Category Archives: Donor Stories

SIU Celebrates Groundbreaking for New Wildlife Habitat Education Center

A group of SIU leaders, donor Chuck Trover, his family, and project partners stand with shovels during the groundbreaking for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. A banner reading “Go Dawgs!” hangs overhead.
SIU leaders join Chuck Trover (fifth from left), his family, and project partners to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center on Aug. 29, 2025. Trover, a 1967 graduate, committed $3 million to fund the new facility.

MAKANDA, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale broke ground Friday, Aug. 29, on the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, a major step forward for hands-on conservation learning made possible by a $3 million gift from SIU alumnus Chuck Trover, who graduated in 1967.

Approved by the SIU Board of Trustees on April 17, 2025, the project is being managed by the SIU Foundation in partnership with the university. The new facility will serve as a hub for environmental education, a visitor check-in point and an indoor activity space so programs can continue year-round. Early plans include interactive exhibits and classroom features to support schools, families and SIU students in biology, environmental science, zoology and forestry.

Brain Croft addresses the crowd.
Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center

Speaking to guests gathered at the SIU Credit Union Trailhead, Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, highlighted the center’s unique role at SIU.

“If you’re not familiar with Touch of Nature, we’ve been around since 1952,” Croft said. “We are the only outdoor education center in Illinois that is owned and operated by a university. This really is one of those things that makes SIU special.”

Croft shared how Touch of Nature changes lives, recalling an incoming student who chose SIU after visiting as an eighth grader with a St. Louis school group.

“It really shows the value we bring to the university,” he said. “Today, we’re excited about this new venture. It’s been a long time in the making.”

Chancellor Austin A. Lane
Chancellor Austin A. Lane

Chancellor Austin A. Lane praised the collaboration behind the project and the momentum at Touch of Nature.

“Many of the things we’re accomplishing, we could not do without the SIU Foundation,” Lane said, noting the Foundation’s role in accelerating projects and providing critical support to donors. “They work tirelessly to connect generosity with opportunity, and this project is a perfect example of that partnership at work.”

Addressing Trover directly, he added, “The legacy you are leaving is tremendous. Your name and what you stand for will live on here for generations. Because of your vision and generosity, Touch of Nature is entering a new era of impact.”

For Trover, the center is deeply personal. He announced that the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will be dedicated to his mentors, his best friend’s father, Bob Alexander, and his uncle, Jim Trover, who first opened his eyes to the natural world.

Chuck Trover
Chuck Trover

“My love for the outdoors came from these two incredible men, who taught me to hunt, fish and appreciate wildlife,” he said. “Without them, I probably wouldn’t be doing this for SIU today. This center will give future generations the chance to build that same connection.”

Trover reflected on his own childhood in rural Illinois, where the outdoors was his classroom. He recalled long nights hunting raccoons, summers spent fishing rivers for catfish, and autumns exploring fields and woods for mushrooms, ginseng and small game.

“Those years shaped everything,” Trover said. “They laid the foundation for my respect for nature and wildlife and for what I’m doing at SIU today.”

Trover credited the SIU Foundation team for guiding the project since 2019, navigating COVID-19 disruptions, supply chain challenges, inflation and tariffs to reach the groundbreaking.

“They took the bull by the horns so this could be built to my satisfaction,” Trover said.

A crowd gathered at the SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.
A crowd gathered at the SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.

He described his vision for the center: “The dream is to reconnect youth with habitat and animals. Kids today don’t always get the exposure many of us had. This center will help them discover and care for the natural world.”

Trover also referenced the ideas in Richard Louv’s Last Child in the Woods, noting the growing disconnect between children and nature.

Croft closed the program by inviting attendees to the ceremonial shovel turn and underscoring the center’s long-term impact.

Chuck Trover pictured with Chancellor Austin Lane
Chuck Trover (left) is pictured with Chancellor Austin Lane (right).

“With this project, Touch of Nature is on a tremendous upswing, thanks to the support of SIU’s leadership, our SIU Foundation partners and Chuck’s generosity.”

The project aligns with SIU’s rare distinction as one of only 21 universities out of nearly 4,000 nationwide recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both Research 1 (Very High Research Activity) and as an Opportunity College and University, reflecting the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge while expanding opportunity for all. It also supports the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has secured more than $422 million toward its $500 million goal. 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.

To learn more about Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center or make a gift, visit siuf.org/ton.

