By Britni Bateman
For Raymond Hankins, giving back to Southern Illinois University Carbondale is not about recognition. It is about creating opportunity and carrying forward a lifetime commitment to service.
A 2004 graduate of SIU’s Workforce Education and Development program, Hankins has included SIU in his estate plans to support students pursuing higher education, particularly veterans and those from marginalized and disadvantaged communities. His gift reflects values shaped by decades of service, strong family influence and a belief that education can change the trajectory of a life.
“An opportunity is all a young person with a strong desire requires,” Hankins said. “With my contribution, I hope to help enable the next generation.”
Hankins’ connection to Southern Illinois University Carbondale began far from the main campus. Originally from Elizabeth, New Jersey, he joined the U.S. Air Force just after his 18th birthday and served for 21 years. While stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, he completed his undergraduate degree through SIU’s military base program.
Though he has never visited the Carbondale campus, Hankins said the experience left a lasting impression.
“It was such a memorable experience earning my undergraduate degree that I want others to have that same opportunity,” he said.
During his Air Force career, Hankins worked in air base defense, a field focused on protecting people and critical resources. Those in the profession are often known as Peacekeepers, a title he says continues to define his life’s work beyond military service.
Education played a pivotal role in that journey. One of Hankins’ most meaningful academic moments came during his capstone project, when he developed promotion exams for enlisted Air Force members seeking advancement from E-5 to E-7.
“Putting that experience in writing and having it represent everything I learned at SIU was powerful,” Hankins said. “When Dr. Reynolds rated my submission as exceptional, it confirmed the value of that education.”
Hankins describes himself as a lifelong learner and credits education with expanding both his professional opportunities and his ability to contribute to society. That belief now guides his philanthropy.
“Each one teach one is something I believe in,” he said. “It takes a village to raise a child. By leaving part of my estate to SIU, I can help ensure students have support when they need it most.”
His decision to give was also influenced by those closest to him. His wife, Lisa McCurdy, a trust and estates attorney, encouraged intentional giving that reflects personal values. His Air Force family instilled principles of integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. His mother, Mary Hankins, along with his sister Angie and brother Anthony, modeled generosity through their own commitment to helping the next generation.
As a Black alumnus, Hankins sees his support as both personal and purposeful.
“When you look at how small the percentage of Black students has remained over time, it should light a fire,” he said. “It only takes one of us to make a difference, but when we multiply our efforts, we become powerful.”
Hankins hopes his legacy will ease financial burdens for students navigating tuition, books, housing and everyday necessities, allowing them to focus on their education and their dreams.
To fellow alumni considering giving back, his message is simple.
“Why not?” Hankins said. “Many of us can point to a moment when our SIU education opened a door. To pass that on to a student is huge. Be that diamond for someone else.”
Despite the distance, Hankins said his pride in SIU is immeasurable.
“Knowing every day that I am a Saluki is one of my life’s treasures,” he said.
Learn how you can make an impact at siuf.org/give.