Monthly Archives: July 2025

Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Carbondale to Dedicate Campus Lake Fountain in Honor of Late Alumnus Tim Parks

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Ceremony Scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, at Becker Pavilion

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate the dedication of the Campus Lake Fountain with a community ceremony from 6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6, at Becker Pavilion. The brief program will include remarks from Chancellor Austin A. Lane and recognition of those who helped make the project possible.

Guests will enjoy punch and cookies as the university counts down and turns on the fountain for the first time.

The fountain is a tribute to the late Tilden “Tim” Parks (1953–2022), a proud 1976 SIU graduate and devoted Saluki whose generosity and spirit left a lasting mark on campus. Parks was the lead donor for the Campus Lake Fountain Project, contributing more than $75,000—over 70 percent of the project’s funding—during the inaugural SIU Day of Giving in 2017. His love for SIU was evident at athletic events, alumni gatherings, and in the countless students he supported through scholarships.

“Tim Parks was the kind of alum every university dreams of—passionate, generous, and fiercely proud,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “This fountain stands as a beautiful reminder of his legacy and commitment to future generations of Salukis.”

In addition to Parks’ lead gift, the university also received a significant contribution from the AlZaben family, whose members—Emad (’80), Abeer (’86), Ammar (’86), and Alaa (’83–’84)—joined the Fountain Club with a combined gift between $50,000 and $74,999.

A Fountain of Power and Purpose

The new fountain sits just off Becker Pavilion, shooting water an impressive 60 feet into the air with the help of a powerful 25-horsepower motor. Beyond its visual impact, the fountain reflects SIU’s commitment to sustainability. Thanks to a student-led initiative, a floating solar array—also known as a floatovoltaic system—helps power the fountain while reducing harmful algal blooms in Campus Lake. The installation supports SIU’s sustainability goals and serves as a hands-on research platform for students.

During the dedication, the university will recognize the efforts of SIU Facilities and Energy Management, the SIU Sustainability Department, the Green Fund, and student leader Noah Farris for advancing this innovative, collaborative project.

“This is more than a fountain,” said Kupec. “It’s a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and the Saluki spirit that brings us together.”

All are welcome to attend the dedication and join in celebrating the lasting impact of Tim Parks and the bright future of Campus Lake.

This celebration follows SIU’s Demolition Day at 4 p.m. the same afternoon, during which the university will officially begin clearing six long-vacant residence halls along former Greek Row. The demolition marks a major step toward the proposed Saluki Village student housing development. Guests are encouraged to attend both events and witness this exciting day of transformation and renewal on campus.

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

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

Women’s Leadership Council Awards Inaugural Grants to Dr. Kochel for Mentorship, Faculty Support at SIU

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By Ava Steffens

Dr. Tammy Rinehart Kochel, associate dean for research and personnel in SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences, was awarded two of the inaugural micro-grants presented by the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council this spring.

The $1,500 grants will support projects that promote mentorship and dialogue among female faculty and students, strengthening leadership and equity at SIU.

“When I heard about the micro-grants, it was an easy sell for me,” Kochel said. “I put together a couple of proposals for things that I had in my mind but did not have the resources to put into practice yet.”

Dr. Kochel plans to use part of the funding to create a workshop that fosters dialogue among female leaders at SIU, focusing on the challenges women face within the institution. The discussion will invite female faculty members and school directors to share their perspectives and personal experiences.

“We’re really excited for this opportunity for her and to see what comes out of her project,” said Mary Anderson, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council.

The second portion of the grant will support mentorship programs between female faculty members and graduate students. The initiative aims to “empower students by having them experience studying or conducting research under role model observation,” Dr. Kochel said.

“The objective is to be an example for what women can and do accomplish,” she said. “Having the female faculty member lead the experience is meant to build confidence and inspire female students to overcome possible gender barriers and pursue their own goals.”

