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, 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, 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, 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, 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, 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.