September 2002
Congressional Opponents To Debate At SIUE On Sept. 16
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Congressman David Phelps and Congressman John Shimkus will debate at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville from 7-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16, in SIUE's Katherine Dunham Hall theater.
SIUE Associate Political Science Professor Martha Bailey and SIUE Student Body Vice President Ben Landfried will share moderating duties during the event. The debate format will include an opening statement by each of the candidates, addressing questions from sponsoring organizations, addressing questions submitted by the audience, and closing statements.
The debate is sponsored by SIUE in conjunction with the area chapter of the League of Women Voters and area chapter of the American Association of University Women. For more information, call the SIUE Kimmel Leadership Center, (618) 650-2686. Visitors for the debate should park in Visitors Lot B, just behind the Morris University Center.
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September 6, 2002
SIUE Enrollment Continues To Grow
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's enrollment has grown to 12,708 students, an increase of 266 students, or about 2.1 percent higher than fall 2001. The figure represents the highest enrollment since 1975.
Most of the enrollment increase is attributable to student retention. The number of continuing students is up about 270 over last year. Not only is enrollment up, but also there was an increase in full-time equivalent (FTE). FTE is based on the number of hours taken by all students. The number is then divided by 12 semester hours, the level at which a student is considered full-time.
SIUE's FTE jumped from 9,768 in the fall 2001 to 10,124, a 3.6 percent increase. Since 1998, FTE is up more than 14 percent. Director of Admissions Boyd Bradshaw said growing FTE levels have prompted discussion regarding stabilizing enrollment growth and also raising admission standards.
"Over the last several years, there has been a great deal of discussion on campus regarding enrollment and admission standards, prompting a change in admissions standards," Bradshaw said. "The higher FTE is a positive reflection of that change and puts SIUE at an optimum level in the size of our classes, the available classrooms, faculty load, and our ability to provide personal service for our students."
Bradshaw attributed the increases to a continued awareness of SIUE as an affordable institution that provides a quality education. "This growth continues what we've seen consistently for the past several years in both the fall and spring enrollment figures," Bradshaw said.
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September 11, 2002
'Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues' To 'Crash Through the Walls of Musical Traditionalism' in Sept. 24 SIUE Concert
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) - "When we think of the blues, don't we think of some guy wailing on an old beat-up guitar in a smoky tavern with a bunch of people in jeans and t-shirts?" asks blues harmonica artist Corky Siegel. "When we think of classical music, don't we flash on an ornate concert hall with a grand piano and a performer in tux and tails? Just the visual image alone makes it seem like classical music and blues are worlds apart."
But, Siegel contends, this couldn't be farther from the truth, and the proof of his argument will be heard as Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues performs in concert at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 7:30 p.m. in the Dunham Hall Theater as the second offering of the 2002-2003 Arts & Issues series.
Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues brings to classical music the same creative genius and instrumental virtuosity that Siegel and his harmonica brought to traditional Chicago blues during the 60s and 70s heyday of the legendary Siegel-Schwall Band, fronted by Siegel and guitarist Jim Schwall.
Even then, Siegel had begun juxtaposing the two musical genres - blues and classical - not, as he explains, "by performing Brahms on the blues harmonica or begging a symphony to play 'Hoochie Coochie Man.'" Instead, Siegel, in effect, concocted a pure hybrid, crossing the blues and the classical to form a new musical strain.
"Since 1988, people [after a concert of chamber blues] have been asking me the same question: How is it that such diverse forms of music seem to blend so naturally?" Siegel said. "I have gone through a gamut of answers, but after 10 years of riding on the hood ornament of a vehicle crashing 100 miles an hour through the walls of musical traditionalism, I have been able to come to some verbal resolutions about this."
One of which, Siegel points out, is that the music itself is innocent of the visual diversity he has mentioned.
"The music is made up of chords, melodies, harmonies, counterpoint, dynamics, articulations and rhythm. It doesn't know about smoke-filled rooms, blue jeans, or tuxedoes. The music is blind. All it cares about is having a wonderful time."
Corky Siegel and his band use classical music themes melodically and inject them with a blues feel. They mix a classical chamber string quartet with a blues harmonica and succeed in combining the two into a unique and exciting sound that very few musicians have been able to accomplish.
Critics and audiences seem to agree. The Chicago Tribune has proclaimed Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues "a resounding triumph," while the Los Angeles Times calls it "a genuine hybrid, complex, clever and ambitious." No less than Studs Terkel has said of Siegel's sound that it is "a joyous marriage of chamber music and the blues." One audience member after another has said that an experience of chamber blues has changed the way they think about music.
Siegel - on harmonica and piano - is joined in the Sept. 24 concert by the acclaimed West End String Quartet - Jeff Yang and Mark Agnor on violin, Richard Halajian on viola, Jill Kaeding on cello, and Frank Donaldson on percussion.
Following Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues on the 2002-2003 Arts & Issues series is Ugandan musician and storyteller Samite who performs in concert on Nov. 21. The season continues with the National Theatre of the Deaf presenting its contemporary take on two classic Beaumarchais farces in a new play entitled "Oh, Figaro!" on Jan. 28. Public health advocate and former surgeon general under the Clinton Administration, David Satcher, speaks on "Politics, Opinions and Public Health," on Feb. 11. Gloria Steinem - feminist, writer, and co-founder of Ms. magazine - addresses "What You've Always Wanted to Know About Feminism and Been Afraid to Ask" on March 19. The world-renowned Takacs Quartet performs at SIUE on March 27, for an evening of Haydn and Beethoven, and Helen Thomas - a fixture of the White House pressroom for more than 40 years - concludes the season on April 8, offering her "Wit and Wisdom From the Front Row at the White House." A free brochure is available for the 18th annual Arts & Issues season.
Tickets for Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues are $16; SIUE students, $8. Season tickets for the remaining seven events - including "Chamber Blues" - are $80; SIUE students, $40.
For a brochure or ticket information, call 618/650-2626, or, from St. Louis toll-free, 888/328-5168, ext. 2626; visit the series' Web site at www.siue.edu/ARTS_ISSUES; write: Arts & Issues, SIUE, Campus Box 1608, Edwardsville, IL 62026; or e-mail jpeeche@siue.edu. Admission includes free parking in the lots behind the Morris University Center or Katherine Dunham Hall.
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September 16, 2002
SBC Grant Will Help Support SIUE's High-Tech Training Program
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill) The SIUE School of Business High-Tech Worker Boot Camp has a new partner. The SBC Foundation has awarded the program a grant of $25,000 through its SBC Excelerator competitive grants program.
The money will fund a "High-Tech Interactive Computer Classroom" in the new building that will house the Boot Camp. The classroom will include seating for up to 25 students, multimedia presentation technology, an audio/video and satellite system, and individual computers at each workstation.
"This will be a high-tech classroom, with the most up-to-date equipment to support our highly successful and innovative training program," said Mary Sumner, director of the High-Tech Boot Camp program. The High-Tech Worker Boot Camp takes students from all backgrounds and prepares them for information technology careers, Sumner added.
"The current IT worker shortage has created a demand for more than one million new systems analysts, computer programmers and computer scientists in the U.S. Our traditional four-year programs are full and cannot keep up with the demand."
