By Ava Steffens

For Angela Gary Miller, the Clemens Scholarship for Women Lawyers helped make the difference between continuing her education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and leaving law school because of financial challenges.

Now a second-year student at Simmons Law School, Miller is pursuing her goal of expanding access to legal services in rural and underserved communities.

At 52, Miller is a nontraditional student who returned to school after raising four daughters, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human resources and building her own human resources consulting business.

Originally from Charleston, Missouri, Miller chose Simmons Law School because of its proximity to her hometown, affordability and welcoming environment.

“The vibe at SIU was just right,” Miller said. “The most distinguished thing was the professionalism of all the law school personnel. It was every person who I encountered, too, from the student who gave me the tour, to admissions director Layla Murphy.”

Although Miller describes SIU as affordable, financing her legal education was a significant challenge. To attend law school, she closed her human resources business to focus entirely on her studies. Because she applied late, she did not receive scholarship assistance during her first year.

“The majority of my stress last year was about finances,” she said.

Miller recalled one morning when she had only a piece of bread to eat because she could not afford anything else. The financial strain left her questioning whether she could continue law school or would need to return to work.

When she received the email notifying her of the scholarship, Miller felt both relief and excitement.

“The scholarship was the difference in me returning,” Miller said.

Miller’s interest in advocacy began during her senior year of high school, when a medical misdiagnosis left her mother critically injured. Doctors initially attributed her mother’s symptoms to the flu, but she had experienced a brain aneurysm.

Her mother was left partially paralyzed with a permanent skull injury. The family wanted to seek legal help, but few legal resources were available in their hometown.

“I keep seeing these things repeated over and over again, especially in rural and minority communities,” Miller said.

She cited disparities in school discipline and unequal access to opportunities as examples of issues that continue to affect underserved communities. Limited financial resources can further restrict access to legal representation.

Those experiences helped shape Miller’s goal of bringing legal resources to rural and low-income communities, where residents often struggle to find or afford an attorney.

“Most of the time, you just need to talk to an attorney for the information,” Miller said. “We see the biggest discrepancies in poor communities.”

Miller hopes to serve areas that she describes as “legal deserts.” She plans to build on experience she has already gained working with legal aid organizations in Illinois and Louisiana, with an emphasis on civil rights, voting rights, housing issues and expungement clinics.

Last semester, Miller and her mother both faced health challenges. As Miller managed her own medical condition, she said her classmates supported her through a difficult time.

“While my truck was in the shop, they made sure they drove me home, which was an hour away,” she said, remembering when she received an urgent call in class about her mother, and a classmate took her back to Charleston. After she returned, they presented her with a “well-wishes” card, where many of her classmates signed and left kind notes. “They were checking in on me, and they really sat with me through a difficult time in my mother’s health.”

Professor Thomas Reichert, whom Miller called “one of the smartest human beings on the face of the earth,” also supported her through those challenges. After she attended class while experiencing symptoms, Reichert stayed afterward to help her research possible treatment options and connect her with resources.

“The faculty of the law school are just incredible human beings,” Miller said. “I don’t know how many other professors would reach out to a student like that just to make sure they’re OK.”

Those experiences reinforced what Miller values most about the Simmons Law School community.

“I think their goal is for us to succeed,” she said. “They’re not handing us anything, but they’re not making it cumbersome to achieve a goal either.”

With support from the Clemens Scholarship for Women Lawyers and the SIU community, Miller is continuing her education and working toward her goal of expanding access to legal services. She hopes to begin serving rural communities near her hometown before extending that work to other underserved areas.

Receiving scholarship support has also inspired Miller to help future students one day.

“I know I’m not the only one struggling,” she said. “If I could alleviate this struggle for another person, I’m going to do that.”

Alumni Darin and Beth Boggs established the Clemens Scholarship for Women Lawyers and have supported students through several other scholarships.

Miller said the scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It is an investment in her potential and the communities she hopes to serve.

“I can’t express how grateful I am,” Miller said. “For somebody to see the potential in what I want to do and support me means the world to me.”

Scholarships such as the Clemens Scholarship for Women Lawyers advance SIU’s commitment to discovery, access and student opportunity. SIU is one of 21 universities nationwide among 4,000 institutions to hold the dual Carnegie Classification of Research 1 and Opportunity University.

