Category Archives: Philanthropic Women

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

SIU alumni Nick and Amanda Martin dedicate ‘Coalesce’ sculpture to celebrate Saluki love stories

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Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumni Nick and Amanda Martin have funded “Coalesce,” a new heart-shaped sculpture outside the Agriculture Building celebrating generations of Salukis who met, fell in love and built their lives together.

The Martins, who met as students in SIU’s College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, joined university leaders, family and friends Thursday, Oct. 15, to dedicate the sculpture during Homecoming week. The ceremony also coincided with the couple’s 18th wedding anniversary weekend.

The couple hopes the sculpture becomes a campus landmark where alumni can revisit memories, celebrate milestones and share their own Saluki love stories.

“SIU gave us so much more than an education,” Amanda said. “It gave us lifelong friendships, an incredible community and, most importantly, each other.”

Nick said the couple wanted their gift to create something meaningful for the entire university community.

“This is universitywide, something for everybody,” he said.

Designed by SIU architect Shawn Bond, the sculpture features two distinct elements that converge into a stylized heart when viewed from a particular angle. Its name, “Coalesce,” reflects the idea of separate elements coming together to form something greater.

A love story rooted in SIU

Nick and Amanda’s relationship began through their involvement in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences. Both served as student ambassadors, while Amanda participated in Sigma Alpha and Nick belonged to Alpha Gamma Rho.

Their friendship grew into something more during a 14-hour van ride to Florida for a college conference.

“If I can be in the car for this long with this guy and still like him at the end, then this will work,” Amanda said.

Both first-generation college students, the Martins credit SIU with helping lay the foundation for their careers.

Amanda, a Southern Illinois native, earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agribusiness economics from SIU before completing a doctorate in educational leadership and research at Louisiana State University. She serves as president and CEO of the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation, where she leads agricultural leadership development initiatives across the state.

Her career has included leadership positions at Louisiana State University, Auburn University and Farm Foundation, focusing on higher education, student development and agriculture.

Nick, originally from western Illinois, earned a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science from SIU in 2006 and a master’s degree in forestry from Auburn University in 2011. He serves as vice president of consulting for Bartlett, where he supports consulting arborists across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. He joined the company as a field inventory arborist and advanced to his current leadership role.

The couple lives in Algonquin, Illinois, and credits their professors, mentors and fellow students with helping shape their lives.

“This is where we are surrounded by our professors, mentors and friends who believed in us, challenged us, encouraged us, and quite literally watched us grow up,” Amanda said.

The dedication held additional meaning for the Martins, who attended with their daughter, Miracle. The family also marked the anniversary of the phone call informing them that Miracle would be joining their family.

“Standing here today with our daughter, Miracle, reminds us of just how much our own love story has grown since we were just two young Salukis,” Amanda said.

Creating a lasting campus landmark

The idea for the sculpture emerged when Amanda returned to campus in November 2025 with a group of students through her work with the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation.

During the visit, Amanda and Susan Graham, senior director of development for the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, discussed creating a destination for couples who met at SIU. Inspired by a similar concept at another university, they initially considered a bench.

Bond encouraged them to think bigger, developing the concept that became “Coalesce.”

The Martins had one request: The sculpture needed to stand outside the Agriculture Building, where so much of their shared history began.

Nick, who worked at SIU’s physical plant throughout his four undergraduate years, expressed appreciation for the university facilities employees who brought the project to life.

Dr. Kristina Boone, dean of the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, thanked the Martins, Bond and the facilities crews for their contributions.

“The concept of coalesce is when elements come together to form a larger whole or a different form,” Boone said. “In the case of this sculpture, it invites you to walk around to see the two different elements join together for a new form, a heart.”

Chancellor Austin A. Lane said the sculpture reflects the lasting relationships that begin at SIU.

“How fitting to have something like this on our campus that embraces a lot of what’s happened historically with Salukis meeting and marrying and falling in love here,” Lane said.

Giving back to the place that brought them together

After paying off their student loans, the Martins decided to redirect those resources toward supporting SIU and helping students from backgrounds similar to their own.

“We knew we wanted to take that money and put it back and be able to help other students that came from similar backgrounds that we did and make a difference,” Amanda said.

The couple encourages other alumni to give back through financial contributions, volunteering or sharing their talents.

“Any size of gift is helpful,” Amanda said. “It’s important that you give back and make things better while you’re here.”

