Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Construction approved for Wildlife Habitat Education Center at SIU’s Touch of Nature

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Touch of Nature

Project funded by anonymous $3 million donation

By Jeff Wilson

CARBONDALE, Ill. – The Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees has approved the design and construction of the Wildlife Habitat Education Center at the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. This significant project will enhance the university’s commitment to outdoor education and community outreach.

The Wildlife Habitat Education Center will serve as a vital support area for Touch of Nature, providing a visitor check-in point for scheduled programs and offering information to visitors.  The center will feature a modern meeting room and an indoor space for activities, ensuring that programs can continue regardless of weather conditions. This new venue will allow the center to host private events and gatherings, providing a versatile space for individuals and groups to rent for celebrations, retreats, and other special occasions.

“The Wildlife Habitat Education Center is a testament to our commitment to environmental education and community engagement,” said Brian Croft, Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center director. ““This facility will provide invaluable resources for our visitors and support our mission to enhance the lives of all people through outdoor experiences.”

A Growing Campus

The project is funded by a generous $3 million anonymous donation, which will cover all construction expenses. The SIU Foundation will manage the construction in close coordination with the university. Upon completion, the building and all accompanying accoutrements will be conveyed to the university, following the recommendation of the Director of Facilities and Energy Management at SIUC.

A formal agreement between the university and the SIU Foundation will be signed to permit the construction of the facility on university-owned property. The project is anticipated to be bid this spring, with the Board of Trustees being informed of the award of contracts at the July 2025 meeting.

This will become the second major construction project underway on the Carbondale campus, including the erection of the Tedrick Welcome Center on the former McAndrew Stadium site. Much like the welcome center, no state fund, tuition, or student fee money will be used in the construction of the Wildlife Habitat Education Center.

“The SIU Foundation is proud to facilitate this spectacular project at one of the crown jewels of the SIU campus – Touch of Nature,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Working with our campus partners, we look forward to being part of another exciting construction project at Southern.”

The funds raised for the wildlife center and welcome center are both part of the ongoing Imagine SIU 2030 campaign, which has raised nearly $400 million toward its $500 million goal. It is the fifth largest campaign in the history of Illinois higher education. During the campaign, the SIU Foundation has increased the amount of scholarship support available to students. In its most recent fiscal year, the SIU Foundation provided $5.4 million in scholarships to 1,842 students, impacting more than 16 percent of all SIU students. Those numbers continue to rise.

Research Meets Experience

The approval of this project underscores the university’s dedication to enhancing its facilities and providing state-of-the-art resources for environmental education. The new Wildlife Habitat Education Center, along with the recently added mountain bike trail system, demonstrates a significant investment in the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center. This investment is expected to attract additional donors and support the center’s mission of fostering environmental stewardship and education.

For many, Touch of Nature is their first introduction to the university through school programs, camps, and community offerings. Beyond the incredible educational opportunities presented by Touch of Nature, this also helps the university develop relationships with future Salukis.

“SIU is dedicated to providing high-quality education, fostering research and innovation, and serving the community through various outreach programs,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “The Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center is a key component of SIU’s commitment to environmental education and sustainability.”

Over 50,000 visitors came through Touch of Nature this year, and the Wildlife Habitat Education Center will help continue to grow the available outdoors experiences for the people of Southern Illinois.

The Wildlife Habitat Education Center reinforces SIU’s prestigious Research 1 (R1) designation. This state-of-the-art facility will contribute to SIU’s ongoing efforts to advance research and strengthen its status as a top-tier research institution. This will not only benefit students and faculty but also position SIU as a premier destination for outdoor education and research.

 

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

Gilbert honors father with $250K gift to SIU Simmons Law School

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School unveils the Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite

By Jeff Wilson

CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University’s Simmons Law School announced a generous $250,000 gift from Judge Phil Gilbert, a monumental contribution that will establish the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of Judge Gilbert’s father. This transformative donation promises to significantly enhance the educational experiences and opportunities available to SIU’s law students.

In honor of this remarkable gift, SIU Simmons Law School unveiled the newly named Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite on Thursday, April 17.

“This name is more than just a sign on a wall, it reflects our vision, our mission, and the values that guide us every day,” said Angela Upchurch, acting dean of the SIU Simmons Law School. “SIU and the law school are thriving today because of pioneers like Senator Gilbert.”

Gilbert’s dedication to education and his legacy of public service are exemplified through this contribution. The Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund will directly support initiatives that enrich the student experience, provide scholarships, and facilitate groundbreaking research in the field of law.

