News

September 2005

September 1, 2005

SIUE Responds To Students Affected By Hurricane Katrina

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is extending help to students along the Gulf Coast who have been displaced as a result of the catastrophic hurricane and flooding in that region. The announcement was made today by SIUE Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift.

"SIUE joins the rest of our nation in support of the victims of Hurricane Katrina, the horrific national disaster that has resulted in significant death and damage in the south," Vandegrift said.

Boyd Bradshaw, assistant vice chancellor for Enrollment Management for the University, said as of today the University has received a steady stream of calls since the disaster. "We have received a number of inquiries from local students who are attending other colleges and universities in Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana who would like to still enroll this fall at SIUE," Bradshaw said.

"We will do what we can to work with these students in getting them admitted and enrolled in classes for this fall term," Bradshaw said. "Qualified students will receive an application fee waiver and will be granted financial assistance for course tuition." Those students interested in help from SIUE, may contact Todd Burrell, director of Admissions, by telephone, (618) 650-3705, or by e-mail: tburrel@siue.edu; Judy Bartel, assistant director of Admissions, (618) 650-3552, jbartel@siue.edu; or Phyllis Werner, manager of the SIUE Service Center, (618) 650-3776, pwerner@siue.edu.

Vandegrift also said SIUE is sending police officers and a police cruiser to the affected area. "As part of a long-standing agreement to respond to the need for police protection during such emergencies, we'll be assisting in this regard."

SIUE Police Chief Gina Hays said the department is a member of the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS). "Officer Nathan Harris is part of the ILEAS Special Response Teams (SRTs) and he is being deployed this weekend to an area affected by the hurricane," she said. "Two other officers have volunteered to lend additional help and they are awaiting further information from ILEAS to see if their assistance will be needed."

The chancellor also announced that yesterday the University began admitting and supplying financial aid to "refugee" students from universities impacted by Katrina. "We are requesting that faculty and staff work with these students to aid in their transition to SIUE," Vandegrift said. "In addition, SIUE has a procedure in place that will be forwarded to faculty and staff regarding the treatment of our students who are being called for military duty in response to this crisis."

Vandegrift said SIUE is exploring avenues through state and affiliated professional organizations to provide further assistance. "We also wish to express our thanks and appreciation to members of the campus community for their help as individuals during this time of national crisis."

September 1, 2005

SIUE Computer Science Professor Helps Capture NSF Grant

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) A national survey in 2001 showed that one out of 10 employed engineers is a woman and three out of 10 computer engineer-scientists are women.

A National Science Foundation (NSF) report shows that females comprised 35 percent of students enrolled in physics, mathematics, and computer science classes at the undergraduate level and 16 percent of students enrolled in undergraduate engineering classes. At the graduate level, less than 10 percent of the students enrolled in physics and engineering classes are women.

The NSF would like to see more women study engineering and the sciences, and SIUE Associate Professor Jerry Weinberg is trying to help. He is part of a team that recently received a $360,000 grant, titled "The Effects of Robotics Projects on Girls' Perceptions of Achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics."

Weinberg, who is a member of the Computer Science faculty in the SIUE School of Engineering, said the grant was co-written by two other SIUE faculty members-Associate Professor Sue Thomas and Assistant Professor Jonathan Pettibone, both in the SIUE Department of Psychology-as well as Mary Stephen of Saint Louis University and Catheryne Stein of the KISS Institute for Practical Robotics in Norman, Okla.

"We are seeking seventh-grade girls to participate in a competition we will conduct in the spring," he said. "In addition, the project will involve team-based activity in preparation and planning for the spring completion." The SIUE professor has for the last several years conducted a high school robotics competition on campus that has been very popular.

Weinberg explained that the program begins with teams of six to 10 students who will learn about the robot kits to be used in the competition. Those teams will then design, build, and program a team of small mobile robots. "The students will be led by teachers who will be trained in the use of the robot kits and how to use robotics to support their curricula in science and math," Weinberg said.

"Through designing, building, and programming of robots, participants will learn to comprehend how the tools of math and science are used in creative projects, and to learn about their application in the everyday world."

Weinberg pointed out that the grant will pay for each participant's registration fee and will provide additional funds for lead teachers stipends and for materials. He also pointed out that the project will involve an in-depth study of the participants to gain an understanding of how such programs affect girls' perception of their achievement in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). "We also would like to learn whether these attitudes translate into long-term choices in study and career options," Weinberg said.

"Diversity in STEM areas is important because it brings new and fresh perspectives into these fields, resulting in new ideas and solutions that meet the needs of a broader population."

Weinberg is currently recruiting teams from seventh grade classes. To learn more about the project or to become involved, contact Weinberg by telephone: (618) 650-2368, or by e-mail: jweinbe@siue.edu.

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September 3, 2005

SIUE Shaw Lecture Series To Feature UC Professor Sept. 15

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Michael Turner, the Bruce V. and Diana M. Rauner Distinguished Service Professor in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Chicago, will be the Shaw Series lecturer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Sept. 15.

Speaking about "The Dark Side of the Universe: Beyond Stars and the Starstuff We Are Made Of," Turner will appear at 7:30 p.m. in SIUE's Dunham Hall Theater. Admission is free and the lecture is open to the public.

Turner is a cosmologist whose research focuses on the earliest moments of the universe. He has made important contributions to inflationary universe theory, understanding of dark matter and the origin of structure. He will speak at SIUE about dark matter and dark energy. Dark matter and dark energy, invisible to telescopes, can only be detected through their effects on other objects, but make up 95 percent of the universe.

He holds appointments in the Department of Physics and in the Enrico Fermi Institute at Chicago. For more than 20 years, Turner was member of the scientific staff at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.

Turner has been honored with the Helen B. Warner Prize of the American Astronomical Society, the Julius Edgar Lilienfeld Prize of the American Physical Society, the Halley Lectureship at Oxford University, and the Quantrell Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching at Chicago. He has served on or chaired many national advisory committees, and since 1984 he has been involved in the governance of the Aspen Center for Physics, serving as president from 1989 to 1993. From 1998-2003 he served on the Board of Trustees of the Illinois Math and Science Academy.

Turner recently was appointed assistant director for Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the National Science Foundation. He received a bachelor of science in Physics from the California Institute of Technology (1971) and his doctorate in Physics from Stanford University (1978). His association with the University of Chicago began in 1978 as an Enrico Fermi Fellow and in 1980 he joined the faculty.

Turner is a Fellow of the APS and of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and is a member of the National Academy of Sciences.

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September 4, 2005

"11 Days Of Peace" Campaign Set For Sept. 11-21 At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) To commemorate those who died during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and to promote global peace, the "11 Days of Peace Campaign" will be celebrated Sept. 11-21 at the domed Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Religious Center and at SIUE's Morris University Center (MC).

The activities will culminate in a U.N. International Day of Peace celebration that will include a march from the MC to the Center, with participants carrying candles while the University's carillon tolls at noontime on Sept. 21.

The Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) and the United Campus Ministry (UCM), both headquartered at the Religious Center, as well as the SIUE Student Leadership Development Center and the Raise Your Voice student organization are co-sponsoring the event.

"This is a celebration of peaceful activities and events," said Sr. Claudia Calzetta, CCM director. "We encourage all students and anyone from the community to join us in all or any of the activities during these 11 days," she said. "This is not a series of events with a political agenda nor does this campaign have a political agenda. It does not support or negate any political party," she said.

"We hope that these 11 days will help all of us become more at peace in our relationships with others, with nature, and with the world at large."

A schedule of events is available at the SIUE Religious Center Web site: www.siue.edu/RELIGION. A brochure is available through e-mail: sschwan@siue.edu, or a copy can be FAX-ed; call Susan Schwander for details: (618) 650-3246.

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September 6, 2005

Bethalto Resident Named Director Of ERTC At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Paul Shetley of Bethalto recently joined the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering as director of the School's Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC), according to Paul Seaburg, dean of the School.

Shetley has more than 20 years of practical and management experience in water quality and environmental science.

In his new position, Shetley is responsible for managing external grants and projects, and acting as liaison with state and federal funding agencies, water and wastewater operator organizations, and the water and wastewater industry. Among other duties, he also is charged with developing a strategic plan for furthering the academic mission of the ERTC and capital improvements to the Center.

Shetley earned a bachelor of science in Earth Science and a master of science in Environmental Studies, both at SIUE. He also is a certified water operator and is a registered professional geologist.

Before joining the SIUE staff, Shetley was manager of the Fosterburg Water District for six years and before that was a consultant with environmental engineering firms in the St. Louis Area from 1984-1999. As a consultant, Shetley performed water quality investigations and environmental impact analysis at government and industrial facilities throughout the nation.

The ERTC, located on the north edge of the SIUE campus, is designated by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency as the technical training center for personnel involved in the operation, maintenance, and management of drinking water and wastewater treatment systems. The facilities include two teaching laboratories, a library/computer center, classrooms, an auditorium, and houses a fully functional 30,000 gallons/day water and wastewater treatment plant designed and used exclusively for training.

