Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to RSVP even if I will be unable to attend?
Yes. Regardless of whether you are attending or not, RSVP via e-mail to cas_student_excellence@siue.edu and submit the necessary materials.
What if I need special accommodations?
SIUE values the intersection of identities throughout the campus community and embraces the unique characteristics of diverse learners.If you need accommodations at our ceremony, including alternate format media or have questions about the physical space, contact Cindy Scarsdale at cscarsd@siue.edu as soon as possible.
What kind of photo do I need to submit?
The photo you submit will appear on the slideshow and posters at the ceremony. Ideally, it should represent you as a student doing something in your field. Because of this, we ask that your photo be professional in manner. Selfies, photos that have other individuals cut off, low-quality or filter-edited photos, photos with dogs, etc. should all be avoided. The best pictures portray students in relevant academic settings and ideally in an activity for which they are receiving an award. For example, a science student may be looking into a microscope in a laboratory, or an art student may be making pottery from clay.
What should I say in my thank you note?
Your thank you note provides an opportunity for your donor to learn a bit more about you and how you feel about receiving your award. In a sense, donors invest in you, your education and your future by funding these awards. The following is good information to share with donors:
- Thank them for the financial assistance and the honor demonstrated through being selected for this award.
- Share with them what you have done during your education at SIUE.
- Let them know how your SIUE education will shape your future and your career. If you have a chance to meet your sponsor at Honors Day, you can share this information in person as well.
How do I know who my sponsor is?
Your sponsor’s name and info can be found in the third paragraph of your award letter.
Can I take a picture of my photo release form and email it?
No. You may use a digital signature on the fillable PDF form, or scan the form and email it to the CAS Honors Day e-mail account, cas_student_excellence@siue.edu.
What do I wear?
Attire for this event is professional: no jeans, shorts, T-shirts or tennis shoes. Suggested attire is a suit, dress shirt and tie, dress slacks/shirt, or dress. The Cougar Career Closet is a resource available to SIUE students in need of professional attire.
How early should I arrive?
Recommended arrival is 5:40 p.m. The ceremony begins at 6 p.m.
What parking will be available?
The Morris University Center visitor’s lot (Lot B) will have complimentary parking the night of our ceremony.
How will I know if my sponsor is attending?
You will be contacted in advance via e-mail by event organizers if your sponsor has indicated they will be attending our Celebration of Student Excellence.
I could not attend the Celebration of Student Excellence, but want to pick up my award certificate. Who do I contact?
Contact Cindy Scarsdale at cscarsd@siue.edu for guidance on how to pick up your award certificate and a program from the event if you did not participate.
