CHICAGO (Oct. 10, 2025) — A sea of maroon filled the Atrium Level of the Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile on Thursday, Oct. 9, as nearly 425 alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends joined Southern Illinois University Carbondale for the Chancellor’s Reception, the signature event of the 5th Annual Saluki Takeover Tour Chicago — setting a new attendance record for the growing tradition. 

Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the reception brought together generations of Salukis to celebrate their university pride, strengthen professional connections, and hear the latest campus updates from Chancellor Austin A. Lane. Guests enjoyed Chicago favorites, including pizza, hot dogs, and Garrett’s Popcorn, along with sweeping city views from the Magnificent Mile. 

“Chicago showed up for SIU,” Lane said. “This week proved what the Saluki community can do when alumni, partners, and future students come together in one of the world’s great cities.” 

During the evening, Lane recognized university partners, corporate leaders, and alumni whose ongoing support continues to expand SIU’s footprint throughout the Chicagoland region. The Chancellor also highlighted the university’s momentum as both a Carnegie Research 1 (R1) research institution and an Opportunity University, emphasizing SIU’s mission to make high-quality education accessible to students across Illinois. 

Women’s Leadership Council sets the tone 

The weeklong celebration kicked off Oct. 7 with a Women’s Leadership Council social co-hosted by SIU Foundation Board Members Beth Mueller and Tonnette Williams, who also serves on the SIU Board of Trustees. Held at Mueller’s home, the evening brought together dozens of Saluki women from the Chicago area for an intimate night of networking and empowerment. 

Guests heard from alumna Stacey Lynn Emerson (’12), a personal stylist and image maker, who encouraged attendees to define who they are and show up with confidence in every space they occupy. The gathering set a tone of energy and connection that carried throughout the week’s events. 

Building partnerships and recruiting future Salukis 

From Oct. 8–10, SIU teams traveled across the Chicago metro area for more than two dozen recruiting, alumni, and corporate engagement events. University leaders visited high schools and community colleges to meet with students, counselors, and administrators — including Benito Juarez Community Academy, Farragut Career Academy, Englewood STEM High School, Michele Clark High School, Morgan Park High School, Johnson College Prep, Excel Academy of Southwest, and Rich Township High School District 207, led by Superintendent Dr. Johnnie Thomas. 

The visits emphasized SIU’s automatic admission pathway for Illinois students with a 2.75 GPA, a no-fee undergraduate application, and the importance of submitting the FAFSA early to secure state funding. 

In higher education partnerships, SIU also visited College of DuPage and McHenry County College to strengthen transfer pipelines in fields such as aviation, automotive technology, and horticulture. 

Salukis on the Run: Students connect with alumni in media and marketing 

Broadcasting, journalism, and advertising students from SIU’s College of Arts and Media joined the SIU Alumni Association for Salukis on the Run, an experiential learning trip to leading Chicago media and advertising organizations. 

Students visited WGN-TV, AbelsonTaylor, Zeno Group, NewsNation, Cutter Studios, and Ron Gould Studios, where alumni shared career advice and insights on navigating creative industries. 

Alumni entrepreneurship takes the spotlight at Boost Auto 

One of the tour’s standout moments was a visit to Boost Auto, a rapidly growing manufacturer founded by 2016 graduate Adam Wolfe in West Chicago. Wolfe launched the company in 2015 while studying automotive technology at SIU, starting in the SIU Business Incubator with support from the SIU Small Business Development Center. What began as a student project to enhance his own GMC Sierra has evolved into a nationally recognized brand producing high-quality aftermarket accessories. 

Chancellor Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, Dr. Robert Morgan, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences, and Andrew Croxell, director of the automotive technology program, toured Boost Auto’s 50,000-square-foot facility, where nearly 40% of employees are fellow Salukis. Wolfe continues to give back through the Boost Auto Scholarship and Faculty Excellence Awards. 

“Adam Wolfe is an incredible example of what’s possible when Saluki innovation meets opportunity,” Lane said. “His story captures the spirit of this tour — celebrating alumni achievement while building connections for the next generation.” 

