Category Archives: Higher Education

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Foundation expands fundraising team

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The SIU Foundation is ecstatic to announce the expansion of its fundraising team.

Coming off a historic Fiscal Year 2024 in which it raised $46.8 million and in the middle of the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, the SIU Foundation is building on this incredible momentum.

The following individuals began their new roles on July 1, 2024:

  • Jen Badiu, assistant director of development for the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
  • Brian Flath, director of development for Student Affairs
  • Carol Greenlee, director of development for the School of Education
  • Brittney Morrison, assistant director of development for the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
  • Michelle Snyder, assistant director of development for the College of Arts and Media

“Our staff has been doing amazing things, and these five individuals are going to help push our fundraising efforts even further,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “The SIU Foundation Board of Directors has invested in our team, and adding to our tremendous team of fundraisers allows us to expand our role as an accelerator for the university.”

Badiu previously served as an academic advisor in SIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University, a master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University, and has started working toward her doctoral degree at SIU. In 2005, she became the system director for Southern Illinois Healthcare, overseeing the growth and development of the region’s first comprehensive freestanding cancer center, Breast Centers, and established the Office of Clinical Research. Jen was instrumental in the initiation of fundraising efforts, including Pink Out Cancer, Black Out Cancer, SIU Coach Kill Cancer Fund, and SIH Grateful Patient & Family Giving Fund.

Flath comes to the Foundation after nearly nine years in the Corporate Support Department at WSIU Public Broadcasting. He also previously worked for Lee Enterprises as an advertising sales representative, at both The Southern Illinoisan and Herald & Review newspapers. He received his bachelor’s degree from SIU journalism with a specialization in advertising. He is involved in several community organizations, including the Carterville Area Rotary Club, several local chambers of commerce, the Knights of Columbus Council #10453, and The Night’s Shield in West Frankfort.

Greenlee had been the associate director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute for two years, contributing significantly to the implementation of key initiatives and managing distinguished campus visits.  She chairs the SIU Head Start Government Board and serves on the SIU Credit Union Board of Directors. She holds two degrees from SIU Carbondale, a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a Master of Science in Education. In 2023, she was selected for the Edgar Fellows program, a statewide leadership initiative.

Morrison was previously the assistant director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at SIU, where she was responsible for developing and planning complex events. Before that, she was the admissions and events coordinator for SIU Undergraduate Admissions. She earned her bachelor’s degree in finance, specializing in financial management and is pursuing her master’s degree in education with a major in organizational learning, innovation, and development, both from SIU.

Snyder has worked in various capacities at SIU, initially in the Office of University Risk Management, and later returning to pursue her master’s degree. She holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from SIU Carbondale, specializing in workforce education and development and public health, respectively. Before her current role, she served as program director at the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, overseeing initiatives such as the NonProfit Network, GiveSI, and the Southern Illinois Leadership Institute.

To learn more about the SIU Foundation, visit siuf.org.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Celebrating Diversity and Community: SIU Chicagoland DEI Engagement Raises Over $10,000 for Scholarships

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The inaugural SIU Chicagoland DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Engagement, held on July 13, was a resounding success, with over 100 Salukis coming together to support scholarships for the SIU Office of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) and to foster a stronger sense of community. The event raised over $10,000 through the generous support of attendees and sponsors.

In attendance were:

  • Dr. Paul Frazier: SIU Vice Chancellor of Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  • Tania Wittgenfeld: SIU Assistant Vice Chancellor of External Relations – Enrollment Management
  • Sherrica Hunt: Assistant Vice Chancellor of Development/Alumni Relations for the SIU Foundation
  • Scott Moller: SIU Alumni Association Board of Directors President and SIU Foundation Board of Directors
  • Gary Heflin: SIU Alumni Association Board of Directors
  • Barry Batson, Tonnette Williams, Darius Robinson: SIU Foundation Board of Directors
  • The Honorable Jason C. Ervin ’96: Alderman for Chicago’s 28th Ward
  • Kennard Tucker ’91: SIU Chicagoland DEI Engagement Committee Member

“The success of this event is a testament to the SIU community’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all,” said Dr. Paul Frazier. “The funds raised will go a long way in supporting our students and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”

The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of SIU Communications and Marketing, the SIU Office of Enrollment Management, the SIU Foundation, the SIU Alumni Association, and the SIU Black Alumni Group.

