Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU) proudly participated in the 95th Annual Bud Billiken Day Parade on August 10th, the largest African American parade in the United States.
Chicago boasts SIU’s largest alumni network, making the parade an ideal opportunity to showcase Saluki spirit and connect with the community. SIU’s participation included distributing school supplies, celebrating the city’s rich heritage, and engaging with prospective students at the education fair attended by thousands, furthering the Saluki legacy in Chicago.
“We’re thrilled to have been part of such a vibrant celebration of community and culture,” said Sherrica Hunt, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development at the SIU Foundation. “The Bud Billiken Parade provided a wonderful platform to connect with our alumni, give back to the community, and introduce the next generation of Salukis to our university.”
The celebration kicked off at alum James Sanders’ Sanders BBQ, where alumni volunteers gathered to pick up their t-shirts and network.
Thank you to our sponsors:
- Sugarland Mortuary
- McDonald’s Black Operators
- Theodore King
- The Staples Family
- Kahnti
- 3 Stars Catering and Events
- Saluki Spirit
- James Sanders BBQ and Supply
This event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of:
- SIU’s Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- SIU’s Office of Communications and Marketing
- SIU’s Alumni Association
- SIU’s Black Alumni Group
Special thanks to the following departments for their generous donations:
- SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences
- SIU’s Extended Campus
