Category Archives: Higher Education

Events & Engagement, Higher Education, SIU

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

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Nearly 500 fill the SIU Student Center for major fundraiser

By Jeff Wilson

CARBONDALE – The third annual Saluki Ball packed the Southern Illinois University Student Center ballrooms with a sold-out crowd, as SIU’s premier fundraiser returned home after two successful years in Chicago.

Nearly 500 alumni, friends, students, and supporters joined Chancellor Austin Lane, President Dan Mahony, the SIU Foundation, and others on Saturday, April 26, for the black-tie optional event. Marc Silverman, ESPN radio host and 1993 SIU graduate, served as emcee.

Proceeds from the ball support the university’s Bridge the Gap Scholarship Fund, which helps students cover outstanding bursar bills.

“When something comes up during their journey, they need to know that we have their back,” Chancellor Lane said. “We need your support as we continue to build a fund that helps students stay on track to graduate on time.”

For the third consecutive year, Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard served as presenting sponsors.

“I guarantee you there’s someone right now hoping and praying that somebody will give them a scholarship — that there’s some way for them to go forward,” Jo Poshard said. “The need is huge. If you’re thinking about giving, don’t hold back. You could change a student’s life.”

Since its launch, the Saluki Ball has generated significant momentum for the Bridge the Gap Fund, providing critical assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardships. To date, dozens of students have received tens of thousands of dollars, helping them resolve bursar balances and stay enrolled.

“The research shows that if a student has to take a break because of financial issues, they’re less likely to graduate,” Dr. Poshard said. “When we support students with scholarships, we not only help them graduate and get jobs but also become engaged citizens.”

Guests enjoyed a full program, award ceremony, catered meal from Mary’s, and a live performance by dance music legends Exposé.

“Over the past few days, we spent time with business leaders, alumni leaders, and many others. We attended the 50th Boat Regatta and now cap it off with the Saluki Ball,” President Mahony said. “It’s a reminder of how special this place is and how fortunate we are to be part of the Saluki family.”

Student Impact

Students who received Bridge the Gap funds in previous years shared how the support affected their SIU experience.

“Finding out about the Bridge the Gap fund was life-changing for me,” said Iyanu Alabi. “When that money came through, I was smiling ear to ear.”

Jessica Hardges, a nontraditional student and mother, said the support made an immediate difference.

“When we found the Bridge the Gap funds, I was relieved,” she said. “It lifted a big weight off me.”

DJ Lovejoy, an SIU senior, said the help he received reminded him of the strength of the Saluki community.

“It takes a lot to come to school and get your degree,” he said. “When I found out about the Bridge the Gap funds, I felt blessed.”

Funds raised by the SIU Foundation are distributed by the Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion based on individual student needs.

“The funds raised tonight will have an incredible, direct impact on students who need your support to stay enrolled,” said Diane Compardo, president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors.

Honoring Achievement

During the first two Saluki Balls, five individuals were honored with the Saluki Lifetime Achievement Awards — Dr. Pam Pfeffer, Dr. Phil Pfeffer, Greg Cook, Scott Moller, and Toni Williams. All five were in attendance during the 2025 Saluki Ball.

This year, the honorees were Dr. John Jackson and Dr. James Rosser.

Dr. Jackson and his wife, Nancy, have been part of SIU and the Carbondale community for over 50 years. He has served in multiple leadership roles, including professor, associate dean and acting dean of the Graduate School, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, provost, and interim chancellor. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.

He is widely recognized for his thoughtful leadership and deep institutional knowledge, as well as his passion for promoting civic engagement and public service. Since 2002, he has served as a visiting professor at the Paul Simon Institute, where he directs the Demuzio Internship Program and contributes regularly to research, public commentary, and media analysis.

The Jacksons have dedicated their lives to education and community service. Together, they established the John S. and Nancy Jackson Scholarship Endowment to support political science students in the College of Liberal Arts. In 2002, the couple was named Carbondale Citizens of the Year, and in 2023, the lobby of the Paul Simon Institute was named in their honor.

“SIU and Carbondale and Southern Illinois have been a really great place for us,” he said. “Here it is 55 years later, and I’m glad I came, and I’m glad we stayed.”