Founded in 2020, the Women’s Leadership Council connects SIU students, parents, staff, and alumni to a women-focused network of Salukis who share their time, energy, resources, and experiences. The council also supports women’s initiatives across campus and provides multiple scholarships.

“Our mission is to promote SIU and to help empower women,” said Gloria Tison, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council. “By focusing on women faculty and related programs, we can offer more to our SIU community.”

The council’s mentorship program offers mentors leadership experience and networking opportunities while serving as role models for students in their respective fields. Mentors support the professional growth, development, and confidence of their mentees.

The Women’s Leadership Council hosts the annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, starting with the Women in Empowerment Conference on Friday, October 3. Events include the Women in Philanthropy Luncheon, Saluki Women’s Awards Presentation, Vendor Fair, and Networking Social. The weekend concludes with the Mentorship Breakfast and Saluki Women Tailgate Experience on Saturday. For the full schedule and registration, visit siuf.org/salukiwomen.

To learn more about the SIU Women’s Leadership Council or to make a gift in support of its initiatives, visit siuf.org/wlc.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

SIU Credit Union Trailhead Opens at Touch of Nature

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SIU Credit Union Trailhead
From left: SIU Foundation Director of Development, SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, Kim Babington, SIU Credit Union CEO Mike Lantrip, and Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center Director Brian Croft cut the ribbon on the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

By Jeff Wilson

MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and SIU Credit Union officially opened a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

The trailhead pavilion was funded by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.

“This project has been years in the making,” said Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature. “It marks the first major construction at Touch of Nature in decades”. 

SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting Southern Illinois University, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and other initiatives.

“We believe this trailhead will bring even more people into our community — and it’s already doing that,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We hope this is the beginning of something big for Touch of Nature and the region.”

Touch of Nature often serves as the first introduction to SIU for many through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.

More than 50,000 visitors came to Touch of Nature this year.

“Everyone who visits Touch of Nature leaves with a great impression,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “None of this would be possible without support from partners like SIU Credit Union. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you dream a little.”

The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will take place in August.

SIU was recently designated 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 hold both honors.

These developments align with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling more than $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the foundation.

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

 

Events & Engagement, SIU

SIU to Host Demolition Day on Aug. 6 as Six Former Residence Halls Come Down

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Demolition Day
Fulkerson Hall (left) and Thalman Hall (right) are among six former residence halls scheduled for demolition as part of Phase 1 of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s effort to clear space for a proposed new student housing development. An excavator will knock down a portion of Fulkerson Hall during the Aug. 6 Demolition Day event.

By Britni Bateman

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale invites the campus and community to a Demolition Day event at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, as the university begins taking down six long-vacant residence halls along the former Greek Row. The event will mark a visible step forward in clearing space for a proposed new student housing development.

The brief outdoor ceremony will include remarks from Chancellor Austin Lane and Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. Following the remarks, an excavator will knock down a portion of Fulkerson Hall, officially beginning Phase 1 of the demolition project.

Guests can enjoy music and food from local favorites, including Winston’s Bagels by B-Rad, Honeybeez Snowballz and Hot Dogs, and the American Ice Cream Truck.

This event is open to the public. Guests and media are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early.

Phase 1 includes the demolition of Colyer, Kaplan, Thalman, Fulkerson, Kesnar, and Wakeland Halls—all former residence halls that have been closed for years due to safety concerns and high renovation costs. The demolition is expected to continue through September and is part of a broader effort to modernize SIU’s campus footprint.

“These buildings served generations of students, but they’ve reached the end of their life,” Kupec said. “This is a significant moment for SIU, and the Foundation is proud to help accelerate progress as we look to the future.”

The SIU Foundation is playing a key role by providing a bridge loan to support environmental studies, demolition, and early site preparation. The cleared area will make way for Saluki Village, a proposed housing development that is expected to go before the SIU Board of Trustees in September for approval. If approved, construction could begin soon after with a target opening in August 2027.