The "smart" classroom will also be used to provide technology training to employees and students from local school districts, state government employees, the general public and area businesses.
Last year, the State of Illinois awarded SIUE a $1.1 million grant from the state's VentureTech program to build a technology training center in SIUE's University Park. The training center will house the new smart classroom and other classroom and office space.
Walter Hickey, director of external affairs for SBC Ameritech Illinois, made the check presentation to SIUE Chancellor David Werner on September 16.
"The new building and the innovative approach to worker training are a response to a need in the region and the state," Werner said. "The training program fits with SIUE's mission to provide a well-trained workforce. We are grateful to have the state and SBC -- public and private partners -- join us in this important effort to respond to the high-tech worker shortage."
"As a high-tech company, we take a vital interest in programs designed to fill a very high demand for IT employees," said Hickey. "We are particularly pleased to be part of such an innovative program as SIUE's."
Congressman John Shimkus, who has taken a special interest in information technology issues, joined Werner and Hickey at the check presentation.
"SIUE has been true to its mission to meet the education and training needs of southwestern Illinois," Shimkus, an SIUE graduate, said. "This is an excellent example of a public-private partnership, and an innovative training program."
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September 18, 2002
SIUE Art Department Continues "Saturday Studio" For Fall
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The "Saturday Studio" morning art classes for primary, intermediate, and junior-senior high students-conducted by the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Art and Design-continue Oct.5-Nov. 23 in Alumni Hall and in the SIUE Art and Design Building.
According to Joe Weber, professor of Art and Design and supervisor of the Saturday morning program, the studio experience is intended to stimulate the creative and aesthetic growth of students through the visual arts. "Hands-on experience and classroom discussions will explore many ways children can communicate ideas through art," Weber said.
"Students will learn about the development of themes and methods of creating art, as well as study the works of art of the past and present."
The Saturday morning art education program consists of three classes-Primary Children's Art (ages 6-8) and Intermediate Art (9-12), both from 9-11:30 a.m., and Drawing/Painting for Junior and Senior High students (13-18) from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The first group meets in Room 3200 of Alumni Hall, the second group in Room 3201 of Alumni Hall, and the third group in Room 2102 of the Art and Design Building.
More information about registration, availability of space, what each class offers, and scheduling may be obtained by calling the SIUE Department of Art and Design, (618) 650-3183, or, from St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 3183, or, by writing the department at SIUE, Edwardsville, IL 62026-1764.
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September 19, 2002
SIUE To Offer International Street Fair In Edwardsville City Park
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Fire jugglers and belly dancers are just two of the exciting attractions for the entire family planned from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, in Edwardsville's City Park, as part of the International Street Fair sponsored by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Campus Activities Board.
Other performances include: Irish, African, Mexican, Native American, and Flamenco dance and music; Turkish music; and martial arts demonstrations, as well as other multicultural entertainment, and display and vendor booths. The day also will feature fun-filled activities for people of all ages.
The event, planned as an annual international fair, is designed to stimulate social awareness of the cultural richness in the local communities and at the university. For more information, please contact Heino Ehrhardt, (618) 650-2781, or by e-mail: HeinoEhrhardt@hotmail.com.
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September 20, 2002
Nominations, Entries Sought for MLK Jr. Awards at SIUE
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) - Nominations are being sought for the 20th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian and Scholarship awards to be given at the Feb. 11, Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Luncheon at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Entries also are being sought for an essay, poetry, and visual arts competition for high school students.
Nomination applications are available at the Kimmel Leadership Center in its temporary office on the second floor of SIUE's Morris University Center. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Nov. 8. Guidelines and entry forms have been sent to all area high schools for the essay, poetry, and visual arts competition. Winners of the high school competition will receive a $100 honorarium and a plaque of recognition.
The awards are given each year to recognize those who exemplify the philosophy of nonviolent social change as demonstrated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
An SIUE employee as well as a resident of Illinois is each eligible for a Humanitarian Award, while a current SIUE student is eligible for the Scholarship and Humanitarian Award.
Complete criteria of eligibility for the high school competition, the Humanitarian Award, and the Scholarship and Humanitarian Award are contained in nomination packets at the Kimmel Center. For more information, call the center at 618/650-2686.
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September 25, 2002
SIUE Names New School of Business Dean
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) - Gary A. Giamartino, professor of management and dean of the College of Business Administration at the University of Detroit (Mich.) Mercy, has been named dean of the SIUE School of Business. He will assume his new post Oct. 1, according to SIUE Provost Sharon Hahs.
At Detroit Mercy since 1997, Giamartino also had been a professor of business administration and dean of the School of Business at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., for four years prior to his Detroit post. He also was director of the Institute for International Trade, Diplomacy and Development and a member of the management faculty at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia from 1986-1993.
Giamartino also has been a member of the faculty at The Citadel and the College of Charleston, both in Charleston, SC.
He earned a doctorate in 1979 from Vanderbilt University, where he majored in social psychology, with related studies in organizational behavior and theory in the Owen Graduate School of Management. He also holds a master's in psychology from Western Kentucky University, and a bachelor's in psychology from State University College at Fredonia, NY.
In addition, Giamartino also graduated from the management development program at Harvard University in 1994.
He is a member of the Academy of Management, the International Council for Small Business, the U.S. Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education. He also has authored and co-authored numerous articles for various journals.
Hahs said she was pleased with the search committee's selection and was appreciative of the committee's effort. "We look forward to welcoming Dr. Giamartino to campus," she said. "I also want to commend the search committee members and chair for their care, thought, and hard work during the process.
"They represented the School of Business and the university well. My thanks to all who participated and provided their insights."
As dean, Dr. Giamartino will continue the SIUE School of Business' dedication to excellence and further its mission of educating and preparing students for business-related professional careers. The School provides students with rigorous and challenging classes while providing numerous opportunities for students to expand their classroom experiences through foreign study, business internships, and work-study programs. The success of the SIUE School of Business is a result of the collaborative efforts of a talented faculty, dedicated staff, high-quality students, support from the business community, and the efforts of alumni and friends.
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September 26, 2002
SIUE International Trade Center To Co-Sponsor Export Seminar Oct. 31
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's International Trade Center (ITC) and United Parcel Service will present a seminar, How to Make Exporting Easier and Profitable: Export Documentation and Payment Methods, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31, in the International Room of SIUE's Morris Center.
Conducting the seminar will be Ric Frantz, managing director and co-founder of LR International Inc., an international freight forwarding and consulting firm in Chicago. Frantz, who has been conducting export seminars for more than 15 years, has spent several years as a banker and as an export manager for a major multinational corporation.
The seminar can assist exporters in gaining a basic understanding required to make better exporting decisions by exploring various methods to optimize competitiveness.
The fee for the seminar is $50 in advance ($60 at the door), which includes a "networking" lunch, parking, and a package of materials for future reference. For more information, call the ITC, (618) 650-2452, or, from St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 2452. Space is limited.
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September 27, 2002
Alice Peacock To Open For Five For Fighting Concert At SIUE On Oct. 12
(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Chicago singer-songwriter Alice Peacock will be the opening act for the Oct. 12 Five For Fighting concert at 8 p.m. in the Vadalabene Center of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
Peacock's latest album, Real Day, hit stores recently on the Aware/Columbia label. Her style is an eclectic mix of folk, rock and everything in between.