Dr. James M. Rosser is a distinguished three-degree alumnus of SIU and a lifelong advocate for education, equity, and opportunity. A native of East St. Louis, he came to SIU on a basketball scholarship and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in microbiology, followed by a Ph.D. in health education administration. During his time at SIU, he also served as a resident assistant, faculty member, and founding director of the university’s Black American Studies program.

Dr. Rosser served as president of California State University, Los Angeles, from 1979 to 2013, making him the longest-serving president in the Cal State system. His career includes leadership roles at the state and national levels in higher education, science, and public policy, and he is widely recognized for his work advancing diversity and student achievement. A dedicated philanthropist, Dr. Rosser has established multiple scholarships at SIU, including a $1 million endowed scholarship for men’s basketball student-athletes pursuing STEM degrees—the largest of its kind in Saluki Athletics history.

He has received numerous honors for his work, including SIU’s Distinguished Alumni Award, an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, and national recognition for his leadership in higher education.

“I just would hope that people would remember why I did what I did. I did it because the university had done so much for me,” he said. “That all came about through being this poor kid from a segregated high school in East St. Louis, Illinois, who ran into some extraordinary people, who were not African Americans, who treated me with respect and helped create opportunities for me, and I never forgot that.”

Each year, two students are recognized with the Saluki Success Award. This year’s recipients were Gabe Kosco and Detrina McCoy.

Kosco is a senior from Marion, Illinois, in the College of Business and Analytics, preparing for a career with Amazon after graduation. A proud Saluki with deep family ties to SIU, Gabriel has been a leader on campus through the Student Alumni Council, the Association for Supply Chain Management, and as a student worker at the SIU Foundation.

“Through the SIU Foundation, I’ve been lucky enough to personally thank the donors who help make so much possible at SIU. And through the Student Alumni Council with the Alumni Association, I’ve been able to connect with our community through service and volunteer work — something that’s meant a lot to me,” he said.

McCoy, a senior from Chicago studying mortuary science, is driven by compassion and service. She’s made the Dean’s List, led the TRIO Achievers program, and volunteered with local nonprofits and schools. After completing an internship at Calahan Funeral Home, she’s pursuing her dream of opening her own funeral home to support families in need.

“I’m also incredibly grateful to my mentors and peers—your support, encouragement, and sometimes even your tough love has helped shape me into the person I am today. This award is not just a reflection of my efforts, but a tribute to all of you who have walked alongside me throughout this journey,” she said.

Previous Saluki Success Award winners are Emily Bakri, Luis Barrera, Dylan Chambers, and BriYanna Robinson.

Rolling Out the Maroon Carpet

The Student Center ballrooms provided a luxurious setting, welcoming Illinois State Rep. Paul Jacobs, SIU Board of Trustees Chair Phil Gilbert, Carbondale Community High School Superintendent Daniel Booth, and many local business owners, educators, and dignitaries.

The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour, sponsored by Moneta, in the International Lounge. A maroon carpet led guests from photo booths to a live broadcast hosted by Swinford Media Group. Guests were also interviewed by the SIU Alumni Association and SIU Foundation for social media features.

The program opened with a surprise performance by the Saluki Pep Band and nationally recognized trumpet ensemble, the Saluki Shakers, along with Grey Dawg. After remarks from Lane, Mahony, Compardo, and the awardees, Steve Falat and Silverman led the paddle raise for the Bridge the Gap Fund.

“There’s an energy and excitement that’s palpable,” Silverman said. “I hope you can feel it.”

The night concluded with an outstanding performance by Exposé and music from DJ Mystify.

Drs. Pam and Phil Pfeffer were the Decorations Sponsor for the event, and Southern Illinois Healthcare and SIU Credit Union were Saluki Silver sponsors.

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

Moneta to sponsor cocktail hour at the Saluki Ball

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The third annual Saluki Ball, presented by The Honorable Glenn and Mrs. Jo Poshard, will kick off in style this April.  Moneta will serve as this year’s Cocktail Hour Sponsor. As guests arrive at the SIU Student Center for an evening of elegance, purpose, and Saluki pride, Moneta’s sponsorship sets the stage for a celebration that invests in the future.

This year’s sponsorship is led by proud Saluki alumna Diane Compardo, B.S. ’91, M.S. ’92, and Ron Wienstroer, M.S. ’91 — partners at Moneta and champions for SIU and its students.