Expanding opportunities through AAR partnership 

The tour concluded Oct. 10 with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Southern Illinois University Carbondale and AAR CORP., a leading provider of aviation services to commercial and government operators, MROs, and OEMs. 

The agreement, signed at AAR’s Wood Dale headquarters, connects SIU students with industry experts and real-world learning experiences. It was announced as part of the Takeover Tour, underscoring SIU’s growing partnerships with Chicago-based corporations. 

The partnership combines SIU’s academic excellence with AAR’s global reach to offer internships, co-ops, guest lectures, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. 

Two SIU alumni — Sal Marino, AAR’s senior vice president of parts supply, and Jim Berberet, senior vice president of component services — helped establish the partnership. 

Continuing the momentum 

Throughout the Takeover Tour, alumni, donors, and students reflected on SIU’s growing impact across Illinois — from classrooms to corporations. 

“The energy in Chicago matches our trajectory in Carbondale,” Lane said. “We are building partnerships that open doors for students and create a lifetime network for Salukis in every neighborhood of this city.” 

The Saluki Takeover Tour is part of SIU’s ongoing efforts to strengthen alumni engagement and build support for Imagine SIU 2030, the university’s comprehensive fundraising campaign. To date, the campaign has raised more than $425 million toward its $500 million goal, making it the fifth-largest fundraising effort in Illinois higher education. 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 the student body.

The Saluki Takeover Tour continues with stops across the country:

• Nov. 11–14 – Texas (Dallas, Austin, Houston)
• Nov. 24–25 – Memphis
• Feb. 10–13 – Florida (Tampa, St. Petersburg, Naples)
• Mar. 4–6 – St. Louis
• Mar. 23–27 – Central Illinois (Bloomington/Peoria, Springfield)
• Mar. 31–Apr. 21 – Southern Illinois (Makanda, Nashville, Goreville, Herrin, Red Bud, Carmi)
• May 13–15 – Atlanta
• Jun. 8–12 – California (San Francisco, Los Angeles)

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Dozens gathered Wednesday morning, Oct. 1, at the Alumni Association Courtyard Tent outside Woody Hall to celebrate the official launch of Salukis Build Here, a new partnership designed to encourage SIU alumni to start, relocate or expand businesses in Carbondale and Southern Illinois. The partners also invited other Southern Illinois communities to join the effort and collaborate in supporting alumni entrepreneurs across the region.

The initiative is a joint effort of the SIU Foundation, SIU Alumni Association, Southern Illinois Now (SI Now), the City of Carbondale, Carbondale Main Street and the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce.

“Salukis Build Here celebrates alumni-owned businesses already thriving in Carbondale and throughout Southern Illinois while extending an enthusiastic invitation for other Salukis to join us,” said Deb Barnett, executive director of SI Now, who opened the program. “You have a university, a community and an entire region here to welcome and support you.”

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane followed, reflecting on the momentum surrounding both the university and the city. He emphasized how alumni and community partnerships fuel growth for the region and help extend SIU’s reputation far beyond Carbondale.

“Can you feel the energy in Carbondale? I can,” Lane said. “There are so many incredible things happening in this city, throughout Southern Illinois, and at Southern Illinois University. Partnerships like Salukis Build Here show how our alumni, community members and local leaders are working together to strengthen both the university and the region. The more we share these stories, the more we will continue to attract alumni and inspire them to invest, return and build here.”

Molly Hudgins, executive director of the SIU Alumni Association, spoke on behalf of the Alumni Association and SIU Foundation.

“This initiative is about economic growth, but it’s also about legacy,” Hudgins said. “It’s about celebrating the many alumni who have already invested in this region, and it’s about showing future generations the power of Saluki pride and tradition. By choosing to live, work and build in Southern Illinois, alumni not only succeed themselves but strengthen the entire region.”

Scott Moller, SIU alumnus, Alumni Association board president, and new co-owner of Hangar 9, spoke about the link between a vibrant Carbondale and a strong university.