A special thanks to its sponsors:

  • Sugarland Mortuary
  • McDonald’s Black Operators
  • Theodore King
  • The Staples Family
  • Kahnti
  • 3 Stars Catering and Events
  • Saluki Spirits

About the SIU Chicagoland DEI Engagement:

The SIU Chicagoland DEI Engagement is a new initiative aimed at engaging Salukis in the Chicagoland area while raising funds for scholarships. The event provides an opportunity for networking, celebrating the Saluki spirit, and supporting the next generation of SIU leaders.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Morefield scholarship fund powered by planned gift

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Eclipses reconnect donors to campus, region

Kevin and Denise Morefield watch the solar eclipse in Australia in 2023.

By Jeff Wilson

Between the two total solar eclipses that crossed over the Southern Illinois University campus, Kevin and Denise Morefield made an astronomical impact of their own – a generous planned gift to establish the Morefield Opportunities Scholarship Endowment Fund.

Established in 2021, the scholarship fund benefits Murphysboro graduates in need of a financial boost.

“Our scholarship is about helping others have the same opportunity I had,” Kevin said. “My choice to attend SIU changed my life profoundly, so we decided to pay that forward to others.”

The Morefield’s planned gift is a bequest, which means they have indicated the amount they will direct to SIU through their estate plan. They also decided to partially fund the scholarship while they’re both still living.

“Planned giving is a worry-free and easy way to give back. The endowment will keep giving in perpetuity with funds that, by definition, we didn’t need,” Kevin said. “After making the decision to contribute, I found myself thinking often about the lives the scholarship would affect. That led us to start early and partially fund the scholarship so we could see some of the impact in our lifetime.”

Kevin, a graduate of Murphysboro High School, received his bachelor’s degree from SIU in cinema and photography in 1985. That passion for photography has led him around the globe chasing eclipses. As fate would have it, that trek has brought him back to SIU twice, once in 2017 and again in 2024.

Photo by Kevin Morefield: Capturing the first and second diamond ring during the total solar eclipse across Southern Illinois on Monday, April 8, 2024.

“This was my eighth total solar eclipse. I have witnessed them in the outback of Australia, the polar Arctic, an atoll in the South Pacific, the Atacama Desert in Chile, and in Antarctica,” he said. “For there to be two over my hometown and alma mater is mindboggling and truly unique.”

After witnessing the grandeur of solar eclipses worldwide, the opportunity to be part of two so close to home was particularly powerful.

Kevin and Denise Morefield are pictured with Kevin’s mother, Betty Morefield (left), celebrating the 2024 eclipse at PK’s.

“The way SIU embraced these events is heartwarming. Eclipses always bring together a diverse group of people all with a common goal. That kind of broad feeling of community is rare and should be treasured,” Kevin said. “If someone had told me back in 1984 that 40 years later, I would be having a beer at PKs while everyone talked about total solar eclipses, I would not have believed it!”

To learn more about making a planned gift, visit siufgiving.org.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Saluki Takeover Tour rolls out red carpet in Hollywood

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SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane addresses the crowd of nearly 100 alumni at the inaugural Saluki Takeover Tour Hollywood.

HOLLYWOOD – The Saluki Takeover Tour headed west for a stop in Hollywood on Wednesday, June 19, and Thursday, June 20.

Nearly 100 alumni and friends gathered June 20 at The Musso & Frank Grill in Hollywood to celebrate the Saluki spirit during the Chancellor’s Reception.

“I can’t tell you enough how wonderful it is to see each of you doing so well, and we have some heavy hitters here,” said Dr. Austin Lane, chancellor of Southern Illinois University Carbondale. “I’ve heard about what you are doing out here. It’s amazing work.”

A highlight of the Saluki Takeover Tour in Hollywood was featuring the revitalized Hollywood Studies program, which will offer internships to SIU students who are seeking firsthand experience with film and television industry companies. During the takeover tour, SIU alumni facilitated tours of both Netflix and Warner Bros.