“The Saluki Ball serves as a true reflection of the spirit and pride of being a Saluki. In our continued commitment to giving back to this incredible community, we are excited to sponsor the cocktail hour this year. We’re thrilled to be part of this special event that celebrates our shared history and invests in the future of SIU,” said Compardo.

Compardo, president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors, is a member of the SIU Women’s Leadership Council and the College of Business and Analytics Hall of Fame. A strong advocate for mentorship and philanthropy, she has long supported efforts to connect alumni with current students and elevate opportunities for women through events like the Saluki Women’s Weekend, where Moneta is also the 2024 Women in Empowerment Conference Sponsor.

Her husband and business partner, Ron Wienstroer, has been a driving force behind the success and national growth of Compardo, Wienstroer & Janes, a Moneta team recognized for its high-touch client experience and strategic leadership. A two-degree SIU alumnus, Wienstroer holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Before joining Moneta, he spent 17 years at Ernst & Young, where he rose to partner and held leadership roles in tax strategy and business development.

Today, Wienstroer continues to support his alma mater as a member of the SIU College of Business Dean’s External Advisory Board and the School of Accountancy Advisory Board. His professional excellence is matched by a deep commitment to mentorship, client care, and community service — all rooted in his Saluki education.

The Saluki Ball, set for Saturday, April 26, brings together alumni, students, and friends of the university for a night of dining, dancing, and fundraising in support of student scholarships. With the goal of helping students bridge financial gaps and fulfill their potential, the event exemplifies the mission and momentum of the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign.

To purchase tickets, visit salukiball.siu.edu.

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

Jeri Brooks: From Saluki to strategy powerhouse

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Jeri Brooks headshotFor Jeri Brooks, Southern Illinois University was destiny. A Carbondale native, Brooks grew up immersed in the Saluki spirit—not just as a local but as part of a multi-generational legacy rooted in love, resilience, and community pride.

Her father, Thurman Lee Brooks, Sr., earned a basketball scholarship to SIU, and her mother, Betty Brooks McCollum, pursued her master’s degree there. Eventually, both Jeri and her brother followed in their parents’ footsteps, solidifying SIU as a cornerstone of their family history. When her father passed away, SIU extended a powerful gesture of support: eight semesters of complimentary tuition for both children.

“That gesture meant everything,” Brooks said. “SIU became more than just a university—it became part of our story.”

While at SIU, Brooks earned a Bachelor of Science in communications with a specialization in public relations. Her time on campus laid the foundation for a career defined by ethics, strategic vision, and the pursuit of economic empowerment.

One of her most transformative experiences was joining Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 1993.

“Meeting those 11 women who became lifelong friends changed everything,” she said. “And I was fortunate to share that journey with ‘The Originals,’ my closest friends from Carbondale.”

Brooks credits the Rev. Dr. Norman Greer as a formative influence during her time at SIU.

“He didn’t just teach theory—he brought real-world experience into the classroom,” she said. “That blend of knowledge gave me the confidence to step into any space with purpose.”

With over two decades of experience, she helps companies, political leaders, and communities build strategies that expand influence and create lasting economic mobility—because for her, freedom is not free without economic empowerment.

Known for her strategic thinking and high-impact execution, Brooks has been repeatedly recognized as a top-tier lobbyist, appearing on Capitol Insider’s Texas Lobby Power Rankings in 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025. She was also named a 2021 Top Lobbyist by the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics.

Brooks is passionate about creating lasting change—not just through policy but through economic freedom. Her motto, “excellence is my minimum,” defines her professional ethos and personal mission.

Brooks is often recognized for breaking barriers—but she’s quick to challenge the celebration of being ‘the first.’

“We should not still be celebrating the first woman, the first Black woman, the first anything,” she said. “It’s time we elevate our expectations. Excellence should be the norm.”

Still, she acknowledges one meaningful moment: being the first Black woman honored in the Carbondale Community High School Hall of Achievement.

“But real progress is ensuring I’m far from the last,” she added.

Despite her success, Brooks never forgets where she came from. Her commitment to SIU runs deep. She has endowed a scholarship to support diversity initiatives under the university’s ADEI framework, and she continues to advocate for the university’s growth and future.