“A vibrant downtown Carbondale creates a more robust student life experience — and a stronger student experience makes SIU more attractive to future students,” he said. “When we reopened Hangar 9, the city was the first to ask, ‘How can we help?’ That kind of partnership made a real difference and showed us that Carbondale isn’t just open for business, it is committed to helping businesses succeed. That support gives alumni like me confidence to invest here and strengthens the bond between the university and the community.”

Mayor Carolin Harvey highlighted the city’s role in supporting entrepreneurship, noting that nearly 150 alumni-owned businesses currently operate in Carbondale.

“These enterprises showcase the hard work and creativity of SIU graduates,” Harvey said. “Together, they not only fuel our local economy but also embody the spirit of SIU and the lasting connections alumni maintain with Carbondale. From restaurants and retail shops to service providers and entertainment venues, alumni-owned businesses add to the vibrancy of our city and help make Carbondale a welcoming place for students, families and visitors alike. Salukis Build Here ensures that we recognize their impact while encouraging even more alumni to join them in building a future here.”

William Lo, executive director of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of collaboration.

“We encourage fellow Salukis to get off the sidelines and grow their businesses alongside their peers,” Lo said. “Carbondale has a strong, welcoming community that supports small businesses, and what better place to open or expand your business than right here in the heart of Saluki Country.”

Matt Collinsworth, executive director of Carbondale Main Street, closed the remarks by inviting the community to the upcoming celebration at Hangar 9.

“Carbondale has always been a welcoming place, and many of our downtown shops, restaurants and venues are alumni-owned,” he said. “On Oct. 23, we’ll showcase and celebrate those existing businesses with an open-house event featuring Saluki-owned businesses, food and beverage vendors, and opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs and community leaders.”

The proclamation was then signed by all partners, marking the formal launch of Salukis Build Here.

The Oct. 23 Hangar 9 celebration will serve as a prelude to SIU’s Homecoming weekend, which includes a Halloween street festival on the Strip Oct. 24 and the annual Saluki football game and tailgate on Oct. 25.

By Ava Steffens

Dr. Glenn Poshard, former SIU system president, Illinois senator, U.S. congressman, and longtime humanitarian, presented a poetry reading that raised funds and collected food donations to support the Saluki Food Pantry. The program featured poetry, written by both him and other authors, detailing his life and various adversities that continue to inspire him and his wife, Jo Poshard, to continue to passionately advocate for people in the Southern Illinois region.

While the presentation, titled “Life’s Beginnings and Endings” was free, dozens of attendees made donations in the form of non-perishable food products, checks, and cash to support the Saluki Food Pantry at SIU upon entry.

As part of a regional poetry series, Poshard’s event in the Student Center Ballrooms supported SIU students and families facing food insecurity and hunger.

Poshard, who grew up in a two-room house without electricity in rural southeastern Illinois, has first-hand experience with food insecurity, as detailed in his original poem “Hunger.” He said relying on the generosity of others to have basic needs met often comes with a stigma.

“I was probably eight years old when my father came home from the township to get surplus food,” Poshard said. “I knew how hard it was for him, not being able to find work because he had one arm, and the shame and judgment he felt. I know what hunger does to people, especially children.”

As an adult, Poshard served in the Korean War, working with orphaned children and deepening his commitment to helping others. After returning to the U.S., he earned three degrees at SIU Carbondale and later became SIU system president.

“The university experience is not an easy one,” he said. “I want people to understand that a little help could go a long way, especially in taking pressure off students in sustaining themselves.”

He emphasized that although his father had little to give, he always found ways to do what he could to help others. Inspired by his father’s generosity, Poshard dedicated his life to helping others. He and Jo Poshard now lead the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children at John A. Logan College in Carterville.

“Jo and I wondered how we could help. I know for me, poems were always there for me, so I put the presentation together and traveled throughout southern Illinois to raise money for food pantries,” he said. “The pantry here serves the students so well.”