“With distinction and honor, Judge Phil Gilbert has carried forward his father’s commitment to justice and public service,” said John Simmons, SIU Board of Trustees member and founder of the Simmons Hanly Conroy law firm. “Following in his father’s footsteps, Judge Gilbert has built an exemplary career. His thoughtful jurisprudence, unwavering integrity, and dedication to the rule of law have earned him the respect of the legal community and the citizens he serves.”

A father’s legacy

John G. Gilbert, a native of Carbondale, graduated from SIU in 1933 and later attended the University of Illinois School of Law before starting his private practice.

He served as Jackson County state’s attorney and was a state senator. He played a key role in the development of SIU Edwardsville and the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, working alongside SIU President Delyte Morris. He was also integral to the establishment of the law school at SIU Carbondale.

“Seeing the impact this law school has had on Southern Illinois, my father would be very proud,” said Judge Gilbert. “My father was labeled as the ‘education senator,’ and that was not just because of what he did at SIU. He was a strong supporter of education at all levels.”

When Gilbert passed away in 1989, then-U.S. Sen. Paul Simon acknowledged Gilbert’s significant contributions to education, stating that “SIU wouldn’t be what it is today without John Gilbert’s efforts.”

Although SIU System President Dan Mahony never had the chance to meet Sen. John G. Gilbert, he recognizes the impact he made on his son, Phil, and the SIU community.

“Judge Gilbert really is Mr. SIU,” Dr. Mahony said. “He cares about this place, he is passionate about this place, he puts this place first. While I never met Sen. Gilbert, I feel like I have because I know a lot of what Phil does was impacted by his father.”

Continuing the mission

A lifelong resident of Carbondale, Judge Gilbert joined the SIU Board of Trustees in 2015 and was reappointed in 2021. He served on the Illinois State Board of Elections, acting as chair and vice chair. He also served on the Election Reform Commission and the National Council on Governmental Ethics Laws.

“Today we celebrate a legacy that spans generations and has left an indelible mark on Southern Illinois,” said Ed Hightower, vice chair of the SIU Board of Trustees. “We’re not just honoring one Gilbert, we’re celebrating two – two men who dedicated themselves to making a difference, two men whose commitment to SIU has helped shape its past, present, and future.”

Gilbert was a partner at Gilbert, Kimmel, Huffman & Prosser, Ltd. He was then appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court as a circuit judge in the First Judicial Circuit, serving as a state court judge until his federal appointment. He later became a United States district judge for the Southern District of Illinois and served as chief judge. During his federal tenure, he completed a six-year term on the Judicial Conference Committee on Criminal Law.

In March 2014, Gilbert assumed Senior Status but continues to contribute significantly as a senior judge. Gilbert received the Silver Gavel Award from the criminal defense bars of the Southern District of Illinois and the Eastern District of Missouri, the SIU School of Law Founders’ Medal, and Loyola School of Law’s Distinguished Jurist Award.

“Judge Gilbert, thanks to you and thanks to your family,” said Chancellor Austin Lane. “This is an incredible gift, and your legacy will live on.”

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement

Gower Translational Research Center dedicated

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Gower Ribbon Cutting
The Gower Translational Research Center was dedicated Friday, April 11.

Dr. Bob and Beth Gower honored for continued support of research at SIU

By Jeff Wilson

CARBONDALE – The impact made by Dr. Bob and Beth Gower will be forever imprinted into the university’s future at the Gower Translational Research Center.

The Gowers have been generous donors to Southern for many years. Most recently, they dedicated $2.5 million to advance the mission and support the research activities taking place across campus.

“A lot of what we’re trying to accomplish moving forward isn’t possible without the support of people like Beth and Bob, who help carry us forward,” Chancellor Austin Lane said.

In honor of this transformational gift, the SIU Board of Trustees voted Thursday, Dec. 5, that the McLafferty Annex, located at 1785 University Press Drive in Carbondale, be named the Gower Translational Research Center. The ribbon-cutting and naming ceremony for the center was Friday, April 11.

“I expect SIU to be a leader here,” Dr. Bob Gower said. “Innovation, in the future, will come from research universities like SIU working in cooperation with entrepreneurs. This building may one day be considered the heart of SIU.”

The Impact

Their $2.5 million gift is yet another major step in the SIU Foundation’s Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of raising $500 million by July 2028, the campaign currently sits at more than $396 million. It is the fifth largest campaign in the history of public universities in Illinois.

“This ribbon cutting marks more than a new name on a building, it represents a legacy of vision, innovation, and generosity,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “With their transformational gift, Bob and Beth have made an investment not just in bricks and mortar but in the ideas that will change the world.”

This event comes on the heels of the recent news of SIU joining the ranks of the Ivy League this February when it was named a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Southern is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale.

