Category Archives: Donor Stories

Donor Stories, Philanthropic Women, SIU

Husband, wife support students through retention scholarship

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By Jeff Wilson

Drs. Dan Elkins and Amelia Noël-Elkins are uniquely aware of the obstacles facing college students.

Dan, a 1993 SIU graduate, is the associate vice president for academic fiscal management at Illinois State University, and Amelia is the associate provost at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Together, they established the Elkins Student Support Scholarship within SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences. The fund provides financial support to current students, particularly to those seeking an internship to advance their career experience.

Drs. Dan Elkins and Amelia Noël-Elkins
Drs. Dan Elkins and Amelia Noël-Elkins attend the 2025 Saluki Ball.

“One of the big motivations for this was to help students who aren’t as fortunate, who do not have support in place,” Dan said.

While many scholarships are directed toward incoming students, both Dan and Amelia thought it was important to aid students who are already on their higher education journey.

“Sometimes we don’t openly acknowledge the fact that it’s almost harder to retain a student than it is to recruit them,” Amelia said. “The scholarship had to focus on helping students who might be facing a few hiccups along the way, might have a few roadblocks to be able to get over that hump and complete their degree.”

Many students, especially in the College of Health and Human Sciences, take on internships to gain valuable work experience and advance their education. Some of these internships last months and are unpaid.

“It was very intentional to make sure that the fund could be used for internships also to make sure students could advance their network and could be able to have professional opportunities and growth. We all know that sometimes internships lead to that first job.”

Dan’s father, Dr. Donald Elkins, worked at SIU as a professor of plant and soil sciences in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences. He established the college’s well-known Agbassadors program, and each year a faculty member is awarded the Donald M. Elkins Excellence Award. Donald Elkins passed away in 2013.

Dan was born and raised in Carbondale and earned a bachelor’s degree in recreation from the College of Health and Human Sciences in 1993. He then earned a master’s and doctoral degree from Indiana University.

“My dad was someone who knew what he wanted to do his whole life,” Dan said. “I, on the other hand, did not have a clear idea of what I wanted to do. I changed my major four times. It took me a long time to finish. My experience was a struggle of sorts, trying to find that direction. At SIU, I had tremendous support … so many people helped me. Many students do not have the support or resources that I did. We hope this gift affords students the opportunity to stay in school as they find their path.”

Amelia and Dan met while at Indiana University, and both have gone on to successful careers in higher education.

“I’m a Saluki by marriage,” Amelia said. “As we’ve become more engaged with the SIU community, I have been able to see the legacy that Dan and his dad have had at SIU.”

To learn more about making a similar impact, visit siuf.org.

Donor Stories, SIU

Celebrating Heritage: The Journey of Sunil Sinha

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Dr. Sunil Sinha’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep connection to his heritage. Born into a family originally from India, Sunil’s journey to the United States in the late ’60s marked the beginning of a remarkable path that would intertwine his professional achievements with his cultural roots.

After completing his residency in internal medicine, he joined the Carbondale Clinic and quickly established a busy practice. It was during this time that he began to consider how furthering his education might impact his career.

Sunil’s own academic journey led him to SIU, where he received an MBA at the College of Business Administration in 1998. Despite the challenges of balancing a busy clinical practice with his studies, Sunil found support and encouragement from faculty members, some of whom were family friends and even patients.

One of his most memorable experiences was a class with Dr. Reed Nelson, who taught organizational design and behavior.

“Dr. Nelson’s teaching style was quite entertaining, providing the class with a variety of perspectives on management styles and organizational cultures. His class was the one I enjoyed the most,” Sunil said.

The impact of his MBA was profound, opening doors for Sunil to transition from a full-time clinician to various roles in health care on a national stage. His first post-practice job was as the director of primary care at the VA Medical Center in Marion.

“A major consideration for me getting the job over several other more experienced candidates was the fact that I was the only one with an MBA. There was an assumption that the degree provided me with sufficient knowledge to lead the business side of medicine.” Sunil said.

Although that assumption turned out to be untrue, it opened the door to opportunities that built upon the experience he would go on to gain.

Sunil’s father, Dr. Atmesh Sinha, played a pivotal role in shaping his early life. As the first chairperson of the Department of Mining Engineering at Southern Illinois University, Dr. Sinha’s career spanned 25 years, leaving a legacy in Carbondale.

