Category Archives: Donor Stories

Thrasher Champions Undergraduate Research at SIU

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

By Britni Bateman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The impact of her investment is already being felt.

Student Spotlights from the 2024–2025 Awards

Yin Sun

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

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

Lisa Echols

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

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

Prisha Kittu

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

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

Chloe Dennison

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

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

Cohen Poe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local surgeon, wife leaving a legacy for local SIU students

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

By Jeff Wilson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Campus Lake Fountain Expected to Be Completed by August 2025

By Ava Steffens 

Construction of the new Campus Lake fountain is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025 school year. The cascade-style spout will be located just offshore near the Becker Boathouse. The project is funded by a gift from the late Tilden “Tim” Parks, a 1976 SIU graduate, along with contributions from more than 200 donors. 

Mark Owens, director of Facilities and Energy Management, said the fountain serves both aesthetic and environmental purposes. 

“It also keeps the water cooler in that area, which is better for the environment and the aquatic life living in the lake,” he said. 

A 500-foot cable will run beneath the surface of Campus Lake, and a 25-horsepower motor will continuously propel water. The shoreline’s power source will also control a timer to regulate water levels. 

“We are so excited for this new addition, as Campus Lake is one of the most beloved features on campus,” said Corne Prozesky, director of the SIU Recreation Center. “It’s going to bring such beauty to Campus Lake.” 

Salukis are buzzing with excitement about the lake’s functional and fashionable new feature. 

“It helps people experience nature as they walk,” said Jean Minor, former chief academic advisor for the College of Arts and Media, who walks the Campus Lake path multiple times a week. “The fountain will also create a meditative space where people do not necessarily have to be busy walking. They can simply sit and watch it if they choose.” 

The project will also include lighting around the fountain to illuminate the west side of campus. In addition to circulating the lake’s water, the fountain will help prevent the spread of harmful algae. 

James Herald III, a fisherman who frequents Campus Lake, said the shore is an ideal spot to unwind, as it’s usually not too crowded. 

“The scenery is perfect. It’s amazing that a lake itself encourages the whole community to come together,” he said. 

Nearly 80,000 visitors enjoy Campus Lake annually. The lake also hosts the annual Great Cardboard Boat Regatta in the spring, a family-friendly event that draws hundreds of participants and spectators. 

To learn more about the Campus Lake fountain project, visit give.siu.edu/campus-lake-fountain.

A Journey of Fate and Gratitude: Man Nguyen’s Saluki Story

In October 1971, Man Nguyen arrived in Carbondale from Vietnam with three high school friends, the support of his family, and a dream of one day returning to his homeland. Encouraged by the older brother of one of his friends who was already attending Southern Illinois University, Nguyen applied and was accepted—a decision that would mark the beginning of a life-changing chapter.

“I feel blessed by fate to have ended up in Carbondale,” Nguyen said. “I had never heard of Southern Illinois University or seen what Carbondale looked like back in Vietnam.”

Upon arrival, Nguyen and his friend Long Nguyen (no relation) were welcomed into the home of Mr. Earl Caspers, a lecturer in SIU’s School of Education who was pursuing a doctoral degree. “Mr. Caspers acted like a father figure,” Nguyen recalled. “He made us breakfast and dinner, took us to and from campus—what a wonderful human being. I still think of him as a saint. I’ve often asked myself, would I have done the same?”

All Vietnamese students at the time were required to complete the Center for English as a Second Language (CESL) program before beginning SIU coursework. Eventually, Nguyen and Long moved into their own apartment but remained close with Caspers. “After he finished his Ph.D. in 1973, he moved to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville but returned for our graduation in 1975. What a touching moment. He was a true friend to all the Vietnamese students.”

Nguyen’s academic path was further supported by Jared Dorn, SIU’s international student advisor at the time, who awarded him a tuition waiver. This enabled Nguyen to remain at the university and complete his undergraduate studies. To cover room and board, he worked part-time as a janitor at the Student Center, earning $1.60 per hour. Nguyen and other Vietnamese students lived off campus at 319 1/2 E. College, paying $96 per quarter in rent during the university’s quarter system years.

“We enjoyed college life, studied hard, and had fun too,” he said. “We hung out at Jim’s Pizza, Dairy Queen, and the Varsity Theater downtown.”

After graduating in 1975 with a degree in mathematics, Nguyen embarked on a career in information technology. He first joined Lockheed Electronics in Houston, a NASA contractor supporting the space shuttle program. He later worked for Marathon Oil as an IT consultant, where he had an unexpected encounter with SIU alumna and retired NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham. She autographed a photo of herself featured on the cover of the March 2007 SIU Alumni Magazine, which he still keeps.

Nguyen eventually retired after a distinguished career with Lockheed, Marathon Oil, and SAIC, a global technology company. His work allowed him to travel internationally to countries such as Ireland, Tunisia, Egypt, India, and Indonesia. Throughout his life, Nguyen has returned to SIU Carbondale many times to reflect, reconnect, and enjoy the campus—especially in the fall.

This year, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of his graduation, Nguyen established the Man and Lien Nguyen Mathematics & Computer Science Scholarship Fund with a $25,000 gift. The fund will provide two annual scholarships: one for a student majoring in mathematics or computer science, and another for a student majoring in mechanical engineering. The latter is in memory of his friend Long Nguyen, who graduated alongside him in 1975 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

“Retention is so important,” Nguyen said. “I want students to finish their SIU degrees. I’m thankful for that tuition waiver that kept me at SIU, and I want my scholarship to do the same for someone else.”