In preparation for the demolition of Colyer Hall—the last occupied building in the project zone—the SIU Foundation will temporarily relocate to University Hall before moving into the new Tedrick Welcome Center in Spring 2026.

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

 

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Foundation Raises $39 Million, Supports More Than 2,000 Students in Second-Best Year Ever 

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By Britni Bateman

Supporters of Southern Illinois University Carbondale donated $39 million in Fiscal Year 2025, marking the second-highest fundraising total in SIU Foundation history. This incredible support advances scholarships, research, and capital projects across campus.

The Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.6 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 students, representing over 17 percent of the student body.

“Our donors are the heart of everything we do,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Their support provides real momentum, opening doors for students, investing in groundbreaking research and ensuring SIU continues to thrive for generations to come.”

The Foundation has increased scholarship support for five consecutive years. The FY25 total reflects a nearly 135 percent increase compared to FY19.

“I am extremely thankful,” said SIU junior and scholarship recipient Ema Dutcher. “Thanks to my scholarship, I was able to study abroad in Costa Rica. That experience shaped me both academically and personally. I will never forget it.”

Campaign Progress

The Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign continues to gain momentum with more than $400 million in commitments toward its historic $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest fundraising campaign in Illinois public university history.

Major Gifts and Milestones 

The most recent fiscal year featured several high-impact gifts and building dedications:

  • Dr. Bob and Beth Gower made a $2.5 million gift to support research, and the McLafferty Annex was renamed the Gower Translational Research Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
  • A $250,000 gift from Judge Phil Gilbert established the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of his father. The Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite at Simmons Law School was unveiled on April 17.
  • Oyd and Annette Craddock made a $25,000 gift to the College of Business and Analytics Dean’s Club Endowment Fund. In their honor, the Oyd Craddock Dean’s Conference Room was dedicated in Rehn Hall.
  • SIU also marked the Simmons Law School ribbon cutting on August 16 and broke ground on the Tedrick Welcome Center on October 11.

 Saluki Takeover Tour Expands 

In its fourth year, the Saluki Takeover Tour reached new heights with stops in Chicago, Memphis, Texas, Florida, St. Louis, and Southern Illinois. More than 1,500 alumni gathered for 14 Chancellor’s Receptions.

The Southern Illinois leg of the tour spanned 17 counties and included nearly 50 school visits and six Chancellor’s Receptions:

  • The kickoff at Apple Creek Golf Club drew 200 guests.
  • TJ’s Diamond Club at Mtn Dew Park in Marion welcomed 115 Salukis.
  • Café Bloom in Benton hosted 50 guests.
  • St. Nicholas Landmark in Chester saw 60 alumni attend.
  • Pizza Villa in Anna welcomed more than 80 guests.
  • The tour concluded at Faye in Murphysboro with nearly 100 attendees.

These events brought together alumni and community leaders and strengthened SIU’s partnerships across the region.

Celebrating Community and Leadership 

  • The 3rd Annual Saluki Women’s Weekend Conference, held Friday, Sept. 20, 2025, welcomed more than 200 women for a day of connection, inspiration, and leadership development.
  • Nearly 500 guests attended the 3rd Annual Saluki Ball on Saturday, April 26, 2025, celebrating Saluki pride and raising valuable funds to support student scholarships.

SIU Day of Giving Raises $1.2 Million 

The 9th SIU Day of Giving on Sept. 18 raised nearly $1.2 million from more than 1,500 donors in just 24 hours. Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the event allows supporters to give directly to the college, program, or initiative of their choice.

“This was our second Day of Giving in 2024, and moving it to the fall brought incredible energy,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Between the two events, donors contributed more than $4.3 million to support our students and the Imagine SIU 2030 campaign.”

Since its launch in 2017, the SIU Day of Giving has raised more than $17 million for scholarships, research, and campus priorities. The College of Health and Human Sciences led in dollars raised, while the B.E.E.R. Scholarship Endowment Fund received the most individual gifts.