The Gowers

Bob Gower, a West Frankfort native, graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry in 1958 and 1960, respectively. He met his wife, Beth, while both were studying at SIU. She graduated in 1961. Dr. Gower earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. He is the founder and executive chairman of Ensysce Biosciences, a biotech company that develops tamper-proof and abuse-resistant prescription drugs.

Before their latest gift, the Gowers established the Bob G. & Mary Beth Gower Scholarship Endowment in SIU’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, which has benefited more than 50 students. They also established the Beth & Bob Gower Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences.

Dr. Gower is a two-time recipient of the SIUC Alumni Achievement Award from the College of Science (1988, 2008). He is a Distinguished Alumnus of the college and was inducted into the Chemistry & Biochemistry Hall of Fame in 1997. He served as a member of the steering committee for the university’s Opportunity Through Excellence campaign and as a member of the Chemistry & Biochemistry Advisory Committee. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the university in 2018. The Gowers, who reside in Houston, have three adult daughters and several grandchildren.

“This is a really special day for our family,” Beth Gower said. “I love this university. It’s perfect. What I hope other people see is this: These Gower people must have a lot of faith in Southern Illinois University. They must feel that translational research is exciting and important to the future of the world. They must feel sure that the scientists at SIU are ready to do this work.”

The Center

The Gower Translational Research Center is a hub of high-level research. In October 2024, SIU dedicated a $7.2 million BioLaunch lab in the center. The 10,000-square-foot space is dedicated to life sciences research and more.

Funded in part by a $2.7 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Wet Lab Program, BioLaunch is the newest addition to the Illinois Food, Entrepreneurship, Research, and Manufacturing (iFERM) Hub, a state-of-the-art research and training suite for faculty use, students, start-up companies, and private firms in the region. iFERM capitalizes on the university’s research and innovation into food, fermentation, and biotechnology. In 2021, the SIU Foundation provided a $1.1 million grant to advance the progress on the Fermentation Science Institute, which is inside the center.

“Research at SIU Carbondale is moving from the lab to the real world—leading to patents, small businesses, and even partnerships with large corporations,” said Dr. Costas Tsatsoulis, vice chancellor of research and dean of the graduate school.

The center is also home to the Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, and an ultra-fast laser facility, further enhancing its role as a center for diverse research initiatives.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, SIU

Leading from the front: Poshards sponsor Saluki Ball

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Jo and Glenn Poshard
Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are sponsoring the third annual Saluki Ball.

By Jeff Wilson

For the second time in its three-year history, Dr. Glenn and Jo Poshard are the presenting sponsor of the Saluki Ball.

After two years in Chicago, this year’s Saluki Ball will be Saturday, April 26, in the SIU Student Center Ballrooms in Carbondale. The ball is a major fundraiser for funds that bridge the gap for students who are pursuing their degree at Southern. The funds are given to deserving students who need assistance with their bursar bill to stay enrolled and graduate on time.

“The research shows that if a student has to take a break because of financial issues, they have less of a chance of graduating,” Dr. Poshard said. “When we support young students with scholarships, we make it more possible for them, not just to graduate and get a job, but to be good citizens of a democracy.”

Since its launch, the Saluki Ball has fueled powerful momentum for the Bridge the Gap Fund—an initiative that is changing lives across campus. This fund ensures that students facing unexpected financial hardship can stay enrolled and on track toward graduation.

To date, dozens of students have received tens of thousands of dollars through the Bridge the Gap Fund, allowing them to resolve bursar balances and continue their education without disruption. Its ability to respond quickly to each student’s unique circumstances makes it one of the most impactful and actively used funds at SIU.

The Poshards encourage other SIU alumni and donors to follow their lead, purchase tickets to the ball or become a sponsor at salukiball.siu.edu.

“I can guarantee you there is someone out there right now hoping and praying that somebody will give them a scholarship, that there’s some way for them to go forward,” Jo Poshard said. “It’s not a question of ‘Is there a need?’ The need is huge! If anybody is thinking about it, don’t hold back. There is a student out there whose life is going to be changed by you stepping up.”

Lifetimes of service

Dr. Poshard is a three-degree graduate of SIU, receiving a bachelor’s in secondary education in 1970, a master’s in educational administration in 1974, and a Ph.D. in administration of higher education in 1984.

“I credit SIU with whatever success I’ve been able to have in my life,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do any of the things I’ve been blessed to do without my roots being right here at this university.”

He taught high school and served as the director of the Southern Illinois Educational Service Center in Benton until 1984 after being elected to the Illinois State Senate. In 1989, he earned a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. He ran for governor in 1998 and left Congress the following year.