“My father has always been my strongest role model,” Sunil said. “His journey from a remote village in India to achieving degrees from several countries prior to arriving in the United States has been a constant source of inspiration for our family.”

Sunil’s career has been marked by groundbreaking moments and leadership roles. He proudly served as the second physician elected to the governing board of the American College of Healthcare Executives, an international professional society of over 40,000 health care leaders.

His ability to develop dyad partnerships in approaching complex clinical and operations challenges has been mutually beneficial, allowing him to navigate the intricacies of healthcare delivery with innovative solutions.

Reflecting on the challenges he faced in his field, Sunil emphasizes the importance of drawing on personal and team experiences to address situations, both new and old.

“Health care in general is a complex system with the expectation of delivering high-quality healthcare to diverse populations through a variety of payment mechanisms,” he explains. Sunil’s approach often involved taking calculated business risks to create sustainable solutions.

Sunil’s connection to SIU remains strong, driven by a desire to give back to the institution that played a crucial role in his career.

“My father had the opportunity to serve the university for 25 years. Including my wife (Rupali) and me, we have seven alumni from various colleges at SIU,” Sunil said.

He has served on the COBA External Advisory Board since 2000 and the Alumni Association Board since 2022. He is a member of the COBA Hall of Fame. Sunil and his wife have also created an endowed scholarship for current students at COBA, supporting initiatives that benefit both students and faculty.

As an advocate for young Asian American and Pacific Islander students aspiring to enter his industry, Sunil encourages them to embrace their diverse backgrounds and cultures as strengths.

“Don’t feel intimidated—let your diverse background and culture be the strength you bring to every role,” he said.

His message to the SIU community during AAPI Heritage Month is clear: “Be proud of your roots and origins. Share your passion, knowledge, and experiences to help address challenges and help others along their journeys of success.”

Sunil Sinha’s journey is a testament to the power of heritage, education, and perseverance. His story serves as an inspiration for future generations of AAPI leaders, reminding them to find their passion and pursue it with complete focus and energy.

As Sunil aptly puts it, “Paying it forward will help future generations of Salukis who, in turn, will hopefully keep the tradition going.”

Donor Stories, SIU

Craddock honored with COBA conference room naming

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Annette and Oyd Craddock
Annette and Oyd Craddock

By Jeff Wilson

Oyd Craddock knows firsthand how one opportunity can lead to a lifetime of success. That’s what he’s hoping to accomplish through his support of Southern Illinois University students.

He and his wife, Annette, recently donated $25,000 COBA Dean’s Club Endowment Fund. In honor of his generosity, the College of Business and Analytics named the Oyd Craddock Dean’s Conference Room inside Rehn Hall.

“It brings me tremendous joy to announce a remarkable gift from a tremendous supporter, Oyd Craddock,” said Dr. Marc Morris, dean of the College of Business and Analytics. “This conference room is much more than a space for meetings. It’s a place where innovative ideas will flourish. Every conversation held here, every decision made, and every new initiative developed will carry forward the legacy of generosity.”

Craddock ’80 led a stout Salukis defense in the late-70s. He was inducted into the Saluki Hall of Fame in 2004. He earned his bachelor’s degree in management from the College of Business. He is a Saluki Hall of Fame football player and member of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors.

“I’m a first-generation college graduate. I didn’t have role models in my home or community of folks who had gone on to graduate from college,” he said. “I was a kid in the 1960s. The opportunities for us in the Deep South, they just weren’t there. I was part of the generation that was going to break through.”

He credits his grandfather for pushing him toward education.

“The original inspiration for giving back comes from my upbringing,” he said. “My grandfather was a champion for us focusing on getting a great education. When I got my degree, my grandparents came to Carbondale to attend my graduation.”

Experiences he had at SIU led him directly to a fulfilling career.

“I worked for IBM for 31 years, and I was able to get started there with the assistance of the SIU Placement Office. They helped me with my résumé and interviews, and the director sent a letter of recommendation to IBM and other companies,” he said. “From start to finish, I had a wonderful experience at SIU.”

He attended New Orleans’ St. Augustine High School in the 1970s. His high school’s football team famously integrated the Louisiana High School Athletic Association in 1967. Craddock later decided to produce a film about the journey of the team’s coaches and players during that time, titled “Before the West Coast: A Sports Civil Rights Story.”

