Category Archives: Donor Stories

Englert Commits $3 Million to Saluki Women’s Basketball

By Jeff Wilson, SIUSalukis.com

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Calling Craig Englert a diehard fan of Saluki Women’s Basketball might be an understatement.

A familiar face at nearly every women’s basketball game, Englert recently committed to a $3 million planned gift to support the team at Southern Illinois University.

Englert attended his first game in the mid-1980s, witnessing the Salukis win their first Gateway Conference championship and watching stars like Petra Jackson dominate the court. From 1989 to 2003, he traveled with the team every fall, attending games from San Juan to Nebraska.

His passion for Saluki Athletics was sparked by his father, DuWayne Englert, who served as a zoology professor at SIU from 1963 to 1999.

“Dad went to everything,” Craig Englert said. “He convinced me to go to my first women’s basketball game over in Davies Gym, and I got hooked.”

This historic gift follows a recent $4.5 million estate commitment supporting scholarships for female student-athletes. Together, these contributions underscore the Saluki community’s dedication to advancing women’s athletics.

“Our alumni are showing how vital all sports are to the success of Saluki Athletics,” said Tim Leonard, SIU director of athletics. “A gift like this from someone like Craig Englert tells a powerful story about the value of our programs.”

Saluki From the Start

Born in Lafayette, Indiana, Englert moved to Southern Illinois as an infant when his father accepted a faculty position at SIU. He later attended the university, graduating in 1985 with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and computer science. He was a student when the Saluki Football team won the 1983 national championship.

“I was working full time at Walmart, so I missed out on some of the student experience,” he said. “But I have no regrets. I enjoyed my time at SIU very much.”

After graduation, Englert struggled to find a job until he received an unexpected call in late 1987 with an opportunity to work for the Department of Defense.

“It was around Thanksgiving when I got a call offering me a job—without ever having done an interview,” he said. “It was in Washington, D.C. I only knew one person in that area when I moved.”

While in D.C., Englert pursued a master’s degree. One of his classmates worked for the same agency that supported a group at Scott Air Force Base in O’Fallon, Illinois.

She knew I wanted to move to that area. When they had a position open, she recommended me.” he said. “I moved back in September of 1990.”

Salukis Unleashed

Englert’s gift is part of the Salukis Unleashed initiative, which aims to generate $100 million in revenue for Saluki Athletics. The campaign will expand scholarship opportunities and enhance facilities, creating a premier experience for student-athletes, coaches, and fans.

“This gift reflects the incredible strength of the Saluki spirit,” said Saluki Women’s Basketball head coach Kelly Bond-White. “Our program is deeply grateful not only for Craig’s generous financial support, but for his unwavering passion for women’s basketball. Watching him and his brother, Kyle, cheer in the arena, standing behind our young women, is nothing short of inspiring.”

Salukis Unleashed is a key component of the university’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised more than $425 million toward its $500 million goal.

“I just want to make a difference,” Englert said. “I like helping people and making people smile. It’s my way of thanking the women’s basketball team for the years of enjoyment. I’m glad to help.”

To make a similar gift, visit give.siu.edu/athletics or contact Kat Martin at katm@foundation.siu.edu.

SIU names first school after a woman, honoring alumna Charlotte Thompson Suhler

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale made history Tuesday, Sept. 9, as more than 100 people gathered to dedicate the Charlotte Thompson Suhler School of Journalism and Advertising in the College of Arts and Media. The ceremony, held in the hallway of the journalism and advertising wing near the advisement office, honored Suhler’s generous gift to the school and marked the first time in SIU’s history that a school has been named for a woman.

“This doesn’t happen every day. In fact, this is an extraordinarily rare thing,” SIU System President Dan Mahony said. “Charlotte Thompson Suhler’s story is one of pioneering spirit, media leadership and steadfast philanthropy — a legacy that now inspires future generations of Salukis.”

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane said the naming ensures Suhler’s story will continue to inspire.