Best known for the hit singles Superman and Easy Tonight, Five For Fighting has been in a state of change since its album, America Town, gained success last year, says leader John Ondrasik However, music industry observers say, even though the band has changed, Ondrasik still retains his passion and abilities as a songwriter, singer, pianist, and guitarist.
Tickets for the Oct. 12 concert are $15 for SIUE students at the Morris University Center Information Desk. The general public may purchase tickets for $20 at the same location, or by contacting Metrotix, (800) 293-5949, or, on the Web: at www.metrotix.com.
The student discount only applies at the Morris Center Information Desk. For more information, call Lisa Ramsey or Danielle Stern, (618) 650-2686.
September 10, 2002
Enrollment Has Increased Along With The FTE Count
Enrollment has grown to 12,708 students, an increase of 266 students, or about 2.1 percent higher than fall 2001. The figure represents the highest enrollment since 1975.
Most of the enrollment increase is attributable to student retention. The number of continuing students is up about 270 over last year. Not only is enrollment up, but also there was an increase in full-time equivalent (FTE). FTE is based on the number of hours taken by all students. The number is then divided by 12 semester hours, the level at which a student is considered full-time.
SIUE's FTE jumped from 9,768 in the fall 2001 to 10,124, a 3.6 percent increase. Since 1998, FTE is up more than 14 percent. Director of Admissions Boyd Bradshaw said growing FTE levels have prompted discussion regarding stabilizing enrollment growth and also raising admission standards.
"Over the last several years, there has been a great deal of discussion on campus regarding enrollment and admission standards, prompting a change in admissions standards," Bradshaw said. "The higher FTE is a positive reflection of that change and puts SIUE at an optimum level in the size of our classes, the available classrooms, faculty load, and our ability to provide personal service for our students."
Bradshaw attributed the increases to a continued awareness of SIUE as an affordable institution that provides a quality education. "This growth continues what we've seen consistently for the past several years in both the fall and spring enrollment figures," Bradshaw said.
Corky Siegel Returns To SIUE For A&I Concert
Corky Siegel, his harmonica, and his chamber blues style will grace the Arts & Issues stage Tuesday, Sept. 24, in Katherine Dunham Hall theater.
Called a harmonica master and proficient in blues piano, Siegel appears on stage with the West End String Quartet for a blend of classical music and blues stylings, a 30-year leap from the days of the Siegel-Schwall Band out of Chicago and its tour of the major rock palaces and clubs throughout the country.
That basic blues structure that Siegel honed as a young rocker has given way to a mature sound that takes the best of both worlds-classical and solid blues music-and now forms Siegel's new synergy that has come to be known as Chamber Blues.
Chamber Blues has been called groundbreaking and innovative and has earned tremendous acclaim throughout the country and continues to open new doors for classical and blues/jazz listeners alike. Chamber Blues won Billboard's Editors and Writers Top 10 Picks of the Year in 1998.
Siegel has written and performed works with the late Arthur Fiedler and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra in Chicago, and the National Symphony Orchestra. His latest symphonic work, Blues for a Green Planet, was commissioned and performed by the Grant Park organization.
In addition, his music has been set to choreography by five international ballet companies and has been used for many national television specials and films as well as during the 1988 Olympic Men's Figure Skating competition, the 1997 World Championship Skating competition, a recent ABC-TV series, and two works for three PBS programs.
Continuing to perform as a soloist with major orchestras around the world, Siegel also has recorded several albums and has toured globally.
Taking It To A New Level In The Rock Climbing Gym
Climbing to the top is an easy metaphor for what goes on in a rock wall climbing gym, but there's no denying the sense of accomplishment upon reaching that goal.
And, faculty, staff, and students at SIUE can experience the same sense of accomplishment in the new rock climbing gym opened recently at the Student Fitness Center. The room was formerly handball/ racquetball court No.1, just across from Equipment Issue.
The climbing gym provides an "exciting form of activity" most wouldn't consider traditional, said Aimee Knitter, a coordinator for the Office of Campus Recreation. "This is a mode of exercise for those who are bored with traditional forms of exercise," she said.
"It's very challenging and it helps a person develop a sense of teamwork. And, for students, it's also a great way to meet new people."
Knitter said climbing to the top is like solving a puzzle and provides a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the highest point. "Even if you don't reach the top, you can still experience the thrill of the challenge."
Experienced climbers interested in using the room must first prove proficiency in climbing by performing a "quick check." Beginners must pass a two-hour course in climbing taught by an experienced Campus Recreation staff member. A card is issued to those passing either the test or the course and that card must be presented each time for use of the climbing room.
An annual fee is charged for use of the room: $35 for faculty and staff; $25 for Student Fitness Center members; and $10 for students. Use of the room also is extended to immediate family members who are at least 14 years of age. Fourteen- and 15-year- olds must be accompanied by an adult.
The room is open 6-8:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; 4-7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday; and noon-3 p.m. Sunday.
Book In Every Home Scores Big With The Rams And Its New Honorary Chairperson
Scoring back-to-back "touchdowns," the Book In Every Home (BIEH) campaign is ready to lead the next big scoring drive down the field.
The campaign recently received a $2,500 gift from the St. Louis Rams Foundation and also announced this year's honorary chair-Jackie Joyner-Kersee, who was named Female Athlete of the Century by Sports Illustrated.
Moving into its seventh year, the BIEH campaign collects books to distribute to children in SIUE's Head Start program, the SIUE East St. Louis Child Development Center, and the SIUE Early Childhood Center, as well as children in the Riverbend Head Start.
"Things are getting off to a great start even though the campaign won't actually begin until Jan. 15," said Kay Werner, chair of the annual campaign. "The Rams Foundation is so generous in its dedication to literacy efforts and, of course, we all know of Jackie's devotion to kids. We couldn't be more pleased.
"And, we also are happy to include Wood River Printing Co. and Lewis and Clark Library System as our partners."
Werner said last year's effort was the largest in the organization's existence. "We gave away nearly 5,000 books last year and collected more than $4,000 in donations," she said. "We're determined to top that this year."
The St. Louis Rams community outreach team, which includes the St. Louis Rams Foundation, supports efforts and organizations that inspire positive change in the greater St. Louis area with an emphasis on youth in education, literacy, health, and recreation. Since moving to St. Louis in 1995, the Rams have contributed more than $3 million in cash, grants, merchandise and tickets to area charities.
One of ESPN's 50 Greatest Athletes of the Century, Jackie Joyner-Kersee dominated the sport of track and field for more than 20 years; setting world and American records that still stand. The second of four children, she was born in 1962 in East St. Louis. Though lacking in material possessions, her family never failed to provide her with an abundance of love and support.
"That kind of family support is what we encourage with A Book In Every Home," Werner said. "Reading to children is one of the best things a parent can do for their early educational development."
Men's Soccer Begins GLVC Season
After a match against Christian Brothers University (2-3) on Tuesday (9/17) at Korte Stadium, SIUE's men's soccer will take to the road to begin the quest for the Great Lakes Valley Conference championship.