For those inspired by Miller’s story, supporting scholarships through the SIU Foundation is a meaningful way to invest in future Salukis. Your contributions open pathways and help create life-changing opportunities. To make a gift, visit siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Scholarship recipient T’Andrea Jones, a senior from Ford Heights, Illinois, is majoring in communication studies with a minor in Africana studies at Southern Illinois University. As a first-generation college student, Jones and her family were both enthusiastic about her starting her Saluki journey.

“At first I thought about choosing a historically Black college or university, but I saw a lot of people who were my skin color thriving at SIU,” she said. “I didn’t know about all of the resources SIU had for people like me.”

When she first arrived at SIU, Jones planned to pursue criminology but later changed her major. She credits her academic advisor with guiding her toward communication studies and says program instructors and faculty members motivated her.

“It involved talking and interacting with your classmates, and I instantly fell in love with it,” she said. “There are classes like persuasion, broadcasting, interpersonal communication and small group communication, and they’re all so much fun.”

Among all the courses, content creation stood out as Jones’ favorite. The class allowed her to explore media communication through digital formats such as podcasts and social media. She credits professors Dustin Greenwalt, Jonathan Gray and Benjamin Bricker for their guidance and encouragement.

While enrolled in communications courses, Jones faced both personal and financial challenges. As a first‑generation college student, she described having a “lack of a blueprint” when navigating life away from her family. With support from campus resources like Counseling and Psychological Services and encouragement from her professors, she applied for scholarships that allowed her to remain enrolled. Receiving those scholarships marked a turning point, improving both her mindset and overall college experience.

“When I got it, I was super ecstatic. It was when I first started to really feel at home at SIU, especially with my major,” she said. “It makes me feel so appreciative, like I was wanted at SIU. I will be forever and graciously honored.”

In addition, Jones and her family were the Saluki Family of the Year finalists. The award recognizes families of SIU students based on commitment to the university or family legacy.

“That’s a top-tier experience, because I love being a Saluki,” she said. “My mom was so happy, especially when she got all the SIU gear. I wear my maroon and white all the time.”

After graduation, Jones plans to become a peer mentor and encourage young people from her community to pursue college. She hopes to inspire others to consider careers in communication‑related fields.

“You can do so much with it, including going into public relations,” she said.

Before her senior year, Jones said she was a few thousand dollars behind on her bursar bill, which prevented her from moving into on-campus housing. She said alumni support inspires her, especially as someone who comes from a small neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago.

“It just motivated me to go even harder and encourage freshmen to pursue the field,” she said.

Jones is the recipient of the Saluki Belonging Scholarship, the Robert Carr Speech Communication Scholarship and the College of Liberal Arts Undergraduate Scholarship. Since her mother pays for schooling on her own, she said she is especially thankful for the support.

“It took a big load off my mom’s shoulders, since she was trying to figure out a way to pay, and it looked like I would have to take a semester off,” she said.

Jones is optimistic about her future. She has received job offers in her field from companies including Warner Bros. and Tyler Perry Studios. She plans to pursue a master’s degree and eventually a doctorate while giving back to SIU.

“SIU was the perfect place for anybody who’s a first-generation student,” she said. “The resources that were available to help me are what got me here, and for that I will always be grateful.”

The College of Liberal Arts Undergraduate Scholarship is funded by a pool of multiple donors. Initiatives like this contribute to SIU’s distinction as one of only 21 universities nationwide classified as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University,reflecting its commitment to discovery, access and student opportunity.

For those inspired by T’Andrea Jones’ story, supporting scholarships through the SIU Foundation is a meaningful way to invest in future Salukis. Your contribution opens pathways and helps create life‑changing opportunities. To give, visit siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Trinity Stroisch, a senior, overcame the challenges of being a first-generation college student with the support of scholarships. She discovered a passion for marketing during her time at SIU

Although her parents did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education, they instilled the desire to learn in Stroisch from an early age. Her mother, who raised Stroisch and her sister on her own, and her father, who lives in Mexico, both encouraged her to pursue a college degree.

When financial challenges emerged in the months leading up to her final year, Stroisch searched for solutions and secured multiple scholarships. She completed SIU’s general scholarship application and pursued outside financial aid opportunities. Her persistence paid off, and she ultimately secured enough grants to fully cover her tuition.

“My mom cried,” Stroisch said. “She was so incredibly proud. It was no longer just something she wanted me to do. It became something she was preparing me to do.”