“SIU gave me more than an education—it broadened my world,” she said. “If my contribution can help restore its full potential, then giving back isn’t just meaningful—it’s necessary.”

Brooks encourages young women aspiring to enter the political and public affairs world to be strategic and assertive. Her advice is rooted in experience and unwavering determination:

  • Master the Game: Understand policy and power.
  • Own Your Power: Know your value.
  • Build Economic Freedom: It’s the key to true influence.
  • Create Community: Success is built with others.
  • Stay in the Fight: Resilience is non-negotiable.

Reflecting on Women’s History Month, Brooks honors the legacy of her grandmother and mother—the original entrepreneurs in her life. Her grandmother ran the family’s home-based auto repair business and raised six daughters with unshakable fortitude. Her mother turned their family’s pound cake recipe into a business and continues to thrive as a Mary Kay consultant.

“They didn’t wait for opportunity—they created it. That spirit of hustle and ownership laid the foundation for everything I am,” she said.

As for her legacy, Brooks hopes to inspire the next generation of women to embrace their power, lead with excellence, and build pathways to economic and social transformation.

Her advice to her college-aged self? “Take more risks. Trust your instincts. Be fearless—God has your back.”

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Legence Bank invests in student success at SIU

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Legence Bank Check Presentation at Southern Illinois University Carbondale
SIU Chancellor Austin Lane; Kevin Beckemeyer, president and CEO of Legence Bank; Tricia Overturf, vice president of marketing and communications at Legence Bank; and Wendell Williams, SIU vice chancellor for enrollment management. The group gathered for a check presentation celebrating Legence Bank’s $137,500 investment in the Legence Bank Saluki Commitment Scholarship.

CARBONDALE – With a commitment of $137,500 to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Legence Bank is helping bring a Saluki education within reach of local students.

The Legence Bank Saluki Commitment Scholarship will provide tuition funds for 11 students each year as part of the Aim High/Saluki Commitment program, which covers tuition for eligible in-state students. The students will be chosen from the 11 Southern Illinois communities served by Legence Bank.

“This partnership with Legence Bank is going to go a long way to keeping students right here in our own backyard. That is extremely important to us,” said Chancellor Austin Lane during a check presentation Tuesday, March 25, in the Student Services Building at SIU.

Kevin Beckemeyer, president and CEO of Legence Bank, noted the bank’s enthusiasm for partnering with SIU.

“At Legence Bank, we believe in the strength of our community and the importance of investing in the future. Our motto – Legence Loves Local – demonstrates our commitment to supporting local scholarships, and this reflects our dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders in Southern Illinois,” said Beckemeyer, a 1983 graduate of SIU’s College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences. “Together, we can foster growth, inspire change, and create a brighter future for all.”

SIU and Legence Bank leaders gathered to celebrate the launch of the Legence Bank Saluki Commitment Scholarship, supporting students from 11 Southern Illinois communities.

“This initiative is not just about funding; it’s about investing in our community’s future,” Beckemeyer added. “By providing full-ride scholarships to students in the market areas we serve, we are empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. We believe that education should be attainable for all, and this partnership exemplifies our dedication to making that a reality.”

The donation comes as part of the SIU Foundation’s ongoing Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has a goal of raising $500 million by June 2028. It is the fifth largest such campaign in the history of Illinois higher education. More than $390 million has been raised thus far, and corporate partners such as Legence Bank have made an enormous impact.

“The partnership between Southern Illinois University and Legence Bank represents a significant step forward in our commitment to educational accessibility,” said Tricia Overturf, vice president of marketing and communications at Legence Bank. “By collaborating on this initiative, we aim to bridge the gap between existing grants and scholarships, ensuring that students from Southern Illinois have the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams without the burden of financial stress.”

To learn more about the campaign or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

Committed to Salukis

The Saluki Commitment guarantees that tuition and mandatory fees are fully covered for four (transfer students) or eight (freshman students) consecutive semesters at no cost to students or families.

Recipients must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a first-time incoming freshman enrolling full-time on-campus in the fall 2021 semester or later.
  • Have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or higher.
  • Have an annual family income less than $103,040 with assets less than $50,000 based on your FAFSA.
  • Be an Illinois resident who attended an Illinois high school.
  • Be a dependent student under age 24.
  • Be eligible for federal financial aid.