The Cougars face GLVC foes Wisconsin-Parkside at 1:15 p.m. Friday (9/20) and Saint Joseph's on Sunday (9/21) at noon.
"Our ticket to the post-season is by way of the GLVC championship," said Coach Ed Huneke. "It's a new season in that regard and we look forward to it."
Last weekend, the Cougars dropped a 2-1 overtime decision against Truman State (3-1) at Korte Stadium. After a Truman State goal, SIUE answered with a Josh Hickam (Granite City) goal in the 55th minute to send the game into overtime. Truman's Nate Gaudreault scored eight minutes into the overtime period to give the Bulldogs the victory.
Wisconsin-Parkside (4-1) will come into the GLVC opener having lost four All-Region players from a year ago. Two of them were All-Americans. "Wisconsin-Parkside is always a top contender," said Huneke. "They have a very competitive side which requires us to be at our best."
Saint Joseph's (2-3-1) is only four wins away from matching last season's total. "We've had an advantage over Saint Joseph's in the past," said Huneke, "but they are off to a good start this season."
The Cougars are still plagued with injuries suffered in the preseason. Senior defender Ryan Harken (Bloomington) and junior defender/ midfielder Brian Horan (St. Louis) will not play Tuesday, but Huneke hopes they will be ready for this weekend's GLVC matchups.
Volleyball Goes 2-1 At GLIAC/GLVC Crossover
SIUE defeated Northern Michigan and Ferris State but dropped a match against Grand Valley State at last weekend's GLIAC/GLVC Crossover in Allendale, Mich. The Cougars, 9-3, were the lone GLVC school to come away with a winning record during the two-day tournament.
"This was a huge weekend for our team," said SIUE Coach Todd Gober. "I'm thrilled we came back with two wins. It has positioned us well in regional rankings right now."
SIUE opened play against Northern Michigan in a thrilling five-game match. After losing games one and four, SIUE hit .438 to Northern Michigan's .077 in game five to close the match. The Cougars have yet to lose a game five this season.
Jennifer Trame (Highland) led the Cougars with 19 kills and 20 digs. Andrea Voss (St. Rose), Kindra Westendorf (Effingham) and Heather Bonde (Millstadt) each contributed with double-digit kills. Allison Buss (Towanda) added 17 digs as the Cougars' libero.
Match two for SIUE was against 9-1 Ferris State on Saturday (9/14). The Cougars outplayed the Bulldogs in route to a 3-1 victory. Once again, Trame had a huge match, posting 25 kills and 26 kills. Buss added 19 digs.
Against Grand Valley State in the final match of the tournament, SIUE fell 3-0 to the fourth-ranked team in the nation.
The Cougars will play at Drury on Wednesday (9/18) before their GLVC opener Saturday (9/21) against Quincy at the Vadalabene Center. Match time is 1 p.m.
"Our schedule has been challenging, and that has helped us," he said. "Playing good competition points out our weaknesses, and we are fixing them."
Freshman Leads Cougars In First Meet
In his first collegiate cross country meet, Brian Taghon (East Moline) led SIUE and finished second overall at the Cougar- Bearcat Challenge.
Taghon ran the 8,000-meter race in 26 minutes, 58 seconds, finishing second only to McKendree College's Araya Haregot. "Brian led the pack for our team," said Coach Darryl Frerker. "It was a very good effort to accomplish that as a freshman."
Nick Campbell (Charleston) finished third with a time of 27:00. Jason Olszowka (Lockport) ran a time of 27:31 to finish fourth.
No team scores were calculated. The Cougars will now look to the EIU Invitational to be held Saturday (9/21) in Charleston.
Bozue, Carducci Lead Women's Cross Country
Amanda Bozue (Joliet) and Carrie Carducci (Powell, Ohio) finished side-by-side to lead the pack in the 5,000-meter Cougar-Bearcat Challenge, which was hosted by SIU Edwardsville.
"Amanda and Carrie put together a nice, relaxed effort," said Coach Darryl Frerker. Officially, Bozue finished first with a time of 19 minutes, 27.05 seconds. Carducci came in a close second with a time of 19:27.44.
Noting the times, Frerker is pleased with his team's performance. Seven SIUE runners finished better than the fourth-place finisher at the same time a year ago. "This is the best start we've ever had," said Frerker.
No team scores were calculated. The Cougars will now look to the EIU Invitational to be held Saturday (9/21) in Charleston.
Women's Tennis Improves To 5-2
SIUE picked up wins against GLVC foes Kentucky Wesleyan and Quincy to improve their record to 5-2. Southern Indiana handed the Cougars only their second loss in GLVC play.
The Cougars blanked Kentucky Wesleyan 9-0 and defeated Quincy 7-2. Southern Indiana bettered SIUE by a 6-3 margin.
SIUE will now prepare for weekend GLVC matches at Saint Joseph's and Lewis.
Women's Golf Finishes Sixth At WIU
Brittany Auld (Nashville) and Katie Farrell (Princeton) finished with matching scores of 172 at the Westerwinds Classic in Macomb. The SIUE golfers finished sixth out of eight teams.
Farrell and Auld each finished 21 strokes off the lead. Deanna Bock (Edwardsville) shot a 173, and Kacy Gruenkemeyer (Salem) fired a 174 in the 36-hole event.
This weekend, the Cougars will compete at the Illinois Wesleyan Invitational in Bloomington. The Illinois Wesleyan event has been a kind event to the Cougars in the past.
Farrell set the school record last season for 18 holes with a 75. Farrell and Bock tied for the school record with a 36-hole total of 156. As a team last season, the Cougars set a school record with a 36-hole score of 654.
Women's Soccer To Begin GLVC Play
SIU Edwardsville women's soccer will travel to Wisconsin- Parkside on Friday (9/20), then to Saint Joseph's on Sunday (9/22) as the Cougars open Great Lakes Valley Conference play after hosting a Tuesday (9/17) match against Washington (Mo.) University.
The Bears visit SIUE Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at Korte Stadium. They enter the game with a 4-1-1 record.
SIUE currently sits at 3-2 after a 1-0 loss to Lindenwood on Saturday (9/14). Wisconsin-Parkside, who finished a school-best 17-2 a year ago, is 2-0 on the young season with wins against Concordia and St. Francis. The Rangers dominated both matches, winning them both 6-0.
Saint Joseph's is 3-3, but has a Friday matchup against Quincy before hosting the Cougars. Last season, Saint Joseph's finished fifth in the GLVC with a 6-4 conference record.
Simmons Academy Set For Day Of Basketball Fun
Students in grades 1 through 8 can enjoy a day of basketball Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Marty Simmons Basketball Academy. The event runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Vadalabene Center.
The cost for the academy is $35 and includes a free T-shirt, a free basketball, a pass to two SIUE basketball practices, two special game ticket packages, and instruction from Coach Simmons and his staff.
The academy is designed to teach each player the fundamentals of basketball. For more information, contact SIUE Basketball at 618-650-2881.
Volleyball Cougars Knock Off McKendree College
Jennifer Trame hammered 10 kills while Tricia Winter added eight as the Cougars defeated McKendree College 3-0 at the Valadabene Center Tuesday (9/3) night.