Stroisch received primary support from the College of Business and Analytics Student Scholarship, which includes contributions from multiple donors. She also received funding from the McPheeters Family Scholarship.

The COBA Student Scholarship supports students pursuing business-related majors, including finance, hospitality and marketing. Multiple donors help sustain the scholarship, which is awarded based on factors such as financial need and academic performance.

“I went down the list and applied for every single scholarship I was eligible for,” Stroisch said. “I was so relieved when I received the support because college was something I always knew I wanted to do.”

Drawn to SIU by its stunning campus, its wide range of academic programs, and its proximity to her hometown of Bement, Illinois, Stroisch said she knew SIU was the perfect place to pursue her goals.

In high school, she excelled academically and beyond the classroom, participating in numerous extracurricular activities and graduating as valedictorian.

She carried that momentum into college by embracing opportunities to grow. Stroisch joined Greek life, worked as a university tour guide, and became involved with the First Saluki Center. With graduation now on the horizon, she has multiple job offers in different cities.

Throughout her college journey, Stroisch explored several business majors before selecting marketing. She said the program’s blend of creativity and collaboration made the fieldclick for her.

“Marketing has something for everyone,” she said. “You have so many professions you can go into, and you can really leave your mark on the world.”

As a first-generation college student, Stroisch leaned on the support of professors and peers throughout her academic journey. Assistant Lecturer Christie Mitchell and mentors through the First Saluki Student Center provided her with the resources and framework to succeed at SIU.

One of these mentors was Dr. Lanel Love, assistant dean of students who oversees the First Saluki Center. Inspired by the impact that her role as a mentee had on her, Stroisch later became a mentor herself, helping other first-generation students adjust to college life.

“Dr. Love is so intelligent, and I learned so much from working with her,” Stroisch said. “Being able to lead other students who are having the same challenges that I once did was so rewarding.”

Stroisch hopes her Saluki journey will inspire her younger sister as she explores post-high school opportunities. Optimism about her and her family’s future has been reinforced by the transformative role scholarships played in Stroisch’s college career.

“I don’t take a single bit of it for granted because a lot of students struggle,” she said. “I wish every student had the ability to fully put themselves into their studies.”

Those inspired by Stroisch’s story can support student success by establishing or contributing to a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. To give online, visit siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Phillip Hartke, a senior from Sidney, Illinois, is a scholarship recipient majoring in industrial management and applied engineering at Southern Illinois University. His involvement in Undergraduate Student Government, Greek Life and service as a volunteer firefighter has allowed him to positively impact student life and shape his own future.

Saluki spirit runs deep in his family, he said, as Hartke is the 17th member to attend SIU. His parents met on campus, and his younger sister is now continuing the tradition as a first-year student.

Hartke said that his goal in attending SIU is to pay it forward and help other students find their place at the university. A large part of his college experience has been the sense of community SIU provides. Unlike many other universities, he said that Carbondale cultivates a unique student base that is tightly bound.

“I could have chosen any other school in the state,” he said. “But whenever I came to SIU, it was apparent to me that the teachers actually cared, and that I wasn’t just a number.”

He began his time at SIU as a civil engineering major but later switched to industrial management and applied engineering to better align with his career goals. Through this program, he secured an internship with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, supporting operations and program management efforts.

Hartke has also been extensively involved with Undergraduate Student Government, serving as president during his second year at SIU. He learned he had received his scholarship at the end of the following year’s election cycle, an experience that he refers to as the “wind in his sails.”

“Even if things didn’t work out, which they ultimately didn’t, I still had a lot to be grateful for,” he said. “This was the first time I’ve received an extra scholarship while I’ve been at SIU, so it was a very welcome surprise.”

Hartke received the Friends of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Scholarship, which is funded through the institute’s donor pool. This past fall, he attended the annual scholarship dinner, where he recalled a meaningful interaction with his scholarship donor, Matt Baughman.

“He’s gotten to know just about everything at the whole university,” Hartke said. “Anyone that’s ever come around, the history of it, and the goals of the university going forward.”

Oftentimes, students must find a balance between working in college and remaining engaged in academics and campus leadership. Although Hartke held a range of paid and unpaid roles during his time at SIU — including a nightclub bouncer, distributor, intern and volunteer firefighter — the scholarship allowed him to focus more on his studies and extracurricular involvement.