“This film is really a part of my life story,” Craddock said. “It tells the story of the trials and triumphs of the all-Black, boys’ Catholic high school that integrated the all-white athletic league in Louisiana. It was a breakthrough event to have integrated competition in sports in high schools back then.”

All of this has led Craddock to see the impact that Black alumni can have by giving back to Southern.

“It has tremendous meaning for Black students who are there today and who we hope will experience SIU in the future,” he said. “One of the things I’m very excited about is that I lived to see the day … our chancellor is a Black man … the dean of the business school that I attended is a Black man … and I’m here being a part of that.”

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

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

Gilbert honors father with $250K gift to SIU Simmons Law School

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School unveils the Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite

By Jeff Wilson

CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University’s Simmons Law School announced a generous $250,000 gift from Judge Phil Gilbert, a monumental contribution that will establish the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of Judge Gilbert’s father. This transformative donation promises to significantly enhance the educational experiences and opportunities available to SIU’s law students.

In honor of this remarkable gift, SIU Simmons Law School unveiled the newly named Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite on Thursday, April 17.

“This name is more than just a sign on a wall, it reflects our vision, our mission, and the values that guide us every day,” said Angela Upchurch, acting dean of the SIU Simmons Law School. “SIU and the law school are thriving today because of pioneers like Senator Gilbert.”

Gilbert’s dedication to education and his legacy of public service are exemplified through this contribution. The Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund will directly support initiatives that enrich the student experience, provide scholarships, and facilitate groundbreaking research in the field of law.

“With distinction and honor, Judge Phil Gilbert has carried forward his father’s commitment to justice and public service,” said John Simmons, SIU Board of Trustees member and founder of the Simmons Hanly Conroy law firm. “Following in his father’s footsteps, Judge Gilbert has built an exemplary career. His thoughtful jurisprudence, unwavering integrity, and dedication to the rule of law have earned him the respect of the legal community and the citizens he serves.”

A father’s legacy

John G. Gilbert, a native of Carbondale, graduated from SIU in 1933 and later attended the University of Illinois School of Law before starting his private practice.

He served as Jackson County state’s attorney and was a state senator. He played a key role in the development of SIU Edwardsville and the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, working alongside SIU President Delyte Morris. He was also integral to the establishment of the law school at SIU Carbondale.

“Seeing the impact this law school has had on Southern Illinois, my father would be very proud,” said Judge Gilbert. “My father was labeled as the ‘education senator,’ and that was not just because of what he did at SIU. He was a strong supporter of education at all levels.”

When Gilbert passed away in 1989, then-U.S. Sen. Paul Simon acknowledged Gilbert’s significant contributions to education, stating that “SIU wouldn’t be what it is today without John Gilbert’s efforts.”

Although SIU System President Dan Mahony never had the chance to meet Sen. John G. Gilbert, he recognizes the impact he made on his son, Phil, and the SIU community.

“Judge Gilbert really is Mr. SIU,” Dr. Mahony said. “He cares about this place, he is passionate about this place, he puts this place first. While I never met Sen. Gilbert, I feel like I have because I know a lot of what Phil does was impacted by his father.”

Continuing the mission

A lifelong resident of Carbondale, Judge Gilbert joined the SIU Board of Trustees in 2015 and was reappointed in 2021. He served on the Illinois State Board of Elections, acting as chair and vice chair. He also served on the Election Reform Commission and the National Council on Governmental Ethics Laws.

“Today we celebrate a legacy that spans generations and has left an indelible mark on Southern Illinois,” said Ed Hightower, vice chair of the SIU Board of Trustees. “We’re not just honoring one Gilbert, we’re celebrating two – two men who dedicated themselves to making a difference, two men whose commitment to SIU has helped shape its past, present, and future.”

Gilbert was a partner at Gilbert, Kimmel, Huffman & Prosser, Ltd. He was then appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court as a circuit judge in the First Judicial Circuit, serving as a state court judge until his federal appointment. He later became a United States district judge for the Southern District of Illinois and served as chief judge. During his federal tenure, he completed a six-year term on the Judicial Conference Committee on Criminal Law.

In March 2014, Gilbert assumed Senior Status but continues to contribute significantly as a senior judge. Gilbert received the Silver Gavel Award from the criminal defense bars of the Southern District of Illinois and the Eastern District of Missouri, the SIU School of Law Founders’ Medal, and Loyola School of Law’s Distinguished Jurist Award.