“I want to thank our partners from Legence Bank. You are making a difference in students’ lives,” said Wendell Williams, vice chancellor for enrollment management. “Your generous contribution is going to close the gap for students and bring them to a place they may have never imagined they could get to.”

SIU recently joined the ranks of the Ivy League, being named a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Southern is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale.

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

About Legence Bank

With more than 115 years of service, Legence Bank is a trusted community bank committed to excellence, honesty, integrity, and personalized customer care. Through its “Legence Loves Local” initiative, the bank continues to support local individuals, families, businesses, and now students—providing not just financial services, but a deep investment in the long-term success of the communities it serves.

“Our long-term vision for this initiative is to create a sustainable model that continuously supports students in Southern Illinois,” Overturf said. “We are excited about the potential impact this partnership can have on our local economy and the personal growth of our students. By fostering an environment where education is accessible, we are cultivating a thriving community.”

To learn more about Legence Bank, visit legencebank.com.

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

Tison champions women’s empowerment through leadership and legacy

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For Gloria Tison, general counsel for Legence Bank and a member of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors, Women’s History Month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action.

Tison, who also serves as co-chair of the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council (WLC), has built a career marked by resilience, advocacy, and a deep commitment to uplifting women. Her early experiences in the legal field underscore how far gender equality has come—and how far it still must go.

“When I started as an attorney, women in my office weren’t allowed to wear pants,” she said. “The first job I was offered came with an unusual request—they wanted to speak to my husband to verify the hours were acceptable. I turned it down. That was my first direct experience with gender discrimination, but it was far from my last.”

Tison recalls being routinely referred to as “the woman attorney” or “the blonde one”—a label she shared with another female colleague.

“No one would call and ask for ‘the brunette male attorney,’” she said.

Despite the challenges, Tison credits trailblazing women before her for helping to carve the path she followed.

“It takes confidence, perseverance, and determination,” she said. “Without those who paved the way, we would not have the opportunities we have today.”

At SIU, Tison channels her passion into the Women’s Leadership Council, a network of women who champion one another through mentorship, scholarships, and community support. The WLC funds student scholarships, microgrants for faculty, and community grants for women-led businesses.

“These grants do more than provide financial support—they send a powerful message: We believe in you,” Tison said. “That belief can be life changing.”

Tison sees the council’s work as a modern-day answer to the “boys’ clubs” that have historically excluded women from professional growth.

“WLC recognizes the power of women supporting women,” she said. “Through mentorship and networking, we create a space where women are empowered to lead.”

As SIU continues its mission to shape the next generation of leaders, Tison remains focused on creating a future where gender is no barrier to opportunity.

“Women’s History Month reminds us of the unique strengths women bring to the world and inspires us to keep pushing forward,” she said. “When we invest in our students, we invest in our future. Now, it’s up to us. Mentor, support, and uplift the women around you. Together, we can ensure the next generation has even greater opportunities than we did.”

For more information about the Women’s Leadership Council, visit siuf.org/wlc.

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

SIU Alumna Ashley B. Gibson Establishes Scholarship to Support Women in Accountancy

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CARBONDALE — When Ashley B. Gibson, a 2009 graduate of Southern Illinois University’s College of Business and Analytics, first stepped onto campus, she had no idea how the experience would shape her career and inspire her to give back.

A seasoned leader with over 15 years of consulting experience, author, and public speaker, now she is making a lasting impact on the next generation of women in accounting through the Ashley B. Gibson Accounting Excellence Scholarship Fund.

Gibson, 37, grew up in Carterville and chose SIU for its strong academic reputation and proximity to home. At the time, her father was working overseas in Iraq, and staying close to her mother was a priority. While earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accountancy, Gibson found mentorship in Dr. Marcus Odom and was deeply involved in student organizations. Her leadership in the Accounting Society and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) opened doors to scholarships and national recognition, ultimately paving the way for her service on IMA’s Global Board of Directors.

“I remember when I received IMA’s highest scholarship. I was standing in Rehn Hall when I got the call,” Gibson said. “After I hung up, I slid down the wall, crying tears of joy and relief. It was the first external scholarship I had received, and it validated that people believed in me.”

