By Ava Steffens

Anna Stearns, a second-year law student at SIU Simmons Law School, says that receiving the David C. Johnson Scholarship “changed everything for her.”

Originally from Granite City, Illinois, near St. Louis, Stearns is grateful for SIU’s accessibility and supportive environment close to home. After earning her forensic science degree at Lewis University, she chose SIU for its local connection, community, and the opportunity to pursue her ambitions.

“I kind of grew up in this area, and I’m very proud of it,” she said. “I also knew law school would be challenging, so I wanted to pick somewhere where I had the ability to go home and come back in a day.”

Driven by a lifelong passion for law and justice, Stearns is excited to pursue a career in criminal law, where she hopes to make a meaningful difference and advocate for fairness in her community.

“I remember in seventh grade, we took a 100-question career test, and I crossed my fingers that I would get a lawyer as a result,” said Sterns. “It came back as that, and that was all the confirmation that I needed. Being a lawyer is always what I wanted to do.”

Stearns enthusiastically pursued her passion all the way to Capitol Hill, where she completed a rewarding summer internship opportunity. During her time in Washington, D.C, she actively participated in hearings, summarized bills, and helped brainstorm thoughtful suggestions to help move important legislation forward. Additionally, she volunteered for Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s Senate campaign, which helped her gain firsthand experience in public service and legislative work.

Stearns credits SIU School of Law professor Sheila Simon, who is also the former lieutenant governor of Illinois, for inspiring her to shape her academic journey. Simon’s encouragement and support motivated Stearns to work harder, seek out new opportunities, and pursue the resources she needed to succeed.

“She changed my life in ways that I could never have expected,” Stearns said. “She’s also one of the reasons why I got my scholarship.”

While Stearns has enjoyed her time as a Saluki, she recognizes that law school is a demanding journey academically and financially. While a legal career offers a strong return on investment, it can also be time-consuming. Despite its challenges, she continues to approach these hurdles with optimism.

“I remember having a moment during my sophomore year of college where I realized that I had three years of law school to complete, and I would have thousands of dollars in loans,” she said. “I was worried about putting myself into so much debt for something that may not even be reciprocated even ten years later.”

Stearns shares that rising interest rates and student loans made finances a constant concern, sometimes even turning simple grocery trips into moments of worry. The thought of loan interest doubling future costs weighed heavily on her mind. Receiving the scholarship notification instantly lifted a significant burden off her shoulders.

“It was such a huge sense of relief. We did a rough estimate, and the amount of money in the award is going to save me seven years of loans.” The scholarship allowed Stearns to focus on her studies and plan for life after graduation without the weight of financial stress. Stearns looks forward to pursuing a career in criminal law, driven by a passion for justice and making a positive impact on her community.

“I’ve always led my life through passion, and I wanted to do something that I enjoyed,” she said. “Being a lawyer can be hard; they often have long hours and not a lot of work-life balance.”

The David C. Johnson Scholarship was established by Ronald E. and Michelle A. Osman in honor of Professor David C. Johnson, a member of the founding faculty at SIU School of Law. Johnson taught law for four decades, specializing in tax law, estate planning, and property law, and served five years as associate dean. The scholarship provides financial assistance to second- and third-year law students and supports first-generation college students pursuing their degrees at SIU Simmons Law School.

“I hope the donors will be proud and prideful of who received it, because I appreciate them a lot,” Stearns said. “It’s a big kindness, and my objective in life is to pass that on.”

Since arriving at SIU Simmons Law School, the support Stearns has received has made a lasting impact on her journey. She has built lifelong friendships, connected with inspiring professors and mentors, and benefited from a vibrant alumni network that opens doors to incredible opportunities. She is deeply grateful for the generosity of donors who make scholarships like hers possible. As one of only 21 universities nationwide, out of nearly 4,000, recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to advancing discovery and expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds.

When you give to programs like SIU Simmons Law School, you empower passionate students like Stearns to pursue their dreams, overcome financial barriers, and become part of the next generation of leaders. Your support changes lives. Make a gift today to help shape a brighter future at siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Rebecca VanLuvender, from a small town near Mount Vernon, Illinois, said receiving the Southern at 150 Scholars Excellence Award was what opened the door to her future as a Saluki.

Now a senior studying architecture, she has her full tuition covered by the scholarship. This award is reserved for SIU students from communities south of Interstate 64 who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, maintaining a GPA of at least 3.5.