A kickoff event, the Night of B.E.E.R., streamed live from the Fermentation Science Institute, added to the excitement and featured donor matches, student stories, and special guests.

A Nationally Distinctive Institution 

This year, SIU Carbondale was named one of only 21 universities nationwide to earn dual recognition from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as both a Research 1 (R1) and an Opportunity College and University (OCU).

“Many institutions can say they conduct top-level research, and many schools can say they offer affordability and a great return on investment,” said Chancellor Austin A. Lane. “These designations from Carnegie show very few – less than 1 percent in fact – can say both. At Southern, we can.”

These designations reflect SIU’s commitment to excellence and access. The university serves a diverse student body, with nearly 40 percent receiving Pell Grants and two in five identifying as first-generation college students.

“Salukis have always known SIU Carbondale is exceptional,” Lane said. “These national recognitions affirm our commitment to both excellence and opportunity.”

Showcasing the Saluki Spirit 

In June, the SIU Foundation launched the inaugural episode of The Impact Report, a new television series highlighting extraordinary stories of innovation, opportunity, and transformation at SIU and throughout the region. Airing on WSIU, the 10-episode series will spotlight groundbreaking research, student success, and the power of philanthropy. From personal triumphs to community impact, The Impact Report brings Saluki pride to the screen in a whole new way.

Looking Ahead 

With continued momentum in the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign and strong engagement from alumni and donors across the country, the SIU Foundation is poised for another successful year.

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

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

SIU Credit Union Trailhead to Open at Touch of Nature

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SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center
SIU Credit Union Trailhead at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center

By Jeff Wilson

MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center will soon unveil a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at the trailhead. SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, SIU Foundation CEO Matt Kupec, Touch of Nature Director Brian Croft, and representatives from SIU Credit Union will attend the event. The trailhead pavilion was made possible by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.

“Touch of Nature is the premier outdoor education center in America,” Lane said. “This area will provide our students and the community with an inviting gathering space that connects more people with the beauty of our region and our campus.”

SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting the university, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and more.

“We wanted to do something for SIU and the region,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We think it’s going to help put Southern Illinois on the map even more.”

For many, Touch of Nature serves as their first introduction to SIU through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.

More than 50,000 visitors came through Touch of Nature this year. The upcoming Wildlife Habitat Education Center will further expand outdoor experiences for the region.

“Nature has tremendous value and power. At Touch of Nature, we pride ourselves on embracing those qualities and sharing our passion with students and the community,” Croft said. “This trailhead is now a centerpiece of that experience, and we are thrilled to have such terrific partners in SIU Credit Union.”

The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center is scheduled for August.

SIU was recently designated 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 hold both honors.

These developments coincide with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling over $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the Foundation.

“The SIU Foundation is dedicated to its mission as an accelerator, and we are seeing that in action,” Kupec said. “Our goal is to help this university thrive by supporting students, faculty and staff, and laying the groundwork for major projects that enhance our beautiful campus. With the support of our donors and corporate partners, we will continue turning big dreams into reality.”

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

SIU

SIU Launches Demolition of Former Greek Row Buildings, Eyes Future Student Housing Development

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CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is taking an exciting step toward reshaping its student housing landscape with the planned demolition of 14 aging structures, including 13 houses along the former Greek Row. The move clears the way for a proposed new development—Saluki Village—that aims to modernize on-campus living.

The SIU Foundation is playing a key role in advancing the project by providing a bridge loan to the university, funding environmental studies, demolition, and early construction work.

The buildings, long unused due to safety concerns and high renovation costs, will begin coming down in August. Phase 1 includes the removal of six halls: Colyer, Kaplan, Thalman, Fulkerson, Kesnar, and Wakeland. Demolition is expected to conclude in September.

