![\"SIU](\"https:\/\/blog.siuf.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/siu-credit-union1.jpg\")
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By Britni Bateman<\/p>\n
CARBONDALE, Ill. \u2014 Saluki pride was on full display during the 10th SIU Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, as $5,714,315 from 1,073 donors supported scholarships, research, programs, and initiatives across Southern Illinois University Carbondale.<\/p>\n
The 24-hour online fundraiser, hosted by the SIU Foundation, celebrated SIU\u2019s theme of \u201cWe R1 of 21\u201d \u2014 recognizing the university\u2019s distinction as one of only 21 institutions nationwide, out of nearly 4,000, designated by the Carnegie Classification as both a Research 1 (R1) university and an Opportunity College and University (OCU).<\/p>\n
\u201cThis year\u2019s Day of Giving has been nothing short of historic,\u201d said Chancellor Austin A. Lane. \u201cThe dual designation of Research 1 and Opportunity University captures exactly who we are \u2014 a place of groundbreaking discovery and expanded access. The generosity of our alumni and friends ensures we can continue to open doors for students while advancing research that changes lives.\u201d<\/p>\n
Since 2017, the SIU Day of Giving has raised more than $23.6 million, contributing to the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has surpassed $423 million toward its $500 million goal.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis event continues to show the strength of Saluki Nation,\u201d said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. \u201cWhat stands out is not just the dollar amount, but the commitment of our alumni, friends, and community partners to help students succeed. That collective spirit is what makes SIU one of a kind.\u201d<\/p>\n
Major Highlights<\/strong><\/p>\n Community Impact:<\/strong> SIU Credit Union kicked off the day with a generous $35,000 gift, including $20,000 to support New Student Programs and $15,000 to benefit Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. Their gift set the tone for a day of transformational giving.<\/p>\n Student Life:<\/strong> Proud Saluki alumni Chuck and Tracy Hamilton announced the creation of the Charles and Tracy Hamilton Hangout in the College of Health and Human Sciences\u2019 Living Learning Community at Mae Smith. The space will provide students with opportunities to relax, connect, and build friendships.<\/p>\n Athletics Excellence:<\/strong> Craig Englert, a devoted supporter of Saluki Women\u2019s Basketball, committed a $3 million planned gift to the program. His contribution, part of the Salukis Unleashed campaign, underscores the growing momentum behind Saluki Athletics and builds on recent historic gifts supporting women\u2019s teams.<\/p>\n Celebrating Together<\/strong><\/p>\n The second annual Night of B.E.E.R. (Balancing Education, Experience and Reality) kicked off the celebration on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at Hangar 9. Hosted by SIU Alumni Association Board President Scott Moller, the event raised support for the B.E.E.R. Scholarship.<\/p>\n The scholarship itself is a Saluki success story. What began in 2019 as a lighthearted idea in the Carbondale in the \u201980s and \u201990s<\/em> Facebook group quickly transformed into a powerful giving tradition. Alumnus Dan Giedeman first suggested pooling donations for the Day of Giving, and fellow member Jim Raffensperger coined the memorable name. That first year, the group raised $65,000 to endow a scholarship.<\/p>\n Since then, alumni have rallied every Day of Giving, raising more than $23,000 this year from 295 donors, awarding 36 scholarships, and building a community that thrives on Saluki spirit. This year alone, the group supported a \u201csix-pack\u201d of SIU students with scholarships.<\/p>\n Throughout the Day of Giving, the SIU Foundation released a series of videos on social media showcasing stories of impact from across campus. These digital spotlights highlighted donors, students, and programs, allowing Salukis everywhere to join in the celebration.<\/p>\n To see a full breakdown of gifts, explore the donor wall, and watch highlight videos, visit siuday.siu.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" By Britni Bateman CARBONDALE, Ill. \u2014 Saluki pride was on full display during the 10th SIU Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, as $5,714,315 from 1,073 donors supported scholarships, research, programs, and initiatives across Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The 24-hour online fundraiser, hosted by the SIU Foundation, celebrated SIU\u2019s theme of \u201cWe R1 … Continue reading SIU Day of Giving raises $5.7 million from 1,073 donors<\/span>