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.

Arnold: Witnessing the investments, impact of SSIF grow

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.

Saluki Coaches Unleashed Tour Connects With Dawgs Across the Region

Saluki fans — you’re invited to the first stop of the Saluki Coaches Unleashed Tour at 22 & Vine inside Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort on Tuesday, July 15 from 5-7 p.m.

Throughout the summer, Saluki Athletics is coming to you. Join coaches and leadership for an evening of updates, connection and Saluki spirit. Enjoy free food, a cash bar and exclusive season ticket offers for football and men’s basketball.

Season ticket offers for attendees-only include the chance for new buyers to get half-price football season tickets in sections 12-16, and men’s basketball season tickets as low as $99.

Upcoming tour stops include:
July 22 – Marion at 618 Taphouse
July 29 – Du Quoin at Tomahawk Bar & Grill
July 31 – Murphysboro at Southpaw Bar & Grill
Coming in August – Metropolis and Pinckneyville stops

Questions? Email siuf@foundation.siu.edu.

Let’s keep the momentum going. See you there!