By Ava Steffens
The William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship lifted a major financial burden for Southern Illinois University zoology student Michelle Montano, allowing her to focus on her studies and gain hands-on research experience. Now, she says the award has inspired her to “change someone’s life the way hers was.”
A fourth-year zoology and pre-veterinary student, Montano transferred from Harper College, a two-year college located in northern Illinois, to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian, inspired by her deep love for animals — especially cats. SIU’s vibrant campus and array of academic programs made her decision easy. The university’s affordability and beautiful campus sealed her choice.
“Thompson Woods was gorgeous when I first visited,” she said. “Everything here felt convenient and welcoming, and it just felt right.”
Since arriving at SIU, Montano has embraced every opportunity to grow academically and personally. She has found community through Zeta Theta Omega, a dynamic co-ed panhellenic organization for students passionate about zoology, and she participates in Hispanic and Latin-centered RSOs. Through these groups, she’s developed strong friendships and a sense of belonging on campus.
“It’s what I really needed socially, and meeting people here has helped me feel a lot more comfortable,” she said. “I think SIU does a really good job of pushing diversity further and helping unify its student body.”
Her professors’ encouragement and support have also been transformative, inspiring her to make the most of every opportunity SIU offers.
“They will always talk to me about how I can do better, and always bring up tutoring hours,” she said. “I think it’s just positive overall here at SIU.”
Receiving the William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship made her experience even more rewarding. Before being awarded the scholarship, she faced financial challenges, but her determination never wavered. She still remembers the moment she found out.
“At first, I didn’t believe that I received it,” she said. “Then I realized it was real, and I was so excited. I remember calling my mom, especially since I was struggling with finding a job at the time.”
The impact extended beyond her own life. Montano says the scholarship not only helped her focus more on school instead of making ends meet, but also eased the strain on her mother, who works three jobs while supporting her younger brother.
“It allows me to have my own money and independence,” she said. “I felt so much more relaxed, and it gave me more motivation to focus on my classes. When we found out, my mom felt so relieved. She could focus on my younger brother, who has autism, and it lifted a burden for everyone.”
She adds that pursuing a career as a veterinarian can be a process that is both extremely expensive, time-consuming, and competitive. This is especially true when applying to veterinary schools. Montano recalled a moment when she almost reconsidered her goal because of the costs.
“Over the summer, I almost didn’t apply to vet school,” she said. “But hearing about the scholarship opened my eyes. I realized I had a chance if I saved my money to afford it.”
The scholarship awarded to Montano was established by William C. Hill, a 1942 SIU zoology graduate whose education laid the foundation for a distinguished career in public service. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Hill taught biology and general science before joining the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1948. He advanced through several leadership roles and retired in 1984 as director of the FDA’s San Francisco District, overseeing operations across much of the western United States and Pacific territories. Grateful for the opportunities his SIU education provided, Hill created the William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship to help future Salukis pursue their own dreams.
“Kindness goes a long way,” Montano said. “When I’m able, I want to change someone’s life the way donors changed mine.”
After Montano graduates from SIU next May, she plans to pursue her dream of attending veterinary school and specializing in zoological medicine, working with exotic animals in zoos or conservatories. Her lifelong passion for caring for cats continues to inspire her, and she is also considering a secondary focus in feline sciences, studying rare diseases in kittens. SIU’s zoology program and hands-on research opportunities — supported by facilities such as University Farms — help students like Montano gain real-world experience while pursuing their passions.
As one of only 21 universities nationwide — out of 4,000 — recognized by the Carnegie Classification for both R1 Research and Opportunity University status, SIU is committed to advancing discovery and expanding access to higher education.
Scholarships like the one Montano received are a powerful part of that mission, helping students overcome financial barriers and achieve their dreams.
If you are inspired by stories like Michelle Montano’s and believe in the power of accessible, high-quality education, consider supporting or establishing a scholarship through the SIU Foundation. Your generosity can change the lives of future students and help them discover their passion. To make a gift online, visit siuf.org/give.