“Judge Gilbert, thanks to you and thanks to your family,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “This is an incredible gift, and your legacy will live on.”

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement

Gower Translational Research Center dedicated

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Gower Ribbon Cutting
The Gower Translational Research Center was dedicated Friday, April 11.

Dr. Bob and Beth Gower honored for continued support of research at SIU

By Jeff Wilson

CARBONDALE – The impact made by Dr. Bob and Beth Gower will be forever imprinted into the university’s future at the Gower Translational Research Center.

The Gowers have been generous donors to Southern for many years. Most recently, they dedicated $2.5 million to advance the mission and support the research activities taking place across campus.

“A lot of what we’re trying to accomplish moving forward isn’t possible without the support of people like Beth and Bob, who help carry us forward,” Chancellor Austin Lane said.

In honor of this transformational gift, the SIU Board of Trustees voted Thursday, Dec. 5, that the McLafferty Annex, located at 1785 University Press Drive in Carbondale, be named the Gower Translational Research Center. The ribbon-cutting and naming ceremony for the center was Friday, April 11.

“I expect SIU to be a leader here,” Dr. Bob Gower said. “Innovation, in the future, will come from research universities like SIU working in cooperation with entrepreneurs. This building may one day be considered the heart of SIU.”

The Impact

Their $2.5 million gift is yet another major step in the SIU Foundation’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of raising $500 million by July 2028, the campaign currently sits at more than $396 million. It is the fifth largest campaign in the history of public universities in Illinois.

“This ribbon cutting marks more than a new name on a building, it represents a legacy of vision, innovation, and generosity,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “With their transformational gift, Bob and Beth have made an investment not just in bricks and mortar but in the ideas that will change the world.”

This event comes on the heels of the recent news of SIU joining the ranks of the Ivy League this February when it was 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.

The Gowers

Bob Gower, a West Frankfort native, graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry in 1958 and 1960, respectively. He met his wife, Beth, while both were studying at SIU. She graduated in 1961. Dr. Gower earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. He is the founder and executive chairman of Ensysce Biosciences, a biotech company that develops tamper-proof and abuse-resistant prescription drugs.

Before their latest gift, the Gowers established the Bob G. & Mary Beth Gower Scholarship Endowment in SIU’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, which has benefited more than 50 students. They also established the Beth & Bob Gower Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences.

Dr. Gower is a two-time recipient of the SIUC Alumni Achievement Award from the College of Science (1988, 2008). He is a Distinguished Alumnus of the college and was inducted into the Chemistry & Biochemistry Hall of Fame in 1997. He served as a member of the steering committee for the university’s Opportunity Through Excellence campaign and as a member of the Chemistry & Biochemistry Advisory Committee. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the university in 2018. The Gowers, who reside in Houston, have three adult daughters and several grandchildren.

“This is a really special day for our family,” Beth Gower said. “I love this university. It’s perfect. What I hope other people see is this: These Gower people must have a lot of faith in Southern Illinois University. They must feel that translational research is exciting and important to the future of the world. They must feel sure that the scientists at SIU are ready to do this work.”

The Center

The Gower Translational Research Center is a hub of high-level research. In October 2024, SIU dedicated a $7.2 million BioLaunch lab in the center. The 10,000-square-foot space is dedicated to life sciences research and more.

Funded in part by a $2.7 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Wet Lab Program, BioLaunch is the newest addition to the Illinois Food, Entrepreneurship, Research, and Manufacturing (iFERM) Hub, a state-of-the-art research and training suite for faculty use, students, start-up companies, and private firms in the region. iFERM capitalizes on the university’s research and innovation into food, fermentation, and biotechnology. In 2021, the SIU Foundation provided a $1.1 million grant to advance the progress on the Fermentation Science Institute, which is inside the center.

“Research at SIU Carbondale is moving from the lab to the real world—leading to patents, small businesses, and even partnerships with large corporations,” said Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis, vice chancellor of research and dean of the graduate school.

The center is also home to the Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, and an ultra-fast laser facility, further enhancing its role as a center for diverse research initiatives.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

Leading from the front: Poshards sponsor Saluki Ball

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Jo and Glenn Poshard
Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are sponsoring the third annual Saluki Ball.

By Jeff Wilson

For the third straight year, Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are the presenting sponsor of the Saluki Ball.