SIUE (4-1) hit .345 compared to .049 for McKendree (0-2). Leading the way defensively for SIUE was Allison Buss with 12 digs, followed by Sarah Watts with 10.
SIUE controlled the first two games of the match, outlasting McKendree 30-17 in both. SIUE came from behind to take game three 30-20.
SIUE now will set their sights on the Nebraska-Kearney Tournament. They play St. Mary's Friday (9/6) at 2 p.m., then Nebraska-Kearney at 8 p.m. Saturday (9/7), they will face Midwestern State at noon and Chadron at 4 p.m.
Experienced Cougars Look For Breakout Season
With nine returnees and two transfers, Coach Darryl Frerker believes 2002 will be a breakout season for women's cross country.
"We're deeper than we've ever been," said Frerker. "It always seems like we end up with about four, maybe five (top runners), and if someone gets injured we're out of it. Right now, I think we have a very strong seven or eight."
Amanda Bozue (Joliet), Carrie Carducci (Powell, Ohio) and Breanne Steffens (Moline) will lead the pack for the Cougars. Bozue, a senior, finished 15th overall at last year's Great Lakes Valley Conference Championships.
Carducci, a junior, has had success in both cross country and track this past year. She finished 29th in last year's GLVC Championships, then followed that performance by nationally qualifying in the 3,000-steeplechase in the outdoor track season. Steffens, a junior, was the top Cougar finisher GLVC last year, finishing sixth overall. She earned All-Conference honors with that performance.
Frerker believes this trio has what it takes to help the Cougars have a successful season. "The three of them are definitely going to lead this pack to some new heights for us."
Also returning for the Cougars is sophomore Mary Witte (Normal). She hopes to improve upon her successful freshman campaign that saw her finish 17th at the GLVC.
Erin McMullen (Salem), a transfer from Murray State University, should make an immediate impact on this year's squad. McMullen, a junior, finished 38th in the Ohio Valley Conference Championships for the Racers last year. Junior Maria Ewersmann (St. Paul, Mo.) also should be a significant part of this year's squad.
Frerker also is looking to newcomers Heather Zipparro (Mt. Prospect), Melissa Oglesby (Centralia), and Amanda White (O'Fallon) to provide some depth.
The season will get under way Sept. 14 as the Cougars play host to the Cougar-Bearcat Challenge. They will then travel to Charleston and the Panther Open. October will feature three big meets for the team as they travel to Chicago for the Sean Earl Lakefront Invitational, host the Illinois/Missouri Border Wars, then go to Kenosha, Wis., for the Great Lakes Valley Championships on Oct. 26.
"I'm really looking forward to the Sean Earl Lakefront Invitational," said Frerker. "I think we'll see a good variety of schools, especially some Division II teams. The Illinois/Missouri Border Wars meet that we host also looks to be a real big meet for us this year."
Frerker: SIUE Men's Cross Country Has Strong Team
Just a week into practice, men's cross country Coach Darryl Frerker believes his 2002 squad is one of his best yet.
The Cougars return five runners from last year's top seven and will add a handful of talented freshmen who should make an immediate impact on the team.
Senior Jason Olszowka (Lockport) is the most notable returnee for the Cougars. Olszowka was the top Cougar finisher at last year's Great Lakes Valley Conference Championships, while finishing ninth overall. Frerker expects to see more of the same from Olszowka this season.
"Jason has been All-Region three years in a row," said Frerker. "I anticipate him getting back to that position this year. If he makes it 4-4, that will make it one of the best efforts that we've had from an SIUE athlete."
Outside of Olszowka, the rest of the top-seven is still undecided, which Frerker said could be attributed to the amount of depth on the roster.
"We had a lot of guys who knew it was going to be a competitive season and came back in great shape," said Frerker. Junior's Nick Campbell (Charleston), David Droege (Nashville), Darren Dinkelman (Nashville), Steve McNamer (Charleston) and Dustin Gentry (Charleston), along with sophomores Jonathon Sadowski (Springfield), Darren Pierce (Freeburg), Ryan Boyll (Normal) and Richard Skirball (Granite City) complete the list of returnees who should vie for a spot in the top-seven.
Five newcomers will join this year's squad to add even more depth to the team. Parkland College transfer Gary Parquette (Naperville) and freshmen Brian Taghon (East Moline), Trae Cotner (Springfield), Matt Davis (Williamsville), and Dane Shaw (Edwardsville) will all look to immediately contribute for the Cougars.
The season will begin at home Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Cougar-Bearcat Challenge. The Cougars then travel to Charleston a week later for the Panther Open. Frerker will use these two events to see who is going to step it up to the next level. "I think when it comes down to getting in the first couple of competitions, we'll start to get an idea of where things are going to spread out," said Frerker.
"Cross country is such a mental game. Just because someone practices well doesn't mean they are going to compete well, or vice versa," he said. "Some of the guys who don't practice so well end up competing very well."
September 24, 2002
Debated:
Congressman John Shimkus, left, and Congressman David Phelps debated recently in Katherine Dunham Hall theater to a capacity crowd (see below). They are in a pitched battle to represent a newly expanded and combined Congressional District 19. The two legislators took a moment to chat before the debate with SIUE Student Body President Michelle King. (SIUE Photo)
Overflow Crowds Cause For Adding Ceremonies
More students graduating, success in retention efforts, and increasing numbers of students participating in graduation ceremonies have brought overflow crowds to SIUE's Vadalabene Center for commencement ceremonies.
Rather than restrict the number of guests attending and to accommodate more family and friends of students, SIUE has opted to add an additional ceremony for fall and spring commencements.
The Dec. 14 commencement will take place in two ceremonies. The 9 a.m. ceremony will be for the Schools of Engineering and Nursing and the College of Arts and Sciences; the 1 p.m. ceremony will be for the Schools of Education and Business. Plans for spring commencement are not yet complete.
It is unlikely that summer commencement will be changed because the numbers have remained consistently manageable through the years.
"This is a 'nice' problem to have," said Provost Sharon Hahs, "and I think the increase in the number of students at graduation is mostly due to the faculty's focus on student learning."
Hahs said several options were explored, including restricting the number of guests per student, "but I believe the decision to add a ceremony will best serve the needs of our students and their families.
"It's more of a celebration for the graduate when the entire family can share in the day."
SIUE Foundation Offers New Gift Annuity Program
The newly created SIUE Foundation Planned Giving Council has approved a Charitable Gift Annuity program, which members of the council hope will "capture the attention" of alumni and friends of the university. It was the council's first official action since it was convened earlier this year.
Planned Giving Director Harold Melser said the Foundation's gift annuity program will provide annual income ranging from six to 12 percent on annuities of $5,000 or larger. "We hope to capture the attention of many alumni and friends of SIUE," Melser said.
"We believe this program is the place to start in building a larger base of financial support for the university." Melser said the rates are particularly attractive because part of the income is tax-free.
Gathering several area financial experts in recruiting the new council, Melser said the group is an ad hoc committee of the SIUE Foundation. "We have been very busy-since the council was formed in April-contacting SIUE alumni and others in an effort to improve their financial plan with this gift program," Melser said.