“The energy our alumni brought to the Hollywood events was incredible,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor of development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “It was wonderful to see so many inspiring Salukis together in one room so far from campus.”

Three SIU alumni have been particularly instrumental in coordinating this initiative, Robert Dennis ’84, Diane Eaton ’80, and Todd Abrams ’90.

“I’m so grateful to each of you for what you have been doing in the industry and for our students, in particular,” said Dr. Hong Cheng, dean of the College of Arts and Media.

Students and faculty from the College of Arts and Media met with industry leaders, including SIU alumni Bob Odenkirk and Mike Dopud, during the takeover tour on June 19.

“Our students are so appreciative of you taking time to tell them how you got from Carbondale to here,” Lane said. “Our students don’t make a four-year decision; they make a 40-year decision. The information they get from you is going to help them 40 years from now.”

Spearheaded by the SIU Foundation, the Saluki Takeover Tour began in 2021 and has expanded its reach every year. During FY24, there have been takeover tours in Chicago, Springfield, Nashville, Florida, St. Louis, Southern Illinois, and now Hollywood. Looking ahead, more stops will be added to the Saluki Takeover Tour schedule.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Technical Service Center naming honors Missavage’s legacy

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Family honors longtime director, professor with $500K gift

Ribbon Cutting (Left to Right) John Brajkovich, Dennis Missavage (Brother of Roger Missavage), Dean Liu, Arlene Liss (Sister of Roger), Gene Liss (Arlene’s Husband and Brother-In-Law of Roger), and Jason Fairfield

By Jeff Wilson

Roger J. Missavage, a longtime professor at Southern Illinois University, was an outstanding faculty of the College of Engineering. He was director of the Computer Assisted Instruction & Research Laboratory for 29 years.

When Roger passed away in November 2021 at age 71, his brother Dennis Missavage, and sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and Gene Liss, established the Roger J. Missavage Endowed Fund for Engineering Education with a $500,000 gift in Roger’s memory.

Xiaoqing “Frank” Liu, dean of the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics

On April 19, 2024, Xiaoqing “Frank” Liu, dean of the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics, hosted a dedication of the Roger J. Missavage Technical Service Center. The center will bolster information technology initiatives within the college.

“This is an exciting moment for this college,” Liu said. “Technology is the foundation of our college. The funds from this endowment will cover the technological needs of this college. Our students, faculty, and staff will benefit from this endowment in a significant way.”

Roger Missavage, a Herrin, Illinois, native, graduated from SIU in 1978 with a degree in engineering and added a master’s degree in mining engineering in 1991. He taught multiple courses at SIUC, including mechanics of rigid body–statics, mechanics of rigid bodies-dynamics, rock mechanics principles and design, and analysis and design of mine excavations. He was also a Professional Engineer, which requires licensure from a state board of registration to practice engineering. He provided outstanding information technology support to the college for a long time.

John Brajkovich, director of the Roger J. Missavage Technical Service Center, gave a tour of the facility.

John Brajkovich, who will manage the Roger J. Missavage Technical Service Center, was a student worker for Missavage and a former colleague.

“He was just a guy who would help you with anything you needed,” he said at the dedication. “He would make loans to students if they were having problems. Anything he could do to help. A very charitable man. A very giving man.”

Liu credited Roger Missavage with being influential in many of the college’s advancements in information technology and facility and philanthropic support.

“The Roger J. Missavage Technical Service Center will permanently establish Roger’s legacy at our college and SIU,” he said.

Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU’s cannabis research: An opportunity to lead

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By Jeff Wilson

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, SIU has positioned itself on the forefront of the research that will drive it even further.

Dr. Jose Franco Da Cunha Leme Filho leads SIU’s Cannabis Science Center in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences (CALPS).

“We want to attract more students to horticulture, plant biology, agronomy, and other research-intensive initiatives,” he said.

This fall, CALPS will begin offering a bachelor’s degree in horticulture with a specialization in cannabis science, as well as a minor and certification. As the college moves forward with cannabis research, it faces numerous challenges. There are very few federal grants available to support the research, which means its expansion relies heavily on donations and collaboration with private companies.

