By Aziz Alhashil, edited by Noah Rigoni
Both are SIU students studying finance

As a current member of the Saluki Student Investment Fund (SSIF), I had the privilege of attending something truly special, the program’s 25th-anniversary celebration on Oct. 25 at the SIU Student Center. It was more than just an event; it felt like a moment where past and present came together to celebrate the same purpose that started the SSIF a quarter century ago: providing students with real-world experience and lifelong mentorship in finance.

The evening began on a high note, following an exciting and fun homecoming tailgate and a classic Saluki win at the football game. More than 100 alumni, students, and friends gathered at Old Main for a night filled with laughter, stories, and commemoration. One of my favorite parts was Human Bingo, which got everyone talking and sharing memories from enjoying Quatro’s Pizza to remembering their first big stock pitch.

During dinner, we watched a touching video message from Omar and Carol Winter, whose generous $25,000 gift founded the SSIF back in 2000. Their son, Doug Winter, accepted an award on their behalf, and you could feel how proud the entire room was of what their vision had become: a student-managed fund now worth more than $4 million that has helped hundreds of students build professional careers in finance and beyond.

Dr. Tim Marlo, SSIF faculty advisor and one of the original student managers, spoke about how the fund has grown while staying true to its founding mission of mentorship and experiential learning. He presented awards to the program’s faculty advisors, recognizing the people who have kept that mission alive over the years.

A highlight of the night was the alumni and student panel, where graduates shared how SSIF shaped their confidence, teamwork, and career paths. Hearing how their experiences in the fund prepared them for leadership roles and how it provided the framework for their professional development was inspiring for all of us current members and provided guidance for our future development.

As we look ahead to the next 25 years, it’s clear that SSIF’s legacy is more than just financial performance. It’s an unwavering commitment to opportunity, collaboration, and belief in students that began with Omar and Carol Winter and continues to define the Saluki spirit today.

To support the next generation of Saluki investors, please visit give.siu.edu/ssif.