Nguyen returned to SIU this May to celebrate his 50th reunion—an emotional experience that also gave him the opportunity to reconnect with Mr. Dorn, who still resides in Carbondale.

“We spent countless hours sharing SIU stories, then and now,” Nguyen said. “I feel so thankful—grateful—for Mr. Caspers’ generosity and Mr. Dorn’s kindness more than half a century ago that allowed me to stay and earn an SIU degree.”

Would he relive his college days at SIU if given the chance?

“Absolutely,” Nguyen said. “I’m proud of my alma mater, proud to be a Saluki, and most importantly, proud to be an American.”

Man Nguyen (center) joins Jen Badiu, director of development, and Chancellor Austin Lane at the Chancellor’s Reception during the Saluki Takeover Tour in Houston.

Brewer invests in art education at SIU

Dr. Tom Brewer
Dr. Tom Brewer poses with some of his pieces.

Accomplished artist, educator endows scholarship

By Ava Steffens

Thomas Brewer, Ph.D., an accomplished artist and educator, is a strong advocate for visual art education in public schools and universities.

To honor that passion, he established the Dr. Thomas M. Brewer Art Education Scholarship. The scholarship supports students pursuing teaching careers in the visual arts, reflecting his purpose of making the field accessible to young, creative minds.

“For a student to receive a few thousand dollars to use to attend a nearby conference during their undergraduate years is major. Who knows where the opportunity will lead them from there,” said Brewer, a 1973 graduate of Southern Illinois University’s College of Arts and Media.

Brewer attended Southern between 1969 and 1973, graduating with a bachelor’s in art education and ceramics. He and other students had an art studio near former SIU architecture professor Buckminster Fuller’s Dome-style home in Carbondale.

After graduation, he worked as a full-time artist and obtained a master’s in art from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a Ph.D. in art education from Florida State University. Now a professor emeritus of art education at the University of Central Florida, Brewer taught for 35 years and served as the coordinator of art education at UCF for 20 of those years. He currently works and lives in Urbana, and his artwork continues to be featured worldwide.

Brewer established the scholarship in his name, allowing art and design students to kick-start their careers just as SIU helped him. The aim is to provide recipients with the necessary resources to foster an experience beyond the classroom while inspiring real-world professional development.

“Because of how it helped me, I could at least contribute back to SIU for a few students, especially for whom a scholarship might be helpful,” he said.

Throughout his educational journey, Brewer credits teachers for opening the doors to success, inspiring him to do the same for others.

“There’s an inherent accomplishment when art is taught in a way that is consecutive, sequential, and that has continuity,” he said. “Beyond exercising creativity, problem-solving, and motor skills, art, in any form, can be a driving force for academic growth. My teaching and advocacy for the visual arts in education is more far-reaching than my own artwork.”

Brewer hopes his continued commitment to SIU will motivate students, inspire others to donate, and strengthen the university’s dedication to art and ceramic education.

To learn more about making a gift, visit siuf.org.

Soaring High: Chris Sims’ Journey from Aspiring Pilot to Aviation Mentor

Chris Sims
Chris Sims visited SI Airport during the United Career Day in October 2024.

By Ava Steffens

Chris Sims, a 30-year United Airlines pilot and SIU School of Aviation alumnus, believes those who share a boundless passion for flying deserve to be uplifted just as he was.

In support of that belief, he recently established the John and Carol Sims Aviation Scholarship. The scholarship is named after his parents.

“A dream is only a dream until it becomes reality. It does not become a reality unless you have some help along the way,” he said.

Originally from Naperville, Illinois, he attended SIU from 1990 to 1994.

“Between the location, price, and convenience, the decision was a no-brainer,” he said.

Soon after graduating, he interned at United Airlines through a program offered by the School of Aviation, which provided a direct pathway to becoming a United Airlines pilot after college.

Sims’ passion for aviation began when he was 5 years old during his first plane ride. This moment ignited a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. Thrilled by the idea of flying, his love for aviation deeply influenced him throughout his entire life.

“You couldn’t even tell me what colors my walls were, my room was so full of airplane models,” he said.

He found the United Airlines internship at SIU while he was still a junior in high school.

“My father told me to look at this little school in Southern Illinois. I remember seeing the Saluki logo next to the United logo, and knowing it was meant to be,” Sims said.

Working weekends at SI Airport as a student and flight instructor, he did not even have time to attend a football game until after he graduated. Although he pushed himself as a Saluki, he credits SIU and its unique programs with helping him transition from a student to a professional full-time pilot.

“There was a lot of work, but there was also a lot of opportunity,” he said.

Sims felt inspired to give back while reflecting on his time as a student. Now in his 50s, he remains grateful for the support he received. Along with establishing a scholarship, he is now dedicated to serving as an Aviate Ambassador to SIUC, United Career Day Flight Facilitator, and Aviate Program Mentor at flight schools nationwide.

United Career Day
United Career Day

“I reached a point when I realized how fortunate I was and that now was the time to give back. So many people’s handprints lined the path for me to get here,” he said.

Sims named the scholarship after his parents, who were his inspiration to pursue an aviation career.

“My parents would take me to the airport just to watch the planes on the runway,” he said.

To apply for the scholarship, students must write about the day, moment, or event that made them realize they wanted to pursue a career in flight.

“If a student has passion, they should at least be provided with the opportunity to make that happen,” Sims said.

To make a gift, visit siuf.org.

Husband, wife support students through retention scholarship

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,” Amelia said.

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.

Celebrating Heritage: The Journey of Sunil Sinha

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.”

Craddock honored with COBA conference room naming

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 to the 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.

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

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.”

Senator 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.”