“It’s a big challenge,” Dr. Leme said. “We are relying on partnerships with the private sector to advance toward our goals.”

SIU’s research only works with low-THC cannabis plants, and Dr. Leme is unable to accept monetary donations from companies that focus on recreational or medical marijuana, which compounds the challenge.

Dr. Leme has secured equipment donations from companies such as AC Infinity, which donated controlled-environment growth units that now fill the limited lab space used for cannabis research in Life Science II.

“I am very appreciative of SIU,” he said. “The university has been very open-minded in creating these opportunities. What we’re doing is the best in the state. We are the ones to collaborate with.”

Now, the goal is to expand, but that requires resources. Dr. Leme has created a plan to establish a new controlled-environment agriculture lab in the basement of McLafferty Annex.

“We would be starting from the ground up,” he said. “Currently, we have more equipment than we can fit in our space. We’re crammed into many small labs, which we’re happy to have, but we need more space. A company could come in and put its name on a new, state-of-the-art lab space.”

With more than 20 students working on the research during Spring 2024, Dr. Leme said that number could double or even triple with more space. Plus, a controlled-environment agriculture lab space would support more than cannabis research and include other indoor-production crops.

“Collaborating with private companies, we can help introduce them to academia and students,” Dr. Leme said. “We will provide reliable information and show the legitimacy of cannabis research and combat negative stereotypes that exist.”

To learn more about the program or how to support it, contact Dr. Leme at jose.leme@siu.edu or CALPS Director of Development Susan Graham at susang@foundation.siu.edu.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Scholarship Recipient, SIU

Dennis documents eclipse, connects with scholarship recipients

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Left to right: Robert Dennis, Dorcas Brou and Ethan Grimm

By Jeff Wilson

Robert Dennis ’84 embarked on a unique journey to capture the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

His decision to travel to SIU for the eclipse was motivated by both professional and personal reasons. Invited to participate in the Dynamic Eclipse Broadcast Initiative, Dennis seized the opportunity to witness the eclipse on campus, reconnect with SIU, and engage with students who have benefited from scholarships he has established.

“Several locations were considered, but Carbondale was the obvious choice … to experience the event on campus, come home so-to-speak, and visit with students in my old stomping grounds,” he said.

Equipped with an arsenal of photography gear, he immersed himself in the eclipse photography experience. Describing the thrill of the clear skies during the eclipse, Dennis was excited to photograph such a phenomenon at his alma mater.

“It was a bit overwhelming at times,” he said. “You could feel the crowd’s excitement like electricity in the air.”

Connecting with Scholarship Recipients

During the eclipse, Dennis connected with scholarship recipients Ethan Grimm and Dorcas Brou, sharing memorable moments and capturing a selfie together. Through interactions with students throughout the event, Dennis witnessed their enthusiasm and dedication to their craft.

“I shared my work on the day with many of the CAM (College of Arts and Media) students,” Dennis said. “It was a true pleasure to engage in their enthusiasm as they worked on the production.”

Dennis hopes that scholarship recipients will remember the privilege of witnessing such a rare astronomical phenomenon and be inspired to give back to their university.

“I encourage each recipient to reach back to the school during their careers … to bring others along to share in their success, and give back often,” Dennis said.

Beyond the eclipse, Dennis remains committed to supporting scholarship recipients throughout the year. From phone conversations to social media interactions, he maintains a connection with students, offering guidance and mentorship.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Clubhouse 145 donates $3,500 to the Dawg Pound

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Clubhouse 145 presents check for $3,500 to the Dawg Pound.
From left: Emma Buesing, Dawg Pound executive vice president, Malayna Russell, Dawg Pound vice president of gameday operations, Jacob Bryant, vice president of gameday operations, Sean Cooney, Dawg Pound advisor, Jacob Vezensky, Office of Student Engagement graduate assistant, Zipper Brandhorst, Clubhouse 145 member, Tyler Lawrence, outgoing Dawg Pound chief of operations, Dylan Chambers, outgoing Dawg Pound president, Corey Crombar, Dawg Pound president-elect, Steve Falat, Clubhouse 145 member, Rick Runge, Clubhouse 145 member, Jolene Falat, Clubhouse 145 member, Tim Leonard, SIU athletic director, Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations, and Byron Hetzler, Clubhouse 145 member, pose for a photo in the Banterra Center.

