INDIANAPOLIS – The Saluki Takeover Tour kicked off its 2025–26 season with an inaugural stop in Indianapolis on Thursday, Sept. 4. More than 110 alumni and friends gathered that evening at Guggman Haus Brewing Co. for the Chancellor’s Reception, where they celebrated their Saluki spirit in the heart of Indiana.
“This is the kickoff for the Saluki Takeover Tour, and we’re proud to put our flag in the ground here in Indianapolis,” said Dr. Austin A. Lane, chancellor of Southern Illinois University Carbondale. “This city is full of talented students, strong partners and proud alumni, and we want to make sure SIU is top of mind.”
A highlight of the takeover stop was SIU sports administration students touring Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Pacers and Fever, and the Indianapolis Colts headquarters for exclusive behind-the-scenes access.
Earlier in the day, university leaders connected with Ivy Tech and Indianapolis Public Schools to strengthen recruitment pipelines, while development officers met with local donors and partners.
On Friday, Sept. 5, students enjoyed breakfast with SIU President Dan Mahony at the JW Marriott before touring Victory Field with the Indianapolis Indians and the NCAA Hall of Champions. These visits offered Salukis valuable exposure to careers in professional sports, community leadership, and nonprofit management.
“The energy at the Chancellor’s Reception was incredible,” said Matt Kupec, CEO of the SIU Foundation and vice chancellor for development and alumni relations. “You could feel the pride and commitment in the room. This tour is about connecting donors, alumni and future Salukis, and Indianapolis was the perfect place to start.”
Kupec said alumni philanthropy remains central to the tour’s impact. “This is a university on the rise,” he said, noting progress toward the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign goal. “When we take SIU on the road, we connect donors, partners and future Salukis — and that support provides the margin of excellence for our students.”
Throughout the reception, alumni spanning decades and colleges shared their majors and class years, building connections across generations and offering insights into careers, community involvement and opportunities to support SIU.
The event also emphasized SIU’s “Say Yes” initiative, which invites high school leaders to connect the university directly with prospective students who have a 2.75 GPA or higher. Enrollment leaders reminded guests that SIU does not charge out-of-state tuition, making it an attractive option for Indiana families.
Marketing efforts extended the reach of the tour with digital billboards across Indianapolis and Lafayette, highlighting SIU’s Research 1 status and national recognition as one of only 21 universities designated as both a top research and opportunity institution.
The takeover continues in West Lafayette with two alumni gatherings:
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Friday, Sept. 5 – SIU Alumni Gathering at The Bryant
Alumni, fans, and friends will reconnect at The Bryant Food & Drink for a spirited evening of Saluki pride. Complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will be available. -
Saturday, Sept. 6 – SIU Alumni Tailgate at Purdue
Salukis will gather on Rankin Field ahead of the SIU vs. Purdue football game. Tickets include a full meal, non-alcoholic beverages, and a chance to cheer on the Dawgs alongside fellow alumni.
Spearheaded by the SIU Foundation, the Saluki Takeover Tour began in 2021 and has expanded its reach every year. Previous stops have included Chicago, Springfield, Nashville, Florida, St. Louis, Southern Illinois, and Hollywood.
The 2025–26 tour schedule continues with:
- Sept. 23–25 – Washington, D.C.
- Oct. 8–10 – Chicago
- Nov. 11–14 – Texas (Dallas, Austin, Houston)
- Nov. 24–25 — Memphis
- Feb. 10–13 – Florida (Tampa, St. Petersburg, Naples)
- Mar. 4–6 – St. Louis
- Mar. 23–27 – Central Illinois (Bloomington/Peoria, Springfield)
- Mar. 31–Apr. 21 – Southern Illinois (Makanda, Nashville, Goreville, Herrin, Red Bud, Carmi)
- May 13–15 – Atlanta
- Jun. 8–12 – California (San Francisco, Los Angeles)