“I’ve worked throughout college, but receiving this scholarship gave me the margin to lead at a higher level,” he said. “It allowed me to invest more time into service, student government, and building organizations that will outlast my time here.”

In addition to his academics, Hartke and several peers reestablished the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity chapter at SIU in 2022. The organization provided him with valuable connections and leadership experience, motivating him to take on roles such as serving on the advisory board for Saluki Athletics. He described TKE as a community‑focused, philanthropic group of “like‑minded men” committed to doing good and preparing for future success.

During his time in TKE, he has helped conduct numerous fundraising events benefiting organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The chapter focuses on community service goals and mentoring younger fraternity members. Hartke said that he admires those who try to give their time or resources to their institution, as he hopes to do so through his own work.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding,” he said. “You can’t buy back the time, but you can help someone else take advantage of the time that they have in front of them.”

After he graduates in May, Hartke plans to attend law school and pursue a career involving engineering, business, and public service. When thinking about his future, he said he is optimistic, as he will have no debt.

“I feel like I’ve seen everything that SIU Carbondale has to offer,” he said. “And for that reason, I’m not scared of what comes next.”

The Friends of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Scholarship is funded through a pool of contributions from multiple donors. This initiative helps position SIU as one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of 4,000 — classified as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University. This designation underscores the university’s commitment to discovery, access and expanding student opportunities.

For those inspired by Phillip Hartke’s story, supporting scholarships through the SIU Foundation is a meaningful way to invest in future Salukis. Your contribution opens pathways and help create life‑changing opportunities. To give, visit siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Craig McGee, a first‑year law student from Florissant, Missouri, is studying general law at SIU Simmons Law School with the goal of using his legal training to uplift his community and improve the lives of others. He is a recipient of the Charter Class: Campaign for Excellence Scholarship, which is awarded to select law students.

He chose SIU for its accessibility, valuing Carbondale’s two‑hour proximity to his hometown, which allows him to focus on his studies while staying close to family. His connection to the university deepened through his sister, whose move‑in and move‑out days gave him his first experiences on campus.

“I had a very good connection with this place before I ever thought about going here for law,” he said.

McGee describes SIU Simmons Law School as a down-to-earth environment, saying the small-town setting provides a competitive and motivating space. While the career path can seem intimidating at times, he said, SIU showed him that his goals were accessible.

Early in his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri–Saint Louis, he gravitated toward psychology while remaining heavily involved in athletics as a baseball player. Guided by his passion for helping others and his strengths in language, he shifted to law — following the example of his grandfather, an attorney who encouraged him to pursue the field and consider SIU.

“As a child, before I recognized he was an attorney, I recognized that he was a humble person,” he said. “I also realized that my skill set was very congruent to that career path.”

He described feeling “elated” when he first learned about his scholarship, which arrived as an unexpected but pleasant surprise while checking his phone. Knowing it would ease his financial burden, he felt freer to move forward in his educational journey.

“It was a very impactful moment for me,” he said. “As everyone knows, going to law school is expensive and there’s a lot of fees.”

McGee said his family shared his excitement and has consistently supported him throughout his academic journey. He views the scholarship as a blessing for them as well, knowing they welcome any help available.

“I called my family immediately,” he said. “It was a big deal for them too, because they want to see me succeed.”

In addition to letting him focus fully on his academics, the scholarship also served as encouragement for McGee. Although the donor did not know him personally, he said the support demonstrated a willingness to create opportunities for students like him.

“It’s a very wholesome thing,” he said. “It is just nice to know that there’s people who want to do good with what they have. Anytime you can take any of that weight off someone’s shoulder, it is really a blessing to allow them to move forward in their life.”

McGee emphasizes the importance of all students applying for scholarships and grants, noting that such opportunities often go untapped and can ease financial barriers for those willing to seek them out.

“Many often can’t pursue educational opportunities because they can’t afford it,” he said. “I hope the donors continue to give, because they’re making a tremendous impact, whether they see it or not.”

McGee hopes to give back to SIU in the future by creating opportunities for students, including establishing his own scholarship fund. He aims to involve SIU students in clerkships or internships within his projects or connect them with other professionals in the field.

“As a lawyer, you can really have an impact on a lot of people’s lives,” he said. “I realized that I could help people in that way.”