By Jeff Wilson

Saluki fans are good at lots of things, but for Clubhouse 145 the main three are cheering on the Dawgs, keeping the party going after the game, and giving back to the university.

The group recently donated $3,500 to the Dawg Pound. Last year, it donated $3,000 to the Balancing Education, Experience, and Reality (B.E.E.R.) Scholarship.

Clubhouse 145, named after the Banterra Center parking space at which they congregate after Saluki football and basketball games, has become a tradition like no other. Started a few years ago by Mike Austin, Rick Runge, Zipper Brandhorst, and Steve Falat, members of the group enjoy a cocktail and some Saluki pride after the games. Many others have become regulars at Clubhouse 145.

“It’s grown beyond our initial expectations,” said Falat. “Our goal is to have fun and show support for SIU and Saluki Athletics.”

Anyone is welcome to join the party, and the group accepts donations during their after-game gatherings. Of course, it takes regular participation to become an official member of Clubhouse 145, which includes branded hats and polos.

The support for the Dawg Pound comes at a moment when the registered student organization is more involved than ever before. Led by SIU senior Dylan Chambers, the Dawg Pound has become the largest RSO on campus. Chambers, who will graduate in May and is a member of Clubhouse 145, is handing the reins over to new Dawg Pound President Corey Crombar.

“Seeing this kind of support just shows how special the SIU community is,” said Crombar, an SIU freshman and Carbondale Community High School graduate. “It’s going to help greatly with travel expenses, giveaways, shirts, and so much more. We’re so thankful to Clubhouse 145.”

The Dawg Pound presents Clubhouse 145 with a lifetime membership.

Chambers also presented the members of Clubhouse 145 with an Honorary Lifetime Membership to the Dawg Pound.

Crowdfunding, Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

SIU Credit Union donates $35K to Touch of Nature, New Student Programs

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Gift kicks off 8th annual SIU Day of Giving

SIU Credit Union has long been a resolute supporter of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and once again it was on display to jumpstart the SIU Day of Giving.

The credit union donated $35,000 in total, designating $20,000 to New Student Programs and $15,000 to Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. This gift, and all Day of Giving donations, benefit the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign.

“I look forward to this every year,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “We can’t thank SIU Credit Union enough for this partnership.”

These gifts will help the university welcome new students by funding programming and offer experiences that build Saluki spirit and help them form lifelong bonds with each other and the university. One such event is Dawg Days, hosted each fall at Touch of Nature.

“Touch of Nature wouldn’t be what it is today without the SIU Credit Union,” said Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. “Thank you for everything you do for SIU students.”

In the fall, there was a groundbreaking ceremony for the SIU Credit Union Event Center at Touch of Nature. That project stems from a $500,000 donation the credit union previously made.

“Being an alumnus, it’s important for me to give back to the university that got me where I am,” said Mike Lantrip, SIU Credit Union president and CEO and a 1991 graduate of SIU’s College of Business and Analytics. “Touch of Nature has a special place in my heart.”

Kim Babington, SIU Credit Union’s vice president of community outreach, complimented the staff of Touch of Nature and Student Affairs, which operates New Student Programs.

“It makes such a difference to see the passion that they have for their programs,” she said.

Beyond the experiences, the funds play a major role in bringing students to campus and keeping them here.

“I want to emphasize what the credit union’s support and commitment means to us,” said Jennifer Phillips, director of New Student Programs. “It’s important to recruitment and retention, and we couldn’t do it without you.”

Each year, the SIU Day of Giving brings thousands of Salukis and SIU supporters together for a 24-hour, online event, which has raised nearly $14 million over its first seven years. Gifts can be made all day Wednesday, Feb. 28, at siuday.siu.edu, and every day at siuf.org.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

John and Jayne Simmons make $10M gift to SIU’s law school

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Historic donation will expand, enhance opportunities for students, faculty

CARBONDALE, Ill. – A $10 million gift from John and Jayne Simmons will impact generations of Southern Illinois University Carbondale law students and strengthen the law school’s ability to serve its students and the region. In honor of their generosity, the law school will be named Simmons Law School, pending approval from the SIU Board of Trustees in April.