“The role of the SIU Foundation is that of an accelerator, and we are proud to help move this vision forward,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Once approved and completed, it will lead to an even more vibrant, student-focused campus.”

Kupec presented early-stage plans for Saluki Village to the SIU Board of Trustees on July 10.

The board will hear more about the construction plans at its September meeting. If approved, construction could begin soon after with a target opening in August 2027.

Concept rendering of on-campus housing.
Concept rendering of on-campus housing.

The proposed Saluki Village would include 898 new beds, a community building, and four to five houses for special interest housing, including fraternities and sororities.

Draft design of proposed new “Special Interest” House.

To make way for the demolition of Colyer Hall, the last inhabited building in the area, the SIU Foundation will soon move to a temporary office space in University Hall until permanently moving into the Tedrick Welcome Center when it opens in Spring 2026.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, Scholarship Recipient, SIU

Thrasher Champions Undergraduate Research at SIU

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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.

Donor Stories, SIU

Local surgeon, wife leaving a legacy for local SIU students

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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.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Arnold: Witnessing the investments, impact of SSIF grow

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By Ava Steffens

Matt Arnold, a 2000 Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumnus, remembers the moment he heard about the launch of the Saluki Student Investment Fund (SSIF). It was his final semester, and the finance major with a minor in accounting immediately saw the opportunity.

“As soon as I heard about it, I knew I had to be involved,” Arnold said.

Arnold joined the inaugural class of just eight students. Their mission: build the foundation of a student-run investment fund seeded by a $25,000 donation. Today, that fund has grown into a $4.2 million operation.

“I saw the dirt mounting and the foundation being built,” he said. “What was done after I left was a beautiful job constructing something that now has a 25-year history.”

A Launching Pad

Arnold has met many students who launched successful careers thanks to their SSIF experience. He said employers value the skills students gain through the fund—teamwork, investment analysis, and the ability to accept and apply feedback.

“It shows that a student knows how to invest, work with others, and use constructive feedback to improve,” he said.

He also noted that the fund helps students build professional networks, which often lead to their first jobs.

“Beyond hands-on experience, it gives access to professionals who are established in their field and know how difficult it is to break into this business,” Arnold said.

Arnold grew up in Waterloo, Illinois, and moved to Jackson County, where his father owned an automotive business. Following in his parents’ footsteps, he chose SIU for its proximity and strong business programs.

He explored several areas within the College of Business and Analytics before a finance class “just clicked,” he said. Inspired by the media’s portrayal of stock analysts, Arnold pursued a career in finance and has since become a respected financial research analyst in St. Louis.

At Edward Jones Investments, he leads half of the Equity Research department’s analysts, helping financial advisors make informed investment decisions.

“My job is telling advisors the best place for their clients’ money to appreciate over time, while managing risk and avoiding dire financial outcomes,” he said.

Giving Back

Arnold’s connection to SSIF didn’t end at graduation. He returned to support the fund when it began competing in the CFA Institute’s annual Chartered Financial Analyst Challenge in Virginia. Students pitch investment recommendations and develop detailed theses.

“I was asked to join as an advisor for a group,” he said. “Since then, that has been a big piece of how I dedicate my time to the fund.”

Though his time as a student member was brief, Arnold said mentoring current students is his favorite way to support SIU.

“Anytime I’ve been asked to give back to the fund or department, I’m inclined to help,” he said. “I remember how I wished I had more of a network, especially toward the end of my college career.”

Under the guidance of faculty advisor Dr. Tim Marlo, the SSIF continues to provide students with real-world experience and mentorship. Arnold hopes the program will continue to thrive for future generations of Salukis.

“Supporting the SSIF gives future students the same incredible opportunities,” he said. “As precious a commodity as time is, you will feel so rewarded when you invest some of it into young people. It brings you back to what it was like when you were there.”

To learn more about the Saluki Student Investment Fund, visit business.siu.edu/rso/ssif. To support the fund, visit give.siu.edu/ssif.