For Nick, the gift honors the university’s lasting influence on his family.

“SIU gave us almost everything we have,” Nick said. “So this is a great way to do that.”

The Martins also encourage alumni and students to share photographs and memories at the sculpture using #SalukisInLove.

“Today, we’re honored to leave a little piece of our legacy and story behind in a place that has given us so much,” Amanda said. “There are so many love stories that started here, the friendships that last a lifetime, and generations of Salukis who haven’t even met yet.”

The Martins’ gift adds to the momentum of the SIU Foundation’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised more than $499 million toward its $500 million goal. With approximately 20 months remaining, the campaign ranks as the fifth-largest fundraising effort in Illinois higher education history.

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

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

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

Hamilton Hangout creates community for SIU students at Mae Smith

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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.

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

Moneta continues support as Premier Sponsor of 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend

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Moneta logo

Moneta is continuing its support as a Premier Sponsor of the 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, set for Sept. 10-12 at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Moneta has supported the event every year since its launch in 2022.

Diane Compardo headshotFor Diane Compardo, a Moneta partner and two-time SIU graduate who earned her master’s from the College of Business and Analytics in 1992, the partnership provides an opportunity to give back to the university that helped shape her future while creating similar opportunities for the next generation.

“I came to SIU as a young woman from a small town, and I didn’t know what my career would look like or where it would take me,” Compardo said. “SIU opened so many opportunities for me.”

Compardo has been involved with Saluki Women’s Weekend since its launch and has watched it grow over the past five years.

“The evolution of Saluki Women’s Weekend has been wonderful,” she said. “We started reasonably small, and every year it gets bigger with more energy in the room.”

Paying it forward

Hosted by the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council and presented by Moneta and SIU Credit Union, Saluki Women’s Weekend creates opportunities for women to connect across generations and stages of their careers.

Compardo has spent more than 25 years at Moneta, a financial advisory firm based in St. Louis. She said Moneta encourages its partners to support organizations and causes that are personally meaningful to them.

“Moneta is a very philanthropic organization, and one of my passions is supporting women,” Compardo said. “That’s why I choose Saluki Women’s Weekend as one of the events I support.”

For Compardo, that support reflects her belief in paying forward the encouragement and opportunities she received throughout her education and career.

“I was fortunate to have people who invested in me, encouraged me and opened doors for me,” she said. “I think we have a responsibility to do the same for the next generation.”

That connection extends beyond Saluki Women’s Weekend. Compardo has returned to SIU to speak with students at the College of Business and Analytics about Moneta and career opportunities. Several SIU alumni work at the firm, and a recent SIU graduate is joining Compardo’s team.

Celebrating at the Tedrick Welcome Center

This year’s Women’s Empowerment Conference will take place Sept. 11 at the Tedrick Welcome Center, adding another personal connection for Compardo.

Compardo is past president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors and served as president during much of the planning and approval process for the new facility.

“It’s a wonderful space to welcome students and host events that showcase the best of SIU,” she said.

The weekend begins Sept. 10 with the Women’s Leadership Council Welcome Reception at Hangar 9 in downtown Carbondale. The evening will feature line dancing instruction from Kyle Erickson, better known as Cowboy Kyle, founder of Urban Cowboy Line Dancing in Nashville, Tennessee.

The Women’s Empowerment Conference follows Sept. 11 at the Tedrick Welcome Center with educational sessions, networking opportunities and the Philanthropy and Woman of the Year Awards Luncheon. This year’s programming also recognizes the United Nations’ International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Activities conclude Sept. 12 with a Women’s Leadership Council board meeting for invited members and a mentorship brunch connecting students, alumni and professionals.

As Saluki Women’s Weekend celebrates its fifth anniversary, Compardo encourages students and alumni to take advantage of the relationships the event can create.

“Say yes to opportunities. Say yes to meeting people. Say yes to experiences that may be outside your comfort zone,” she said. “Embrace the experience and run with it.”

Compardo hopes those connections continue to grow along with the event.

“The SIU connection is so powerful,” she said. “It feels like you’re coming home to a room full of family.”

Registration for the 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend is free. Learn more and register at siuf.org/saluki-women.

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

SIU to celebrate 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend Sept. 10-12

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2026 Saluki Women's Weekend

Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate the fifth annual Saluki Women’s Weekend Sept. 10-12, bringing together alumni, students, faculty, staff and community members for three days of networking, professional development, philanthropy and mentorship.