Midland States Bank Foundation Presents $7,500 Check to Support Saluki Women’s Weekend

Pictured left to right: SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, Midland States Bank Regional President Dan Rice, Midland States Bank Regional Community Development Relationship Manager Maurice Allen, Women’s Leadership Council Co-Chair Gloria Tison, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Affinity Philanthropy and Strategic Initiatives Sherrica Hunt

By Ava Steffens 

CARBONDALE, Ill. — On Tuesday, July 29, the Midland States Bank Foundation awarded a $7,500 grant to the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council to expand its vital work in mentorship and economic empowerment opportunities for SIU students and the broader university community. This partnership also proudly names Midland States Bank as our official Empowerment Conference Sponsor of the 4th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, which will take place Friday, Oct. 3. 

“Midland States Bank’s support is critical as we champion the incredible potential within SIU’s female student population, which makes up over 50 percent of our students. Alongside our vast network of more than 108,000 female alumni, the WLC is committed to providing the mentorship and professional development opportunities needed to empower not only women, but all students at SIU, to drive economic growth and create meaningful impact,” said Sherrica Hunt, assistant vice chancellor for affinity philanthropy and strategic initiatives. 

Gloria Tison, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council, said the funds will support the council’s mentorship program in addition to the Saluki Women’s Weekend conference, which promotes equity across a variety of professional fields. 

“Receiving the grant was a wonderful surprise to all of us. We were so delighted to accept it and use it to help further our purpose,” said Tison. 

The council primarily relies on the generosity of its supporters who graciously contribute their time, energy, resources and knowledge to its causes. Its goal is to provide a network for graduates, students, and friends of the university who are committed to women-driven philanthropy. 

“It’s powerful to be around successful women,” Tison said. “To see that our community supports us and values the women of SIU goes a long way.” 

Midland States Bank, headquartered in Effingham, Illinois, provided funding through its charitable arm, the Midland States Bank Foundation. Since its founding in 2011, the Foundation has awarded nearly $2 million to nonprofit organizations across Illinois and Missouri with a focus on education, work force development, financial empowerment, housing, small business development, and health and wellness.  

“The Midland States Bank Foundation is a powerful way for us to give back to our communities,” said Jeffrey G. Ludwig, CEO of Midland States Bank. “The funds we set aside from the bank’s profits help us put our company’s culture in action to benefit the communities we serve.” 

The grant to SIU’s Women’s Leadership Council reflects a strong alignment with the Foundation’s mission to empower individuals and support economic growth. The council’s focus on mentorship, leadership, and career readiness resonated with the Foundation’s core pillars – particularly in education, workforce development and financial empowerment.  

Martesha Brown, Midland States Bank Market President for Rockford and Belvidere, and Dan Rice, Regional President for Midland States Bank, are both SIU alumni and proud to see the university’s programs advancing opportunities for the next generation. 

“As an alum, I was thrilled to see SIU’s proposal come through during this grant cycle,” said Brown. “But what stood out most was how clearly the Women’s Leadership Council’s work aligns with our Foundation’s goals. It’s exactly the kind of initiative we’re here to support.” 

“We’re committed to investing in organizations that make a measurable impact,” said Rice. “As someone whose career was shaped at SIU, it’s especially meaningful to support programs that create professional pathways for student success — particularly those that uplift women. I’ve had several inspiring female mentors in my life who benefited from initiatives like this, and I’m proud we can help continue that legacy.” 

This year’s Saluki Women’s Weekend, themed “Leading Through Innovation,” will spotlight leadership in STEM, mentorship, and professional growth. The event will include keynote speakers, interactive discussions, and breakout sessions aimed at connecting and empowering women across a range of industries. 

To learn more about Midland States Bank’s community impact, visit midlandsb.com/about-us.  

To attend the 4th Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend conference on Friday, Oct. 3, visit siuf.org/salukiwomen. 

Alumnus Ken Park donates world percussion collection to SIU School of Music

Ken Park, an SIU School of Music alumnus and accomplished percussionist, stands with part of the $100,000 collection of percussion instruments and accessory items he donated to his alma mater. The gift will provide SIU students with hands-on access to world-class instruments and global sounds.

By Britni Bateman

Kenneth “Ken” Park, a 1971 graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s School of Music, has donated $100,000 worth of percussion instruments and accessory items to the SIU School of Music, giving students hands-on access to global sounds and professional-grade gear.

“I’ve known for years that I wanted my instruments to come home to SIU,” said Park, 80, who lives in Westchester, California. “These drums and mallet instruments were my therapy and my friends. I hope students will hear the human side of music in them and create their own sound.”