Dr. Poshard returned to SIU in 1999 as the vice chancellor of administration, where he served until his appointment to the SIU Board of Trustees in 2004. At the start of 2006, he was hired as the SIU system president, serving in that role until 2014.

“I was always proud of the academic prowess of this university, in fact the whole system,” Dr. Poshard said. “The SIU campus always had a place in my heart. I would get out and walk campus myself from time to time to remember what it’s about and who it’s for.”

Jo Poshard is a 1971 alumna of SIU’s College of Education. She is a retired schoolteacher, who has served on numerous university and community boards.

“SIU is very important to me. It means a lot to our family. We have quite a history here, and we’re very proud of SIU,” she said.

Together, they started the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, which raises funds to care for abused children and victims of domestic abuse throughout Southern Illinois. The Poshards are longtime benefactors of SIU and many local charities.

The Saluki Ball

This black-tie optional event raises funds that bridge the financial gap for students who need assistance staying enrolled at SIU. When a student needs help with their bursar bill, these funds help keep them in school and on track for graduation. This support is invaluable in Southern’s mission to increase enrollment, enhance retention efforts, and support its students from start to finish.

Each of the past two years, hundreds of Salukis and SIU supporters have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through the ball.

“Our focus is on our students, especially those who need your help the most,” said Chancellor Lane. “We must ensure the students that we bring to Carbondale or who enroll in online courses are able to stay enrolled and finish with their degree.”

Students who have received funds that help them stay in school have shared the impact it has made on them.

“People who didn’t even know me believe in me and took the time to invest in my future,” said SIU student Francesca Stewart. “It prevented me from having to go back home.”

The funds that bridge the gap between semesters are core to the university’s mission of accessibility. Keeping students enrolled is integral to continuing the momentum at SIU.

“Receiving bridge-the-gap funds was major for me because I was on that line of whether I was going to finish my semester,” said student George Douglas IV. “That call saying I was getting alumni support, it changed everything. It changed my future.”

The evening will begin with a cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. There will be a live musical performance from multi-platinum recording artists Exposé at 8:30 p.m., and the evening will wrap up with a DJ and dancing at 9:30 p.m.

The Saluki Ball features numerous sponsorship opportunities, ranging from $50,000 to $5,000. Each sponsorship includes varying levels of benefits and recognition before and during the event. Tables of 8 are $1,600, and individual tickets are $200.

Get your tickets or become a sponsor at salukiball.siu.edu.

Donor Stories, Events & Engagement, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Moneta to sponsor cocktail hour at the Saluki Ball

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The third annual Saluki Ball, presented by The Honorable Glenn and Mrs. Jo Poshard, will kick off in style this April.  Moneta will serve as this year’s Cocktail Hour Sponsor. As guests arrive at the SIU Student Center for an evening of elegance, purpose, and Saluki pride, Moneta’s sponsorship sets the stage for a celebration that invests in the future.

This year’s sponsorship is led by proud Saluki alumna Diane Compardo, B.S. ’91, M.S. ’92, and Ron Wienstroer, M.S. ’91 — partners at Moneta and champions for SIU and its students.

“The Saluki Ball serves as a true reflection of the spirit and pride of being a Saluki. In our continued commitment to giving back to this incredible community, we are excited to sponsor the cocktail hour this year. We’re thrilled to be part of this special event that celebrates our shared history and invests in the future of SIU,” said Compardo.

Compardo, president of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors, is a member of the SIU Women’s Leadership Council and the College of Business and Analytics Hall of Fame. A strong advocate for mentorship and philanthropy, she has long supported efforts to connect alumni with current students and elevate opportunities for women through events like the Saluki Women’s Weekend, where Moneta is also the 2024 Women in Empowerment Conference Sponsor.

Her husband and business partner, Ron Wienstroer, has been a driving force behind the success and national growth of Compardo, Wienstroer & Janes, a Moneta team recognized for its high-touch client experience and strategic leadership. A two-degree SIU alumnus, Wienstroer holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Before joining Moneta, he spent 17 years at Ernst & Young, where he rose to partner and held leadership roles in tax strategy and business development.

Today, Wienstroer continues to support his alma mater as a member of the SIU College of Business Dean’s External Advisory Board and the School of Accountancy Advisory Board. His professional excellence is matched by a deep commitment to mentorship, client care, and community service — all rooted in his Saluki education.

The Saluki Ball, set for Saturday, April 26, brings together alumni, students, and friends of the university for a night of dining, dancing, and fundraising in support of student scholarships. With the goal of helping students bridge financial gaps and fulfill their potential, the event exemplifies the mission and momentum of the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign.

To purchase tickets, visit salukiball.siu.edu.