About one-third of college students experience food insecurity. Since 2016, the Saluki Food Pantry has provided thousands of students and families with up to three days of food per household at no cost, helping them focus their energy on their education and their futures.

In addition to accepting donations through the Poshard poetry reading, the Saluki Food Pantry welcomes gifts made online or to be dropped off in the Student Center administrative office, located on the second floor, from weekdays between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“If you want to feel good about life, be a giver,” said Poshard. “My father gave me that gift.”

By Britni Bateman 

The inaugural Saluki Takeover Tour Washington, D.C., drew a combined 175 alumni and friends across two high-energy events on Sept. 23, signaling strong momentum for Southern Illinois University’s outreach in the nation’s capital. 

The evening began with a university crest unveiling at The University Club of Washington, DC. 

“For the alums that are here, thank you. Thank you for welcoming us. We appreciate it,” Chancellor Austin A. Lane said. “These connections remind us how small the world really is and how powerful the Saluki network can be.” 

SIU System President Dan Mahony emphasized the university’s trajectory.  

“Today, we have a strong, stable group of leaders, and that has allowed us to move forward as a system and an institution,” he said. 

The unveiling was hosted by Raymond Hankins, a 2004 graduate of SIU’s School of Education and chief security officer at the National Labor Relations Board. 

“I’m truly honored that you could join us tonight to celebrate the unveiling of the SIU Crest at this historic University Club of Washington, D.C.,” Hankins said. “Your presence makes this occasion even more meaningful, and I am deeply grateful for your support.” 

Hankins reflected on his own path as a military student.  

“My SIU journey is a story shared by many military members who pursued their education through base programs,” he said. “Just like on-campus students, we built communities, studied together and supported one another. That experience played a significant role in my success and remains a source of pride today.” 

Due to high attendance, the evening continued at a larger venue for the Chancellor’s Reception at Le Méridien Washington, D.C., The Madison Hotel. Guests enjoyed light appetizers and drinks while connecting with fellow Salukis and meeting university leaders. 

At the reception, Lane highlighted the tour’s purpose.  

“We want access to our alumni, to where you work, and to the internships and jobs you can offer today’s Salukis,” he said. “Your engagement opens doors for our students and strengthens SIU in D.C.” 

He added, “Everything we do is focused on students. You can’t work at SIU if you’re not committed to serving students.” 

Lane passed the microphone around the room, inviting alumni to introduce themselves and share their career paths. 

“When I first came to D.C., it was an SIU alum who opened the door for me. Now I want to do the same for the next generation of Salukis,” said Jacqueline Muhammad, a 2012 graduate in agricultural systems. 

“Wherever I’ve gone in my career, I’ve found Salukis,” said Stephen Holt, a 2007 graduate in finance and financial advisor. “That community has been a constant and tonight proves just how strong it is here in Washington.” 

Lane, Mahony and members of the chancellor’s cabinet and SIU Foundation team also shared campus updates, spotlighted SIU’s Carnegie Research 1 (R1) and Opportunity University designations, and invited alumni to partner in the university’s Imagine 2030 strategic plan priorities: student success and engagement, academic innovation and research, diversity and inclusion, branding and marketing, and sustainability. 

The Washington, D.C., events marked the second stop of the 2025–26 Saluki Takeover Tour, following a successful kickoff in Indianapolis earlier this month. Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the tour began in 2021 and has expanded its reach every year, with past visits to Chicago, Springfield, Nashville, Florida, St. Louis, Southern Illinois and Hollywood. 

The 2025–26 tour schedule continues with: 

• Oct. 8–10 — Chicago 
• Nov. 11–14 — Texas (Dallas, Austin, Houston) 
• Nov. 24–25 — Memphis 
• Feb. 10–13 — Florida (Tampa, St. Petersburg, Naples) 
• Mar. 4–6 — St. Louis 
• Mar. 23–27 — Central Illinois (Bloomington/Peoria, Springfield) 
• Mar. 31–Apr. 21 — Southern Illinois (Makanda, Nashville, Goreville, Herrin, Red Bud, Carmi) 
• May 13–15 — Atlanta 
• June 8–12 — California (San Francisco, Los Angeles) 

CARBONDALE, Ill. — The SIU Foundation, SIU Alumni Association, Southern Illinois Now (SI Now), the City of Carbondale, Carbondale Main Street and the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce are partnering to launch Salukis Build Here, a new initiative encouraging alumni to start, relocate or expand their businesses in Southern Illinois.