A Gift of Global Sound

Park’s gift includes an array of instruments that reflect a lifetime of studio and touring work, from timpani and vibraphone to Latin and world percussion. He said the collection will help students explore color, texture, and rhythm across cultures in real time, rather than only through samples.

“You can have a laptop and use samples,” Park said. “But in the room, with people, you hear the real instrument. You learn how to tune it, how it feels, and how it sits in the music. That’s how creativity opens up.”

From Small Town to the World Stage

Raised in Murphysboro, Illinois, Park began playing professionally in grade school after a local teacher who led the area musicians’ union spotted his talent. He performed with SIU faculty and in southern Illinois clubs before serving in the Fifth U.S. Army Band at Fort Sheridan, where he led the percussion section. After SIU, he built a wide-ranging career in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, and on international stages.

A Career of Notable Collaborations

Ken Park is pictured with Banny Manilow
Ken Park smiles in a photo with Barry Manilow.

Park’s professional résumé spans some of the biggest names in music. He has recorded for Capitol Records, Casablanca Records, Arista Records, and Geffen Records, working with Donna Summer, Barry Manilow, Tammy Wynette, Peggy Lee, Dionne Warwick, and Doc Severinsen of “The Tonight Show.”

On stage, he has shared concert and tour bills with Ella Fitzgerald, Whitney Houston, Donna Summer, Barry Manilow, and Kitaro, performing on multiple world tours. His versatility has taken him from Broadway, where he played in Tintypes, to diverse ensembles such as the new-age group Istar, the Crystal Palace Ragtime Band, and Magic’s John Blues Band.

His television credits include performing cues for the series Tenspeed and Brown Shoe and Major Dad.

“My break in Hollywood came with Donna Summer,” Park said. “I auditioned, played the parts exactly as written, and she said, ‘You’re hired.’ Later I toured with Barry Manilow and recorded for artists like Dionne Warwick and Neil Diamond. I learned to bring the right sound for the song and to be fast and prepared.”

SIU’s Lasting Impact

Park credits SIU faculty for giving him space to practice, perform, and grow.

“This is where I learned the musical part of music,” he said. “Professors encouraged me, let me play in percussion ensemble, and helped me study classical music. I’m forever grateful they put up with my madness and gave me a shot.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

The decision to part with his instruments, Park said, was emotional but clear.

“When I came back to campus for a visit and talked about donating my collection to the School of Music, Dr. Chris Butler looked me in the eye and said, ‘I’ll take care of your babies.’ That sealed it, and I knew this was the right place,” he said. “Once I returned home, I walked around the block, had a good cry, and started packing.”

Park hopes the instruments inspire students to chase curiosity and discipline in equal measure.

“Practice slowly and value your time here,” he said. “Play in every ensemble you can. Learn the piano so your ear develops. Tune your instruments and listen to music from everywhere. If you do that for four years, you’ll have a real shot.”

He also wants students to remember that percussion is more than timekeeping.

“Good drummers and percussionists are musicians first,” Park said. “Learn the notes, learn the harmony, and learn how your part colors the whole track. That’s what gets you called back.”

A Legacy of Music

Even as he winds down his performance schedule, Park remains energized by music. He has performed with the Beach Cities Symphony in Southern California for more than four decades and plans to keep a small setup to play at home.

“I’ve gone my whole life at full speed,” he said. “Now I’m trying to slow down, listen, and enjoy it. I’m grateful to God, to my parents who let me play in the bars as a kid, and to SIU for giving me a place to learn.”

Park said sending the collection to his alma mater feels personal.

“I didn’t have children,” he said. “These instruments are my kids, and I’m sending them to college. I want SIU students to bang on them, explore, record, flip the sounds, and build something new. That’s the joy of percussion.”

Expanding Opportunities at SIU

The School of Music will catalog and integrate the instruments into ensembles, lessons, and recording projects throughout the year. Park believes the impact will be immediate.

“Students will get to play the world,” he said. “South American, African, Asian, classical, jazz — it’s all there. When you put it in context with real, hands-on instruments, it changes how you hear everything.”

SIU holds a rare distinction as one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of nearly 4,000 — recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both Research 1 status, the highest level of research activity, and as an Opportunity College and University, which honors institutions that expand access and foster social mobility. This dual recognition reflects SIU’s commitment to advancing knowledge while opening doors for students from all backgrounds. Park’s gift to the School of Music embodies that mission, enriching hands-on learning and inspiring future musicians to create, innovate, and share their art with the world.

This contribution also supports Imagine SIU 2030, the university’s comprehensive fundraising campaign. To date, the campaign has raised more than $422 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.