Events & Engagement, Saluki Takeover Tours

Saluki Takeover Tour rolls out maroon carpet in Southern Illinois

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Chancellor Austin Lane
Chancellor Austin Lane addresses packed crowd of 200 on Thursday, April 3, at Apple Creek Golf Club during the Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois.

By Jeff Wilson

The Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois has connected with hundreds of students, community members, alumni, and friends.

Beginning on Thursday, April 3, with a packed house at Apple Creek Golf Club in Makanda and continuing through late-April, the takeover tour will make its way to 50 high schools across all 17 Southern Illinois counties.

More than 200 people joined Chancellor Austin Lane, the SIU Foundation, and university leaders at Apple Creek. Guests enjoyed complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks while engaging with their alma mater in an intimate setting.

More than 115 Salukis came together for the second reception at TJ’s Diamond Club in Mtn Dew Park in Marion on Tuesday, April 8. On Thursday, April 10, the takeover tour stopped at Café Bloom in Benton, hosting a crowd of about 50. The fourth Chancellor’s Reception hosted 60 Salukis at St. Nicholas Landmark in Chester. Then, on Thursday, April 17, SIU hosted more than 80 guests at Pizza Villa in Anna.

Saluki Takeover Tour Chester
The Saluki Takeover Tour made its way to Chester with a stop at St. Nicholas Landmark.

“We are going to be all over this region. We are recruiting like we are coaches giving offers to students, telling them there is nowhere else you need to go other than Southern Illinois University Carbondale,” Lane said.

There is one more Chancellor’s Reception on the schedule:

  • Tuesday, April 22 – Faye, 1616 Walnut Street, Murphysboro – REGISTER HERE

The chancellor and SIU Admission staff has already visit high schools in Pope County, Hardin County, Marion, Webber, Nashville, Pinckneyville, Crab Orchard, Carterville, Johnston City, Mount Vernon, Elverado, and that list keeps growing.

Chancellor Austin Lane at Apple Creek Golf Club
Chancellor Austin Lane addresses the crowd on Thursday, April 3, at Apple Creek Golf Club during the Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois.

The Office of Innovation and Economic Development hosted a Business Resource Meetup at the Dunn Richmond Center in Carbondale. The next Business Resource Meetup will be on Thursday, April 22, at the 17th Street Annex in Murphysboro.  For more information, email [email protected] or call 618-536-2424.

Lane and admissions staff promoted programs such as the Saluki Commitment, which guarantees that tuition and mandatory fees are fully covered for four (transfer students) or eight (freshman students) consecutive  semesters at no cost to students or families.

Chancellor Austin Lane, Shad Zimbro, Rodney Cabaness
Chancellor Austin Lane introduces Shad Zimbro (middle) and Rodney Cabaness during the Saluki Takeover Tour stop in Marion in TJ’s Diamond Club at Mtn Dew Park.

Recipients must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be a first-time incoming freshman enrolling full-time on-campus in the fall 2021 semester or later.
  • Have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or higher.Have an annual family income less than $103,040 with assets less than $50,000 based on your FAFSA.
  • Be an Illinois resident who attended an Illinois high school.
  • Be a dependent student under age 24.
  • Be eligible for federal financial aid.

SIU also recently joined the ranks of the Ivy League, being named a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Southern is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale.

“As we go out and recruit, you will be surprised how many students are interested in research. Students that are thinking about their future, when they’re thinking about what school to select, we go right to the top,” Lane said. “We have incredible faculty. I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank our faculty for getting us there.”

Lee Messersmith, Chancellor Lane, Carolin Harvey
The Saluki Takeover Tour stopped at Café Bloom in Benton. The event was attended by 50 people, including Benton Mayor Lee Messersmith (left) and Carbondale Mayor Carolin Harvey.

For the SIU Foundation, the takeover tours are an opportunity to connect with donors as it progresses through the record-breaking Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign. With a goal of raising $500 million by June 2028, it is the fifth largest such campaign in the history of Illinois higher education. More than $390 million has already been raised, and the Saluki Takeover Tour helps spread the excitement.

“We have 270,000 alumni. There are only 50 universities with more. I think you all agree that there’s something in the sauce about being a Saluki,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation.

Suggested attire for these events is business casual, but Saluki gear is always appropriate, too. For more information, visit siuf.org/southern-illinois.

