By Jeff Wilson
Hearing Tim Griffith speak about his time at Southern Illinois University, it quickly becomes clear that he has a connection that transcends human interaction. It was at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center that he found something deeper.
His love for nature and his passion for conservation have been the driving force behind his enduring support for the university and its initiatives.
“The importance of Touch of Nature is that it’s here. It’s not some foreign place. This is home,” Griffith said.
Recently, he established a $150,000 planned gift to support Touch of Nature through the Griffith Family Endowment Fund for Camp Excellence. This generous contribution will enhance camp operations, inclusivity, and accessibility, ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty and wonder of nature.
“I have been a supporter of SIU ever since the day I graduated, really. Touch of Nature is a very special place to me. This is my cathedral,” he said.
After graduating from Southern in 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil sciences from the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, Griffith spent 37 years in the agricultural seed industry, working as the director of agronomic services for Agri Gold Hybrids. After retiring, he pursued his lifelong dream of becoming a wildlife biologist, dedicating himself to wildlife conservation and soil and water conservation efforts.
“I grew up in the flatlands of central Illinois and spent every waking minute outdoors if I could,” he said. “I got to come down to SIU for a visit and went out, and I immediately knew this is where I’m going. Forget all the other schools. I could be in the woods every day on campus.”
Touch of Nature provides an outdoor learning environment that impacts both SIU students and the Southern Illinois community. With support from alumni like Griffith, more opportunities will become available.
“This is his place, and you see him light up when he comes back,” said Brian Croft, executive director of Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. “He found his passion here at SIU and Touch of Nature. It makes me realize that what we’re doing is important.”
To learn more about Touch of Nature, visit ton.siu.edu. To learn more about planned giving, visit siufgiving.org.