Al Hagemann, chair of the council, is a 1963 graduate of SIUE and a retired CPA from the Kansas City area. He said the council's purpose is to provide leadership in securing financial support for the Foundation, and ultimately SIUE, through planned gifts. "SIUE is nearly 50 years old and we are beginning to see a tradition forming," Hagemann said. "Look at the makeup of the council. Many of the members are alums or they are parents of students currently attending the university.
"Plus, many of these members are financial planners or have ties to financial planning," Hagemann pointed out. "We are taking a multi-faceted approach in presenting the financial plans available through SIUE. The council members have various levels of experience in finance and can answer most questions."
Hagemann said he was happy to join the council because his SIUE degree has helped open many doors during his career. "It's payback time," he said. "If not for SIUE, I would never have been able to afford a college education. And that SIUE degree helped my career in countless ways. So, I believe it's time for me to give something back.
"Harold is to be commended for gathering so many impressive people who have ties to the university," Hagemann said. "I'm excited about the future of this council and our programs. I believe it's a great opportunity and I also believe the leadership we have now in the Foundation will be doing great things for the university."
2020 Vision Committee Presents Recommendations
Meeting the demands of the future is the guiding theme behind a set of forward-looking recommendations made recently by a distinguished panel formed earlier this year by SIU President James E. Walker.
Walker initiated the SIU 2020 Vision Committee to review the university's current status and give advice on how to best prepare for the challenges of the 21st century. Walker called for the creation of the committee in his address, A Shared Vision for Southern Illinois University, he presented at SIUE and at the other campuses last fall.
The committee, chaired by former U.S. Sen. Paul Simon, who currently heads the Public Policy Institute at SIUC, was composed of successful men and women in the fields of business, education, and public policy from across the nation. Simon gave an overview of the recommendations at the Board of Trustees meeting Sept. 12 at Bluff Hall.
Walker said he is grateful for the comprehensive set of recommendations that will help "chart our course" into the new century. "I asked Sen. Simon and the committee to draw on their significant experiences, taking a look at where the SIU campuses are now and where we should be going, and they have given us some great insight."
After an extensive review of SIU's assets and challenges, the committee focused its efforts on macro-level recommendations that are intended to position SIU for a successful future. Key among the recommendations are increased fund-raising and marketing efforts, especially to attract and retain high-quality students and faculty; expanded use of technology to serve more students; expanded emphasis on global education; and re-focused academic programs that reward excellence.
Highlights of the committee's recommendations suggest that SIU and its campuses should:
• Enhance efforts to secure financial aid for students so that no student should have to leave SIU for financial reasons only;
• Enrich the value added component of higher education by instituting "learning compacts" with students so that they know what the university expects from them and what they can expect from SIU;
• Enhance excellence among faculty and staff by providing competitive salaries and implementing rigorous standards for retention, promotion and tenure;
• Initiate capital fund-raising campaigns;
• Aggressively market SIU campuses;
• Build on "signature" academic programs that have a strong reputation for excellence and eliminate weak programs;
• Ensure that every degree program offers e-capability to students;
• Raise the level of global education through study-abroad programs, increased international student populations at SIUC and SIUE, and the establishment of an International Center at SIUC; and
• Recommended that SIUE's optimum enrollment is approximately 13,000 students. SIUC should undertake a process to determine appropriate enrollment size and a proper mix of academic program offerings.
Simon said he is pleased with the group's efforts. "The members of this committee brought a wide range of experiences to the table, all with the goal of preparing SIU for the century ahead," he said. "We had rich discussions, and I believe these recommendations will help SIU better serve its students and the citizens of our region, nation and world."
Committee member David G. Carter, president of Eastern Connecticut State University, says the committee did achieve its goal. "I believe that the 2020 Vision Committee's report and recommendations chart a course for Southern Illinois University that, when realized, will place the university among the pre-eminent institutions of higher education," Carter said.
Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar, also a member of the committee, recognizes the need for universities to plan for the future. "SIU has unique attributes that set it apart from other universities in Illinois and the nation," Edgar said. "Higher education is changing rapidly, and institutions that fail to plan for their future will fall behind.
"SIU should be commended for bringing together leaders from all walks of life to help shape plans for the university's future and ensure it is prepared to meet the needs of the people it serves."
Walker has directed the chancellors of SIUE and SIUC to incorporate the committee's recommendations into their campus planning processes and to report back to him on the status of implementation by September 2003.
The full report of the 2020 Vision Committee is available here.
Bowling Returns And Could Be 'Cosmic' By Early October
The construction "to-do list" is getting smaller at the Morris Center-Cosmic Bowling is almost here!
The lanes are operational, with new re-surfacing and state-of-the-art electronic scoring, and the billiards center has been remodeled with new carpeting, tiling, and more space.
Some work continues on the special lighting for "Cosmic Bowling." However, that portion of the project should be completed by early October. "It will be a visual experience, like laser dance-floor lighting, shooting in various directions and in several colors," said Stephen Siegel, manager of the bowling and billiard center.
"But the other improvement to the bowling center that is in place already is the electronic scoring. It's the best system on the market today."
In addition to the bowling center, the billiards center also has been improved with new carpeting and tiling, Siegel said. "We took out two tables to make more room for the players to sit and enjoy refreshments while they play."
Siegel pointed out that once the old kitchen is eliminated and moved to the southeast side of the building, and that area is refurbished as a dining area, glass partitions will give a full view of the recreation center.
"And, we have a new, larger table tennis area and a new variety of electronic arcade games," Siegel said. "We'll be planning a grand opening for the center soon after we're finished with everything.
"I think the students are going to be very pleased with the changes here."
Women's Soccer Remains Without A Loss In GLVC
With a win against Indianapolis and a tie against No. 1-ranked Northern Kentucky, the SIUE women's soccer team is without a loss in the Great Lakes Valley Conference, sitting at a record of 1-0-3.
Northern Kentucky (9-0-1, 4-0-1) managed to salvage a tie with the Cougars after SIUE opened to a 2-0 halftime lead in the 9/29 match. Ann Crawford (St. Louis) and Sarah Landt (Carbondale) each scored in the first half for the Cougars.
NKU's Kristen Noakes then scored twice in a span of six minutes in the second half, forcing the game into overtime. Neither team had many chances in the two overtime periods as they played to a 2-2 tie.
"Anytime you can play with a No. 1 team in the nation, that's good," said Coach Brian Korbesmeyer. "I thought we had the better of play in the first half, and they had the better of play in the second-half and overtime.
"Our girls never stopped trying and kept playing hard, and I think that has been our trademark this year. If we continue that we will be in good shape the rest of the season."
The Cougars received their first GLVC win on Friday (9/27) at the hands of Indianapolis (2-6, 0-2). Becky Baker (St. Louis) scored unassisted and Sara Decker (St. Louis) scored the game-winning goal to give the Cougars a 2-1 advantage.
The Cougars now look to a weekend road trip at Bellarmine on Friday (10/4) and at Kentucky Wesleyan on Sunday (10/6). "Bellarmine might be the most improved team in the conference," said Korbesmeyer. "They defeated Missouri-St. Louis on Friday, and UMSL is a pretty good team. It will be a tough game, especially because it is on the road."
Men's Soccer Perfect In Conference Play
The SIUE men's soccer team picked up convincing wins against conference opponents Indianapolis and Northern Kentucky this weekend to improve to 4-0 in the GLVC.