Through weekly studio class sessions, VanLuvender has built strong connections within her major. These sessions, filled with engaging projects — whether working independently or collaborating in groups — have made the design classes enjoyable and played a key role in her growth as both an aspiring architect and a proud Saluki.

“They are four-hour blocks on Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” she said. “They give us an opportunity to immerse ourselves in our studio projects. It is wonderful to work with the same people, and the program has a good structure.”

VanLuvender is also actively involved with Alpha Rho Chi, the professional architecture fraternity, which provides her with valuable opportunities for social and professional networking and connections with alumni. Thanks to the supportive community of Alpha Rho Chi, dedicated professors and an enriching studio culture, she enjoys a vibrant campus life while staying just 45 minutes from her family.

VanLuvender also served as a residential assistant (RA) in her second year at SIU, which allowed her to explore new aspects of campus life and build meaningful connections with incoming students.

“I come from a very large, blended family,” she said. “When I became an RA, I had nobody else in the room, so living completely alone for the first time was a challenging transition.”

While growing up with many siblings was rewarding, VanLuvender said it also made the financial side of attending college feel overwhelming. Receiving the scholarship made it possible for her to pursue her education without financial barriers.

“I remember my financial aid advisor called me while I was at soccer practice during my senior year of high school, and I told my mom the good news as soon as I got home,” she recalled. “It was exciting and exhilarating because the scholarship was life-changing.”

She says that she was first torn between committing to community college or to SIU, but receiving the scholarship sealed the deal. She is the first in her family to attend college and credits SIU with opening doors to opportunities that would not have been possible otherwise.

“I hadn’t understood how much donations impact people until I was one of those impacted,” she said. “Being in the shoes of someone who receives those donations has changed my perspective.”

VanLuvender is currently participating in an architecture internship that will give her a head start toward the master’s degree she plans to pursue. Her goal is to earn her architect’s license and design commercial buildings, working for a firm that specializes in community spaces.

As one of 21 universities nationwide recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both Research 1 and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds. Gifts help students like VanLuvender pursue their dreams, overcome barriers and make a difference on campus. Make a gift today at siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Sofia Potter, a first-year law student and scholarship recipient from Cedar Falls, Iowa, plans to blend her economic background with her passion for justice.

After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa, she chose SIU for law school, noting that Carbondale’s small-town charm reminded her of both her undergraduate community and her hometown.

The tight-knit community at SIU Simmons Law School immediately caught Potter’s attention as she explored postgraduate opportunities. With more than 300 students, the school offers small class sizes that provide hands-on experience and ensure students receive support throughout every step of their educational journey.

Potter received the Charter Class Campaign for Excellence Scholarship, a merit-based award established by members of the law school’s first graduating class in 1976. The scholarship supports a select group of students who maintain at least a 3.5 GPA, continuing the Charter Class’s long tradition of leading by example and supporting Simmons Law School.

“When I found out I got it, it gave me the biggest boost of confidence,” she said. “The scholarship donors know I am going to bring something valuable to the school and they want to show me that.”

When Potter learned she had received the scholarship, she immediately called her mother to share the good news, relieved to ease both her parents’ stress along with her own. After a challenging application year, she emphasized the pride and sense of relief she felt upon receiving the award.

“The application process can be especially difficult during election years,” she said. “It was a challenge to get into schools, let alone get a scholarship.”

In addition to financial aid, Potter said the mentorship program has been one of the most meaningful aspects of her SIU experience. As a Taylor Mattis Fellow, she is paired with a second- or third-year tutor, which provides her with valuable guidance and support during her first year.

“My mentor, Danielle Watkins, is always so open to answer any questions that I have about anything related to classes and just about life in graduate school,” said Potter. “It has made my transition into law school much easier.”

Transitioning to a new town, state, and lifestyle can challenge any student. Potter said that the jump from her math-based undergraduate studies into the language-driven field of law pushed her to change the “way her brain was wired.”

“I learned how to transfer logical thinking techniques and pattern recognition skills,” she said. “I view everything as an equation.”

The scholarship allowed Potter to step away from work and still cover the costs of books, rent, groceries, and other expenses. Recognizing that someone valued her potential as a future lawyer, she dedicated more time and energy to her studies and strengthened her relationships with her friends, family, and significant other.

She said choosing a law program in her home state would have forced her to take on significant debt.

“That would have been terrible for me to start my life off with, and my parents did not want that for me,” she said. “Oftentimes, it’s the price tag on law school that makes it so inaccessible to so many people.”