During her time at SIU, Gibson was recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Accounting, Outstanding Senior in the College of Business, and one of the Top 25 Most Distinguished Seniors—an achievement she likens to winning the Triple Crown in terms of involvement at SIU.

“It was recognition that I’ll forever remember and reminded me of what all I accomplished during my time at SIU,” she said. “Those honors were not just a celebration of my hard work—they also highlighted the importance of having a strong support system and access to opportunities.”

Despite her professional success and accounting acumen, Gibson has dealt with challenges that many women face in the workplace, especially in leadership.

“When women, especially leaders in their field, are asked to perform remedial tasks such as getting coffee or taking notes, it’s because those asking don’t understand the implications it has,” she said. “While there are seats for women at the table, it’s sometimes a silent one, and I want to help change that.”

Her decision to establish the Ashley B. Gibson Accounting Excellence Scholarship Fund is rooted in a commitment to empowering women from Southern Illinois. With an initial pledge of $10,000, she aims to provide financial support and mentorship opportunities for aspiring female accountants.

“I always knew I wanted to create a scholarship for the School of Accountancy. I just wasn’t sure how or if I had enough to start one,” Gibson said. “Then I realized, why wait? Life is too short. I want to meet the recipients, follow their careers, and see the impact firsthand.”

For Gibson, giving back isn’t just about financial support—it’s about fostering a culture where women feel valued and encouraged to lead. She hopes her scholarship will inspire others to invest in SIU’s future and support the next generation of female accountants.

“The earlier I invest in future professionals, the greater the impact,” she said. “We need to break the stigma that philanthropy is something you do later in life. If you want to give back, start now.”

Gibson encourages other young alumni to consider how they can contribute, no matter their stage in life or career.

“If not now, when?” she said. “The SIU Foundation makes it easy to start the conversation. Just ask.”

Through her scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy, Gibson is determined to create lasting opportunities for women in accountancy. As she continues to rise in her own career, she remains committed to lifting others along the way.

“I hope this scholarship ignites a fire in other women to succeed,” she said. “This is my own version of the Butterfly Effect—one action leading to another, shaping the future for the women who follow.”

Higher Education, SIU

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

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

By Jeff Wilson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing
Donor Stories, Higher Education, SIU

Smith donates $500K, funding textbook program for SIU students

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Ron Smith
Ron Smith

By Jeff Wilson

Growing up in the small Randolph County town of Walsh, SIU was the only reasonable college option for Ron Smith.

“It was where you could get the most bang for your buck,” he said. “SIU was so good to me and changed my life and made it better than it would have been.”

Since graduating in 1964 with a degree in marketing and a master’s in business administration in 1966, Smith has stayed engaged with his alma mater, including donating more than $250,000 over the last 20 years. Now, he’s taken his support a step further, making a leadership gift of $500,000 to establish a fund that will help students cover the cost of textbooks.

Endowed chairs help attract and retain high-level faculty members by making the position more attractive and keeping salaries competitive with other institutions.

“I’m doing this to help the students of SIU,” Smith said. “I want to make the university stronger and provide better opportunities and better training for the students.”

Smith has long been a donor to Southern, especially the College of Business and Analytics and Saluki Athletics. Despite living in California, he has maintained season tickets to Saluki Football games and supported the Blackout Cancer fundraiser. He also recently made a $10,000 gift to Saluki Softball.

Smith has fond memories of his time at SIU, noting that he attended the university during the Delyte Morris era and the time of College of Business Dean Henry J. Rhen, for which the COBA building is named. Smith was also classmates with another of SIU’s most prolific benefactors, F. Lynn McPheeters.

“Dr. Morris was wonderful to listen to, and I was lucky to be there during his era,” Smith said. “The university had lots of programs that were geared toward students with limited financial resources. I was fortunate enough to make good enough grades that my professors thought I was a good candidate for graduate school.”

After graduation, he joined the Peace Corps and spent 30 months in Colombia. He worked with farmers and fishermen, teaching them how to make the most of their assets. He credits his education from SIU with giving him the expertise to share with those people and give them a vested interest in the business side of their industry.