Hosted by the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council and presented by Moneta and SIU Credit Union, the annual event highlights the achievements of women across the Saluki community while creating opportunities for connection, leadership development and lifelong engagement.

The 2026 event coincides with the United Nations’ International Year of the Woman Farmer, a global initiative that recognizes the vital yet often underrepresented role women play in agriculture and food systems worldwide.

“It’s going to be bigger and better than before,” said Gloria Tison, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council.

The weekend begins Sept. 10 with the Women’s Leadership Council Welcome Reception at Hangar 9 in downtown Carbondale. The reception will feature a “Cowgirl Chic” theme celebrating the strength, resilience and trailblazing spirit of women in agriculture and beyond. Organizers selected the theme in recognition of the International Year of the Woman Farmer and the contributions of women in agriculture, one of Southern Illinois’ most important industries.

The evening will feature line dancing instruction from Kyle Erickson, better known as Cowboy Kyle, founder of Urban Cowboy Line Dancing in Nashville, Tennessee. A Carbondale native whose parents are SIU alumni, Erickson will return home to help kick off the weekend with an evening of dancing, networking and celebration.

The signature Women’s Empowerment Conference will take place Sept. 11 at the Tedrick Welcome Center. The conference will feature educational sessions, networking opportunities and conversations designed to inspire and empower women in all stages of their personal and professional journeys.

A highlight of the conference will be the Philanthropy and Woman of the Year Awards Luncheon, which recognizes women whose leadership, service and generosity have made a lasting impact on the university and beyond. The annual Woman of the Year Award remains one of the weekend’s signature honors.

Tison said attendees can also look forward to a luncheon catered by Mary’s Restaurant featuring ingredients sourced from local farmers.

“It’s a great weekend for networking, learning and celebration, so mark your calendars for Sept. 10-12,” she said.

The conference will conclude with a networking reception and special celebration recognizing the fifth anniversary of Saluki Women’s Weekend. Attendees will celebrate the event’s growth over the past five years and the relationships, mentorship opportunities and philanthropic impact it has fostered across the Saluki community.

Activities will continue Sept. 12 with a Women’s Leadership Council board meeting for invited members and a mentorship brunch connecting students, alumni and professionals through meaningful conversations and mentoring opportunities.

Since its launch in 2022, Saluki Women’s Weekend has grown into one of the university’s signature engagement events, attracting women from a wide range of industries, backgrounds and experiences. The event celebrates achievement while creating opportunities for participants to learn, network and inspire one another.

“The vibe at the event is so empowering,” Tison said. “It’s great to see women growing in their careers and having the opportunity to network with people who have done amazing things. There’s an air of wonder, happiness and support. It’s also a great opportunity for alumni who haven’t had the chance to return to campus.”

Through the leadership of the Women’s Leadership Council, Saluki Women’s Weekend continues to strengthen connections among alumni, students and friends of the university while advancing a culture of mentorship, philanthropy and empowerment.

Registration information and additional details are available at siuf.org/saluki-women.

About the Women’s Leadership Council

The Women’s Leadership Council, established in 2020, is a network of alumnae, parents and friends committed to creating a culture of women-driven philanthropy at SIU. Through mentorship, leadership and philanthropy, council members invest their time, expertise and resources to support scholarships, women-focused initiatives and opportunities that empower future generations of Salukis.

The council also sponsors a mentor program that connects students with successful women leaders. The program fosters professional growth, leadership development, networking and career exploration while strengthening lifelong connections to the university.

About the Tedrick Welcome Center

The Tedrick Welcome Center is the new home of the SIU Foundation and Southern Illinois University’s front porch to campus. The 44,000-square-foot facility was made possible by a leadership gift from Roger and Sally Tedrick. Funded entirely through the SIU Foundation through a combination of Foundation reserves, fundraising and borrowing, the center serves as a hub for campus visits, alumni and donor engagement, special events and community gatherings. No taxpayer dollars, tuition revenue, student fees or state funds were used in its construction.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

Women’s Leadership Council Awards Micro-Grants to Three SIU Initiatives

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Recipients of the Women's Leadership Council micro-grant hold large check for photo.

The SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council awarded $2,189 in micro-grants to three women-led initiatives May 21 at the Tedrick Welcome Center.