After two years in Chicago, this year’s Saluki Ball will be Saturday, April 26, in the SIU Student Center Ballrooms in Carbondale. The ball is a major fundraiser for funds that bridge the gap for students who are pursuing their degree at Southern. The funds are given to deserving students who need assistance with their bursar bill to stay enrolled and graduate on time.

“The research shows that if a student has to take a break because of financial issues, they have less of a chance of graduating,” Dr. Poshard said. “When we support young students with scholarships, we make it more possible for them, not just to graduate and get a job, but to be good citizens of a democracy.”

Since its launch, the Saluki Ball has fueled powerful momentum for the Bridge the Gap Fund—an initiative that is changing lives across campus. This fund ensures that students facing unexpected financial hardship can stay enrolled and on track toward graduation.

To date, dozens of students have received tens of thousands of dollars through the Bridge the Gap Fund, allowing them to resolve bursar balances and continue their education without disruption. Its ability to respond quickly to each student’s unique circumstances makes it one of the most impactful and actively used funds at SIU.

The Poshards encourage other SIU alumni and donors to follow their lead, purchase tickets to the ball or become a sponsor at salukiball.siu.edu.

“I can guarantee you there is someone out there 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. “It’s not a question of ‘Is there a need?’ The need is huge! If anybody is thinking about it, don’t hold back. There is a student out there whose life is going to be changed by you stepping up.”

Lifetimes of service

Dr. Poshard is a three-degree graduate of SIU, receiving a bachelor’s in secondary education in 1970, a master’s in educational administration in 1974, and a Ph.D. in administration of higher education in 1984.

“I credit SIU with whatever success I’ve been able to have in my life,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do any of the things I’ve been blessed to do without my roots being right here at this university.”

He taught high school and served as the director of the Southern Illinois Educational Service Center in Benton until 1984 after being elected to the Illinois State Senate. In 1989, he earned a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. He ran for governor in 1998 and left Congress the following year.

Dr. Poshard returned to SIU in 1999 as the vice chancellor of administration, where he served until his appointment to the SIU Board of Trustees in 2004. At the start of 2006, he was hired as the SIU system president, serving in that role until 2014.

“I was always proud of the academic prowess of this university, in fact the whole system,” Dr. Poshard said. “The SIU campus always had a place in my heart. I would get out and walk campus myself from time to time to remember what it’s about and who it’s for.”

Jo Poshard is a 1971 alumna of SIU’s College of Education. She is a retired schoolteacher, who has served on numerous university and community boards.

“SIU is very important to me. It means a lot to our family. We have quite a history here, and we’re very proud of SIU,” she said.

Together, they started the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, which raises funds to care for abused children and victims of domestic abuse throughout Southern Illinois. The Poshards are longtime benefactors of SIU and many local charities.

The Saluki Ball

This black-tie optional event raises funds that bridge the financial gap for students who need assistance staying enrolled at SIU. When a student needs help with their bursar bill, these funds help keep them in school and on track for graduation. This support is invaluable in Southern’s mission to increase enrollment, enhance retention efforts, and support its students from start to finish.

Each of the past two years, hundreds of Salukis and SIU supporters have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through the ball.

“Our focus is on our students, especially those who need your help the most,” said Chancellor Lane. “We must ensure the students that we bring to Carbondale or who enroll in online courses are able to stay enrolled and finish with their degree.”

Students who have received funds that help them stay in school have shared the impact it has made on them.

“People who didn’t even know me believe in me and took the time to invest in my future,” said SIU student Francesca Stewart. “It prevented me from having to go back home.”

The funds that bridge the gap between semesters are core to the university’s mission of accessibility. Keeping students enrolled is integral to continuing the momentum at SIU.

“Receiving bridge-the-gap funds was major for me because I was on that line of whether I was going to finish my semester,” said student George Douglas IV. “That call saying I was getting alumni support, it changed everything. It changed my future.”

The evening will begin with a cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. There will be a live musical performance from multi-platinum recording artists Exposé at 8:30 p.m., and the evening will wrap up with a DJ and dancing at 9:30 p.m.

The Saluki Ball features numerous sponsorship opportunities, ranging from $50,000 to $5,000. Each sponsorship includes varying levels of benefits and recognition before and during the event. Tables of 8 are $1,600, and individual tickets are $200.

Get your tickets or become a sponsor at salukiball.siu.edu.

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.