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September 9, 2005

SIUE Athletics Task Force Assesses Future Of Program

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) A task force has been established to consider three possible scenarios for the future of Intercollegiate Athletics at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, including options to strengthen the existing program, create a program that would compete at the NCAA Division I level, or develop a "hybrid" that would include Division I and II teams.

According to Narbeth Emmanuel, vice chancellor for Student Affairs, the successes of SIUE's Athletics program since 1999 have been a result of planning by an initial Athletics committee that was commissioned by then-SIUE Chancellor David Werner. "That original committee was created to consider whether the University should field a football team," Emmanuel explained.

"However, it was determined that other alternatives should be explored, and, because of the committees work our programs have been strengthened over the past six years to the point that we are now poised to move SIUE Intercollegiate Athletics to a new level."

Emmanuel cited several successes within the program:

• The men's soccer program has achieved national success;

• The men's basketball program has been ranked nationally for the first time and has

achieved conference-level success;

• The men's and women's track and field programs, as well as the men's wrestling

program, continue to send athletes in increasing numbers to compete at the national level; and

• The softball program has grown to a perennial national contender.

"SIUE Athletics over the years has become a respected program in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC)," Emmanuel pointed out. "Such success was no accident, but rather the result of careful strategic planning."

The new task force-made up of SIUE students, faculty, staff, alumni, residents of the surrounding communities, and chaired by SIUE School of Business Dean Gary Giamartino-will now consider the following alternatives:

• Continue to strengthen the existing Intercollegiate Athletics program to become the very best at this level, utilizing the current tier system, with special emphasis on tier four sports that includes wrestling and men's golf;

• Consider transitioning from an NCAA-II program to NCAA-I with both the appropriate level of financial resources as well as the necessary facilities to be competitive to achieve national recognition; or

• Consider a "hybrid" that would include Division I and II teams with the appropriate resources and consistent with NCAA policies.

The task force also will explore personnel and financial resources needed to achieve one of these recommendations. Giamartino said the entire process will be guided by specific core values, including student-athlete academic and personal welfare, integrity and ethics, commitment to Title IX guidelines, and preservation of academic and competitive integrity by seeking membership in an appropriate conference.

Giamartino said the work of the task force will be completed by spring 2007. "It is now apparent that SIUE is positioned to develop a strategic plan for the next phase of our program," he said. "The University is very proud of the athletics programs that have contributed to our recognition and reputation as a premier metropolitan university with national recognition, and the members of the task force look forward to building on that foundation as we explore options for the future."

SIUE Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift, who recently completed a full year as the University's head, said the work of the current task force will take into consideration planning from the 1999 task force but also the input Vandegrift received at town hall meetings he conducted on campus last year. "I am confident that the task force will provide a comprehensive report that will help guide us in shaping and developing the future of Intercollegiate Athletics at SIUE," he said.

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September 9, 2005

Fourth Residence Hall Considered By SIU Board Of Trustees

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees today considered a proposal to construct a new residence hall on the campus of SIU Edwardsville, bringing the total of residence halls on campus to four.

If approved, this newest hall would accommodate 515 students and would bring the total of students living on campus to more than 3,500. The matter was presented to the board at its regular monthly meeting, conducted today on the Edwardsville campus. The matter will be on the agenda for approval at the Oct. 13 board meeting scheduled at SIU Carbondale.

According to the plan, the new residence hall would contain mostly "apartment-style" units housing upperclassmen and graduate students. Unlike the three previous residence halls, the new hall will house such students who want to continue to live near the campus core. Resident upperclassmen and graduate students are currently housed in Cougar Village Apartments, just north of the core campus.

Associate Provost David Sill said the new residence hall would be an additional tool in improving student retention at the University. "Some continuing students who have been in the residence halls for a year or two wish to continue to live close to the core," Associate Provost David Sill said. "But we currently are not able to meet their needs. This new hall will give these students a more supportive and positive experience, which will help with their success as they move toward graduation."

The project would include construction of a three-story, 515-bed student residence encompassing 190,000 square feet and located just south of SIUE's Bluff Hall at the corner of Circle Drive and Whiteside Road. The project also would include a 550-space parking lot. The construction is expected to be completed in time for the 2007 fall semester.

The plan calls for units ranging from single and double rooms and suite arrangements with bathrooms to two- to five-bedroom apartments with full kitchen facilities. The University currently utilizes the 1,500-bed Cougar Lake Apartments to house upperclassmen and families, while the three existing residence halls house freshman and sophomore students.

Plans for the new residence hall were drawn from committee recommendations and a survey of currents students who live off-campus. The committee-made up of students, faculty members, and University Housing staff-also took into consideration historical data and projected numbers for returning housing students, the new freshman class, the number of new freshmen living on campus, new transfer student rates, new graduate students living on campus, and the number of existing students who do not live on campus.

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September 9, 2005

Benefit Concert At SIUE To Support Hurricane Survivors

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Four bands from the bi-state area will unite at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Saturday, Sept. 17, to raise money for survivors of Hurricane Katrina. This concert, planned prior to the recent disaster, was originally intended to raise funds for the SIUE Football Club and for New Horizons, the student organization at SIUE for people with disabilities.

After the disaster, however, it was decided that a major portion of the proceeds would be contributed to hurricane relief efforts. The event will take place in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of SIUE's Morris University Center.

Musical acts scheduled to perform include 12 Summers Old of Belleville, Rushmore Academy of St. Louis, Nothing Still of St Louis, and Amnesty Letters of Greenville. Tickets may be purchased for $5 in advance or $7 at the door, which opens at 7 p.m.. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. All ages are welcome.

For more information contact Grand One Productions, (217) 556-5712, or Jim Boyle, a specialist in SIUE's Office of Disability Support Services, (618) 650-2568.

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September 13, 2005

SIUE Jazz Supper Dance Set For Oct. 2; To Feature Music Of Ellington

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) With its theme of "Mood Indigo-A Tribute to the Duke," the 17th Annual Jazz Supper Dance, featuring WSIE-FM's Ross Gentile as emcee, will offer an evening of fun, food, and music from 6-10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Reservation deadline is Sept. 23.

Proceeds benefit the SIUE Friends of Music scholarship fund that provides scholarships to talented music students. Half of the ticket price is a gift to the Friends organization and may be considered a tax deductible contribution. The Friends organization is a support group for the SIUE Department of Music.

Set in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of SIUE's Morris University Center, the Jazz Supper Dance offers a cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing to the big band sounds of SIUE's Concert Jazz Band, under the direction of SIUE Professor Brett Stamps, director of the Jazz Studies Program for the University. Music during cocktails will be provided by guitarist Rick Haydon, also a professor in the Jazz Studies program.

Popular St. Louis area vocalist Mardra Thomas and her husband, pianist Reggie Thomas, an associate professor of Music and head of the SIUE Black Studies program, and musician Scott Alberici also will be featured artists.

The event will be lavishly sprinkled throughout with the music of Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington, famed band leader and influential composer who shaped American music for five decades.

Tickets for the Jazz Supper Dance are $50 per person; a table of eight may be reserved for $350. A Blue Note sponsorship ($500) entitles a table of eight to preferred seating and recognition in the evening's printed program.

For reservations or for more information, call Martee Lucas in the SIUE Department of Music, (618) 650-3799, or, from St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 3799.

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September 22, 2005

Sept. 30 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Concert Sold Out At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The Sept. 30 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy concert, the opening event for the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Arts & Issues 2005-06 season, is sold out. Partners Bank of Glen Carbon is sponsoring the band's appearance.

Arts & Issues, which has a long-standing tradition of bringing world-class performers and noted speakers to Southwestern Illinois, continues Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. with an appearance by legendary singer-songwriter Joan Baez and at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 27 with historian David McCullough, author of the runaway New York Times No. 1 best-seller 1776 as well as the popular biographies Truman and John Adams.

Tickets for the Joan Baez concert are $24; students, $12, while tickets for David McCullough are $20; students, $10. More information and tickets are available by contacting the SIUE Fine Arts box office, (618) 650-2774; tickets also may be purchased at the Web site: artsandissues.com.

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September 22, 2005

Tickets still available for SIUE Jazz Supper Dance; To Feature Music Of Ellington

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Tickets still are available for the Oct. 2 Annual Jazz Supper Dance, sponsored by the Friends of Music at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

With its theme of "Mood Indigo-A Tribute to the Duke," the 17th Annual Jazz Supper Dance, featuring WSIE-FM's Ross Gentile as emcee, will offer an evening of fun, food, and big band music by the SIUE Jazz Concert Band from 6-10 p.m. that Sunday.

Proceeds benefit the SIUE Friends of Music scholarship fund that provides scholarships to talented music students. Half of the ticket price is a gift to the Friends organization and may be considered a tax deductible contribution. The Friends organization is a support group for the SIUE Department of Music.