“Charlotte, your legacy will live on in these halls,” Lane said. “Years from now, students will walk through this space, see your name and be reminded of what is possible when Salukis dream big, work hard and give back.”

From Mount Vernon to New York media

Raised in Mount Vernon, Illinois, Suhler grew up working at the Mount Vernon Register-News, where her father and grandfather managed the paper. By age 16, she was managing advertising accounts and helping in the editorial department.

“I’m proud to be from SIU and Southern Illinois — and happy to be here today,” Suhler told the crowd.

At SIU, Suhler became one of the first women to major in advertising. She served as president of Tri Sigma sorority, helped organize the university’s first student protest and was in a headline-writing class the day students practiced fitting headlines on President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

During her senior year, she met John Suhler, a Kansas University student, at a professional conference in St. Louis. They later married and built distinguished careers in New York media, working alongside icons such as Clay Felker, Milton Glaser, Gloria Steinem, Jimmy Breslin and Tom Wolfe.

“This big, tall, good-looking guy walked up to me in St. Louis and said, ‘Hey, I hear it’s your birthday. It’s my birthday too. How would you like to celebrate?’” Suhler recalled. “I thought it was either the best line or the worst line — but it was true. We’ve been celebrating together ever since.”

In 2009, the couple co-founded the Suhler Family Investment Office to make equity investments in select small and early-stage media companies. Mr. Suhler also founded Veronis Suhler, an investment banking firm specializing in communication properties.

A legacy of leadership

Throughout her career, Suhler broke barriers for women in media and philanthropy. She helped connect Steinem with publisher Betty Harris, a pivotal meeting that helped launch Ms. Magazine. She later co-founded the Fairfield County Community Foundation and the Fund for Women and Girls, now the largest of its kind on the East Coast.

“I had the advantage of being the advocate and spokeswoman for women,” Suhler said. “I carried on communication in the best way I could — speaking up for women in ways they sometimes could not.”

Her ties to SIU remained strong. She served on the SIU Foundation Board, participated in the Dean’s National Industry Council and created a scholarship to support women in their junior and senior years.

“This is history for our school, our college and our entire university,” said Dr. Hong Cheng, dean of the College of Arts and Media. “The first school at SIU named after a woman honors a pioneering alumna and elevates a program already known for excellence.”

“Charlotte Thompson Suhler is the perfect role model for our students and Salukis everywhere,” said Jan Thompson, director of the Charlotte Thompson Suhler School of Journalism and Advertising. “She achieved remarkable success working alongside some of the most celebrated journalists of her time, and her charitable work reflects a selfless dedication to improving American life — all from a girl who grew up in Mount Vernon, Illinois.”

Former scholarship recipient Anne Fairfield, a 1999 graduate, credited Suhler’s support with giving her crucial opportunities.

“After receiving the Charlotte Thompson Suhler and Dorothy Morris Scholarships, I was able to achieve a personal goal by working for the Daily Egyptian in my final semester,” Fairfield wrote. “Aside from the financial support, there’s an intangible value to the example set by women supporting women.”

Strengthening SIU’s mission

Suhler’s gift will advance the school’s mission, which emphasizes lab-based learning where students gain professional experience in newsrooms, advertising campaigns and media projects from their first year.

“Charlotte Thompson Suhler’s remarkable generosity and pioneering spirit embody the very best of SIU,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Her gift not only honors her legacy as one of our trailblazing alumni but also ensures that future generations of Salukis will have the resources and inspiration to pursue their own bold paths in journalism and advertising.”

SIU is one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of nearly 4,000 — recognized by the Carnegie Classification as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University. Suhler’s gift reflects that dual mission, strengthening opportunities for students to learn, create and lead in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The dedication also supports Imagine SIU 2030, the university’s comprehensive fundraising campaign. To date, more than $422 million has been raised toward the $500 million goal.

Hanson Continues Lifetime of Support for Salukis

Amber Hanson wears Saluki gear and holds a photo of her and her late husband, Homer Hanson, at a Saluki event.