Gifts like Park’s ensure that SIU continues to grow as a place where research, opportunity, and access come together to change lives for generations to come.

To support the SIU School of Music, learn more at: https://music.siu.edu/alumni/give.php

Public Invited to Groundbreaking for SIU’s Wildlife Habitat Education Center

Chuck Trover wears camo and sits with archery gear.
SIU alumnus Chuck Trover (’67), an avid outdoorsman, committed $3 million to establish the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at SIU’s Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. Approved by the SIU Board of Trustees on April 17, 2025, the facility will honor his mentors, Bob Alexander and his uncle, Jim Trover, while inspiring future generations to connect with and care for the natural world.

MAKANDA, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale will host a public groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center from 4 to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29.

The event will feature remarks from SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane, Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Relations and SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center Director Brian Croft, and lead donor Chuck Trover. Guests are invited to enjoy light refreshments and learn more about the vision for this transformative facility.

“Touch of Nature has long been a jewel of Southern Illinois, and this new facility will make it even more accessible. Thanks to Chuck’s vision, SIU is poised to expand opportunities for environmental learning across the region,” Kupec said.

Funded by a $3 million gift from Trover, a 1967 SIU graduate who grew up in rural Illinois and now resides in Oregon, the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will serve as a hub for environmental education, hands-on learning, and community engagement. The facility will include a visitor check-in area, meeting space, and indoor activity rooms, ensuring programs can continue year-round regardless of the weather.

For Trover, the center is a deeply personal project and will be dedicated to his mentors, Bob Alexander and his uncle, Jim Trover, who first opened his eyes to the natural world.
“My love for the outdoors came from these two incredible men, who taught me to hunt, fish, and appreciate wildlife,” he said. “Without them, I probably wouldn’t be doing this for SIU today. This center will give future generations the chance to build that same connection.”

Trover will join university leaders at the groundbreaking to share his vision for inspiring young people and reversing what he calls a growing “nature-deficit disorder,” a term coined by author Richard Louv in his book Last Child in the Woods. Trover cited Louv’s work as an influence on his commitment to addressing the disconnect between children and the natural world.

“If we don’t expose them to nature, they won’t have a reason to care for it,” Trover said. “We need to make it exciting and fun so they want to come back.”

“Few universities in the nation have a resource like Touch of Nature. This generous gift to build the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will allow us to expand our programs and more fully live out our mission of enhancing lives through outdoor experiences and environmental learning,” Croft said.

Located about eight miles south of Carbondale, Touch of Nature serves SIU students, the greater Southern Illinois region, and visitors from across the country through programs that promote experiential learning, environmental stewardship, health and wellness, and inclusion.

The Wildlife Habitat Education Center also reflects SIU’s rare distinction as one of only 21 of 4,000 universities in the nation recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for both Research 1 (Very High Research Activity) and as an Opportunity College and University, underscoring the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge while expanding opportunity for all.

Trover’s gift to establish the Wildlife Habitat Education Center is part of the ongoing Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has secured more than $422 million toward its $500 million goal. The campaign is the fifth largest in the history of 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.

For more information about the groundbreaking, contact the SIU Foundation at 618-453-4900.

SIU Alumnus Chuck Trover Funds $3 Million Wildlife Habitat Education Center

Chuck Trover sits for a photo in camo clothing and archery gear.

By Britni Bateman

When Chuck Trover was a boy growing up in rural Illinois in the 1950s and ’60s, the outdoors was his classroom.

“I didn’t know it then, but those years shaped everything,” Trover said. “They laid the foundation for my love of nature and wildlife, and for what I’m doing at SIU today.”

Trover, a 1967 graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, recently committed $3 million to fund the construction of the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at the university’s Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. The project, approved by the SIU Board of Trustees on April 17, 2025, will serve as a hub for conservation programming, a visitor check-in point, and an indoor activity space for year-round events.

“Touch of Nature has long been a jewel of Southern Illinois, and this new facility will make it even more accessible. Thanks to Chuck’s vision, SIU is poised to expand opportunities for environmental learning across the region,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and SIU Foundation CEO.

For Trover, the center is more than a building; it is a tribute to the mentors who first opened his eyes to the natural world. The facility will be dedicated to Bob Alexander, his best friend’s father, and to his uncle, Jim Trover, both of whom played pivotal roles in shaping his love for the outdoors.

Chuck Trover hunting during the winter season.A Childhood Steeped in the Outdoors

Growing up in Mattoon, about two and a half hours north of Carbondale, Trover spent countless hours with Alexander and his uncle, who became his guides to a life outside.

