Donors and scholarship recipients connected during the 11th Annual SIU Scholarship Dinner on Friday, Nov. 1.

This year’s event brought together a record-breaking 119 donors and donor representatives and 86 scholarship recipients, representing 91 unique scholarships—each a testament to the profound impact of philanthropy at Southern.

The evening was highlighted by inspiring stories, laughter, and meaningful connections between SIU’s generous donors and the remarkable students whose lives they’ve transformed.

Donors witnessed firsthand how their support impacts students, many of whom have overcome great challenges to pursue higher education.

“Now that we’ve met all of our recipients from the scholarship, it just warms my heart. Actually, my heart’s bursting just for the fact that we can help in some small way,” said Ron Jurinek, who has established the Jacob Jurinek Scholarship in memory of his son