The partnership will be formalized with a signing ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the Alumni Association Courtyard Tent outside Woody Hall.

“Salukis Build Here celebrates the success of alumni-owned businesses already thriving in Carbondale and across Southern Illinois,” said Matt Kupec, SIU Foundation CEO. “We’re inviting more Salukis to come back—or start here—to grow their ventures with the support of the university and local partners. Together, we’re building businesses, strengthening Carbondale and growing the region.”

The initiative builds on the momentum of alumni entrepreneurs who have established successful businesses locally and seeks to encourage others nationwide to consider Southern Illinois as a prime location.

“Every Saluki carries memories of their time at SIU, and those memories include more than just life on campus,” said Molly Hudgins, SIU Alumni Association executive director. “When alumni choose to return, invest and make their lives in this region, they not only reignite those memories, but they create opportunities for the next generation. Southern Illinois and SIU are stronger together, and this partnership reflects a commitment that will fuel continued growth and opportunity.”

“By building on alumni-owned businesses, we’re not just celebrating success — we’re creating an invitation for other Salukis to choose Southern Illinois when starting, relocating or expanding a business,” said Deb Barnett, SI Now executive director. “When Salukis succeed, Southern Illinois succeeds. This is the perfect time to invest, build and belong in Carbondale and throughout Southern Illinois.”

Southern Illinois offers a business-friendly environment with flexible zoning, incentives for new and expanding businesses, and state and local support. Carbondale resources include:

• Enterprise Zone: Tax incentives and regulatory support for businesses locating in the zone.
• Downtown Façade Improvement Program: Low-interest loans to improve commercial properties.
• Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Program: Tools to support redevelopment and investment.

“Carbondale is proud to partner with SIU and our local organizations on Salukis Build Here,” said Stan Reno, Carbondale City Manager. “We’re committed to providing the resources, incentives and supportive environment that help alumni-owned businesses thrive. When alumni choose Carbondale, they invest not only in their own future but also in the future of our City.”

Statewide programs also provide benefits, such as:

• Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE): Annual corporate tax credits for job creation and capital investment.
• Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV Illinois): Incentives for electric vehicle and renewable energy manufacturers.
• Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity (MICRO): Support for semiconductor manufacturers.
• Other incentives include the High Impact Business Program, Prime Sites Grants, Angel Investment Tax Credits, Blue Collar Jobs Act Tax Credits and Film Production Tax Credits.

“Downtown Carbondale is full of opportunity, and alumni entrepreneurs are a big part of that story,” said Matt Collinsworth, Carbondale Main Street executive director. “Through this partnership, we hope to welcome even more Salukis who want to grow their businesses here while adding to the energy, culture and community spirit of our Main Street district.”

The initiative will culminate in a community celebration at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at Hangar 9. The open-house event will feature alumni-owned businesses, food and beverage vendors, testimonials from Saluki entrepreneurs and networking opportunities with alumni, local business owners and community leaders.

“Our chamber exists to strengthen and support local businesses, and this initiative aligns perfectly with that mission,” said William Lo, Carbondale Chamber of Commerce executive director. “By connecting alumni with the resources they need, Salukis Build Here will create jobs, boost our economy and highlight Southern Illinois as a place where business and community succeed together.”

The timing leads into SIU’s Homecoming weekend. On Friday, Oct. 24, Carbondale will shut down the Strip for a Halloween street festival featuring food trucks, vendor booths, games and live music. On Saturday, Oct. 25, the SIU Alumni Association and the Carbondale in the ’80s and ’90s BEER Group will host the largest Homecoming tailgate on Salukis Row ahead of SIU’s football matchup against the University of Northern Iowa.