The Charter Class: Campaign for Excellence Scholarship is an award supported by a pool of combined gifts from multiple donors. This initiative helps make SIU one of only 21 universities nationwide, out of 4,000, classified as both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University. This designation reflects the university’s commitment to discovery, access, and student opportunities.

For those moved by Craig McGee’s experience, partnering with the SIU Foundation by supporting a scholarship is a meaningful way to help future Salukis. Your contribution opens doors and creates life‑changing opportunities. To give, visit siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Anna Stearns, a second-year law student at SIU Simmons Law School, says that receiving the David C. Johnson Scholarship “changed everything for her.”

Originally from Granite City, Illinois, near St. Louis, Stearns is grateful for SIU’s accessibility and supportive environment close to home. After earning her forensic science degree at Lewis University, she chose SIU for its local connection, community, and the opportunity to pursue her ambitions.

“I kind of grew up in this area, and I’m very proud of it,” she said. “I also knew law school would be challenging, so I wanted to pick somewhere where I had the ability to go home and come back in a day.”

Driven by a lifelong passion for law and justice, Stearns is excited to pursue a career in criminal law, where she hopes to make a meaningful difference and advocate for fairness in her community.

“I remember in seventh grade, we took a 100-question career test, and I crossed my fingers that I would get a lawyer as a result,” said Sterns. “It came back as that, and that was all the confirmation that I needed. Being a lawyer is always what I wanted to do.”

Stearns enthusiastically pursued her passion all the way to Capitol Hill, where she completed a rewarding summer internship opportunity. During her time in Washington, D.C, she actively participated in hearings, summarized bills, and helped brainstorm thoughtful suggestions to help move important legislation forward. Additionally, she volunteered for Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s Senate campaign, which helped her gain firsthand experience in public service and legislative work.

Stearns credits SIU School of Law professor Sheila Simon, who is also the former lieutenant governor of Illinois, for inspiring her to shape her academic journey. Simon’s encouragement and support motivated Stearns to work harder, seek out new opportunities, and pursue the resources she needed to succeed.

“She changed my life in ways that I could never have expected,” Stearns said. “She’s also one of the reasons why I got my scholarship.”

While Stearns has enjoyed her time as a Saluki, she recognizes that law school is a demanding journey academically and financially. While a legal career offers a strong return on investment, it can also be time-consuming. Despite its challenges, she continues to approach these hurdles with optimism.

“I remember having a moment during my sophomore year of college where I realized that I had three years of law school to complete, and I would have thousands of dollars in loans,” she said. “I was worried about putting myself into so much debt for something that may not even be reciprocated even ten years later.”

Stearns shares that rising interest rates and student loans made finances a constant concern, sometimes even turning simple grocery trips into moments of worry. The thought of loan interest doubling future costs weighed heavily on her mind. Receiving the scholarship notification instantly lifted a significant burden off her shoulders.

“It was such a huge sense of relief. We did a rough estimate, and the amount of money in the award is going to save me seven years of loans.” The scholarship allowed Stearns to focus on her studies and plan for life after graduation without the weight of financial stress. Stearns looks forward to pursuing a career in criminal law, driven by a passion for justice and making a positive impact on her community.

“I’ve always led my life through passion, and I wanted to do something that I enjoyed,” she said. “Being a lawyer can be hard; they often have long hours and not a lot of work-life balance.”

The David C. Johnson Scholarship was established by Ronald E. and Michelle A. Osman in honor of Professor David C. Johnson, a member of the founding faculty at SIU School of Law. Johnson taught law for four decades, specializing in tax law, estate planning, and property law, and served five years as associate dean. The scholarship provides financial assistance to second- and third-year law students and supports first-generation college students pursuing their degrees at SIU Simmons Law School.

“I hope the donors will be proud and prideful of who received it, because I appreciate them a lot,” Stearns said. “It’s a big kindness, and my objective in life is to pass that on.”

Since arriving at SIU Simmons Law School, the support Stearns has received has made a lasting impact on her journey. She has built lifelong friendships, connected with inspiring professors and mentors, and benefited from a vibrant alumni network that opens doors to incredible opportunities. She is deeply grateful for the generosity of donors who make scholarships like hers possible. As one of only 21 universities nationwide, out of nearly 4,000, recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to advancing discovery and expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds.