“Both of them introduced me to the outdoors, which really laid the foundation for my feelings about nature, animals, fish, and everything in general,” he said.

They hunted and fished all year long.

He recalls long winter nights hunting raccoons. “We’d be sitting and eating popcorn, and about 10 o’clock at night, we’d go out and hunt.”

In the spring and fall, they hunted mushrooms and dug ginseng, a medicinal root, learning how it was used. Summers were spent fishing rivers for catfish and local ponds for bluegill, crappie, and bass.

“We’d take a wool blanket and a kerosene lantern and sleep in between running lines for catfish every two or three hours,” Trover said.

In the fall, they also hunted small game: squirrel, rabbits, pheasant, and quail.

Those experiences, he said, taught him resourcefulness, patience, and respect for the natural world — lessons that are harder to come by today.

Chuck Trover sitting on rafter in a river.

Fighting “Nature Deficit Disorder”

Trover often thinks about how landscapes — and childhoods — have changed.

“Fifty, sixty years ago, farmers left hedgerows, brush piles, and woods,” he said. “The habitat was good, and game was plentiful. Landowners would let you hunt and fish as long as you were respectful.”

Today, much of that has disappeared. Large farming operations, oil and gas development, and expanding urban areas have changed the rural landscape.

“I’m not saying any of it is wrong,” Trover said. “It’s just progress. But the broader ecosystem that nurtured kids like me is vanishing.”

That’s one of the reasons he’s so passionate about the Wildlife Habitat Education Center. He points to Richard Louv’s book Last Child in the Woods, which describes the phenomenon of “nature deficit disorder” in children.

“If we don’t expose them to nature, they won’t have a reason to care for it,” Trover said. “This center can be a place where they build that connection.”

Chuck Trover white water rafting.A Vision for Hands-On Learning

The Wildlife Habitat Education Center will not only serve schools and community groups, but also SIU students in fields such as biology, environmental science, zoology, and forestry. Trover hopes to see students from urban centers like Chicago and St. Louis come to Touch of Nature to learn about wildlife and conservation firsthand.

He also wants the center to embrace modern engagement tools. “I remember the first time I tried virtual reality at SIU. I zoomed down to Kenya, Africa, and felt like I was going to fall out of my chair when an elephant came toward me,” he said. “I want kids to have that same sense of excitement and discovery. If we make it fun, they’ll want to come back.”

Beyond technology, Trover plans to bring in personal artifacts from his own life as a bowhunter. His collection of full-size mounted animals will give children the chance to see, touch, and learn in a way that goes beyond books or screens.

Building with Purpose

Trover’s $3 million gift will cover all construction expenses. The SIU Foundation will manage the construction in close coordination with the university. Upon completion, the building and all accompanying accoutrements will be conveyed to the university, following the recommendation of the Director of Facilities and Energy Management at SIUC.

“I’ve always liked seeing projects through to a successful completion,” Trover said. “Being involved from the start gives me a sense of purpose and excitement.”

“Few universities in the nation have a resource like Touch of Nature. This generous gift to build the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will allow us to expand our programs and more fully live out our mission of enhancing lives through outdoor experiences and environmental learning,” said Brian Croft, director of SIU’s Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.

Chuck Trover portraitGiving Back to SIU

Trover’s connection to SIU runs deep. As a married student with one child and another on the way, he managed a trailer court near the campus high-rise dorms to help make ends meet. After earning his engineering degree, he worked for the state of Illinois and in his family’s business before moving west to start his own construction company. Later, he built a career in the medical device industry before retiring in 2009 and returning to the outdoors.

His generosity to SIU extends beyond this latest gift. He also helped establish an endowed scholarship in honor of his late wife, Gina Gatewood Trover, and her sister, Lu Ann Gatewood, to support aviation students. Recently, he donated his Cessna 421 aircraft to the university.

A Legacy for the Next Generation

Trover hopes the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will inspire young people to become conservation leaders and help reverse the growing disconnect from the natural world.

“I hope the center will foster love and respect for wildlife for generations to come,” he said. “If even a few young people discover the outdoors the way I did, it will all be worth it.”

His vision aligns with SIU’s rare distinction as one of only 21 universities nationwide recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for both Research 1 (Very High Research Activity) and as an Opportunity College and University, reflecting the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge while expanding opportunity for all.

Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center enhances lives through experiential learning, environmental stewardship, health and wellness, and inclusion. Trover’s gift ensures the center will continue to inspire future conservation leaders while strengthening SIU’s national reputation for excellence and access.

