By Jeff Wilson
MAKANDA, Ill. — Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and SIU Credit Union officially opened a new gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts: the SIU Credit Union Trailhead.
The trailhead pavilion was funded by a $500,000 donation from the credit union.
“This project has been years in the making,” said Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature. “It marks the first major construction at Touch of Nature in decades”.
SIU Credit Union has a long history of supporting Southern Illinois University, including major contributions to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs, Saluki Athletics and other initiatives.
“We believe this trailhead will bring even more people into our community — and it’s already doing that,” said Mike Lantrip, CEO of SIU Credit Union. “We hope this is the beginning of something big for Touch of Nature and the region.”
Touch of Nature often serves as the first introduction to SIU for many through school programs, camps and community events. In addition to its educational offerings, the center helps the university build relationships with future Salukis.
More than 50,000 visitors came to Touch of Nature this year.
“Everyone who visits Touch of Nature leaves with a great impression,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “None of this would be possible without support from partners like SIU Credit Union. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you dream a little.”
The trailhead opens during a period of significant growth at SIU. It is one of several ongoing and planned construction projects, including the Tedrick Welcome Center, the demolition of buildings on old Greek Row, and proposed upgrades to student housing. A groundbreaking ceremony for the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will take place in August.
SIU was recently designated both a Research 1 institution and an Opportunity University, making it one of only 21 universities nationwide — and the only one serving a rural area — to hold both honors.
These developments align with the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has raised nearly $409 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history. In the most recent fiscal year, a record 2,111 SIU students received SIU Foundation scholarships totaling more than $5.6 million. Seventeen percent of all SIU students received a scholarship from the foundation.
To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.