Smith, a first-generation student whose niece now attends SIU as a fourth-generation student, said his continued support of the university shows the impact alumni can have even when they’re not able to get to campus as often as they may like.

“Is there a way you can help build up the university?” Smith said. “Even if you’re in California, like me, you can help folks in Southern Illinois.”

For more information about supporting the university, visit siuf.org.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

SIU Foundation Women’s History Month Spotlight: Jennifer Franklin

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As part of Women’s History Month, the SIU Foundation is proud to spotlight alumna Jennifer Franklin, a dedicated advocate for education and a champion for transfer students. From her beginnings in East St. Louis to her current home in Chicago, Franklin’s journey reflects the transformative power of higher education and the impact of giving back.

She transferred to Southern Illinois University Carbondale after two years at a community college, seamlessly transitioning to university life.

“Everyone was so welcoming, and I knew that SIU was the right place for me,” Franklin said.

At SIU, she initially pursued a degree in information systems technologies, envisioning a future in database management. However, a single class altered the course of her career.

“The African American Experience in a Pluralistic Society class changed my life,” she said. By the end of the semester, she added a minor in Black American Studies (now Africana Studies) and set her sights on law school.

“I literally would not be a lawyer had I not taken that class,” she said.

Her passion for advocacy and justice was ignited at SIU, setting the foundation for a successful legal career.

A Global Perspective

One of Franklin’s most cherished memories at SIU was her study abroad experience in Ghana during the summer of 2004. Having just completed her bachelor’s degree, she took the opportunity to finalize her minor before beginning law school that fall.

A particularly memorable moment occurred while she was in Accra, Ghana, watching Barack Obama’s speech at the Democratic National Convention on television.

“I knew at the time that he would definitely be the next senator for Illinois, but I had no idea that I was watching the future first Black President of the United States while I was on the African continent. Even after all these years, it is still surreal when I think about it.”

Giving Back to SIU

For Franklin, giving back to SIU is more than a gesture—it’s a responsibility.

“SIU gave so much to me as a student. I am still benefiting from lessons I learned as a young woman on that campus,” she said. “Being an SIU alum is part of my identity, so giving back feels like a natural part of my existence.”

Her commitment to supporting students led her to establish the Franklin Perseverance Fund, which provides scholarships to transfer students in financial need, with a special focus on African American women.

Franklin believes strongly in the power of women investing in SIU’s future.

“The doors that we walk through today were opened by the women before us, and it is our duty to keep them open for future generations,” she said. “The biggest door is access to education. The impact of women being able to attain a college degree cannot be understated.”

She encourages women who have benefited from higher education to pay it forward, ensuring that future generations have the same opportunities to succeed.

Reflecting on her college years, Franklin shares one piece of advice she would give to her younger self: Do not let your fears hold you back. Feel your fears, but do not live in them. Courage is not the absence of fear; it is acting in spite of it.

With a career shaped by resilience, purpose, and generosity, Franklin exemplifies the spirit of SIU alumni making a difference. Her story serves as an inspiration to current and future Salukis, proving that lifting others while you climb is the true mark of success.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, SIU

Roland Burris: Trailblazer, philanthropist, Saluki

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Roland Burris
Former U.S. Sen. Roland Burris

By Jeff Wilson

Roland Burris has held many titles, but none may be more apt than this: Trailblazer.

His own path began in Centralia and led him to Southern Illinois University, Germany, Howard University School of Law, Illinois state government, and eventually the U.S. Senate, but that only scratches the surface.

Beyond his expansive roles, his influence has impacted countless lives, and he has been equally impacted by those he has met along the way. It’s these relationships that inspired him to donate $100,000 to establish the Burris Financial Emergency Fund at Southern.

Dr. Lane, Sen. Burris, Matt Kupec
Former U.S. Sen. Roland Burris (middle) joined Chancellor Austin Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec and hundreds of SIU alumni and friends during the Saluki Takeover Tour Chicago in the fall of 2024.

“The Lord has taken care of me. Why shouldn’t I try to make sure that I’m paving a way for others?” he said. “Set your goals. Dare to dream.”

Inspired by Paul

While a student at SIU, Burris had a roommate named Paul. His story became the inspiration for Burris’ emergency fund.