School Visit Photos

Marion students
Marion
Elverado students
Elverado
Hardin County students
Hardin County
Pinckneyville students
Pinckneyville
Pope County students
Pope County
Webber students
Webber
Nashville Students
Nashville
Mount Vernon students
Mount Vernon
Johnston City student
Johnston City
Carterville Students
Carterville
Crab Orchard students
Crab Orchard
Harrisburg
Harrisburg
Thompsonville
Thompsonville
Sesser-Valier
Sesser-Valier

Massac County
Massac County
Cairo
Cairo
Coulterville
Coulterville
Chester
Chester
West Frankfort
West Frankfort
Sparta
Sparta
Christopher
Christopher
Meridian
Meridian
Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

Jeri Brooks: From Saluki to strategy powerhouse

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Jeri Brooks headshotFor Jeri Brooks, Southern Illinois University was destiny. A Carbondale native, Brooks grew up immersed in the Saluki spirit—not just as a local but as part of a multi-generational legacy rooted in love, resilience, and community pride.

Her father, Thurman Lee Brooks, Sr., earned a basketball scholarship to SIU, and her mother, Betty Brooks McCollum, pursued her master’s degree there. Eventually, both Jeri and her brother followed in their parents’ footsteps, solidifying SIU as a cornerstone of their family history. When her father passed away, SIU extended a powerful gesture of support: eight semesters of complimentary tuition for both children.

“That gesture meant everything,” Brooks said. “SIU became more than just a university—it became part of our story.”

While at SIU, Brooks earned a Bachelor of Science in communications with a specialization in public relations. Her time on campus laid the foundation for a career defined by ethics, strategic vision, and the pursuit of economic empowerment.

One of her most transformative experiences was joining Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 1993.

“Meeting those 11 women who became lifelong friends changed everything,” she said. “And I was fortunate to share that journey with ‘The Originals,’ my closest friends from Carbondale.”

Brooks credits the Rev. Dr. Norman Greer as a formative influence during her time at SIU.

“He didn’t just teach theory—he brought real-world experience into the classroom,” she said. “That blend of knowledge gave me the confidence to step into any space with purpose.”

With over two decades of experience, she helps companies, political leaders, and communities build strategies that expand influence and create lasting economic mobility—because for her, freedom is not free without economic empowerment.

Known for her strategic thinking and high-impact execution, Brooks has been repeatedly recognized as a top-tier lobbyist, appearing on Capitol Insider’s Texas Lobby Power Rankings in 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025. She was also named a 2021 Top Lobbyist by the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics.

Brooks is passionate about creating lasting change—not just through policy but through economic freedom. Her motto, “excellence is my minimum,” defines her professional ethos and personal mission.

Brooks is often recognized for breaking barriers—but she’s quick to challenge the celebration of being ‘the first.’

“We should not still be celebrating the first woman, the first Black woman, the first anything,” she said. “It’s time we elevate our expectations. Excellence should be the norm.”

Still, she acknowledges one meaningful moment: being the first Black woman honored in the Carbondale Community High School Hall of Achievement.

“But real progress is ensuring I’m far from the last,” she added.

Despite her success, Brooks never forgets where she came from. Her commitment to SIU runs deep. She has endowed a scholarship to support diversity initiatives under the university’s ADEI framework, and she continues to advocate for the university’s growth and future.

“SIU gave me more than an education—it broadened my world,” she said. “If my contribution can help restore its full potential, then giving back isn’t just meaningful—it’s necessary.”

Brooks encourages young women aspiring to enter the political and public affairs world to be strategic and assertive. Her advice is rooted in experience and unwavering determination:

  • Master the Game: Understand policy and power.
  • Own Your Power: Know your value.
  • Build Economic Freedom: It’s the key to true influence.
  • Create Community: Success is built with others.
  • Stay in the Fight: Resilience is non-negotiable.

Reflecting on Women’s History Month, Brooks honors the legacy of her grandmother and mother—the original entrepreneurs in her life. Her grandmother ran the family’s home-based auto repair business and raised six daughters with unshakable fortitude. Her mother turned their family’s pound cake recipe into a business and continues to thrive as a Mary Kay consultant.

“They didn’t wait for opportunity—they created it. That spirit of hustle and ownership laid the foundation for everything I am,” she said.

As for her legacy, Brooks hopes to inspire the next generation of women to embrace their power, lead with excellence, and build pathways to economic and social transformation.

Her advice to her college-aged self? “Take more risks. Trust your instincts. Be fearless—God has your back.”

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, SIU

Legence Bank invests in student success at SIU

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Legence Bank Check Presentation at Southern Illinois University Carbondale
SIU Chancellor Austin Lane; Kevin Beckemeyer, president and CEO of Legence Bank; Tricia Overturf, vice president of marketing and communications at Legence Bank; and Wendell Williams, SIU vice chancellor for enrollment management. The group gathered for a check presentation celebrating Legence Bank’s $137,500 investment in the Legence Bank Saluki Commitment Scholarship.

