Suggested attire for these events is business casual, but Saluki gear is always appropriate, too. For more information, visit siuf.org/southern-illinois.