“Paul was a freshman from Du Quoin and worked at the post office in the military barracks that were in the student union. He had trouble getting lunch and dinner. He would drink water and lay down,” Burris said. “He didn’t receive any mail from home. We started helping him when we realized he wasn’t getting enough food. He was rail thin.

“One evening, Paul didn’t show up. He was gone. He had packed up and dropped out of school because he couldn’t get money from home to continue. That stuck with me. I knew if I ever got into a position to help … I don’t want to see any more Pauls.”

The emergency fund isn’t a scholarship. Funds from the endowment are dispersed through the Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to students who need financial help to stay enrolled at SIU.

“A few years ago, I was being honored on campus and a student approached me and gave me a hug. He said that he had received some of that money that bridged the gap. I just cried like a baby,” Burris said. “That’s what the fund was set up for. He was able to pay his bill and go on with his career. It hit me right in the gut.”

SIU & Carbondale

Burris came to SIU from Centralia in 1955 with four others, Bill Norwood, Leonard Taylor, Vernon Rush, and Charles Steptoe, with a plan to play football.

“We caught the train down to Carbondale, met with the coach (Albert Kawal), and then planned to get lunch,” he said. “There were limited places in Carbondale that would serve Blacks. We thought ‘Let’s go back to Centralia.’ Coach said he would feed us on campus, so we stayed.”

Carbondale was largely segregated in the late-1950s. Working with President Delyte Morris and others, that was something Burris set out to change.

“This was when race was really prevalent in that part of the state and across the country,” Burris said. “In terms of the university, there were no Blacks on the faculty, but I had no problems with instructors or deans. Blacks could not stay in the dorms until 1955 when Dr. Morris integrated the newly constructed Woody Hall.”

With a group of white and Black friends, Burris set out to document the issues in Carbondale with the hopes of integrating the city. As a junior, he was president of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, which was planning its 25th anniversary celebration.

“Blacks couldn’t sleep in hotels and motels in Carbondale. We wanted to invite our older brothers, but they had no place to stay,” Burris said. “We decided to document segregation all across the city.”

Burris and a group of Black students would try and fail to book a room, get seated at restaurants, or try on clothes in stores. They would then send in a group of white students to do the same and record their success in doing so.

“We then met with Dr. Morris and the university’s lawyer, John Rendleman, and they could not believe it. They called a meeting with the Chamber of Commerce,” he said. “You could see the blood drain from the faces of these white men as they heard the stories. It was quite an experience. Dr. Morris made it clear that this could not be tolerated, and they took it under advisement.”

It wasn’t until after Burris had left Carbondale that he received word of integration across the city.

“Willie Brown, a football player, sent me a letter saying that every entity in Carbondale was open to serve Blacks, students and otherwise,” Burris said. “That effort of documenting it and presenting it had worked. It was a growing experience for me. We learned how we could negotiate our futures.”

A launching pad

Burris made his mark as an outstanding student. During his junior year, he took a German class, and his professor approached him about an exchange program that SIU had with the University of Hamburg in Germany.

“It was a competition between 200 students, and they selected two, and I was one of them. It was the first time a Black student had been chosen,” Burris said. “So, I spent a year there working on my master’s degree, if you can imagine that.”

While there, Burris began studying international law and decided to pursue his law degree. Although he never finished his master’s, he earned his juris doctor from Howard University School of Law in Washington, D.C., in 1963.

“When my wife, Berlean, and I left Howard and headed back to Chicago, I said the only way I would return to D.C. was as vice president or a U.S. senator. Well, on January 16, 2009, I was sworn in as a U.S. senator,” he said.

When Barack Obama was elected president in 2008, it opened a U.S. Senate seat from Illinois. Burris was chosen by then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich to fill that spot.

“I was the first Black person in America to be appointed to a Senate seat,” Burris said. “I wasn’t a politician. I was a public servant – for my people and all people.”

Between law school and the Senate, Burris was the first Black person elected to statewide office in Illinois, winning the comptroller race in 1978. He was later elected as Illinois attorney general in 1990.

“At 15 years old, I set two goals – become a lawyer and a statewide elected official – and I did both. Everything I prayed to the Lord for, I have achieved it,” Burris said. “SIU was a major player in my career. I am a fan of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. It did so much for me and the people I know. I believe it gave me the greatest college experience anyone could have.”