By Jeff Wilson, SIUSalukis.com

Amber Hanson has visited all seven continents, but her favorite destination remains SIU basketball and football games.

Establishing scholarships for student-athletes brings her a unique sense of joy.

“I’ve had a penguin run across my feet in Antarctica,” Hanson said over coffee at Common Grounds Coffee House in Carbondale. “But there’s something about being at a game and knowing you helped one of those players.”

Her generosity has earned her membership in the Big Dawg Leadership Society, which recognizes donors who contribute $25,000 or more over a five-year period to Saluki Athletics.

“I’m a diehard fan. I want both basketball and football to be successful. I’ve never bought into the idea of ‘it’s how you play the game’—I want to win with a capital W,” she said.

Saluki Family

Hanson earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from SIU and credits the university for laying the foundation for her success.

“I believe those to whom much is given should help students who may need a financial boost,” she said. “My husband was the son of a coal miner, and my parents were teachers, so we both came from humble beginnings. Now, I feel my family and I should repay our SIU debt, and we’ve contributed for many years.”

Amber and her late husband, Homer, are well known in Saluki circles. She served as the nurse at Carbondale Community High School for 30 years, while he worked as a pediatrician at the Carbondale Clinic.

“At one point, we knew just about every young person in Carbondale,” she said. “Some great Terriers went on to play for SIU, which is always special.”

The couple helped launch the tailgating tradition for Saluki Football.

“We brought our own tables and set everything up,” she said. “If it rained, we moved under the bleachers at McAndrew Stadium. If the weather was too bad, we hosted at our house.”

The Hansons traveled the world but rarely missed a basketball or football game.

“We were season ticket holders for 50 years, and I still am,” she said. “I’ve always loved sports. It was our social life.”

Salukis Unleashed

Hanson’s support is part of the Salukis Unleashed initiative, which aims to increase revenue for Saluki Athletics by $100 million. The campaign will expand scholarship opportunities and improve facilities, creating a premier experience for student-athletes, coaches, and fans.

Salukis Unleashed is a key component of the university’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised more than $422 million toward its $500 million goal.

To make a gift, visit give.siu.edu/athletics. For information about estate gifts, contact Kat Martin at katm@foundation.siu.edu.

Charlotte Thompson Suhler honored with SIU School of Journalism and Advertising naming

Charlotte Thompson Suhler headshotBy Britni Bateman

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale will name its School of Journalism and Advertising in the College of Arts and Media after alumna Charlotte Thompson Suhler in recognition of her recent gift to the school.

The dedication ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, in the journalism wing of the Communications Building, near the Daily Egyptian entrance. CAM students and staff will direct visitors. Chancellor Austin Lane, College of Arts and Media Dean Hong Cheng, and School of Journalism and Advertising Director Jan Thompson will deliver remarks. A reception will follow.

The School of Journalism and Advertising is one of six schools in the College of Arts and Media, which also includes the schools of Architecture, Art and Design, Media Arts, Music, and Theater and Dance. With this naming, it becomes the first school at SIU to be named for a woman.

Suhler’s gift will support the school’s mission, as determined by its director in consultation with the dean. Valuing both research and creative activity, the school is known for its lab-based learning model, where students gain professional-level training beginning in their first year. Newsrooms, labs, student organizations and class projects give them practical experience and help build résumés and portfolios that stand out in a competitive marketplace.

“Charlotte Thompson Suhler’s remarkable generosity and pioneering spirit embody the very best of SIU,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Her gift not only honors her legacy as one of our trailblazing alumni but also ensures that future generations of Salukis will have the resources and inspiration to pursue their own bold paths in journalism and advertising.”

Suhler, who attended SIU from 1961 to 1965, was among the first women to major in advertising.

“I was the only woman in my advertising classes,” she said. “Maybe I was the first woman to graduate as an advertising major. I didn’t think anything about it — it was just natural for me.”