Mike Ngonyani (Bloomington, Ind.) had three goals on the weekend, two against Indianapolis and one against Northern Kentucky. His six goals so far this season is a team-high. "Ngonyani is an impact player, and we knew he would be," said Coach Ed Huneke. "He is just fun to watch."
Ngonyani's two goals against Indianapolis on Friday (9/27), along with goals from Brian Higgins (St. Louis), Josh Hickam (Granite City) and Pete Cacciatore (St. Louis), helped the Cougars to a 5-0 victory over the Greyhounds. The Cougars' defense allowed one shot on goal.
On Sunday (9/29), the Cougars opened scoring in the seventh minute off a Hickam goal. After NKU got on the board to knot the game at one, Ngonyani broke the tie in the 80th minute. Sean Huneke (Glen Carbon) scored three minutes later off a give from Cacciatore. It was Cacciatore's GLVC-leading seventh assist.
"I'm pleased with most facets of our game," said Huneke. "We are solid on defense, do a decent job at midfield, and most notably we are very aggressive on the attack. I think we have some dangerous forwards."
The Cougars now look to a weekend road-trip at Bellarmine on Friday (10/4) and at Kentucky Wesleyan on Sunday (10/6). "Bellarmine is always a tough place to play," said Huneke. "For some reason, very good teams have struggled at their place, so we have to be alert for that. They are having a decent year. If we are not careful, they might surprise us. But I plan on being careful."
Women's Golf Ranked 24th In Nation
The SIUE women's golf team will enter this weekend's GLVC Tournament ranked 24th in the nation and seventh in their region.
Katie Farrell (Princeton) leads the Cougars with an 84.4 scoring average. As a team, the Cougars hold an average tournament score of 346.25.
The GLVC Tournament will be held Saturday (10/5) through Monday (10/7) in Springfield at the Piper Glenn Golf Course.
Volleyball Drops First GLVC Match To NKU
In a thrilling five-set volleyball match Saturday (9/28), Northern Kentucky edged the Cougars 3-2. It was SIUE's first conference loss this season, and Coach Todd Gober's first home loss in two seasons.
The Cougars jumped out to a two-games-to-one lead but dropped game four and the decisive game five to fall to 2-1 in the conference. "I think this weekend will actually help us in the long run," said Gober.
"We had a good match against Bellarmine. Against Northern Kentucky (9/28), I think we proved to ourselves that we have the potential to be one of the top teams in our conference. I think we felt we could have won that match."
Jennifer Trame (Highland) and Andrea Voss (St. Rose) hammered 19 and 12 kills, respectively. Defensively, Amanda Wulfe (Vacaville, Calif.) recorded 24 digs. "Trame had a great match, she really stepped up her play," said Gober. "Amanda Wulfe had a very good match, and Voss did a good job with the numbers she put up with her kills and blocking."
The Cougars defeated Bellarmine in convincing fashion Friday night (9/27). Voss had a huge night, slamming 11 kills on 14 attempts for a .786 hitting percentage.
Next, the Cougars play Tuesday (10/1) against Rockhurst. The game will be played at Pattonville High School in Maryland Heights, Mo. The Cougars then travel to Quincy for a GLVC rematch on Friday (10/4), then travel outside the conference again to play at Truman State on Saturday (10/5).
"Rockhurst and Truman State are both in the polls, so it should be some good competition," said Gober. "This gives us a chance to really jump back into the saddle against good competition. There's no time to dwell on the loss against Northern Kentucky. We have to move on and move on quickly."
Women's Tennis To Compete At ITA Regionals
Women's tennis team will compete this weekend at the ITA Mid-American Regionals in Indianapolis.
Coryn Reich (Newton), Chrissy Yingst (Belleville), Gina Wohltman (Effingham) and Kelli Keener (Bethalto) will all play singles in the tournament. Reich and Yingst will pair for doubles as will Wohltman and Keener.
"This should be a pretty tough tournament, it always is," said Coach Bill Logan. This is the last competition for the Cougars before the GLVC Tournament, which is set for Oct. 11-12. "The top-five schools in the conference will probably be at Indianapolis," said Logan. "This will be a good, competitive tournament before the conference tournament."
Pairings for GLVC Women's Tennis Tournament
Oct. 11-12 at Dwight Davis Tennis Center (St. Louis)
#1 Indianapolis vs. #8 Saint Joseph's
#4 SIU-Edwardsville vs. #5 Northern Kentucky
#3 Lewis vs. #6 Quincy
#2 Southern Indiana vs. #7 Missouri-St. Louis
Women's Soccer Plays To Two Ties
There was good news and bad news this weekend for the SIUE women's soccer team. The good news is the Cougars did not allow a goal all weekend. However, the bad news is they did not score one either.
SIUE opened conference play Friday (9/20) against Wisconsin-Parkside (3-0-1 overall, 1-0-1 Great Lakes Valley) and outshot the Rangers but couldn't find the back of the net as the two team's played to a 0-0 tie. Kristin Covalt (Palmer, Alaska) and Jessica Brown (St. Louis) combined for the shutout for SIUE.
Much of the same happened Sunday (9/22) as the Cougars traveled to Saint Joseph's (3-5-1, 0-1-1). SIUE did not score on 11 shots on goal. Once again, Brown and Covalt combined for the shutout for the Cougars.
SIUE, now 3-2-2 overall and 0-0-2 in conference play, will play host to GLVC foes Indianapolis (2-5, 0-1) on Friday (9/27) at 7:30 p.m., then No. 1-ranked Northern Kentucky (8-0, 2-0) on Sunday (9/29) at 2:30 p.m.
Men's Soccer Opens Conference Play 2-0
With everyone healthy, the SIUE men's soccer team returned to championship form as it opened conference play with two victories.
The Cougars earned a 3-1 decision Friday (9/20) at Wisconsin-Parkside and blanked Saint Joseph's 4-0 on Sunday (9/22). "Everyone was healthy this weekend, and I thought that really showed in our play," said Coach Ed Huneke.
The two victories put SIUE at 3-2-1 overall. More importantly, the Cougars are 2-0 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. "Conference play is important for our post-season hopes," said Huneke. "It was very important getting these two victories, especially because we were on the road."
Against Wisconsin-Parkside (5-1, 1-1), Mike Ngonyani (Bloomington, Ind.) scored his first two goals as a Cougar and Matt Evers (Edwardsville) gathered nine saves in the victory. "Ngonyani and Evers made the difference at Wisconsin-Parkside," said Huneke.
Pete Cacciatore (St. Louis) assisted on both of Ngonyani's goals. Josh Hickam (Granite City) added an insurance goal late in the game off a Brian Higgins (St. Louis) assist.
SIUE dominated Sunday's (9/22) match against Saint Joseph's (3-6, 0-2). Hickam opened scoring in the ninth minute off an assist from Chris Camacho (Quincy). Just a minute later, Ngonyani scored off a Cacciatore assist. In the 17th minute, Yuzuru Takami (Japan) scored, while Cacciatore added another assist. Josh Richardson (Mt. Vernon, Ind.) scored unassisted in the 82nd minute.
