The SIU Foundation celebrates Black History Month by encouraging donations to support Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Black History Month February 2024 - Ancestral Healing

This Black History Month, SIU embraces Ancestral Healing, honoring the past while actively building a more just and equitable future. Join the SIU Foundation in fueling this mission by supporting our Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) initiatives. Your gift will make a real difference, empowering students and fostering a welcoming space where everyone can thrive.

“Together, we can build a university fueled by belonging, where every student has the resources and support to flourish and change the world with your support, says Sherrica Hunt, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Relations for ADEI.

Invest in the legacy of ADEI at SIU by supporting one of these impactful funds:

  1. African American Achievement Scholarship
  2. Black Resource Center
  3. Black Students in Business Development
  4. Burris Financial Emergency Endowment Fund
  5. Darius Robinson Scholarship Endowment
  6. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Development Fund
  7. Dr. Cynthia Howard Sims Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Endowment Fund
  8. Dr. Donald and Mrs. Frances Davenport Scholarship Endowment
  9. George Floyd Equity and Justice Scholarship
  10. McDaniel Oats Memorial Scholarship
  11. Michael L. Haywood Scholarship Endowment Fund
  12. Mitchel and Carol Livingston Scholarship Endowment Fund
  13. Pendleton Family Bridging the Gap Fund
  14. Seymour and Marjorie Bryson Academic Achievement Scholarship Endowment Fund
  15. School of Education African American Award Endowment Fund

Here’s how you can give:

  • Visit the SIU Foundation website.
  • Insert the fund name(s) in the Designation field. You can support multiple funds!
  • Spread the word: Share this blog post and tell your friends and family about the impact they can make.

*The site accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and Venmo. If you are SIU faculty or staff, you can also give via payroll deduction.

Let’s celebrate Black History Month by building a brighter future for all. Donate today and make a meaningful difference in the lives of SIU students.

*If you would like to learn more information on establishing a fund at SIU, contact Sherrica Hunt, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Relations for ADEI, by email at sherricah@foundation.siu.edu

Saluki Ball: Elegant fundraiser bridges the gap

After a successful launch in 2023, the Saluki Ball will return bigger and better.

This year’s Saluki Ball will be Saturday, April 20, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk hotel. This black-tie optional event is dedicated to raising funds that bridge the financial gap for students who need assistance staying enrolled at SIU. The inaugural Saluki Ball brought together 615 SIU alumni and friends, who donated more than $650,000 to that cause.

“Our focus is on our students, especially those who need your help the most,” said Chancellor Lane during the 2023 Saluki Ball. “We must ensure the students that we bring to Carbondale or who enroll in online courses are able to stay enrolled and finish with their degree.”

The evening will begin with a cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. There will be a live musical performance from the legendary R&B group En Vogue at 8:30 p.m., and the evening will be capped by a DJ and dancing at 9:30 p.m.

The Saluki Ball features numerous sponsorship opportunities, ranging from $50,000 to $10,000. Each sponsorship includes varying levels of perks and recognition before and during the event. Tables of 10 are $3,000, and individual tickets are $300.

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

“You’re helping someone, and you’re changing their life,” said Jashaun Murray, an SIU student majoring in social work. “You helped me stay in school so I can get a degree to get to where you are and maybe achieve the things you did.”

To learn more, become a sponsor or purchase tickets, visit salukiball.siu.edu