SIU stands among just 21 universities nationwide, out of 4,000, recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status. The university actively advances discovery and expands access to higher education. Scholarships like the one Potter received play a vital role in this mission, helping students from all majors overcome financial barriers and achieve their dreams.

“If you’re on the fence about giving to that scholarship fund, just know that the payoff of your donation is so much bigger than any number that you can write in an amount box on a check,” she said.

If Potter’s story inspires you and you believe in the power of accessible, high-quality education, consider supporting or establishing a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. Your generosity can transform the lives of future students and help them discover their passion. In the most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17 percent of SIU’s student body. To make a gift online, visit siuf.org/give. To learn more about SIU Simmons Law School and its mission, visit https://law.siu.edu/.

By Ava Steffens

Scholarship recipient Agnieszka Sawrasewicz discovered her passion for cybersecurity and computer systems at SIU, which prompted her to change her career direction. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in computer science.

After searching for scholarships, a peer recommended her for the Jim and Martha Greenwood Scholarship. Sawrasewicz opened the email announcing her scholarship award and felt an immense sense of relief knowing she no longer had to worry about the financial burden of her education. The scholarship allows her to fully focus on classes like Java–programming language and ethical hacking, which helped her further explore the digital forensics field.

“Before, I had to study and work over the weekend. Sometimes, I would have to do long hours of overtime,” she said. “The scholarship allows me to focus on my studies and believe in myself.”

This scholarship supports students in STEM fields who have a physical disability. Martha and Jim Greenwood met while students at SIU. They later married and faced new challenges when Jim’s illness required him to use a wheelchair. Their experience inspired them to create a fund supporting other students with physical difficulties.

“It’s shown me that it’s worthwhile to develop my ideas and projects,” she said. “It means so much to see that somebody values them.”

Five years ago, Sawrasewicz began her studies at SIU in the forestry program as a nontraditional student. She took courses such as tree identification and traveled with classmates to Utah and Colorado for credit. When she discovered that foresters benefit from technological skills, especially data tracking and analysis, she shifted her focus to computer science. This transition from her bachelor’s degree led her to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity.

“Everything connects,” she said. “Every field needs someone to manage an operating system and who understands computers, technology and security.”

From near Warsaw, Poland, she relocated to Chicago in 2002 and built a career as both a pharmacy technician and a massage therapist. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to pursue a new professional direction.

Sawrasewicz defines cybersecurity as the process of monitoring an organization’s digital weaknesses and creating solutions to defend sensitive data from cyberattacks and

hackers. Her interest in this field was sparked after her own experience of being hacked and having personal information stolen, which motivated her to help protect others from similar risks.

She is currently creating a 3D game based on virtual reality. This initiative is designed as an alternative educational platform for students, helping maintain engagement by introducing variety within the course material.

“I feel that applying and engaging students with technology will be very beneficial,” she said. “The program will make you feel like you’re right there.”

In the future, she intends to pursue a PhD and a teaching career, emphasizing her passion for improving how cybersecurity is taught to students.

Southern Illinois University is one of only 21 institutions nationwide, out of 4,000, to earn the prestigious Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status. The university is dedicated to fostering innovation and broadening access to higher education. Scholarships such as the one awarded to Sawrasewicz are essential to this mission, enabling students from diverse fields to overcome financial challenges and pursue their aspirations.

If you find Sawrasewicz’s journey motivating and you are committed to accessible, excellent education, consider supporting or creating a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. In the most recent fiscal year, the foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17 percent of SIU’s student body.

Your contribution can make a meaningful difference for future students, empowering them to pursue their passions. To donate online, visit siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

First-year law student Jodie Housley is a scholarship recipient and nontraditional student whose 17-year career in public education led her to SIU.

Between the small class sizes, the active alumni network, and the connections and extra emphasis on professional development offered through the program, she knew SIU was the right fit.

“I really like how we were welcomed as first-year law students,” she said. “It made SIU feel like home before the semester even started.”

Housley received the Al H. and James Chesser scholarship, which is awarded to first-year SIU Simmons Law School students. She adds that receiving the scholarship was the catalyst that helped her move across the country to start her journey as a Saluki.

She worked in Washington public education for 17 years, teaching eighth-grade history and English. She also served as president of her teachers’ union, where she discovered her passion for justice by working with district administrators to resolve student-teacher disputes.

“I had a soft spot for it in my heart,” she said. “I began to look into law schools, and SIU just really seemed to fit what I wanted.”