Popular St. Louis area vocalist Mardra Thomas and her husband, pianist Reggie Thomas, an associate professor of Music and head of the SIUE Black Studies program, and musician Scott Alberici also will be featured artists.

For reservations or for more information, call Martee Lucas in the SIUE Department of Music, (618) 650-3799, or, from St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 3799.

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September 26, 2005

SIUE To Host Two Previews For College-Bound Students And Parents

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill) Each year more and more students have been considering Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and that means a growing number of them have been attending PREVIEW SIUE each fall. In fact, the number of students and parents attending PREVIEW has doubled in the past five years.

This year, SIUE will conduct its annual open house event twice to accommodate the larger crowds of visiting students and parents-on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 10, and Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11.

"PREVIEW SIUE is an opportunity for prospective students and their families to obtain answers to all their questions in one visit to campus" said Karen Bollinger, assistant director of SIUE Admissions and Academic Marketing. "Our program is one of the few campus-visit programs that includes participation from virtually all academic and student services units in one setting."

Because of the larger crowds, Bollinger said, it was decided to offer the event over two days. "We believe we can do a much better job in personalizing PREVIEW by offering the event on two separate days," she said. "We like to get to know the students and their parents, while at the same time offering them the information they'll need to make sound decisions about a college choice.

"At PREVIEW SIUE, our faculty and staff take an active role in talking with prospective students and introducing them to the academic opportunities available at SIUE."

At both events, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management Boyd Bradshaw will present opening remarks at 8:30 a.m. in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of SIUE's Delyte W. Morris University Center. Students may speak one-on-one to department representatives at each event during the information fairs in the Morris Center Goshen Lounge from 10 a.m. to noon.

At both PREVIEW opportunities, the opening session, SIUEssentials, will cover information on admission requirements, financing an education, and University Housing options. Students then will have opportunities to tour the central campus, meet with faculty and staff at the information fair, or attend an informational session of their choice. All academic units will play host to the informational sessions for students interested in their respective program.

Also, prospective students may attend a panel session made up of current SIUE students. Similarly, prospective parents also may attend a panel of parents of current SIUE students.

Informational session topics include Tailor-Made Careers, Transferring to SIUE, as well as academic sessions presented by the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences and the Schools of Business, Education, Engineering, Nursing, and Pharmacy.

Check-in and on-site registration begins at 8 a.m. in the Morris University Center. It is recommended that interested students pre-register online at the Web site: www.admissions.siue.edu/ PREVIEW, or by telephone: (800) 447-SIUE.

Tours of the campus, residence halls, and SIUE's Lovejoy Library will be offered until 2 p.m., while campus offices will remain open until 4:30 p.m. PREVIEW parking will be available in the Student Fan Lots. There is no charge for either event.

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September 26, 2005

Fourth Annual Chili Cool-Off Set For Oct. 21 At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The 4th Annual Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chili Cook-off, presented by the SIUE Club Sports Program, is set for 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21, at Korte Stadium as part of Homecoming Week.

Participants are encouraged to enter a chili recipe for the $100 top prize, a trophy, and most importantly, "bragging rights for an entire year," said Keith Becherer, a specialist in the SIUE Office of Campus Recreation. "Participants may register as an individual, a department, or as an organization," Becherer said.

Registration forms may be obtained at the SIUE Student Fitness Center or by visiting the Web site: www.siue.edu/CREC, or may be ordered by telephone, (618) 650-3245. Registration is $20 per entry. SIUE students and children to age 16 may sample chili entries for $2, while others may taste chili entries for $3.

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September 29, 2005

SIUE Friends Of Religious Center Awards Dinner Set For Oct. 8

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Two women who coordinate a popular interfaith event in the Metro East each year will be honored Saturday, Oct. 8, at the Third Annual Interfaith Awards Dinner, sponsored by the Friends of the Religious Center (FRC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Judy Williamson and Tina Huck, staff members at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, will be the guests of honor at the Oct. 8 event scheduled at 6:30 p.m. at the SIUE Religious Center, the geodesic dome just east of the SIUE Art and Design Building. They will receive the FRC's 2005 Interfaith Leadership Award at the dinner.

Reservation deadline is Oct. 6; tickets are $25 per person, which includes dinner and free parking. The Oct. 8 event also includes a silent auction, with items and gift baskets from organizations and businesses throughout the Edwardsville-Glen Carbon communities.

Williamson, a 12-year staff member and programs coordinator, and Huck, an events coordinator who has been on the Shrine staff for six years, plan the annual Festival of Faiths and Cultures at the Shrine each September. The Festival of Faiths and Cultures, featuring an international food court and many activities, is the largest celebration of people, cultures, and faiths in the St. Louis Area.

The festival offers foods from various cultures and countries, while entertainment includes stage performances of ethnic and cultural dances from around the world, and an international children's village. The village engages children in workshops, crafts, and storytelling, also from a variety of countries and cultures. A peacemakers program also teaches children conflict resolution activities.

The festival, sponsored by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, also includes an interfaith learning center and gift booths featuring merchandise from around the world.

The FRC established the Interfaith Leadership awards to recognize religious leadership and interfaith cooperation in the region. "The leadership provided by Ms. Huck and Ms. Williamson requires broad vision and attention to countless details," said SIUE Associate Philosophy Professor Greg Fields, who is president of the FRC board and coordinator of the SIUE Religious Studies Program.

"Their skill and good spirit encourages cooperation among members of world faith communities in our region," Fields said. "Meanwhile, the Festival enhances the high level of civil life in the region. Individuals and families, who attend the Festival, experience both learning and recreation in a spirit that celebrates understanding among faiths and cultures in today's troubled world."

Fields said the FRC, formed more than four years ago, sponsors two main events each year to raise money to refurbish parts of the 34-year-old Religious Center that is need of repair. "We offer this Interfaith Awards Dinner in the fall and also the Celebration of World Faiths in the spring to encourage interfaith dialogue.

"The FRC is a support group dedicated to preserving the SIUE Religious Center as a significant contribution to architecture," Fields said, "as a place for the spiritual growth of SIUE students as the next generation of leaders, and for religious learning and fellowship within the community."

Dinner reservations may be made through the SIUE Religious Center, (618) 650-3246, or, toll-free from St. Louis, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 3246, or, by calling Greg Fields, (618) 650-2461; St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 2461.

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Fall Undergraduate Enrollment Increases Over 2004-05 At SIUE

Fall Semester enrollment numbers for SIUE show increases in undergraduate students and in the Full Time Enrollment (FTE) over the 2004-05 Academic Year.

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.

In addition, new freshmen have an average ACT score of 22.6, more than two points higher than the Illinois average (20.3) and nearly two points higher than the national average (20.9).

"Overall, fall enrollment numbers show continued interest in SIUE, while at the same time indicate more students are remaining to finish their education at SIUE," said Todd Burrell, the University's director of Admissions.

Fall enrollment stands at 10,152 full-time students and 3,308 part-time students, representing an FTE of 10,964, an increase of 186 over fall 2004, Burrell said. Total student enrollment is 13,460 for fall.

"We're also pleased with the fact that we have more students this year with declared majors, which translates to better retention and graduation rates," said Boyd Bradshaw, vice chancellor for Enrollment Management. He also pointed out SIUE's housing is at capacity. Some 3,000 students live in the three residential halls-Woodland, Prairie, and Bluff-and in Cougar Village Apartments.

"We are not only excited about the continued interest in SIUE," Bradshaw said, "but we are equally pleased that we continue to attract excellent students as shown by our ACT averages.

"More and more quality students and their parents view SIUE as a first choice institution due to our course offerings, first rate residence halls, and the engagement of students inside and outside the classroom," Bradshaw said.

Fourth Residence Hall Considered By SIU Board Of Trustees

The SIU Board of Trustees last week considered a proposal to construct a new residence hall on the campus of SIU Edwardsville, bringing the total of residence halls on campus to four.

If approved, this newest hall would accommodate 515 students and would bring the total of students living on campus to more than 3,500. The matter was presented to the board at its regular monthly meeting, conducted last Thursday on the Edwardsville campus.

The matter will be on the agenda for approval at the Oct. 13 board meeting scheduled at SIU Carbondale.

According to the plan, the new residence hall would contain mostly "apartment-style" units housing upperclassmen and graduate students. Unlike the three previous residence halls, the new hall will house such students who want to continue to live near the campus core. Resident upperclassmen and graduate students are currently housed in Cougar Village Apartments.

Associate Provost David Sill said the new residence hall would be an additional tool in improving student retention at the University. "Some continuing students who have been in the residence halls for a year or two wish to continue to live close to the core," Sill said. "But we currently are not able to meet their needs.

"This new hall will give these students a more supportive and positive experience, which will help with their success as they move toward graduation."

The project would include construction of a three-story, 515-bed student residence encompassing 190,000 square feet and located just south of Bluff Hall at the corner of Circle Drive and Whiteside Road. The project also would include a 550-space parking lot. The construction is expected to be completed in time for the 2007 Fall Semester.