CARBONDALE – With a commitment of $137,500 to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Legence Bank is helping bring a Saluki education within reach of local students.

The Legence Bank Saluki Commitment Scholarship will provide tuition funds for 11 students each year as part of the Aim High/Saluki Commitment program, which covers tuition for eligible in-state students. The students will be chosen from the 11 Southern Illinois communities served by Legence Bank.

“This partnership with Legence Bank is going to go a long way to keeping students right here in our own backyard. That is extremely important to us,” said Chancellor Austin Lane during a check presentation Tuesday, March 25, in the Student Services Building at SIU.

Kevin Beckemeyer, president and CEO of Legence Bank, noted the bank’s enthusiasm for partnering with SIU.

“At Legence Bank, we believe in the strength of our community and the importance of investing in the future. Our motto – Legence Loves Local – demonstrates our commitment to supporting local scholarships, and this reflects our dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders in Southern Illinois,” said Beckemeyer, a 1983 graduate of SIU’s College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences. “Together, we can foster growth, inspire change, and create a brighter future for all.”

SIU and Legence Bank leaders gathered to celebrate the launch of the Legence Bank Saluki Commitment Scholarship, supporting students from 11 Southern Illinois communities.

“This initiative is not just about funding; it’s about investing in our community’s future,” Beckemeyer added. “By providing full-ride scholarships to students in the market areas we serve, we are empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. We believe that education should be attainable for all, and this partnership exemplifies our dedication to making that a reality.”

The donation comes as part of the SIU Foundation’s ongoing Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign, which has a goal of raising $500 million by June 2028. It is the fifth largest such campaign in the history of Illinois higher education. More than $390 million has been raised thus far, and corporate partners such as Legence Bank have made an enormous impact.

“The partnership between Southern Illinois University and Legence Bank represents a significant step forward in our commitment to educational accessibility,” said Tricia Overturf, vice president of marketing and communications at Legence Bank. “By collaborating on this initiative, we aim to bridge the gap between existing grants and scholarships, ensuring that students from Southern Illinois have the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams without the burden of financial stress.”

To learn more about the campaign or make a gift, visit siuf.org.

Committed to Salukis

The Saluki Commitment guarantees that tuition and mandatory fees are fully covered for four (transfer students) or eight (freshman students) consecutive semesters at no cost to students or families.

Recipients must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a first-time incoming freshman enrolling full-time on-campus in the fall 2021 semester or later.
  • Have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or higher.
  • Have an annual family income less than $103,040 with assets less than $50,000 based on your FAFSA.
  • Be an Illinois resident who attended an Illinois high school.
  • Be a dependent student under age 24.
  • Be eligible for federal financial aid.

“I want to thank our partners from Legence Bank. You are making a difference in students’ lives,” said Wendell Williams, vice chancellor for enrollment management. “Your generous contribution is going to close the gap for students and bring them to a place they may have never imagined they could get to.”

SIU recently joined the ranks of the Ivy League, being named a Research 1 (R1) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Southern is one of only three public universities in Illinois with that designation, and it is the only one within 100 miles of Carbondale.

“There is no reason in the world for a student from any county in Southern Illinois to attend any other university than the one in their backyard,” Lane said. “You’re not going to find another school that’s close to you that’s an R1 higher research institution.”

About Legence Bank

With more than 115 years of service, Legence Bank is a trusted community bank committed to excellence, honesty, integrity, and personalized customer care. Through its “Legence Loves Local” initiative, the bank continues to support local individuals, families, businesses, and now students—providing not just financial services, but a deep investment in the long-term success of the communities it serves.

“Our long-term vision for this initiative is to create a sustainable model that continuously supports students in Southern Illinois,” Overturf said. “We are excited about the potential impact this partnership can have on our local economy and the personal growth of our students. By fostering an environment where education is accessible, we are cultivating a thriving community.”

To learn more about Legence Bank, visit legencebank.com.

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

Tison champions women’s empowerment through leadership and legacy

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For Gloria Tison, general counsel for Legence Bank and a member of the SIU Foundation Board of Directors, Women’s History Month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action.

Tison, who also serves as co-chair of the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council (WLC), has built a career marked by resilience, advocacy, and a deep commitment to uplifting women. Her early experiences in the legal field underscore how far gender equality has come—and how far it still must go.

“When I started as an attorney, women in my office weren’t allowed to wear pants,” she said. “The first job I was offered came with an unusual request—they wanted to speak to my husband to verify the hours were acceptable. I turned it down. That was my first direct experience with gender discrimination, but it was far from my last.”

Tison recalls being routinely referred to as “the woman attorney” or “the blonde one”—a label she shared with another female colleague.