She shares that within her first few days in Carbondale, she experienced heat exhaustion while on a hike with her dog. Although she considers herself an outdoorsy person, she was admittedly unprepared for the Southern Illinois heat, especially as someone who is “from the Pacific Northwest, where the hottest day is 75 degrees.”

“A few days later, I got a phone call from Layla Murphy, who is the director of Admissions with the law school, asking me if I was alright,” she said. “At that point, I had not even met anyone there yet. I just thought it was a special thing to do, and that it meant that Southern Illinois has a really caring community.”

Housley highlights that SIU’s tight-knit community, especially within the law school, was another feature of the university that stuck with her, along with the natural landscape of Southern Illinois.

“It is one of the most beautiful campuses I have ever been to. I love the way it is laid out, between the trees, walking path, and the benches along the lake.”

She adds that attending law school has been a dream of hers for a long time, and that the path involved plenty of “twists and turns.” As someone who considers herself to be a lifelong learner, she said receiving her scholarship felt like being in the right place at the right time.

When she first received the email notification about the scholarship, she was in disbelief.

“It took me a while to process it at first,” she said. “I immediately grabbed my dog and went for a walk on the beach right by my house. I took it as a sign that this was exactly what I was supposed to do, and where I was supposed to be.”

Housley adds that the scholarship “fueled her fire” to pursue law at SIU and was a significant part of her decision to commit. With the scholarship, she did not have to borrow money, allowing her to cover moving and living expenses.

“Law school is hard, especially with financial stress on top of it,” she said. “I just have a higher level of comfort, safety, and relaxation that I would not have had without that scholarship.”

In the future, Housley hopes to return to SIU and share her experiences in the public sector through a speaker session or luncheon. Many law school graduates remain connected to SIU by returning to share their experiences with current students.

“I have never been motivated by money. Ever since I can remember, I have wanted people to be treated fairly and equitably. And that is what will help me continue my public service path, especially when I am not burdened with student loan debt.”

As one of only 21 universities nationwide, out of 4,000, recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to advancing discovery and expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds.

When you give to programs like SIU Simmons Law School, you empower students from all backgrounds to pursue their passion, overcome barriers and become part of the next generation of leaders. Your support changes lives. Make a gift today to help shape a brighter future at siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

As a scholarship recipient, Lydia Phelps takes deep pride in representing Southern Illinois University and the region she calls home.

Originally from Marion, Illinois, Phelps began studying Agribusiness Economics at SIU three years ago. She is also pursuing a pre-law minor. Now a senior, because of enrolling with extra credit, Phelps says she has “thoroughly loved her program.”

After graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in agricultural economic law, a path that she is deeply passionate about.

“I’m currently looking at multiple law schools, but SIU is definitely at the top of the list,” Phelps said.

When deciding which college to attend, Phelps recalls being on the fence about attending SIU. She credits her high school guidance counselor for inspiring her to begin her Saluki journey.

“SIU was the only school that made that transition from high school to college very personal,” she said. “They worked with me on my specific needs and made me feel like I was part of their family.”

The proximity of SIU to her hometown also allows Phelps to be close to her family and remain involved in her younger sister’s life. Her family inspired her to pursue a career in agriculture, as they own a vineyard. They also work with local wineries such as Clad and Cordon Vineyard, about 10 miles south of Marion in Creal Springs.

While staying connected to her family and inspired by their work in the local agriculture industry, coming to SIU gave Phelps the space to form new connections and find a tight-knit group of friends in her major and through other organizations.

“Being a College of Ag student means you have a family,” she said. “We go to class together, live in Steagall Hall together, are in Greek life together, participate in the same organizations, and we all go out every Wednesday night for line dancing and dinner.”

Phelps describes her experience as Undergraduate Student Government president as “phenomenal.”

“The outreach, advocacy, and connections with administration and alumni have truly set me up for success beyond SIU and will make it that much easier to continue serving

SIU as an alumna,” she said. “It’s been so special to be a voice for students and be able to experience parts of campus that I otherwise wouldn’t get to see.”

Although Phelps has received multiple scholarships because of her campus involvement, college is a costly investment. Concerned about taking out a large loan, she said she felt relieved when she received her scholarships.

“When you’re applying to college and looking at the large price tag associated with it, a lot of worry and anxiety come with that,” she said. “I have nothing but gratitude knowing that a collective group of people were willing to contribute to my scholarship fund and helped pay my way.”