Trover’s gift to establish the Wildlife Habitat Education Center is part of the ongoing Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has secured more than $422 million toward its $500 million goal. The campaign is the fifth largest in the history of 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.

Save the Date: We will celebrate his generosity with a public groundbreaking at Touch of Nature from 4 to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29.

To support Touch of Nature, visit siuf.org/ton.

SIU Dedicates Campus Lake Fountain in Memory of Alumnus Tilden “Tim” Parks

Tilden “Tim” Parks Campus Lake Fountain
Southern Illinois University Carbondale dedicated the Tilden “Tim” Parks Campus Lake Fountain on Wednesday, Aug. 6, during a community celebration at Becker Pavilion.

By Britni Bateman

Southern Illinois University Carbondale dedicated the Tilden “Tim” Parks Campus Lake Fountain on Wednesday, Aug. 6, during a community celebration at Becker Pavilion. The 60-foot fountain honors the legacy of the late Parks, a proud 1976 graduate whose generosity helped bring the project to life.

A crowd of 50 gathered along the lake as Chancellor Austin A. Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, student leader Noah Farris, Director of Facilities and Energy Management Mark Owens, and Director of Recreational Sports and Services Corné Prozesky delivered remarks.

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane speaks to the crowd at the fountain dedication event.
SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane speaks to the crowd at the Campus Lake fountain dedication event.

“This is yet another great project,” Lane said. “The fountain is a beautiful addition to campus and another tradition that adds to what makes SIU such a special place.”

Chancellor Lane led the countdown as the crowd joined in. At zero, the fountain shot into the air for the first time, drawing cheers and capturing a shared moment of Saluki pride.

“This all is really due to the generosity of Tim Parks,” Kupec said. “He was a great Saluki who passed away in 2022. We honor his legacy tonight with this fountain that will continue to inspire future generations.”

Parks contributed more than $75,000 during the inaugural SIU Day of Giving in 2017, providing over 70 percent of the funding needed to launch the fountain project. The university named the fountain in his honor to recognize his transformational gift. Additional support from the AlZaben family helped complete the project.

“We also want to thank the AlZaben family for their gift to this effort that got us over the finish line,” Kupec said. “Campus Lake is one of our greatest assets. In our opinion, only one other university in the country, Notre Dame, has a lake as special as this.”

Several campus leaders and alumni attended, including SIU System President Dan Mahony, SIU Board of Trustees Chair Judge J. Phil Gilbert, and members of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors. Judge Gilbert shared that he learned to swim in Campus Lake as a child.

The fountain features a 25-horsepower motor and includes a floatovoltaic system, a floating solar array that helps power the fountain while reducing harmful algal blooms by cooling and aerating the water. The project received funding and support from the SIU Green Fund, the Sustainability Department, and student initiatives.

Noah Farris, a microbiology major, contributed to the sustainability work and addressed the crowd.

“I’m working on a solar panel project that helps power the fountain and reduce bacteria in the lake,” Farris said.

Mark Owens highlighted the practical benefits of the fountain and thanked the facilities team for their behind-the-scenes work.

“This is not just something beautiful, it’s functional,” Owens said. “Thanks to our team’s work, we’ve kept Campus Lake open for three years without issues. The fountain will help keep the water healthy.”

Corné Prozesky spoke about the emotional impact of the fountain and its presence on campus.

“Our students will look out their windows and see this beautiful fountain lit up at night,” he said. “Hopefully, every time the Salukis win, we’ll change the color to maroon and celebrate those victories with this incredible symbol of Saluki pride.”

The fountain dedication followed Demolition Day, an event earlier that afternoon that marked the beginning of clearing six long-vacant residence halls to make way for the proposed Saluki Village housing development. Together, both events showcased the university’s momentum and commitment to renewal.

These campus enhancements reflect the university’s ongoing momentum. SIU recently earned dual recognition as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide — and the only one serving a rural area — to receive both honors. These achievements align with the goals of Imagine SIU 2030, a comprehensive fundraising campaign that has raised more than $409 million toward its $500 million goal. The campaign is the fifth-largest in Illinois higher education history. 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.

To learn more or make a gift to support similar projects, visit siuf.org.

SIU Credit Union Trailhead Opens at Touch of Nature

SIU Credit Union Trailhead
From left: SIU Foundation Director of Development, SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, Kim Babington, SIU Credit Union CEO Mike Lantrip, and Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center Director Brian Croft cut the ribbon on the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

By Jeff Wilson

MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and SIU Credit Union officially opened a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

The trailhead pavilion was funded by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.