The annual micro-grant program supports innovative projects that enhance student learning, leadership development and engagement while advancing opportunities for women across Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

“The Women’s Leadership Council is proud to support these three very different and impactful projects,” said Gloria Tison, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council. “Each one creates new opportunities to empower women, students and faculty at SIU. It has been wonderful to meet the recipients, hear their ideas and see their excitement as they received these grants.”

This year’s recipients represent a diverse range of disciplines and initiatives, from artificial intelligence literacy and multicultural leadership development to professional advancement in healthcare.

Dr. Valerie Boyer, director of the School of Health Sciences and associate professor in Communication Disorders and Sciences, received funding to support the SIU Student Ambassadors to the Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention program. The initiative will send undergraduate and graduate students to the annual professional conference, where they will participate in leadership activities, professional development opportunities and advocacy efforts before sharing their experiences with fellow students on campus.

“This grant will help our undergraduate and graduate students engage with the profession beyond the classroom,” Boyer said. “They will participate in professional networking, leadership opportunities and academic competitions while representing SIU at the Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association convention. These experiences help prepare students for their careers and expose them to the broader world of speech-language pathology. We are very grateful for this support.”

Dr. Holly Lewis, director of the Center for Virtual Expression, received funding for the Saluki AI Literacy Benchmark (SAIL), a new initiative designed to help students and faculty better understand emerging artificial intelligence technologies. The project will provide interdisciplinary teams of faculty and students access to advanced AI platforms and academic research tools, culminating in a public benchmark report and video resource focused on AI literacy and its impact on higher education and society.

“This micro-grant will give students and faculty access to advanced AI tools that are often out of reach,” Lewis said. “Our goal is to create an AI literacy benchmark that helps our community better understand these technologies, including how issues such as diversity and representation are reflected in AI systems. This project is a first step toward making SIU a leader in AI literacy and research.”

Tatiana Castillo, president of the Multicultural Empowered Women Student Association, received funding for “MEWSA: Global Saluki Women Speak.” The project will produce a Global Women’s Wellbeing Toolkit that provides culturally responsive resources and support strategies for women at SIU, designed to strengthen community engagement among international and domestic female students.

Three MEWSA student leaders attended the award presentation: Tatiana Castillo of Colombia, a master’s student in social work; Priyanka Subedi of Nepal, a master’s student in forestry; and Anahit Amori of Iran, a doctoral student in wildlife biology.

“MEWSA was founded just one year ago, and today nearly 80 women are involved,” Castillo said. “This grant will help us strengthen leadership development, expand support networks and create a Women’s Wellbeing Toolkit that makes resources more accessible to female scholars from a variety of backgrounds. We are grateful to the Women’s Leadership Council and the SIU Foundation for believing in our vision and helping us create a stronger sense of belonging for women at SIU.”

The Women’s Leadership Council created the micro-grant program to provide seed funding for projects that empower women, foster leadership and create meaningful educational experiences for students. Grants are awarded through a competitive application process and support initiatives that align with the council’s mission of advancing opportunities for women at SIU.

“The proposals we received were thoughtful, detailed and centered on student success,” said Sherrica Hunt, assistant vice chancellor for affinity philanthropy and strategic initiatives. “These projects demonstrate the power of investing in students and creating equitable opportunities for growth and leadership. We are grateful to support initiatives that advance our mission of serving all Salukis.”

By investing in innovative ideas across campus, the Women’s Leadership Council continues to support programs that strengthen student success, encourage leadership development and expand opportunities for future generations of Salukis.

About the Women’s Leadership Council

The Women’s Leadership Council, established in 2020, is a network of alumnae, parents and friends committed to creating a culture of women-driven philanthropy at SIU. Through mentorship, leadership and philanthropy, council members invest their time, expertise and resources to support scholarships, women-focused initiatives and opportunities that empower future generations of Salukis. The council also sponsors a mentor program that connects students with successful women leaders to foster professional growth, leadership development, networking and career exploration while strengthening lifelong connections to the university.

The council will continue its mission of empowering women through the 5th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, set for Sept. 10-12. The signature event brings together alumni, students, faculty, staff and community leaders for networking, professional development and mentorship opportunities while celebrating the achievements and contributions of women across the Saluki community.

Learn more at siuf.org/wlc.