When you give to programs like SIU Simmons Law School, you empower passionate students like Stearns to pursue their dreams, overcome financial barriers, and become part of the next generation of leaders. Your support changes lives. Make a gift today to help shape a brighter future at siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Rebecca VanLuvender, from a small town near Mount Vernon, Illinois, said receiving the Southern at 150 Scholars Excellence Award was what opened the door to her future as a Saluki.

Now a senior studying architecture, she has her full tuition covered by the scholarship. This award is reserved for SIU students from communities south of Interstate 64 who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, maintaining a GPA of at least 3.5.

Through weekly studio class sessions, VanLuvender has built strong connections within her major. These sessions, filled with engaging projects — whether working independently or collaborating in groups — have made the design classes enjoyable and played a key role in her growth as both an aspiring architect and a proud Saluki.

“They are four-hour blocks on Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” she said. “They give us an opportunity to immerse ourselves in our studio projects. It is wonderful to work with the same people, and the program has a good structure.”

VanLuvender is also actively involved with Alpha Rho Chi, the professional architecture fraternity, which provides her with valuable opportunities for social and professional networking and connections with alumni. Thanks to the supportive community of Alpha Rho Chi, dedicated professors and an enriching studio culture, she enjoys a vibrant campus life while staying just 45 minutes from her family.

VanLuvender also served as a residential assistant (RA) in her second year at SIU, which allowed her to explore new aspects of campus life and build meaningful connections with incoming students.

“I come from a very large, blended family,” she said. “When I became an RA, I had nobody else in the room, so living completely alone for the first time was a challenging transition.”

While growing up with many siblings was rewarding, VanLuvender said it also made the financial side of attending college feel overwhelming. Receiving the scholarship made it possible for her to pursue her education without financial barriers.

“I remember my financial aid advisor called me while I was at soccer practice during my senior year of high school, and I told my mom the good news as soon as I got home,” she recalled. “It was exciting and exhilarating because the scholarship was life-changing.”

She says that she was first torn between committing to community college or to SIU, but receiving the scholarship sealed the deal. She is the first in her family to attend college and credits SIU with opening doors to opportunities that would not have been possible otherwise.

“I hadn’t understood how much donations impact people until I was one of those impacted,” she said. “Being in the shoes of someone who receives those donations has changed my perspective.”

VanLuvender is currently participating in an architecture internship that will give her a head start toward the master’s degree she plans to pursue. Her goal is to earn her architect’s license and design commercial buildings, working for a firm that specializes in community spaces.

As one of 21 universities nationwide recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both Research 1 and Opportunity University status, SIU is dedicated to expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds. Gifts help students like VanLuvender pursue their dreams, overcome barriers and make a difference on campus. Make a gift today at siuf.org/give.

By Ava Steffens

Sofia Potter, a first-year law student and scholarship recipient from Cedar Falls, Iowa, plans to blend her economic background with her passion for justice.

After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa, she chose SIU for law school, noting that Carbondale’s small-town charm reminded her of both her undergraduate community and her hometown.

The tight-knit community at SIU Simmons Law School immediately caught Potter’s attention as she explored postgraduate opportunities. With more than 300 students, the school offers small class sizes that provide hands-on experience and ensure students receive support throughout every step of their educational journey.

Potter received the Charter Class Campaign for Excellence Scholarship, a merit-based award established by members of the law school’s first graduating class in 1976. The scholarship supports a select group of students who maintain at least a 3.5 GPA, continuing the Charter Class’s long tradition of leading by example and supporting Simmons Law School.

“When I found out I got it, it gave me the biggest boost of confidence,” she said. “The scholarship donors know I am going to bring something valuable to the school and they want to show me that.”

When Potter learned she had received the scholarship, she immediately called her mother to share the good news, relieved to ease both her parents’ stress along with her own. After a challenging application year, she emphasized the pride and sense of relief she felt upon receiving the award.

“The application process can be especially difficult during election years,” she said. “It was a challenge to get into schools, let alone get a scholarship.”

In addition to financial aid, Potter said the mentorship program has been one of the most meaningful aspects of her SIU experience. As a Taylor Mattis Fellow, she is paired with a second- or third-year tutor, which provides her with valuable guidance and support during her first year.

“My mentor, Danielle Watkins, is always so open to answer any questions that I have about anything related to classes and just about life in graduate school,” said Potter. “It has made my transition into law school much easier.”