The plan calls for units ranging from single and double rooms and suite arrangements with bathrooms to two- to five-bedroom apartments with full kitchen facilities. The University currently utilizes the 1,500-bed Cougar Lake Apartments to house upperclassmen and families, while the three existing residence halls house freshman and sophomore students.

Plans for the new residence hall were drawn from committee recommendations and a survey of currents students who live off-campus. The committee-made up of students, faculty members, and University Housing staff-also took into consideration historical data and projected numbers for returning housing students, the new freshman class, the number of new freshmen living on campus, new transfer student rates, new graduate students living on campus, and the number of existing students who do not live on campus.

SIUE Athletics Task Force Assesses Future Of Program

A task force has been established to consider three possible scenarios for the future of Intercollegiate Athletics at SIUE, including options to strengthen the existing program, create a program that would compete at the NCAA Division I level, or develop a "hybrid" that would include Division I and II teams.

According to Narbeth Emmanuel, vice chancellor for Student Affairs, the successes of SIUE's Athletics program since 1999 have been a result of planning by an initial Athletics committee that was commissioned by then-SIUE Chancellor David Werner. "That original committee was created to consider whether the University should field a football team," Emmanuel explained.

"However, it was determined that other alternatives should be explored, and, because of the committees work, our programs have been strengthened over the past six years to the point that we are now poised to move SIUE Intercollegiate Athletics to a new level."

Emmanuel cited several successes within the program:

• The men's soccer program has achieved national success;

• The men's basketball program has been ranked nationally for the first time and has achieved conference-level success;

• The men's and women's track and field programs, as well as the men's wrestling program, continue to send athletes in increasing numbers to compete at the national level; and

• The softball program has grown to a perennial national contender.

"SIUE Athletics over the years has become a respected program in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC)," Emmanuel pointed out. "Such success was no accident, but rather the result of careful strategic planning."

The new task force-made up of SIUE students, faculty, staff, alumni, residents of the surrounding communities, and chaired by SIUE School of Business Dean Gary Giamartino-will now consider the following alternatives:

• Continue to strengthen the existing Intercollegiate Athletics program to become the very best at this level, utilizing the current tier system, with special emphasis on tier four sports that includes wrestling and men's golf;

• Consider transitioning from an NCAA-II program to NCAA-I, with both the appropriate level of financial resources as well as the necessary facilities to be competitive to achieve national recognition; or

• Consider a "hybrid" that would include Division I and II teams with the appropriate resources and consistent with NCAA policies.

The task force also will explore personnel and financial resources needed to achieve one of these recommendations. Giamartino said the entire process will be guided by specific core values, including student-athlete academic and personal welfare, integrity and ethics, commitment to Title IX guidelines, and preservation of academic and competitive integrity by seeking membership in an appropriate conference.

Giamartino said the work of the task force will be completed by spring 2007. "It is now apparent that SIUE is positioned to develop a strategic plan for the next phase of our program," he said. "The University is very proud of the athletics programs that have contributed to our recognition and reputation as a premier metropolitan university with national recognition, and the members of the task force look forward to building on that foundation as we explore options for the future."

SIUE Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift, who recently completed a full year as the University's head, said the work of the current task force will take into consideration planning from the 1999 task force but also the input Vandegrift received at town hall meetings he conducted on campus last year.

"I am confident that the task force will provide a comprehensive report that will help guide us in shaping and developing the future of Intercollegiate Athletics at SIUE," he said.

ASTAP At ESTL Teaches Dance, Arts, And Culture

By Patricia Merritt
Director of Public Relations
East St. Louis Center

When Pierre Smith bursts onto stage, it's usually not long after that he elicits applause from the audience. That's because the lithe, long-limbed 17-year-old executes his dance movements with passion and expertise, all of which comes as a result of 11 years of intense instruction.

Pierre is part of the After School Theater Arts Program (ASTAP) at the SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts. ASTAP, which began classes yesterday, is open for enrollment. The fee for the 13-week session is $60 for children ages six to 17 and $70 for adults.

Courses offered include Dunham Technique, jazz, ballet, and Shotokan karate for kids. To register, call (618) 482-6912 or come in anytime from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday to Suite 1055, Building A, at the East St. Louis Higher Education Campus, 601 James R. Thompson Blvd., East St. Louis.

"All the Performing Arts staff has worked hard with me," said Smith, ASTAP dance captain. "I have been taught by the best. They saw potential in me and have encouraged me to learn as much as I can about dance and its history."

Andrea Smythe, Performing Arts staff member and Smith's mentor, said the young man has been excited about learning how to dance from the first time she met him. "He had natural rhythm, a good memory and a drive to learn," she said.

As long as he can remember, Smith says he's wanted to dance. He enjoys West African dance the most, but is also proficient in Dunham Technique, jazz, modern, lyrical jazz, tap, and praise dance. The teenager, who says he practices dance about 10 hours a week, also has advanced to junior choreographer.

Besides performing for ASTAP, Smith also is part of Afriki Lolo, a West African dance company in St. Louis, and the African American Ensemble, an African dance and drum group in East St. Louis. He hopes eventually to form his own West African dance troupe that will tour around the country.

"I have learned other things besides good dance moves," he said. "Ms. Smythe taught us the importance of knowing the history and culture of dance, too. Dance also has helped me learn the value of discipline."

Still, there is room for growth in the teenager, his mentor said. Smythe believes that her protégé will one day realize his dance aspirations. And, Smith is counting on it, partly because he is continuing to follow the lead of some legendary dancers, especially Katherine Dunham, world-renowned for her dancing technique and choreography.

The SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts was formerly named after Ms. Dunham, a noted anthropologist and dancer, who was its founder in 1967. The Center for the Performing Arts provides classes, workshops, cultural programs and performing arts to the Metro East community. The staff consists of five professional dancers, with Theodore H. Jamison as program director.

Nationally-Ranked Cougar (Men's And Women's) Soccer To Take Extended Road Trip

SIUE TO PLAY AT OERTER FIELD IN COLUMBIA ON FRIDAY AND AT WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY'S FRANCIS FIELD ON SUNDAY

The SIUE men's and women's soccer teams, now both nationally ranked in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America Division II poll, will take an extended road trip with this week's home games to be played off-campus.

Men's soccer is ranked No. 2 in the nation with a 6-1-1 record; women's soccer is ranked No. 17 in the nation with a 7-2 record.

SIUE men's coach Ed Huneke and women's coach Lynda Bowers jointly announced that the Great Lakes Valley Conference games Friday (9/23) and Sunday (9/25) will be moved but played at the regularly-scheduled times.

Friday's game against Kentucky Wesleyan College will be played at Oerter Park in Columbia, located at the intersections of Illinois Route 3 and Gall Road. The women's game begins at 5 p.m. and the men's game follows at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday's game against the University of Southern Indiana will be played at Francis Field on the campus of Washington (Mo.) University. The women's game begins at noon with the men's to follow at 2:30 p.m.

Moving the games will enable Bob Guelker Field, the home of the Cougars, to make at least a partial recovery from poor playing conditions. The field was unable to hold up to this summer's heat and lack of rain.

No. 1 Cougars Battling To Keep Top Spot

The SIUE men's soccer team knows one thing every time it takes the field. They are going to get the other team's best shot.

The top-ranked Cougars are 6-1-1 overall and 2-0-1 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

"We need to continue to handle teams coming at us at 100 miles an hour," said SIUE men's soccer coach Ed Huneke.

The Cougars battle Kentucky Wesleyan at Oerter Park in Columbia on Friday (9/23) night at 7:30. SIUE then takes on Southern Indiana on Sunday (9/25) with the time and place of that match to be announced later this week.

SIUE defeated Saint Joseph's and tied 18th-ranked Indianapolis this past weekend. The Cougars have now gone 24 consecutive GLVC regular season games without a loss. "We had a lot of shots in both games," said Huneke. "The goals came in the St. Joseph's game like they should have. In the Indy game, we took some good shots and had some good chances, but didn't finish."

Leading scorer Tim Collico (St. Louis) netted his fourth goal of the year against the Pumas. Brian Higgins (St. Charles) and John Matthews (Edwardsville) also notched goals in that contest.

After falling behind against the Greyhounds, Victor Pacheco (San Luis, Brazil) scored in the 55th minute to tie the game. The Cougars outshot Indianapolis 27-4 in the match. "Our defense needs to be complimented," said Huneke. "Even though we had a breakdown in the opening of the game Sunday (9/18), they are doing a good job."

The Cougars have outscored their opponents 16-2 this year with a 0.24 goal against average.

Goalkeepers Nicholas Frasca (St. Charles) and Greg Crook (Columbia) have each recorded three shutouts in eight games.

SIUE Men's Golf Wins Cougar Classic

SIUE won its own Cougar Classic by one stroke on Monday (9/19). Craig Heinzmann (Breese) tied for first place with a two-under-par 142 but lost in a playoff to Missouri Baptist's Erik Rios at Belk Park Golf Course.

