The 12th Annual SIU Scholarship Dinner on Nov. 7 brought together more than 230 donors and scholarship recipients at the SIU Student Center ballrooms to celebrate the transformative power of philanthropy.

Hosted by the SIU Foundation, the evening highlighted stories of gratitude and achievement as students shared how donor support opened doors, eased financial burdens and inspired them to dream bigger.

Chancellor Austin A. Lane thanked donors for their unwavering commitment to student success. “Your dollars are going toward a fantastic group of students,” Lane said. “You are shaping the future through your generosity.”

SIU Foundation Board President Dan Korte welcomed guests and led an engaging conversation with Michelle Montano, a zoology and pre-veterinary student whose journey exemplifies the impact of scholarships.

Montano, a fourth-year student from northern Illinois, received the William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship, which she says changed her life. Before the award, Montano faced financial challenges while pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. The scholarship allowed her to focus on academics and hands-on research instead of worrying about making ends meet.

“At first, I didn’t believe that I received it,” Montano said. “I remember calling my mom, especially since I was struggling with finding a job at the time. It lifted a burden for everyone.”

The relief extended to her family. Montano’s mother works three jobs while caring for a younger brother with autism.

“When we found out, my mom felt so relieved,” Montano said. “She could focus on my younger brother, and it gave me independence.”

After graduating in May, Montano plans to attend veterinary school and specialize in zoological medicine, working with exotic animals in zoos or conservatories. She also hopes to study feline sciences, focusing on rare diseases in kittens.

“Kindness goes a long way,” Montano said. “When I’m able, I want to change someone’s life the way donors changed mine.”

The William C. Hill Zoology Scholarship was established by William Hill, a 1942 SIU graduate whose education launched a distinguished career in public service. His gift continues to inspire students like Montano to pursue their dreams.

As Korte told attendees, “Keep doing what you’re doing. It is helping people like Michelle so much in their life.”