Transitioning to a new town, state, and lifestyle can challenge any student. Potter said that the jump from her math-based undergraduate studies into the language-driven field of law pushed her to change the “way her brain was wired.”

“I learned how to transfer logical thinking techniques and pattern recognition skills,” she said. “I view everything as an equation.”

The scholarship allowed Potter to step away from work and still cover the costs of books, rent, groceries, and other expenses. Recognizing that someone valued her potential as a future lawyer, she dedicated more time and energy to her studies and strengthened her relationships with her friends, family, and significant other.

She said choosing a law program in her home state would have forced her to take on significant debt.

“That would have been terrible for me to start my life off with, and my parents did not want that for me,” she said. “Oftentimes, it’s the price tag on law school that makes it so inaccessible to so many people.”

SIU stands among just 21 universities nationwide, out of 4,000, recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status. The university actively advances discovery and expands access to higher education. Scholarships like the one Potter received play a vital role in this mission, helping students from all majors overcome financial barriers and achieve their dreams.

“If you’re on the fence about giving to that scholarship fund, just know that the payoff of your donation is so much bigger than any number that you can write in an amount box on a check,” she said.

If Potter’s story inspires you and you believe in the power of accessible, high-quality education, consider supporting or establishing a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. Your generosity can transform the lives of future students and help them discover their passion. 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 SIU’s student body. To make a gift online, visit siuf.org/give. To learn more about SIU Simmons Law School and its mission, visit https://law.siu.edu/.

By Ava Steffens

Scholarship recipient Agnieszka Sawrasewicz discovered her passion for cybersecurity and computer systems at SIU, which prompted her to change her career direction. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in computer science.

After searching for scholarships, a peer recommended her for the Jim and Martha Greenwood Scholarship. Sawrasewicz opened the email announcing her scholarship award and felt an immense sense of relief knowing she no longer had to worry about the financial burden of her education. The scholarship allows her to fully focus on classes like Java–programming language and ethical hacking, which helped her further explore the digital forensics field.

“Before, I had to study and work over the weekend. Sometimes, I would have to do long hours of overtime,” she said. “The scholarship allows me to focus on my studies and believe in myself.”

This scholarship supports students in STEM fields who have a physical disability. Martha and Jim Greenwood met while students at SIU. They later married and faced new challenges when Jim’s illness required him to use a wheelchair. Their experience inspired them to create a fund supporting other students with physical difficulties.

“It’s shown me that it’s worthwhile to develop my ideas and projects,” she said. “It means so much to see that somebody values them.”

Five years ago, Sawrasewicz began her studies at SIU in the forestry program as a nontraditional student. She took courses such as tree identification and traveled with classmates to Utah and Colorado for credit. When she discovered that foresters benefit from technological skills, especially data tracking and analysis, she shifted her focus to computer science. This transition from her bachelor’s degree led her to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity.

“Everything connects,” she said. “Every field needs someone to manage an operating system and who understands computers, technology and security.”

From near Warsaw, Poland, she relocated to Chicago in 2002 and built a career as both a pharmacy technician and a massage therapist. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to pursue a new professional direction.

Sawrasewicz defines cybersecurity as the process of monitoring an organization’s digital weaknesses and creating solutions to defend sensitive data from cyberattacks and

hackers. Her interest in this field was sparked after her own experience of being hacked and having personal information stolen, which motivated her to help protect others from similar risks.

She is currently creating a 3D game based on virtual reality. This initiative is designed as an alternative educational platform for students, helping maintain engagement by introducing variety within the course material.

“I feel that applying and engaging students with technology will be very beneficial,” she said. “The program will make you feel like you’re right there.”

In the future, she intends to pursue a PhD and a teaching career, emphasizing her passion for improving how cybersecurity is taught to students.

Southern Illinois University is one of only 21 institutions nationwide, out of 4,000, to earn the prestigious Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status. The university is dedicated to fostering innovation and broadening access to higher education. Scholarships such as the one awarded to Sawrasewicz are essential to this mission, enabling students from diverse fields to overcome financial challenges and pursue their aspirations.

If you find Sawrasewicz’s journey motivating and you are committed to accessible, excellent education, consider supporting or creating a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. In the most recent fiscal year, the foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in scholarships to 2,111 students, representing 17 percent of SIU’s student body.

Your contribution can make a meaningful difference for future students, empowering them to pursue their passions. To donate online, visit siuf.org/give.