The transformational donation comes as the law school is celebrating its 50th anniversary. It will enhance and expand the educational offerings to students and opportunities for faculty.

“Fifty years ago, we were founded in the public interest to serve the public good,” said Camille Davidson, dean of the SIU School of Law. “This generous gift empowers us to advance our mission on a larger scale and with an even greater impact.”

This historic gift – the largest SIU Carbondale has ever received – was announced Monday, Feb. 5, further cementing John and Jayne Simmons’ legacy at SIU, which includes a $10.2 million commitment to the Simmons Cancer Institute at the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield. Their most recent contribution comes as a major step in the ongoing $500 million Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign.

SIU School of Law exterior image with the text "Simmons Law School" located above the entryway.
Simmons Law School is depicted in this digitally altered image.

“We are so incredibly excited and inspired by this act of generosity,” Chancellor Austin Lane said. “John and Jayne Simmons are shining examples of the impact individuals can have on our institution and the entire region. Their unwavering support and diligent service speak volumes.”

John Simmons, a native and resident of Alton, is an SIU Edwardsville graduate, member of the SIU Board of Trustees, and chairperson and founder of Simmons Hanly Conroy law firm. His and Jayne’s support will help provide more access, services and opportunities to students seeking educational opportunities.

The law school is the alma mater of more than 180 local, state and federal judges. It has alumni practicing law in 48 states and more than 10 countries. It also features legal clinics that serve members of underrepresented communities and offer students real-world experience.

“The SIU university system has provided me with many opportunities to better my life,” John Simmons said. “A thriving law school will help support others in southern Illinois who are working hard day-to-day to improve their own lives. SIU holds a special place for me. We would really like people to look at Simmons Law School as an attainable place where they are welcome, they belong and they can thrive.”

A legacy of service, philanthropy

John Simmons has served two stints on the SIU Board of Trustees, the first from 2004 to 2015, and he was appointed again in 2019 by Gov. J.B. Pritzker. He has previously functioned as the board’s secretary and chairman. He earned his law degree from Southern Methodist University and previously served in the U.S. Army as a combat engineer.

In 1999, John founded Simmons Hanly Conroy, one of the nation’s largest plaintiff’s law firms. The firm has dedicated the past 25 years to representing workers and families impacted by mesothelioma, a fatal and preventable asbestos-related cancer. Under his leadership, the firm expanded to new practice areas and now employs more than 250 people, including more than 80 attorneys, in offices across the country. Most recently, the firm successfully helped lead the national effort to hold manufacturers and distributors of prescription opiates accountable for the opioid epidemic. Firm employees have donated more than $1 million to local charities through the Simmons Employee Foundation and more than $20 million to cancer research nationwide.

Simmons Hanly Conroy has long been involved with SIU’s law school, providing internships and employing its graduates.

“We have been working collaboratively with Simmons Hanly Conroy for years,” Davidson said. “Its broad reach as a national law firm will help to elevate the law school’s recognition and reputation.”

The Simmons Cancer Institute at the SIU School of Medicine is a community-based patient care, research, education and outreach program created to improve cancer care for the citizens of central and southern Illinois. John Simmons also started an initiative to provide free dental care for veterans at the SIUE Dental School in Alton.

John and Jayne are civic leaders, community advocates, real estate developers and act as a catalyst for transformational change in southern Illinois. Beyond Simmons Hanly Conroy, John and Jayne founded AltonWorks, a social impact redevelopment company focused on the revitalization of historic downtown Alton as a healthy, thriving, walkable city. Community contributions are an important part of their story. They have invested significant resources, including time, money and advocacy to people, programs, issues, initiatives and causes designed to create opportunities to help people better their lives.

AltonWorks was founded on the principles of livability, environmental stewardship, social justice and inclusivity and believes in rebuilding communities for optimum social impact. AltonWorks offers thought leadership, planning, convening and connecting, adding capacity to the region’s ability to attract funding, expand social impact, catalyze economic growth and anchor downstate recovery.