“This project has been years in the making,” said Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature. “It marks the first major construction at Touch of Nature in decades”. 

SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting Southern Illinois University, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and other initiatives.

“We believe this trailhead will bring even more people into our community — and it’s already doing that,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We hope this is the beginning of something big for Touch of Nature and the region.”

Touch of Nature often serves as the first introduction to SIU for many through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.

More than 50,000 visitors came to Touch of Nature this year.

“Everyone who visits Touch of Nature leaves with a great impression,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “None of this would be possible without support from partners like SIU Credit Union. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you dream a little.”

The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will take place in August.

SIU was recently designated both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide — and the only one serving a rural area — to hold both honors.

These developments align with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling more than $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the foundation.

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

 

SIU Credit Union Trailhead to Open at Touch of Nature

SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center
SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center

By Jeff Wilson

MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center will soon unveil a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at the trailhead. SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, Touch of Nature Director Brian Croft, and representatives from SIU Credit Union will attend the event. The trailhead pavilion was made possible by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.

“Touch of Nature is the premier outdoor education center in America,” Lane said. “This area will provide our students and the community with an inviting gathering space that connects more people with the beauty of our region and our campus.”

SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting the university, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and more.

“We wanted to do something for SIU and the region,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We think it’s going to help put Southern Illinois on the map even more.”

For many, Touch of Nature serves as their first introduction to SIU through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.

More than 50,000 visitors came through Touch of Nature this year. The upcoming Wildlife Habitat Education Center will further expand outdoor experiences for the region.

“Nature has tremendous value and power. At Touch of Nature, we pride ourselves on embracing those qualities and sharing our passion with students and the community,” Croft said. “This trailhead is now a centerpiece of that experience, and we are thrilled to have such terrific partners in SIU Credit Union.”

The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center is scheduled for August.

SIU was recently designated both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide—and the only one serving a rural area—to hold both honors.

These developments coincide with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling over $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the Foundation.

“The SIU Foundation is dedicated to its mission as an accelerator, and we are seeing that in action,” Kupec said. “Our goal is to help this university thrive by supporting students, faculty and staff, and laying the groundwork for major projects that enhance our beautiful campus. With the support of our donors and corporate partners, we will continue turning big dreams into reality.”

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

Thrasher Champions Undergraduate Research at SIU

Economics alumna and former Wall Street analyst empowers students through hands-on learning opportunities

By Britni Bateman

When Susan Thrasher ’76 reflects on her time at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, she recalls the classes and faculty recommendations that helped shape a career she had not originally envisioned—but one that proved deeply rewarding.

“I was going to be a physician like my parents,” she said. “But I fell in love with economics. At SIU, I deepened my understanding of economic theory, and several professors encouraged me to take finance and accounting classes given my interest in research.”

That guidance launched a 25-year career as a research analyst on Wall Street, covering the pharmaceutical industry during an era of groundbreaking drug development. Today, Thrasher is giving back to the institution that shaped her by helping undergraduate students chart their own course through research.

The Susan C. Thrasher Undergraduate Research Fund supports students as they explore meaningful, faculty-mentored research projects across a wide range of disciplines. Five outstanding recipients of the 2024-25 award were celebrated for their contributions to innovative scholarship in fields spanning biochemistry, studio art, neuroscience, and more.

“Analysis and research have always been important to me,” Thrasher said. “When Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis suggested an undergraduate research scholarship, I was very intrigued. It’s been so good to see students embrace a topic or area of particular interest.”

Her support exemplifies the values behind SIU’s Research 1 designation—a distinction awarded by the Carnegie Classification for universities with “very high research activity.” SIU is one of just 21 universities nationwide that hold this designation while also being recognized as an Opportunity University, committed to access and equity.

“If the students’ hard work further sparks their interest, that would be outstanding,” Thrasher said. “The program speaks to the school’s R1 designation. I hope other alumni will join in and give back.”

The impact of her investment is already being felt.

Student Spotlights from the 2024–2025 Awards

Yin Sun

Yin Sun, a senior studying communication disorders and sciences and linguistics, focused her research on inner speech and its implications for people with aphasia, a neurogenic language disorder often caused by stroke. With guidance from mentor Dr. Juhi Kidwai, Sun’s project was accepted for presentation at the Clinical Aphasiology Conference 2025 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“The award allowed me to fully dedicate myself to research without financial pressure,” said Sun, who plans to pursue graduate studies at Indiana University Bloomington. “I’m forever grateful for this support.”