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

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

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Dr. Charlotte West headshot

By Britni Bateman

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

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

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

A reluctant arrival that became a calling

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

She was not convinced Southern Illinois would become home.

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

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

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

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

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

Building something from the ground up

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A national voice for equity

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

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

She emphasized that Title IX reaches far beyond athletics.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Changing lives through scholarships

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

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

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

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

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

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

The stadium that tells a story

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

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

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

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

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

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

A legacy still unfolding

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

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

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

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

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

Saluki Women’s Weekend 2025 Celebrates Leadership, Innovation, and Empowerment

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By Britni Bateman 

CARBONDALE, Ill. — More than 275 attendees gathered Oct. 3–4 for the 4th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, a free conference hosted by the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council (WLC). Each year, attendance has grown as the event continues to unite Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumnae, students, faculty, staff, and community leaders to connect, learn, and celebrate the power of women in leadership. 

Women Leading Through Innovation 

The weekend began Friday morning with the Women in Empowerment Conference, sponsored by Midland States Bank, at the SIU Student Center Ballrooms. Attendees gathered for a networking breakfast and vendor fair sponsored by the SIU Alumni Association’s Saluki Market, which featured local businesses, artisans, and organizations led by Saluki women. 

WLC Co-Chairs Gloria Tison and Mary Anderson opened the conference, welcoming guests and celebrating the growth of the Women’s Leadership Council. Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation, followed with remarks highlighting the university’s commitment to fostering women-driven philanthropy and leadership. SIU Chancellor Dr. Austin Lane and SIU System First Lady Laura Mahony also addressed the crowd, recognizing the vital role women play in advancing SIU’s mission of innovation and inclusion. 

Resilience and Leadership in Engineering 

The first panel discussion, “Resilience & Leadership: Women Engineers Breaking Barriers and Amplifying Tomorrow’s Voices,” brought together seven distinguished SIU alumnae who have excelled in engineering and technology fields often underrepresented by women. 

Moderated by Nadia Lafontant, a senior computer science major and president of SIU’s National Society of Black Engineers, the discussion featured: 

  • Christy Crites, vice president at Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, specializing in civil and transportation engineering; 
  • Nina Hickland, Global Network Delivery Operations Leader at Google, with degrees in electrical and computer engineering from SIU and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management; 
  • Dr. Janet Tinoco, founder and CEO of Runways to Space LLC and professor emeritus at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; 
  • Taylor Krout, roadway project manager with American Structurepoint; and 
  • Donna Schulz Torres, Director of New Product Development at Cold Chain Technologies, and an MIT graduate with a B.S. in mechanical engineering from SIU. 

Panelists shared stories of overcoming gender bias, leading global teams, and the importance of mentoring young women in STEM. Their stories underscored a shared message: that resilience, authenticity, and collaboration remain critical for women striving to lead in technical fields. 

Inspiration Through Experience 

Breakout sessions offered attendees a chance to dive deeper into personal and professional growth. Britni Bateman, SIU Foundation chief marketing officer, led “Your Name is Your Brand: Owning Your Story, Shaping Your Future,” which helped participants articulate their professional identity and align their values with their work. Dr. Christian Gillespie presented “Leading with Purpose: Innovation that Honors Your Roots,” encouraging women to leverage their backgrounds and experiences to lead authentically. Sophia Westrich closed the session series with “How to Build Influence Beyond Your Organization,” guiding women on expanding their impact and voice in broader professional circles. 

The second panel, “Pioneering Progress: Changemakers in Work and Society,” moderated by Amber Koteras, co-founder of the WLC Student RSO and first-year law student at American University, featured leaders driving systemic change: 

  • Dr. Chanty Clay, managing director at Wells Fargo; 
  • Jamie Gibbs, human resources manager at Aisin Electronics; 
  • Alyssa Loman, co-founder of Empowered Pathways; and 
  • Kara Wright, managing director of Envision Equity Works. 

Together, they explored how leadership rooted in empathy and social innovation can create inclusive workplaces and transform communities. 

Celebrating Women in Philanthropy and Mentorship 

The Women in Philanthropy Luncheon, sponsored by Moneta and SIU Credit Union, celebrated the generosity, mentorship, and collaboration that define the mission of the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council (WLC). 

Tami Hansbrough, WLC philanthropy chair, opened the luncheon with updates on the council’s ongoing initiatives and their growing impact on campus. She highlighted how WLC members continue to create opportunities for Saluki women through scholarships, mentoring, and philanthropy. 