As a team, SIUE won the 36-hole event with a score of 593, besting Missouri Baptist by one stroke. Lindenwood was third with a 607. There were nine teams in the field. "There were some good teams out there today," said SIUE Coach Mark Marcuzzo.

The all-tournament team includes SIUE's Kyle Lickenbrock (Freeburg), Ryan Howell of Missouri Baptist, Danny Manselle of Missouri Baptist, Nick Profancik of Maryville, and Nicolas Poleito of Lindenwood.

SIUE next heads to the Great Lakes Regional on Sept. 25-26 at Hawk's Head Golf Course in South Haven, Mich. Grand Valley State will play host to the event which includes most of the Great Lakes region's teams in a head-to-head battle. The top teams from this tournament have an edge when bids are announced next spring for the NCAA Tournament.

Cougars On Top Of the GLVC

The SIUE women's soccer team heads into this weekend's contests in sole possession of first place in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

The Cougars entertain Kentucky Wesleyan at Oerter Park in Columbia on Friday (9/23) at 5 p.m. SIUE then takes on Southern Indiana on Sunday (9/25) with the time and place of that match to be announced later this week.

SIUE is currently riding a five-game winning streak as the Cougars hold a 7-2 record overall and 3-0 in league play. SIUE defeated Saint Joseph's and Indianapolis over the weekend.

"I was pleased with the outcome," said SIUE women's soccer coach Lynda Bowers. "We still have a ways to go to clean up some areas. (Kentucky) Wesleyan and USI will be good matches."

Kristine Armstrong (St. Peter's) leads the team with four goals as she netted one against the Pumas and the game-winner against the Greyhounds on Sunday (9/18). "She kept hitting the goalkeeper over and over again," said Bowers. "She is a natural finisher, and she had a frustrating first half (of the Saint Joseph's game). Those (goals) kind of got her confidence up."

Jennifer Kratzer (O'Fallon) had a solid weekend with two goals and one assist. She is tied for third on the team with Kayla Fromme (New Berlin) with six points on the season. "She (Kratzer) had two beautiful shots outside of 18 (yards)," said Bowers. "It was nice to see a variety of people scoring."

Also getting in on the scoring action was Elizabeth Ball (Troy) who netted her first goal as a Cougar.

SIUE has outscored its opponents 11-1 and outshot them 80-32 during the winning streak.

Cougars Looks To Rebound From Tough Start

SIUE Volleyball coach Todd Gober knows his team is in a rough spot after starting Great Lakes Valley Conference play with two road losses.

"We are starting off the conference season with our back against the wall. We just have to get our heads back above water."

The Cougars are 9-5 overall and 0-2 in the league after losses to 22nd-ranked Rockhurst and Drury. "It was a really tough weekend on us," said Gober. "I thought we played very well in the Rockhurst match. During the Drury match, I was disappointed with the intensity and the lack of execution."

SIUE will look to bounce back as the Cougars travel to Kentucky Wesleyan before facing Tiffin in Evansville, Ind., on Saturday (9/24). "It is a lot of little things that I am not happy with at this point of the season," said Gober. "We have to make good things happen, and that starts with practice."

Junior Tricia Happe (St. Louis) notched a career-high 15 kills against Rockhurst. "Tricia played great against Rockhurst," said Gober. "She was finishing and did a nice job blocking."

Allison Buss (Normal) leads the GLVC with 5.73 digs per game and is tops on the team with 18 service aces. "She has played great," said Gober. "She has given us a consistent performance every match."

Senior Heather Bonde (Millstadt) and Tina Talsma (Orono, Ontario) each had solid weekends. Bonde leads SIUE with 181 kills, a .306 hitting percentage, and 3.55 kills per game. Talsma is second on the team with 126 kills.

The Cougars take on the Panthers on Saturday (9/24) at 1 p.m. before battling Tiffin at 5 p.m.

Men's Cross Country Off To Flying Start

After a string of strong performances, the SIUE men's cross country team will have a week off before hitting the stretch run of the season.

"We are in the middle of our most strenuous training period," said SIUE Cross Country coach Eileen McAllister. "The team has raced three weeks in a row; the fatigue was evident in several performances."

The Cougars are fresh off a third-place finish at the Panther Open.

"The men's team finish is not an accurate representation of their potential," said McAllister. "There was a much bigger time gap between runners 1 though 5 this week, and that really hurt us."

Senior Brian Taghon (East Moline) paced SIUE in the 8,000 meter event. He won the race with a time of 25 minutes, 46.82 seconds. Erik Steffens (Moline) was a close third with a mark of 26:08.46. "Taghon and Steffens had very strong performances," said McAllister. "They did a tremendous job of starting the team score with only four points."

Finishing 19th was Brian Getz (East Moline) with a time of 27:16.70. "The training will continue, but having next week off of racing will help rejuvenate the team for the big meets coming up in October," said McAllister.

The Cougars will be back in action at the Loyola Lakefront Invitational on Oct. 1.

Women's Cross Country Gets Set for Loyola Invite

The SIUE women's cross country team finished in fifth place at the Panther Open this past weekend. SIUE has the week off before the Loyola Invitational on Oct. 1.

The Cougar's top finisher was Heather Zipparro (Mt. Prospect) who placed 19th with a mark of 19:48.93. "I am so proud of Heather," said McAllister. "She has worked very hard over the summer and in practice to break out her senior year."

Chelsey Patterson (Sherman) came in 32nd for the Cougars with a time of 20:49.47. "Chelsey also had a big improvement from her first two races," said McAllister. "She's definitely getting back on track as evident in her improved race and practice times."

Cougar Soccer To Go On Extended Road Trip

The SIUE men's and women's soccer teams will enjoy an extended road trip with its home games next week to be played off-campus.

Moving the games will enable Bob Guelker Field, the home of the Cougars to make at least a partial recovery from poor playing conditions. The field was unable to hold up to this summer's heat and lack of rain.

SIUE men's coach Ed Huneke and women's coach Lynda Bowers jointly announced that the Great Lakes Valley Conference games Friday, Sept. 23, and Sunday, Sept. 25, will be moved but played at the regularly scheduled times.

The Sept. 23 game, against Kentucky Wesleyan College, will be moved to Oerter Park in Columbia, which is located at the intersections of Illinois Route 3 and Gall Road. The women's game begins at 5 p.m. and the men's game follows at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for general admission and $3 for SIUE faculty and staff. SIUE students are free with a valid ID.

The site of the Sept. 25 game will be finalized and announced next week.

The SIUE men are ranked No. 1 in the nation with a 5-1 record. The SIUE women are ranked fifth in the Great Lakes Region and hold a 5-2 record.

Men's Golf Gains Early Season Success

After its first two tournaments in more than a decade, the SIUE men's golf team is off to a flying start in the fall season.

The Cougars won the Quincy University Hawk Invitational this past week and finished second at the University of Indianapolis Invitational on Sept. 6.

"It was nice to come out and make a statement against some conference teams," said SIUE men's golf coach Mark Marcuzzo. "The kids are really excited and playing well."

SIUE plays host to the Cougar Classic at Belk Park Golf Course in Wood River this Sunday (9/18) and Monday (9/19). "We feel like we have a really good chance to win it," said Marcuzzo.

In the tournament win over Quincy, the Cougars shot a 300 the first day followed up by a 296 on the second. SIUE last played and won a tournament on April 1, 1991, at the Tommy Armour/ Rivermen Invitational at Whitmoor Country Club. "If we can get our (team) scores in the 290 range, we can compete nationally," said Marcuzzo.

Kyle Lickenbrock (Freeburg) and Craig Heinzman (Breese) both finished tied for second each shooting 146. "They have been real consistent for us," said Marcuzzo. "The team has a great atmosphere. They all get along. The sky is the limit."

Freshman Matt Lehl (Woodstock) was tied for fifth with a 147.

At Indianapolis, Kyle Gansauer (Centralia) led the way for the Cougars with a fourth place finish of 71 at the 18-hole tournament. Lickenbrock was four strokes behind in 15th place at 75.

The Cougars finished seven strokes behind the Indianapolis Invitational champion Kentucky Wesleyan.

Men's Soccer Grabs No. 1 Spot In National Rankings

The SIUE men's soccer team has claimed the top spot in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America/Adidas poll.

This is the second time the Cougars have garnered the top spot in the poll this season. SIUE was ranked No. 1 in the NSCAA preseason poll.

The Cougars are riding a five-game winning streak with a 5-1 record overall, 1-0 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. SIUE coach Ed Huneke and his Cougars currently have gone 22 GLVC regular season games without a loss.

Senior Tim Collico leads the Cougars' scoring attack with three goals as SIUE has outscored its opponents 12-1 this season.

SIUE travels Saint Joseph's Friday (9/16) and 18th-ranked Indianapolis on Sunday (9/18) for GLVC matchups.

