Southern Illinois University Carbondale dedicated the Dr. David A. NewMyer Lobby on Friday, Nov. 14, recognizing a pioneer whose vision and leadership helped build one of the nation’s top aviation programs and shaped the careers of thousands of aviation professionals worldwide.

Held in the North Lobby of the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center, the ceremony brought together alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends to celebrate NewMyer’s 50-year career and the alumni-driven fundraising effort that made the naming possible. Aviation graduates led the initiative to permanently honor the man they say changed the trajectory of their lives and the future of SIU’s School of Aviation.

“When you hear the name Dr. David A. NewMyer, you know that is synonymous with aviation education excellence,” said Chris Sims, a 1994 aviation graduate and United Airlines captain who represented the alumni donors. “There are countless alumni who trace their success back to Dr. NewMyer. Few, if any, have advanced in their careers without his fingerprints somewhere along the way.”

A Leader Who Built a Nationally Recognized Program

NewMyer began his SIU career in 1975 as a part-time instructor for the School of Technical Careers’ off-campus programs. He moved to Carbondale in 1979 to join the aviation management faculty and became department chair in 1993, leading aviation management and flight for more than 20 years. His leadership helped unite previously scattered aviation operations and laid the foundation for the Transportation Education Center, which is now considered one of the best aviation facilities in the country.

“We like to say this is the number one aviation program in the nation, and we believe that is a fact,” said Dr. Robert Morgan, dean of SIU College of Health and Human Sciences. “We would not be the best without Dr. Dave NewMyer.”

Originally from California, NewMyer earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Redlands, followed by a master’s degree in political science from Drew University and a master’s degree in transportation from Northwestern University. He later earned his doctorate in educational administration and higher education from SIU.

NewMyer became one of the nation’s most respected experts in airport planning and airline management. Over his career, he taught thousands of students, published 54 articles, authored 39 technical reports and presented research that helped shape industry practices. He also dedicated decades to service at the local, state, and national levels, including more than 30 years on the DeSoto School Board, four terms on the Illinois Board of Aeronautical Advisors, and long-term involvement with the University Aviation Association.

Provost Sheryl Tucker highlighted his enduring influence.

“We have a thought leader in our field,” she said. “His leadership elevated the program, the institution, the region and the aviation industry at large.”

A Global Impact Rooted in Southern Illinois

During the ceremony, speakers emphasized the reach of NewMyer’s legacy. Alumni recounted stories of colleagues around the world instantly recognizing the SIU name and NewMyer’s reputation when they share where they trained.

“You cannot go anywhere in the world without someone saying, ‘Oh, you are one of those Salukis,’” Sims said. “That happened because of his guidance. Everyone knows who Dr. NewMyer is. Now it is time to honor him.”

NewMyer thanked the alumni whose gifts made the lobby naming possible, as well as the colleagues and community partners who helped bring the Transportation Education Center to life. He reflected on the challenges faced during its construction and the teamwork required to create the state-of-the-art facility students use today.

“We almost did not get this fine facility,” NewMyer said. “Aviation functions were once spread all over campus and in rented spaces at the airport. Now everything is in one place, and what we can do for our students is so much more. I am grateful to everyone who helped make that possible.”

He also acknowledged the people who shaped his early career, including the family of the founding airport manager who first encouraged him to visit Carbondale.

A Lasting Tribute Made Possible by Alumni

Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Relations Matt Kupec closed the ceremony by emphasizing the strength of the alumni network that rallied to honor NewMyer.

“The success of this effort is a testament to alumni who believe in this man and the leadership that changed their lives,” Kupec said. “If you want to go fast, fly alone. If you want to go far, we must fly together. That is exactly what happened here.”

Following the ribbon cutting, guests enjoyed sweet treats and light refreshments as they gathered in the newly named Dr. David A. NewMyer Lobby, a lasting tribute to a leader whose vision transformed SIU Aviation and whose influence will continue to guide future generations of Salukis.