By Ava Steffens
Dr. Tammy Rinehart Kochel, associate dean for research and personnel in SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences, was awarded two of the inaugural micro-grants presented by the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council this spring.
The $1,500 grants will support projects that promote mentorship and dialogue among female faculty and students, strengthening leadership and equity at SIU.
“When I heard about the micro-grants, it was an easy sell for me,” Kochel said. “I put together a couple of proposals for things that I had in my mind but did not have the resources to put into practice yet.”
Dr. Kochel plans to use part of the funding to create a workshop that fosters dialogue among female leaders at SIU, focusing on the challenges women face within the institution. The discussion will invite female faculty members and school directors to share their perspectives and personal experiences.
“We’re really excited for this opportunity for her and to see what comes out of her project,” said Mary Anderson, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council.
The second portion of the grant will support mentorship programs between female faculty members and graduate students. The initiative aims to “empower students by having them experience studying or conducting research under role model observation,” Dr. Kochel said.
“The objective is to be an example for what women can and do accomplish,” she said. “Having the female faculty member lead the experience is meant to build confidence and inspire female students to overcome possible gender barriers and pursue their own goals.”
Founded in 2020, the Women’s Leadership Council connects SIU students, parents, staff, and alumni to a women-focused network of Salukis who share their time, energy, resources, and experiences. The council also supports women’s initiatives across campus and provides multiple scholarships.
“Our mission is to promote SIU and to help empower women,” said Gloria Tison, co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council. “By focusing on women faculty and related programs, we can offer more to our SIU community.”
The council’s mentorship program offers mentors leadership experience and networking opportunities while serving as role models for students in their respective fields. Mentors support the professional growth, development, and confidence of their mentees.
The Women’s Leadership Council hosts the annual Saluki Women’s Weekend, starting with the Women in Empowerment Conference on Friday, October 3. Events include the Women in Philanthropy Luncheon, Saluki Women’s Awards Presentation, Vendor Fair, and Networking Social. The weekend concludes with the Mentorship Breakfast and Saluki Women Tailgate Experience on Saturday. For the full schedule and registration, visit siuf.org/salukiwomen.
To learn more about the SIU Women’s Leadership Council or to make a gift in support of its initiatives, visit siuf.org/wlc.