Steffens Named GLVC Runner Of The Week

SIUE sophomore Erik Steffens (Moline) was named the GLVC Cross Country Runner of the Week on Tuesday (9/13). Steffens finished 3rd (1st for non Division I schools) at the Bradley Open at Detweiller Park in Peoria, Ill., on Friday (9/9).

His time for the 8k course was 25:27, two seconds ahead of senior teammate Brian Taghon. Steffens' finish led the Cougars to a first place finish with a team score of just 24 points.

No. 2 Men's Soccer Rides Five Game Winning Streak

With five consecutive shutouts the SIUE men's soccer team has put defense first during a five game-winning streak.

Second-ranked SIUE holds a 5-1 mark, 1-0 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. "Our defense is really solid," said SIUE men's soccer coach Ed Huneke. "That is a reason why we've had five shutouts in a row."

The Cougars visit Saint Joseph's on Friday (9/16) and 21st-ranked Indianapolis on Sunday (9/18). "They are both tough places to play," said Huneke. "You never know what you are going to find on the road. We can't afford not to bring out our best game."

SIUE notched wins against Truman State and Saginaw Valley over the weekend, outscoring the Bulldogs and Cardinals 6-0.

Tim Collico (St. Louis) netted the game-winner over Saginaw, and he leads the team with three goals. "He had a very nice goal set up by some very good passing," said Huneke.

Kevin Thibodeau (St. Charles), who has been leading the Cougar defense and Adam Lanter (Edwardsville) notched the assists on Collico's goal.

Lanter added a goal and an assist in the victory over Truman State to cap a solid weekend.

SIUE has outscored its opponents 12-1 this season with eight different players netting goals.

Defensively, the Cougars lead the Great Lakes Valley with a 0.17 goals against average.

Goalkeepers Nicholas Frasca (St. Charles) and Greg Crook (Columbia) have been solid backstops for SIUE. Frasca had recorded three shutouts on the season, while Crook has two.

The Cougars battle the Pumas at 7:30 p.m. Friday, and the Greyhounds at 2:30 Sunday afternoon.

Women's Soccer Ready For Two Tough Road Matches

SIUE women's soccer coach Lynda Bowers knows that it is important for her team to gain early success in the Great Lakes Valley Conference season.

The Cougars head to the Hoosier State for matchups with Saint Joseph's and Indianapolis this weekend. "Both of those teams are the type of teams that can beat you," said Bowers. "They are at home and that will play to their advantage."

SIUE won its last three matches to run its mark to 5-2 overall and 1-0 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. "If we do well in the conference, it will look good in our region," said Bowers. "The conference season is such a huge focus for us."

After starting last week with a lost to Southeast Missouri State, the Cougars rebounded with wins over Quincy, Trinity International, and Saginaw Valley State. "It was important to get back on a winning streak," said Bowers. "It's good for our team's confidence."

Kayla Fromme (New Berlin) notched her first two goals of the season in the win over the Cardinals. "She got moved up in the attack," said Bowers. She is playing more of a wing position, and having Kayla up there makes a lot of people on the team very happy."

Kristine Armstrong (St. Peter's) notched the game-winner over the Lady Trojans as well as handing out two assists in the three contests.

Freshman goalkeeper Kaci Backs (Greenville), who is filling in for injured starter Kim Roady (Granite City), has recorded three straight shutouts with a 0.70 goals against average. "She has stepped in for Kim and done a great job," said Bowers.

The Cougars are outshooting their opponents 103-56 this season mostly because of freshman Elizabeth Valenti (Overland Park, Kan.), who leads the team with 19 shots and is second on the club with five points.

The contest with the Pumas begins at 5 p.m. Friday (9/16), and the match with the Greyhounds begins at Noon on Sunday (9/18).

Gober Notches 100th Victory

SIUE volleyball coach Todd Gober picked up this 100th victory as the Cougars' coach last Friday (9/9) in a 3-1 win over Pittsburg State.

Gober becomes the first volleyball coach in SIUE history to reach the 100-win plateau. He has amassed a record of 101-40 since coming to SIUE from Southwestern Illinois College in 2001. "That is one of those accomplishments that I will look back on at the end of the year," said Gober. "It is special, but the players are the ones who deserve the credit."

The Cougars are 9-3 as they begin Great Lakes Valley Conference play on the road with Drury and 22nd-ranked Rockhurst. "Rockhurst is a lot like the teams we have been playing this season," said Gober. "They are very smart and they are very well coached. I think our non-conference schedule is really going to help us prepare for this match."

SIUE ended its non-conference schedule with wins over Pittsburg State and Henderson State.

Senior Heather Bonde (Millstadt) leads the Cougars with 158 kills, a .322 hitting percentage, and 3.67 kills per game. "Heather had a great weekend," said Gober. "I think she has really settled into a comfortable role."

Freshman Mallory Clements (Mt. Pulaski) recorded two triple-doubles (double figures in three statistical categories) against Central Missouri and the Gorrillas. Clements is the only player in the conference to have recorded a triple-double this year, and she became the first Cougar since Amanda Wulfe in Nov. 2001. "Mallory had a huge weekend," said Gober. "She and Krystal (Majernik) are clicking on the way they run the offense."

Majernik (Normal) and Clements have combined for 13.33 assists per game and 4.94 digs per contest.

The Cougars take on Hawks at 7 p.m. on Friday before battling the Panthers at 2 on Saturday afternoon.

Men's Cross Country Finishes First At Bradley Invite

The SIUE men's cross country team placed first at the Bradley Invitational last weekend.

The Cougars travel to Charleston this Saturday (9/17) for the Panther Open.

"I was very happy with how the men ran at the Bradley Open," said SIUE cross country coach Eileen McAllister. "They are running together as a team which will be the key to success at the end of the season." SIUE scored 24 points ahead of second place Rend Lake, who finished with 63 points.

Erik Steffens (Moline) finished first with a time of 25:27.95. Brian Taghon (East Moline) came in second with a mark of 25:29.89.

Kyle Cameron (Moline) came in with a time of 26.17.83 in fifth place. Brian Getz (East Moline) finished in seventh place with a mark of 26.24. Just 15 seconds behind Getz was Josh Bozue (Fairborne, Ohio) in ninth place. "Steffens, Taghon, Cameron, Getz and Bozue all had terrific races," said McAllister. "Erik ran a very smart race. Kyle is impacting the team in a big way for a freshman. Getz and Bozue are leaps and bounds ahead of where they were last year."

The meet begins at 9:45 in the morning on Saturday.

Women's Cross Country Travels To Panther Open

The SIUE women's cross country team will compete in the Panther Open this weekend.

The Cougars finished third with 118 points at the Bradley Invitational over this past weekend. "The women's third-place finish was a pleasant surprise because they are so young and top runner Kelly Flounders (Homer Glen) sat out due to injury," said SIUE cross country coach Eileen McAllister.

Freshman Michelle Meador (Bower) placed 14th with a time of 20:08. Elizabeth Williams (Mt. Vernon) finished 17th with a mark of 20:19.

Freshman Alicia Riggs (Hanover Park) was 26 seconds behind Williams in 21st place at 20:45.

"Meador, Williams, and Riggs all competed really hard," said McAllister. "All the women have shown tremendous effort in practices. They will continue to get stronger and more experienced through out the season."

The meet at Eastern Illinois begins at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday.

SIUE Men's Golf in Second After One Round
18 of 36 holes
Quincy Invitational
ISU Golf Course
Quincy, Ill.

TEAM SCORES
Rockhurst 298
SIU Edwardsville 300
Indianapolis 304
Lindenwood A 304
Culver-Stockton 308
Lindenwood B 311
Quincy 316
Hannibal LaGrange 330

SIUE INDIVIDUAL SCORES
Kyle Lickenbrock 72 (tournament leader)
Craig Heinzman 75
Matt Lehl 75
Brian Kuddes 78
Kyle Gansauer 79

AS AN SIUE INDIVIDUAL (Non-Scoring)
Adam Grandidier 78

Cougars Blank Saginaw Valley

S IUE women's soccer posted its third consecutive shutout Sunday (911), downing Saginaw Valley State 2-0.

SIUE's Kayla Fromme scored both goals, one in each half. SIUE improved its season record to 5-2. Saginaw Valley fell to 2-2-1.

The Cougars dominated on offense, dominating the Cardinals by outshooting them 20-5.

Kaci Backs recorded another shutout with four saves. Stacy LaLond took the loss in goal for Saginaw Valley with nine saves.

Fromme scored from 12 yards out at 36:49 for the game's eventual winner. She scored again at 62:21, laying out for a five-yard header off a cross from Kelly Dill on the left side.

SIUE's next action is Friday (9/16) at Saint Joseph's. Game time is 5 p.m.

No. 2 Men's Soccer Outlasts Saginaw 1-0

SIUE men's soccer continued its streak of shutouts to a fifth straight game with a 1-0 win over Saginaw Valley State on Sunday (9/11).

Tim Collico netted his team-leading third goal of the year 9:05 into the contest. Kevin Thibodeau and Adam Lanter tallied the assists on the goal.

