The third annual Saluki Women’s Weekend brought together over 200 women, including students, alumnae, and professionals, to connect, share, and support one another.
The event, which was September 19 through September 21, was hosted by the SIU Foundation’s Women’s Leadership Council, a network of alumnae, parents, and friends who are committed to creating a culture of women-driven philanthropy at SIU and mentoring future generations of Salukis.
“Very few of us ever got to where we are today without having some encouragement,” said Dr. Sheryl Tucker, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “It’s important that we pass that on.”
Featuring dozens of panelists and speakers, the Saluki Women’s Weekend put a spotlight on how women can achieve and support one another while reaching their goals.
“There are so many things we should take away from this,” said Diane Compardo, president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors and Saluki Woman of the Year award winner. “I’m going to encourage you to find that one thing that has been so meaningful for you and take it into your life.”
Three other women also received special recognition during the event:
- Sherrica Hunt, Saluki Woman Trailblazer
- Kirsten Barton, Saluki Woman Emerging Leader
- Amber Koteras, Rising Star – Student Leadership Award
The Women’s Leadership Council also announced the first two recipients of the EmpowerHER Community Grant, which provided $500 awards to local, women-owned businesses. The first recipients were Chastity Mays of Hathor Doula Service and Lynne Weeks of Reading by the Weeks.
The weekend was sponsored by the SIU Credit Union and Moneta, Legence Bank, Southern Illinois Healthcare, Dawn Korte, Ph.D., Rendleman Orchards, and Oasis Skin & Wellness Center, Inc., Melissa Hahn, Elizabeth Kepuraitis, Gloria Tison, Cristina Pisoni – State Farm Agent, and Regions Bank, St. Nicholas Brewing Company MDH, WSIU Public Radio and WSIU Public Television.