A highlight of the luncheon was the EmpowerHER Grant presentation, made possible through Legence Bank, which recognizes and funds women-led businesses that strengthen communities and inspire innovation across Southern Illinois. The 2024 recipients, Lynne Weeks and Chasity Mays, shared how their grants helped advance women’s leadership and local empowerment efforts. 

Legence Bank then announced the 2025 EmpowerHER Grant recipients, honoring two outstanding women entrepreneurs: 

  • Infinite Cyber Tech Solutions, LLC, led by Imani McHenry, a Carbondale-based firm dedicated to advancing digital literacy and cybersecurity education. Through workshops and hands-on training, the company equips individuals of all ages — from students to seniors — with vital technology skills, workforce readiness, and safe digital practices. 
  • Witty Web by Ashton Witty Webb, LLC, founded by Ashton Webb, a creative business that brings Southern Illinois to life through children’s literature. Her debut book, Nelson & Winslow Listen to Marion, co-authored with her husband Justin Webb, celebrates local culture and encourages a love of reading while connecting families to the landmarks and stories that make the region unique. 

These EmpowerHER recipients exemplify the innovation, education, and community engagement that continue to define Saluki Women’s Weekend. 

The luncheon also spotlighted the WLC Mentor Program, which connects students with accomplished women leaders to provide professional guidance and personal growth opportunities. Dr. Dawn Korte, mentorship chair, led a reflective conversation about the transformative power of mentorship before presenting this year’s Mentee Scholarships to four outstanding students: 

  • Audrey Gulley 
  • Rachael Klassa 
  • Emma Spence 
  • Paulina Wawrzosek 

Each recipient represents the promise of the next generation of Saluki women — leaders, scholars, and changemakers who embody the WLC’s mission to inspire, empower, and give back. 

Honoring Women of Excellence 

The afternoon concluded with two major recognitions: the Saluki Women in Engineering Excellence Awards and the Women of the Year Awards, both celebrating Saluki women whose achievements embody the values of leadership, innovation, and service. 

Saluki Women in Engineering Excellence Awards 

Presented by Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase, these awards honored Saluki engineers whose accomplishments continue to inspire women in STEM: 

  • Anna Carter (’24) – Quality Engineer, Aisin Electronics 
  • Nina Hickland (’05, ’07) – Global Network Delivery Operations Leader, Google 
  • Christy Crites (’92, ’96) – Vice President, Crawford, Murphy & Tilly 
  • Stacy Kelley Brozen (’94) – Defense & Systems Executive Flight Deck Leader, GE Aerospace 
  • Dr. Janet Tinoco (’82) – CEO/Owner, Runways to Space LLC; Professor Emeritus, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 
  • Cherylynn Schilling (’07) – President, Powers Engineering 
  • Whitney J. Ekblad (’92) – Senior engineering leader in the energy and petrochemical industries 
  • Taylor Krout (’18) – Project Manager, Road Group 
  • Donna Schulz Torres (’95) – Director of New Product Development, Cold Chain Technologies 

These women represent generations of Saluki engineers shaping industries, advancing technology, and mentoring future innovators. 

Women of the Year Awards 

Presented by Midland States Bank, the 2025 honorees were: 

  • Woman of the Year – Dr. Jarmese Sherrod: Founder of Sherrod’s Independent Mentoring Program and SheWill Legacy NFP, Dr. Sherrod has impacted thousands through education, humanitarian service, and women’s empowerment worldwide. 
  • Trailblazer – Lolita L. Mack: Two-time SIU alumna and doctoral candidate in workforce education, Mack is a Southern Illinois native whose leadership and mentorship continue to influence countless lives. 
  • Emerging Leader – Monique Spears, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC: A family nurse practitioner with Molina Healthcare and founder of Emerged Beauty, PLLC, Spears combines compassion and entrepreneurship to expand access to care in underserved communities. 
  • Rising Star – Traseanda Jones: A political science student and advocate, Jones leads through her involvement in Undergraduate Student Government and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., advancing student voices and public policy statewide. 

Continuing the Celebration 

The celebration continued with a networking social at Becker Pavilion, sponsored by Align Wealth Management and Southern Illinois Healthcare, followed by a mentorship brunch sponsored by Dr. Dawn Korte, GALS Ohio, and Powers Engineering, and a spirited Saluki women’s tailgate hosted by Melissa Hahn. 