Nicholas Frasca made six saves for his third consecutive 1-0 shutout of the season.

The Cougars outshot the Cardinals 11-10 in the game. After an 4-0 advantage in the shots in the first period, Saginaw Valley outshot SIUE 10-7 in the second half.

SIUE goes back on the road this week for Great Lakes Valley Conferences matches with St. Joseph's at 7:30 p.m. Friday (9/16) and Indianapolis at 2:30 on Sunday afternoon (9/18).

SIUE To Host Two Previews For College-Bound Students And Parents

Each year more and more students have been considering SIUE, and that means a growing number of them have been attending PREVIEW SIUE each fall. In fact, the number of students and parents attending PREVIEW has doubled in the past five years.

This year, SIUE will conduct its annual open house event twice to accommodate the larger crowds of visiting students and parents-on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 10, and Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11.

"PREVIEW SIUE is an opportunity for prospective students and their families to obtain answers to all their questions in one visit to campus" said Karen Bollinger, assistant director of SIUE Admissions and Academic Marketing. "Our program is one of the few campus-visit programs that includes participation from virtually all academic and student services units in one setting."

Because of the larger crowds, Bollinger said, it was decided to offer the event over two days. "We believe we can do a much better job in personalizing PREVIEW by offering the event on two separate days," she said. "We like to get to know the students and their parents, while at the same time offering them the information they'll need to make sound decisions about a college choice.

"At PREVIEW SIUE, our faculty and staff take an active role in talking with prospective students and introducing them to the academic opportunities available at SIUE."

At both events, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management Boyd Bradshaw will present opening remarks at 8:30 a.m. in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of the Morris University Center. Students may speak one-on-one to department representatives at each event during the information fairs in the Goshen Lounge from 10 a.m. to noon.

At both PREVIEW opportunities, the opening session, SIUEssentials, will cover information on admission requirements, financing an education, and University Housing options. Students then will have opportunities to tour the central campus, meet with faculty and staff at the information fair, or attend an informational session of their choice. All academic units will play host to the informational sessions for students interested in their respective program.

Also, prospective students may attend a panel session made up of current SIUE students. Similarly, prospective parents also may attend a panel of parents of current SIUE students.

Informational session topics include Tailor-Made Careers, Transferring to SIUE, as well as academic sessions presented by the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences and the Schools of Business, Education, Engineering, Nursing, and Pharmacy.

Check-in and on-site registration begins at 8 a.m. in the Morris University Center. It is recommended that interested students pre-register online at the Web site: www.admissions.siue.edu/PREVIEW, or by telephone: (800) 447-SIUE.

Tours of the campus, residence halls, and Lovejoy Library will be offered until 2 p.m., while campus offices will remain open until 4:30 p.m. PREVIEW parking will be available in the Student Fan Lots. There is no charge for either event.

SIUE Jazz Supper Dance Set For Oct. 2; To Feature Music Of Ellington

With its theme of "Mood Indigo-A Tribute to the Duke," the 17th Annual Jazz Supper Dance, featuring WSIE-FM's Ross Gentile as emcee, will offer an evening of fun, food, and music from 6-10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2.

Proceeds benefit the SIUE Friends of Music scholarship fund that provides scholarships to talented music students. Half of the ticket price is a gift to the Friends organization and may be considered a tax deductible contribution. The Friends organization is a support group for the Department of Music.

Set in Meridian Ballroom, the Jazz Supper Dance offers a cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing to the big band sounds of SIUE's Concert Jazz Band, under the direction of SIUE Professor Brett Stamps, director of the Jazz Studies Program. Music during cocktails will be provided by guitarist Rick Haydon, also a professor in the program.

Popular St. Louis area vocalist Mardra Thomas and her husband, pianist Reggie Thomas, an associate professor of Music and head of the SIUE Black Studies program, and musician Scott Alberici also will be featured artists.

The event will be lavishly sprinkled throughout with the music of Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington, famed band leader and influential composer who shaped American music for five decades.

Tickets for the Jazz Supper Dance are $50 per person; a table of eight may be reserved for $350. A Blue Note sponsorship ($500) entitles a table of eight to preferred seating and recognition in the evening's printed program.

For reservations or for more information, call Martee Lucas in the SIUE Department of Music, (618) 650-3799, or, from St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 3799.

2005 Entrepreneurial Summit Set For Oct. 20 In Collinsville

The SIUE School of Business will take part in the "Southwestern Illinois 2005 Entrepreneurial Summit: Bridge to Economic Growth," slated for Thursday, Oct. 20, at the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville.

Results of a regional "economic climate" survey will be shared and discussed at the summit. The survey was taken this past summer by the Madison-Bond and Mid America Workforce Investment Boards of potential and current entrepreneurs to gauge the prospects for starting or expanding a business in the area, as well as concerns over the region's entrepreneurial climate.

The Survey and Entrepreneurial Summit represent a collaboration between the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) (Opportunity Returns), Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois, Madison-Bond Workforce Investment Board, Madison County, Mid America Workforce Investment Board, the SIUE Southwestern Illinois Entrepreneur Center, St. Clair County, and the Tri-City Regional Port Authority.

Entrepreneurs of all types are sought to interview and possibly be invited to participate in informal group sessions to discuss the challenges of starting and sustaining new businesses.

Interested entrepreneurs should be located in the region that includes the counties of Bond, Clinton, Madison, Monroe, St. Clair, Randolph and Washington. They may be a home-based business, sole proprietor, or a high impact company. "Art-preneurs" and social and civic entrepreneurs are also encouraged to participate. A response is also welcome from individuals who are planning a micro-enterprise.

"Interviews will also be conducted with organizations, community leaders, and individuals who may provide support services or funding in the region," said Linda Odle, of the Madison County Employment and Training Department. "The survey results will be used to identify catalysts to generate a more robust entrepreneurial climate throughout the region leading to the creation of new jobs, easier access to startup capital, and higher success rates among startup companies," she said.

For additional information, or, for those interested in attending the Oct.20 summit, may contact Odle by telephone, (618) 296-4456, or by e-mail: lodle@mcetd.org.

DDIL Announces $250K Pledge To SIU Dental School

In an effort to further its mission of improving access to oral health and providing oral health education to Illinois citizens, Delta Dental of Illinois (DDIL) announced today it is providing a $250,000 grant to the SIU School of Dental Medicine.

The grant, distributed through $50,000 donations for the next five years, will provide resources for the expansion of the School's Main Clinic in Alton. The expansion includes an Advanced Care Wing, already under construction, which provides new operatory space and a new classroom.

"The expansion will allow the dental school to better serve our patients, particularly those needing specialty consultations and complex treatment," said Ann Boyle, dean of the School. "Educational opportunities will be enhanced, giving pre-doctoral students greater exposure to, and interaction with, graduate students and specialty faculty."

This additional space allows the School to consolidate the teaching of general dentistry and specialty disciplines, including periodontics and endodontics, into one location. A prominent feature of the new addition is a pediatric dentistry bay, which includes four operatories dedicated to pediatric dentistry.

"As part of our mission, Delta Dental of Illinois is committed to improving oral health in the communities we serve," said Dr. Robert E. Dennison, president and CEO of DDIL. "Education and access to care play key roles in improving oral health.

Dennison said the SIU School of Dental Medicine "obviously does important work on both fronts, greatly benefiting the community. We are proud to support the School and its good work by doing what we can to help provide better education to its students and improved care to its patients."

Earlier this month, Dennison and Dr. Frank Maggio, chair of the DDIL Board and a practicing periodontist in Elgin, presented a $50,000 check to Boyle at the Illinois State Dental Society's Annual Session.

"Supporting the expansion of the SIU School of Dental Medicine's clinic is a wonderful opportunity for Delta Dental of Illinois to help improve the oral health in Illinois," said Dr. Maggio. "We're delighted to support the School."

Delta Dental of Illinois is a not-for-profit dental service corporation specializing in providing comprehensive, easy-to-use and cost-effective benefits to more than one million employees and family members in more than 3,000 employee groups throughout Illinois.

Based in Lisle, DDIL offers an array of extensive nationwide network-based managed fee-for-service, PPO, and dental HMO plans.

SIUE Athletics Announces Inaugural Hall Of Fame Class

With a history of widespread success on and off the field, SIUE Intercollegiate Athletics will induct 16 individuals and four teams into its inaugural Hall of Fame Class on Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Vadalabene Center Gymnasium.

"The wealth of success of SIUE Athletics has been phenomenal since the beginning of this program," Director of Athletics Brad Hewitt said. "It's time we formally recognize the individuals and teams that have placed SIUE among the nation's elite."

The first Hall of Fame class will be inducted at a dinner and ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the event are $25 and may be reserved by calling Theresa, (618) 650-3273, or by printing out the form at www.siue.edu/ATHLETIC/ and sending it to SIUE Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, Box 1129, Edwardsville, Ill. 62026.