“Mrs. Suhler’s legacy exemplifies courage, entrepreneurship and compassion. As a pioneering alumna, she has already distinguished our renowned School of Journalism and Advertising through her professional achievements. This transformative gift ensures her legacy will continue to inspire generations of students to come,” said Hong Cheng, dean of the College of Arts and Media. “On behalf of the college, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for her commitment to advancing our mission and empowering future leaders in journalism and advertising.”

Breaking barriers at SIU

Raised in Mount Vernon, Illinois, Suhler grew up in a newspaper family.

“By 16, I had my own advertising accounts and sometimes filled in on the editorial side,” she said. “The only thing I didn’t do was run the Linotypes.”

Still, she recalled, women were encouraged to choose “safe” career paths. “At the time, women were told, ‘You should get your teaching degree. You can always fall back on teaching,’” she said. “So, I did. I taught English and journalism and sponsored the award-winning newspaper at Mount Vernon Township High School for a year. But what I wanted was advertising.”

Black and white photo of Charlotte Thompson Suhler during her time at SIU.
Charlotte Thompson Suhler, pictured during her time at SIU Carbondale in the 1960s, will be the namesake of the School of Journalism and Advertising.

At SIU, she carved her own path. She joined the Tri Sigma sorority, where she became president, and helped organize, with the assistance of the student body president, the first student protest about changes for spring break, as well as sitting in classes where history unfolded.

“When President Kennedy was assassinated, we were in a headline-writing lab,” she said. “Tears were streaming down our faces as we counted type to fit: ‘Kennedy dies,’ ‘Kennedy assassinated.’ It was like being a real reporter. I still get teary about that.”

“Charlotte Thompson Suhler is the perfect role model for our students and Salukis everywhere,” said Jan Thompson, director of the School of Journalism and Advertising. “She achieved remarkable success working alongside some of the most celebrated journalists of her time, and her charitable work reflects a selfless dedication to improving American life — all from a girl who grew up in Mount Vernon, Illinois.”

A love story and a life in media

During her senior year, Suhler attended a professional meeting in St. Louis, where she met John Suhler, a Kansas University student. A year and a half later, they married, beginning a lifelong adventure in journalism, publishing and philanthropy.

Together, they worked at the center of New York media, surrounded by icons such as Clay Felker, Milton Glaser, Gloria Steinem, Jimmy Breslin and Tom Wolfe.

“It was the heyday of the communications business,” she said. “It was fun.”

In 2009, the couple co-founded the Suhler Family Investment Office to make equity investments in select small and early-stage media companies. Mr. Suhler also founded Veronis Suhler, an investment banking firm specializing in communication properties.

Champion for women and students

Throughout her career, Suhler broke barriers for women in media and beyond. Early on, she helped connect Gloria Steinem with publisher Betty Harris, a meeting that helped launch Ms. Magazine. Later, she helped establish child care centers for working parents, including one that placed her young daughter on the cover of Time magazine under the headline: “Who’s watching the kids?”

She also co-founded the Fairfield County Community Foundation and helped launch the Fund for Women and Girls, now the largest of its kind on the East Coast.

“We started with nothing,” she said. “It’s now the largest fund for women and girls on the East Coast.”

Her dedication to SIU remained strong. She served on the SIU Foundation Board from 1991 to 1997 and the Dean’s National Industry Council for the College of Mass Communications and Media Arts — now the College of Arts and Media — from 2004 to 2011. She also established a scholarship to support SIU women in their junior and senior years.

“I just wanted to help women continue,” she said. “I hope they look and say, ‘If she can do it, I can do it.’”

A legacy of opportunity at SIU

SIU holds a rare distinction as one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of nearly 4,000 — recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions for Higher Education 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. Suhler’s gift to the School of Journalism and Advertising embodies that mission, ensuring students can thrive in a rapidly evolving media world.

This contribution also supports Imagine SIU 2030, the SIU Foundation’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 foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17% of the student body.

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

To support the SIU College of Arts and Media, visit siuf.org/cam.

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.