Through mentorship, philanthropy, and storytelling, Saluki Women’s Weekend continues to empower women to lead with authenticity, courage, and innovation — proving that Saluki women don’t just lead; they transform the future. 

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors 

Empowerment Conference: Midland States Bank Foundation
Women in Philanthropy Luncheon: Moneta, SIU Credit Union
EmpowerHER Grant: Legence Bank
Mentorship Breakfast: Dr. Dawn Korte, GALS Ohio, Powers Engineering
Networking Social: Align Wealth Management, Southern Illinois Healthcare
Tailgate: Melissa Hahn
Table Sponsors: Symmetry Alliance Partners, Envisioning Equity, Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation, First Mid Bank & Trust, AAUW, Oasis Skin & Wellness Center, SIU System Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
In-Kind Sponsors: SIU Alumni Association’s Saluki Market, WSIU Public Broadcasting 

Women’s Leadership Council 

Women continue to have a profound impact on Southern Illinois University. Established in 2020, the Women’s Leadership Council is a network of alumnae, parents, and friends committed to creating a culture of women-driven philanthropy at SIU and mentoring future generations of Salukis. 

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

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

Compardo, Moneta Sponsor Women in Philanthropy Luncheon at Saluki Women’s Weekend

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By Ava Steffens

Diane Compardo, immediate past president of the SIU Foundation Board and a 1992 alumna, will sponsor the Women in Philanthropy Luncheon during the fourth annual Saluki Women’s Weekend through her firm, Moneta. Saluki Women’s Weekend will take place Friday, Oct. 3, in the Student Center Ballrooms.

She is also a member of the College of Business and Analytics Hall of Fame and the SIU Women’s Leadership Council. The council connects Saluki alumnae to current female students and offers guidance and mentorship as they study and prepare for life beyond college.

Giving back to the SIU community is a key theme of Saluki Women’s Weekend and the Women in Empowerment Conference. Compardo highlights the event as a powerful celebration of SIU’s camaraderie and a way to encourage emerging female leaders.

“The luncheon is a great platform for women who are making a difference and who are passing it on and inspiring new generations,” said Compardo. “The most energizing part of the luncheon for me is when we recognize the young women that are out there and already starting to create a path for themselves.”

Compardo values giving back to her alma mater, emphasizing her deep connection with the Saluki community. She recalls that her time at SIU changed the trajectory of her career.

“Through my own experiences, I’ve seen how powerful it can be to pay it forward to the next generation,” she said. The luncheon connects attendees with SIU alumnae, fostering personal and professional growth. It offers role models a chance to lead by example. Mentorship and networking are key aspects of the presentation, highlighting opportunities for today’s leaders to empower emerging professionals.

“It is such a great community to come together with, united by our shared bond with SIU. The conversations and friendships that form through this event are truly wonderful.” she said.

Compardo emphasizes that the conference focuses on building lasting relationships and fostering encouragement, not just recognition. She believes in leading by example and inspiring others to pay their success forward.

“I’ve always been a big believer in giving back because it creates a cycle of opportunity where today’s leaders empower the next generation of change-makers,” Compardo said. “Philanthropy can be for anyone, no matter the size of the gift, and it is gratifying to witness the effect your impact makes.”

Her professional work reflects those values as well. Moneta is one of the nation’s leading independent wealth management and financial planning firms, recognized for its legacy of innovation, service and client loyalty. Leading the largest women-founded team at Moneta, Diane has been intentional in championing women while fostering a culture of equal representation and opportunity for all, redefining what leadership looks like in a historically male-dominated industry.

The 2025 Saluki Women’s Weekend will take place Friday and Saturday, Oct. 3–4. The Women in Empowerment Conference is on Friday in the SIU Student Center Ballrooms. On Saturday, the Women’s Leadership Council Mentorship Brunch will be in the SIU Student Center, followed by the Saluki Women Tailgate Experience on Saluki Row. For a full schedule, visit siuf.org/salukiwomen.

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

SIU names first school after a woman, honoring alumna Charlotte Thompson Suhler

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CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale made history Tuesday, Sept. 9, as more than 100 people gathered to dedicate the Charlotte Thompson Suhler School of Journalism and Advertising in the College of Arts and Media. The ceremony, held in the hallway of the journalism and advertising wing near the advisement office, honored Suhler’s generous gift to the school and marked the first time in SIU’s history that a school has been named for a woman.