Lisa Echols

Lisa Echols, a senior in physiology, studied neuronal density changes in the brain following tooth loss in the naked mole-rat, a unique model for sensory research. Mentored by Dr. Diana Sarko, her work earned the Top Poster Award at SIU’s CARP Forum.

“The award let me focus on research during my final year,” said Echols, who plans to attend medical school and serve in a rural emergency department.

Prisha Kittu

Prisha Kittu, a junior in physiology, investigated the development of the pituitary gland through a grant-funded research project on congenital hypopituitarism. Under the mentorship of Dr. Buffy Ellsworth, she sharpened her skills in experimental design and lab work.

“Winning this award helped me cover college expenses and boosted my confidence,” said Kittu, who will apply to medical school for fall 2026.

Chloe Dennison

Chloe Dennison, a senior in nursing, researched the effects of vaping on youth mental health in rural schools and later gave in-person presentations to over 150 students.

“Even though our data didn’t confirm our original hypothesis, I know we made a difference,” Dennison said. She will begin her nursing career at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in the Heart Center.

Cohen Poe

Cohen Poe, a sophomore majoring in music, explored pre-college music education through the SIU Youth Orchestra. He composed and conducted a piece titled “Fanfare for a Fish” and taught music theory and aural skills.

“This experience expanded my résumé and gave me meaningful experience for graduate school,” Poe said. “I got paid to do something I enjoy. I’ll hold on to this experience my whole life.”

These stories demonstrate how Thrasher’s generosity is inspiring Salukis to embrace discovery, connect with mentors, and prepare for careers and graduate study.

“SIU emphasizes the value of undergraduate research, as reflected by our recognition as an R1 institution,” said Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis, vice chancellor for research and dean of the Graduate School. “Investment from our alumni is integral to continuing this mission. Thank you for providing the support that acts as a guiding light for our student researchers.”

For Thrasher, who once followed her professors’ advice into a career that combined science and finance, there is a sense of coming full circle.

“I’m grateful SIU gave me that opportunity—and I’m honored to help create it for others,” she said.

Local surgeon, wife leaving a legacy for local SIU students

Dr. Clay and Leticia DeMattei
Dr. Clay and Leticia DeMattei

By Jeff Wilson

Dr. Clay DeMattei, a general surgeon, wanted to give back to the people who supported his medical practice over the years. That is why he and his wife established the Dr. Clay and Leticia Soria DeMattei Scholarship Endowment Fund, which benefits students who come to SIU from Marion, Crab Orchard, and Goreville.

“Those are the main towns where my patients have come from,” Dr. DeMattei said. “I wanted to give back to the communities that have given to me.”

The donation comes in the form of a $1 million estate gift that will support students from those areas who major in art history or enter the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences.

After receiving his bachelor’s degree in science from Southern in 1978, Dr. DeMattei attended medical school at Loyola Stritch School of Medicine, graduating in 1981, and then Baylor College of Medicine for his surgical residency. He has practiced in Southern Illinois for decades.

“The university had a very good science department,” he said. “I was more than prepared for medical school when I left SIU. The science department is doing well, as shown by the school’s recent designation as R1.”

In February, Southern was named as a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale. More recently, SIU was also included in Carnegie’s list of Opportunity Colleges and Universities, making it one of only 21 institutions in the nation to earn both recognitions.

Dr. DeMattei’s parents, Clarence and Mary DeMattei, both graduated from SIU’s School of Education in the 1950s. Both were highly respected educators in the region, and his father was a well-known coach at Marion High School.

When choosing a college, medical school was not even on Dr. DeMattei’s mind. As a pole vaulter, he was interested in the Saluki Track & Field team.

“At the time, SIU had a top 10 track program, and they were recruiting local and afar,” he said. “They had just gotten a top-tier pole vault coach, Jan Johnson. He was an Olympian, who finished third in the Munich Olympics.”

A four-year letter winner at Southern, Dr. DeMattei participated in the NCAA Track and Field Championships in 1977. He was named SIU’s top male scholar athlete in 1978 and earned Missouri Valley Conference Scholar Athlete honors on several occasions.

The DeMatteis hope their gift eases the financial burden on the local families who send their children to SIU as the university looks to keep enrollment rising.

“It would be nice to have 15,000 students on campus,” Dr. DeMattei said. “That would do wonders for the people in those areas.”

To learn more about estate planning through the SIU Foundation, visit siufgiving.org or contact Michael Moore at michaelmo@foundation.siu.edu.