Phelps credits the scholarship with making her college experience more enriching by removing financial stress and motivating her to get more involved on campus. She said they elevated her professional path, helped her form lifelong friendships, and allowed her to make a lasting impact on the SIU community.

Phelps is a recipient of the Southern 150 Scholars Excellence Award, given to SIU students whose hometowns are located south of Interstate 64. Recipients must have a grade-point average of at least 3.5.

As one of 21 universities nationwide recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both Research 1 and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds. When you make a gift, you help students like Phelps pursue their dreams, overcome barriers, and make a difference on campus. Make a gift today at siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

The William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship lifted a major financial burden for Southern Illinois University zoology student Michelle Montano, allowing her to focus on her studies and gain hands-on research experience. Now, she says the award has inspired her to “change someone’s life the way hers was.”

A fourth-year zoology and pre-veterinary student, Montano transferred from Harper College, a two-year college located in northern Illinois, to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian, inspired by her deep love for animals — especially cats. SIU’s vibrant campus and array of academic programs made her decision easy. The university’s affordability and beautiful campus sealed her choice.

“Thompson Woods was gorgeous when I first visited,” she said. “Everything here felt convenient and welcoming, and it just felt right.”

Since arriving at SIU, Montano has embraced every opportunity to grow academically and personally. She has found community through Zeta Theta Omega, a dynamic co-ed panhellenic organization for students passionate about zoology, and she participates in Hispanic and Latin-centered RSOs. Through these groups, she’s developed strong friendships and a sense of belonging on campus.

“It’s what I really needed socially, and meeting people here has helped me feel a lot more comfortable,” she said. “I think SIU does a really good job of pushing diversity further and helping unify its student body.”

Her professors’ encouragement and support have also been transformative, inspiring her to make the most of every opportunity SIU offers.

“They will always talk to me about how I can do better, and always bring up tutoring hours,” she said. “I think it’s just positive overall here at SIU.”

Receiving the William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship made her experience even more rewarding. Before being awarded the scholarship, she faced financial challenges, but her determination never wavered. She still remembers the moment she found out.

“At first, I didn’t believe that I received it,” she said. “Then I realized it was real, and I was so excited. I remember calling my mom, especially since I was struggling with finding a job at the time.”

The impact extended beyond her own life. Montano says the scholarship not only helped her focus more on school instead of making ends meet, but also eased the strain on her mother, who works three jobs while supporting her younger brother.

“It allows me to have my own money and independence,” she said. “I felt so much more relaxed, and it gave me more motivation to focus on my classes. When we found out, my mom felt so relieved. She could focus on my younger brother, who has autism, and it lifted a burden for everyone.”

She adds that pursuing a career as a veterinarian can be a process that is both extremely expensive, time-consuming, and competitive. This is especially true when applying to veterinary schools. Montano recalled a moment when she almost reconsidered her goal because of the costs.

“Over the summer, I almost didn’t apply to vet school,” she said. “But hearing about the scholarship opened my eyes. I realized I had a chance if I saved my money to afford it.”

The scholarship awarded to Montano was established by William C. Hill, a 1942 SIU zoology graduate whose education laid the foundation for a distinguished career in public service. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Hill taught biology and general science before joining the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1948. He advanced through several leadership roles and retired in 1984 as director of the FDA’s San Francisco District, overseeing operations across much of the western United States and Pacific territories. Grateful for the opportunities his SIU education provided, Hill created the William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship to help future Salukis pursue their own dreams.

“Kindness goes a long way,” Montano said. “When I’m able, I want to change someone’s life the way donors changed mine.”

After Montano graduates from SIU next May, she plans to pursue her dream of attending veterinary school and specializing in zoological medicine, working with exotic animals in zoos or conservatories. Her lifelong passion for caring for cats continues to inspire her, and she is also considering a secondary focus in feline sciences, studying rare diseases in kittens. SIU’s zoology program and hands-on research opportunities — supported by facilities such as University Farms — help students like Montano gain real-world experience while pursuing their passions.

As one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of 4,000 — recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status, SIU is committed to advancing discovery and expanding access to higher education.

Scholarships like the one Montano received are a powerful part of that mission, helping students overcome financial barriers and achieve their dreams.

If you are inspired by stories like Michelle Montano’s and believe in the power of accessible, high-quality education, consider supporting or establishing a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. Your generosity can change the lives of future students and help them discover their passion. To make a gift online, visit siuf.org/give.