“This doesn’t happen every day. In fact, this is an extraordinarily rare thing,” SIU System President Dan Mahony said. “Charlotte Thompson Suhler’s story is one of pioneering spirit, media leadership and steadfast philanthropy — a legacy that now inspires future generations of Salukis.”

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane said the naming ensures Suhler’s story will continue to inspire.

“Charlotte, your legacy will live on in these halls,” Lane said. “Years from now, students will walk through this space, see your name and be reminded of what is possible when Salukis dream big, work hard and give back.”

From Mount Vernon to New York media

Raised in Mount Vernon, Illinois, Suhler grew up working at the Mount Vernon Register-News, where her father and grandfather managed the paper. By age 16, she was managing advertising accounts and helping in the editorial department.

“I’m proud to be from SIU and Southern Illinois — and happy to be here today,” Suhler told the crowd.

At SIU, Suhler became one of the first women to major in advertising. She served as president of Tri Sigma sorority, helped organize the university’s first student protest and was in a headline-writing class the day students practiced fitting headlines on President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

During her senior year, she met John Suhler, a Kansas University student, at a professional conference in St. Louis. They later married and built distinguished careers in New York media, working alongside icons such as Clay Felker, Milton Glaser, Gloria Steinem, Jimmy Breslin and Tom Wolfe.

“This big, tall, good-looking guy walked up to me in St. Louis and said, ‘Hey, I hear it’s your birthday. It’s my birthday too. How would you like to celebrate?’” Suhler recalled. “I thought it was either the best line or the worst line — but it was true. We’ve been celebrating together ever since.”

In 2009, the couple co-founded the Suhler Family Investment Office to make equity investments in select small and early-stage media companies. Mr. Suhler also founded Veronis Suhler, an investment banking firm specializing in communication properties.

A legacy of leadership

Throughout her career, Suhler broke barriers for women in media and philanthropy. She helped connect Steinem with publisher Betty Harris, a pivotal meeting that helped launch Ms. Magazine. She later co-founded the Fairfield County Community Foundation and the Fund for Women and Girls, now the largest of its kind on the East Coast.

“I had the advantage of being the advocate and spokeswoman for women,” Suhler said. “I carried on communication in the best way I could — speaking up for women in ways they sometimes could not.”

Her ties to SIU remained strong. She served on the SIU Foundation Board, participated in the Dean’s National Industry Council and created a scholarship to support women in their junior and senior years.

“This is history for our school, our college and our entire university,” said Dr. Hong Cheng, dean of the College of Arts and Media. “The first school at SIU named after a woman honors a pioneering alumna and elevates a program already known for excellence.”

“Charlotte Thompson Suhler is the perfect role model for our students and Salukis everywhere,” said Jan Thompson, director of the Charlotte Thompson Suhler School of Journalism and Advertising. “She achieved remarkable success working alongside some of the most celebrated journalists of her time, and her charitable work reflects a selfless dedication to improving American life — all from a girl who grew up in Mount Vernon, Illinois.”

Former scholarship recipient Anne Fairfield, a 1999 graduate, credited Suhler’s support with giving her crucial opportunities.

“After receiving the Charlotte Thompson Suhler and Dorothy Morris Scholarships, I was able to achieve a personal goal by working for the Daily Egyptian in my final semester,” Fairfield wrote. “Aside from the financial support, there’s an intangible value to the example set by women supporting women.”

Strengthening SIU’s mission

Suhler’s gift will advance the school’s mission, which emphasizes lab-based learning where students gain professional experience in newsrooms, advertising campaigns and media projects from their first year.

“Charlotte Thompson Suhler’s remarkable generosity and pioneering spirit embody the very best of SIU,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Her gift not only honors her legacy as one of our trailblazing alumni but also ensures that future generations of Salukis will have the resources and inspiration to pursue their own bold paths in journalism and advertising.”

SIU is one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of nearly 4,000 — recognized by the Carnegie Classification as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University. Suhler’s gift reflects that dual mission, strengthening opportunities for students to learn, create and lead in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The dedication also supports Imagine SIU 2030, the university’s comprehensive fundraising campaign. To date, more than $422 million has been raised toward the $500 million goal.