“No one would call and ask for ‘the brunette male attorney,’” she said.

Despite the challenges, Tison credits trailblazing women before her for helping to carve the path she followed.

“It takes confidence, perseverance, and determination,” she said. “Without those who paved the way, we would not have the opportunities we have today.”

At SIU, Tison channels her passion into the Women’s Leadership Council, a network of women who champion one another through mentorship, scholarships, and community support. The WLC funds student scholarships, microgrants for faculty, and community grants for women-led businesses.

“These grants do more than provide financial support—they send a powerful message: We believe in you,” Tison said. “That belief can be life changing.”

Tison sees the council’s work as a modern-day answer to the “boys’ clubs” that have historically excluded women from professional growth.

“WLC recognizes the power of women supporting women,” she said. “Through mentorship and networking, we create a space where women are empowered to lead.”

As SIU continues its mission to shape the next generation of leaders, Tison remains focused on creating a future where gender is no barrier to opportunity.

“Women’s History Month reminds us of the unique strengths women bring to the world and inspires us to keep pushing forward,” she said. “When we invest in our students, we invest in our future. Now, it’s up to us. Mentor, support, and uplift the women around you. Together, we can ensure the next generation has even greater opportunities than we did.”

For more information about the Women’s Leadership Council, visit siuf.org/wlc.

Donor Stories, Higher Education, Illinois Higher Education, Philanthropic Women, SIU

SIU Alumna Ashley B. Gibson Establishes Scholarship to Support Women in Accountancy

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CARBONDALE — When Ashley B. Gibson, a 2009 graduate of Southern Illinois University’s College of Business and Analytics, first stepped onto campus, she had no idea how the experience would shape her career and inspire her to give back.

A seasoned leader with over 15 years of consulting experience, author, and public speaker, now she is making a lasting impact on the next generation of women in accounting through the Ashley B. Gibson Accounting Excellence Scholarship Fund.

Gibson, 37, grew up in Carterville and chose SIU for its strong academic reputation and proximity to home. At the time, her father was working overseas in Iraq, and staying close to her mother was a priority. While earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accountancy, Gibson found mentorship in Dr. Marcus Odom and was deeply involved in student organizations. Her leadership in the Accounting Society and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) opened doors to scholarships and national recognition, ultimately paving the way for her service on IMA’s Global Board of Directors.

“I remember when I received IMA’s highest scholarship. I was standing in Rehn Hall when I got the call,” Gibson said. “After I hung up, I slid down the wall, crying tears of joy and relief. It was the first external scholarship I had received, and it validated that people believed in me.”

During her time at SIU, Gibson was recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Accounting, Outstanding Senior in the College of Business, and one of the Top 25 Most Distinguished Seniors—an achievement she likens to winning the Triple Crown in terms of involvement at SIU.

“It was recognition that I’ll forever remember and reminded me of what all I accomplished during my time at SIU,” she said. “Those honors were not just a celebration of my hard work—they also highlighted the importance of having a strong support system and access to opportunities.”

Despite her professional success and accounting acumen, Gibson has dealt with challenges that many women face in the workplace, especially in leadership.

“When women, especially leaders in their field, are asked to perform remedial tasks such as getting coffee or taking notes, it’s because those asking don’t understand the implications it has,” she said. “While there are seats for women at the table, it’s sometimes a silent one, and I want to help change that.”

Her decision to establish the Ashley B. Gibson Accounting Excellence Scholarship Fund is rooted in a commitment to empowering women from Southern Illinois. With an initial pledge of $10,000, she aims to provide financial support and mentorship opportunities for aspiring female accountants.

“I always knew I wanted to create a scholarship for the School of Accountancy. I just wasn’t sure how or if I had enough to start one,” Gibson said. “Then I realized, why wait? Life is too short. I want to meet the recipients, follow their careers, and see the impact firsthand.”

For Gibson, giving back isn’t just about financial support—it’s about fostering a culture where women feel valued and encouraged to lead. She hopes her scholarship will inspire others to invest in SIU’s future and support the next generation of female accountants.

“The earlier I invest in future professionals, the greater the impact,” she said. “We need to break the stigma that philanthropy is something you do later in life. If you want to give back, start now.”

Gibson encourages other young alumni to consider how they can contribute, no matter their stage in life or career.

“If not now, when?” she said. “The SIU Foundation makes it easy to start the conversation. Just ask.”

Through her scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy, Gibson is determined to create lasting opportunities for women in accountancy. As she continues to rise in her own career, she remains committed to lifting others along the way.

“I hope this scholarship ignites a fire in other women to succeed,” she said. “This is my own version of the Butterfly Effect—one action leading to another, shaping the future for the women who follow.”

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