Evers and Jared Petersmith (East Moline) combined for the shutout as the Cougar defense allowed only one shot on goal in the 4-0 victory. SIUE sets its sights on GLVC opponent Indianapolis (0-3-2, 0-1), who comes to Korte Stadium Friday (9/27) for a 5:30 p.m. matchup. SIUE then face conference foe Northern Kentucky (3-3-1, 0-2) Sunday (9/29) at noon.
Men's Cross Country Runs To Second-Place Finish
Brian Taghon (East Moline), Jason Olszowka (Lockport) and Ryan Boyll (Normal) led the Cougars to a second-place finish at Saturday's (9/21) EIU Open in Charleston.
Taghon, a freshman, ran the 8,000-meter course in a Cougar best time of 25 minutes, 54 seconds, which was good for seventh overall. It was the fifth fastest time by a freshman in Cougar men's cross country history.
Olszowka finished 10th with a time of 26:04, just ahead of 11th place finisher and teammate Boyll, who crossed the line at 26:18. Nick Campbell (Charleston), Jon Sadowski (Springfield) and David Droege (Nashville) finished 14th, 15th, and 16th, respectively. SIUE placed second behind host Eastern Illinois.
The Cougars will have next weekend off as they prepare for the Sean Earl Lakefront Invitational, which will be held Oct. 5th in Chicago.
Women's Cross Country Yields Strong Finish
Amanda Bozue (Joliet), Carrie Carducci (Powell, Ohio), Maria Ewersmann (St. Paul, Mo.) and Breanne Steffens (Moline) all finished in the top 10 as the Cougars finished second to host Eastern Illinois at the EIU Open in Charleston on Saturday (9/21).
Bozue led the Cougars on the 5,000-meter course with a time of 18 minutes, 39 seconds, which was good for third overall. It was the 14th fastest finish by a Cougar all-time.
Just behind Bozue was Carducci, who finished in a fourth-place time of 18:43. Ewersmann finished seventh with a time of 18:54, while Steffens finished ninth overall with a time of 19:01. Mary Witte (Normal), Erin McMullen (Salem) and Heather Zipparro (Mount Prospect) finished 12th, 14th and 15th, respectively.
SIUE placed second behind host Eastern Illinois. The Cougars will have next weekend off as they prepare for the Sean Earl Lakefront Invitational, which will be held on Oct. 5 in Chicago.
Volleyball Impressive In Conference Opener
SIUE volleyball opened Great Lakes Valley Conference play in dramatic fashion, disposing of Quincy in a 3-0 victory at the Vadalabene Center Saturday afternoon (9/21). The Cougars hit .363 while exploding for 58 kills as a team in the three games.
Jennifer Trame (Highland) led the Cougars with 14 kills, while Kindra Westendorf (Effingham) added 12. Allison Buss (Towanda) recorded 14 digs to lead the team. Tricia Winter (Germantown) turned in an impressive match, recording eight kills and a .500 hitting percentage.
The win moves SIUE to an 11-3 overall record, and a 1-0 mark in the GLVC. The Cougars are the lone undefeated team in the GLVC's Green Division.
Last Wednesday (9/18), SIUE took care of Drury 3-1. Andrea Voss (St. Rose) led the way for the Cougars with 15 kills. Amanda Wulfe (Vacaville, Calif.) anchored the defense with 17 digs.
SIUE continues its current homestand Friday (9/27) with a 7 p.m. match against GLVC foe Bellarmine (3-12 overall, 1-3 GLVC). Northern Kentucky (4-6, 2-1) comes to town Saturday (9/28) for a 1 p.m. match.
Women's Tennis Sits at 6-3
The Siue women's tennis team completed its Great Lakes Valley Conference schedule this weekend with a win at Saint Joseph's and a loss at Lewis. The split gives SIUE a 6-3 record, which gives the Cougars the fourth seed in the GLVC Tournament.
SIUE defeated Saint Joseph's 5-0, but fell to Lewis 5-2. Keli Keener (Bethalto) won both of her matches to improve her singles record to 8-1 on the season.
Next, the team will compete in the ITA Mid-American Regional in Indianapolis Oct. 4-6. The GLVC Tournament is scheduled for Oct. 11-12 at the Dwight Davis Tennis Center in St. Louis.
Women's Golf Finishes Eighth At IWU Fall Classic
Katie Farrell (Princeton) and Kacy Gruenkemeyer (Salem) led the Cougars to an eighth-place finish at last weekend's Illinois Wesleyan Fall Classic in Normal.
Farrell carded a final-round 76 to finish tied for 18th. Her 76 tied her with three other golfers for the low round of the day. Gruenkemeyer fired a team-low 79 in round one of the tournament, helping her to finish 24th overall.
SIUE finished with a team score of 656, 28 strokes behind tournament champion DePauw. Fellow Great Lakes Valley Conference foes Quincy and Indianapolis narrowly finished ahead of the Cougars. Quincy took third at 634 while Indianapolis finished seventh at 654.
SIUE will travel to Owensboro, Ky., for this weekend's Owensboro Women's Fall Invitational. The GLVC Tournament is set for Oct. 5-7 in Springfield.
Women's Tennis Is 6-3 In Conference; Awaits Tourney
Coach Bill Logan didn't place too high of an expectation on his SIUE women's tennis program this fall. Yet that hasn't stopped the Cougars from tallying a 6-3 record in the Great Lakes Valley Conference season.
SIUE lost Amber Stanley and Laura Zeeb, his top two players from last season. Logan and the Cougars had to refocus with their existing players and add freshmen Gina Wohltman (Effingham) and Katie McKay (Caseyville).
The result has left the Cougars in a great position in the GLVC. SIUE's best move was its first match of the season at Northern Kentucky where the Cougars defeated the Norse 6-3 and halted a 51-match GLVC winning streak.
"I'm real happy with the way the team has come together. They really have been able to get the job done," said Logan.
The biggest move was by junior Coryn Reich (Newton). She moved from No. 3 singles into the No. 1 singles. As the No. 1 singles player, Reich not only is seen as the team's best players but also faces the best players in the conference.
Reich said the addition of two new players to the lineup has helped and the returning starters have been able to adjust to the new lineup.
"All of the rest of us are playing better and showing improvement," said Reich.
After nine conference matches, Reich holds a 3-3 record in singles and a 6-3 record in doubles with partner Chrissy Yingst (Belleville).
"I'd like to be playing better all of the time rather than be streaky. But I'm not intimidated by the position," she said.
Keli Keener (Bethalto) has been one of the more consistent players on the team at No. 4 singles and No. 2 doubles. Keener, according to Logan, has shown great improvement from last season and solidifies the middle of the lineup.
"Coach and I talked about it before the season and decided we could get more wins at No. 4 singles," Keener said. "I worked hard this summer with weight training and lots of practice." She holds a 7-2 record in singles and a 8-1 record in doubles with Wohltman.
From Keener's perspective, the reason why the Cougars have managed a 6-3 record as a team has to do with chemistry. "We have found the right mix."
At No. 3 doubles, McKay matches up with sophomore Allison Coats (Belleville). The duo has combined for a 7-2 record and provided the necessary depth.
The Cougars are awaiting The GLVC Championships on Oct. 11-12 in St. Louis.