The Hall of Fame class includes 12 student-athletes, all of whom are graduates of the University, from a cross-section of sports and eras. Four administrators and coaches also are to be inducted. The first national championship teams from men's soccer, men's tennis, women's tennis, and wrestling also are to be honored.

The inductees are:
• Mike Allen (BS '75), track and field
• Rosemarie Archangel, first Director of Intercollegiate Athletics for women
• Christina Bokelund (BS '89), women's tennis
• Chris Carenza (BS '75, MA '83), men's soccer
• Pete Delkus (BS '90), baseball
• Arjun Fernando (BS '80), men's tennis
• Amy Frey (BS '83), softball and field hockey
• Harry Gallatin, first director of Intercollegiate Athletics
• Portia George-Morrow (BS '91), women's tennis
• Ed Gettemeier (BS '83, MS '96), men's soccer
• Bob Guelker, laid the foundation for the men's soccer tradition at SIUE
• Roy Lee, founder of SIUE's baseball program
• Greg Makowski (BS '79), men's soccer
• Al Sears (BS '87), wrestling
• Denise Schaake (BS '83), softball
• Tim Wright (BS '87), wrestling
• 1972 Men's Soccer
• 1978 Men's Tennis
•1986 Women's Tennis
• 1984 Wrestling

Meridian Society Announces Workshop Speakers

The SIUE Meridian Society will host the Women's Philanthropy Workshop, The Joy and Influence of Giving, on Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 9:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. in the Morris University Center. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

The workshop will feature nationally recognized speakers and discussion leaders, regional experts on financial planning and women's giving plans, group discussions, a panel discussion led by donors and philanthropic leaders, and a reception for meeting speakers and networking with other participants.

Two nationally-known speakers will present keynote addresses: Claire Gaudiani, a professor at the George H. Heyman, Jr. Center for Philanthropy and Fundraising at New York University's School of Continuing and Professional Studies, will deliver the morning keynote address; Tracy Gary, a "donor activist" and philanthropist for more than 25 years, will deliver the luncheon keynote address.

Other speakers include Martha A. Taylor, vice president of the University of Wisconsin Foundation and co-founder of The Women's Philanthropy Institute; Sondra Shaw-Hardy, co-founder of The Women's Philanthropy Institute and co-author of "Reinventing Fundraising;" Debra C. Engle, vice president for development at Iowa State University; Ellen Sherberg, publisher of the St. Louis Business Journal; and James Maher, financial advisor in charge at Merrill Lynch.

"The Women's Philanthropy Workshop will engage women through education and inspiration on their philanthropic potential," said Harold Melser, executive director of University Development at SIUE and staff advisor for the Meridian Society.

"By providing nationally recognized speakers and area experts on philanthropy through the support of partners and commercial sponsors, we are achieving the goals of SIUE for community engagement and excellent reputation."

The workshop is designed for women philanthropists and donors; women business executives and professionals; college and university faculty interested in philanthropy; fund-raising executives; community leaders; nonprofit and foundation CEOs, board members, and staff; and financial and legal advisors.

Registration for SIUE employees, for the full day, is $60, which includes all sessions, workshop materials, continental breakfast, lunch, break refreshments, and the reception. For more information or to register, call (618) 650-2345.

Gaudiani is author of The Greater Good: How Philanthropy Drives the American Economy and Can Save Capitalism, with stories from American history, and data and survey results that illustrate the book's thesis. "Americans are not generous because we are rich; we are rich because we are generous," Gaudiani said.

She is a frequent speaker, both nationally and internationally, on topics related to education, philanthropy, ethics, and the role of colleges in civil society.

Gary has founded 14 nonprofit agencies, including Resourceful Women, the Women's Foundation of San Francisco, the International Donor Dialogue Network, and the Changemakers Fund, for which she is currently raising $20 million to expand and strengthen community-based philanthropy.

She also supports and educates donors, family foundations, financial service organizations, and nonprofits about the stewardship of money, leadership, and philanthropy through Community Consulting Services, which she founded in 1978.

Organized in October 2003, the SIUE Meridian Society is an organization for women in philanthropy. The workshop is being co-sponsored by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University's Women's Philanthropy Institute (WPI). IU's WPI was founded in 1997 by women dedicated to the mission of inspiring, educating, and encouraging women to effect change in the world through philanthropy.

Balanced Cougars Dominate UW-Parkside

SIUE Coach Todd Gober spread the playing time out on Saturday (10/8) as the Cougars defeated UW-Parkside in three games.

SIUE, 16-5 overall and 6-2 in Great Lakes Valley Conference play, downed the Rangers 30-25, 30-24, 30-14. It was the seventh straight victory for the Cougars, who used 15 players in the three-set win.

Jamie Jones picked up seven kills on 11 attacks without an attack error for a .636 hitting percentage. Krystal Majernik nailed 34 assists in two games. GLVC digs leader Allison Buss kept her season pace with 18 digs in three games. Emily Rahn led the Cougars with eight kills.

The Cougars hit .381 as a team, their second best offensive performance of the season.

Lindsey Jones led the Rangers with 11 kills as UW-Parkside fell to 2-19 overall and 0-7 in the GLVC.

SIUE returns to the Vadalabene Center next week for two matches. The Cougars face Bellarmine on Friday (10/14) at 7 p.m. and Northern Kentucky on Saturday (10/15) at 1 p.m.

Banner Named GLVC Player Of The Week

SIUE forward Mike Banner has been named Great Lakes Valley Conference men's soccer Player of the Week after leading his team to two conference wins on the road.

Banner netted two goals in each win over Drury and No. 13 Rockhurst. With his performance over the weekend Bannner leads the Cougars with five goals.

He ranks first in the conference in shots per hame (4.00). The Washington, D.C., native ranks seventh in the GLVC in goals having played eight games this season. He is also listed among the GLVC leaders in points scored as well as goals scored per game and points scored per game. In his 24 games as a Cougar Banner has 27 points (11 goals, 5 assists).

The Cougars hold the No. 1 spot in the GLVC at 5-0-1, with a 9-1-1 overall mark. SIUE hosts Lewis Friday (10/7) at 7:30 p.m, and UW-Parkside Sunday (10/9) at 2:30 p.m.

Bonde Named GLVC Player Of The Week

SIUE middle hitter Heather Bonde captured Great Lakes Valley Conference volleyball Player of the Week honors after leading the Cougars to a 3-0 weekend.

The Cougars started their week in motion on Tuesday (10/4), sweeping University of Southern Indiana (3-0) when Bonde out dueled last week's National Player of the Week, Laura Ellerbusch, with 11 kills and a .435 hitting percentage.

The squad maintained their strength on Friday (9/30) taking SIUE to a 3-0 victory over Drury.

Bonde recorded a career-high 25 kills in a five-set win over 22nd-ranked Rockhurst on Saturday (10/1), handing the Hawks their first GLVC loss. She had five service aces with no service errors for the week.

Bonde improved to No. 4 in the GLVC in hitting percentage overall at .333 and No. 4 in blocks per game at 1.22. She leads SIUE in kills with 3.81 and is third in the GLVC. She ranks fourth all-time in SIUE history in kills (1171) and kills per game (3.31) in 354 games.

The Cougars visit Lewis and UW-Parkside this weekend.

Huneke Passes Guelker; No. 2 Cougars Streaking

SIUE men's soccer coach Ed Huneke passed a coach legend last weekend in the team's win over Drury.

Huneke won his 217th game as the Cougars head coach moving ahead of Hall of Famer Bob Guelker, who notched a record of 216-67-21 in 19 years at SIUE.

"Coach Guelker was a legend in the early years of college soccer," said Huneke. "I don't look upon myself in the same manner, but I feel fortunate to have shared so many wins and memories with a lot of good players and friends."

Huneke, who has an overall record of 217-145-26, prepares his team games with Lewis and 17th-ranked UW-Parkside this weekend. "We have some history of some intense games with both of those teams," said Huneke. "It will be two big rivals that will meet for some exciting soccer."

Second-ranked SIUE is 9-1-1 overall and 5-0-1 as they sit atop the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

After wins over Rockhurst and the Drury during the weekend, the Cougars are unbeaten in their last 27 GLVC regular season contests. "It's a nice ledger," said Huneke. "We have to be careful to not look back and not look too far ahead."

Mike Banner (Washington, D.C.) sparked the Cougars offense with four goals in the two weekend games. He now ranks first in goals scored. "We have always known he was a special type player," said Huneke. "He showed it this weekend."

John Matthews (Edwardsville) has two goals and one assist on the year. "John is a steady player and a work horse," said Huneke.

Trevor House (St. Louis) and Mike Zaegel (St. Louis) have anchored the defensive unit that leads the GLVC with a 0.53 goals against average. "Trevor played very well against Rockhurst," said Huneke. "Mike is our most consistent back and is so important."

No. 14 Women's Soccer Glad To Be Home

SIUE women's soccer team returns home this weekend to face Great Lakes Valley Conference foes Lewis and UW-Parkside.

"It seems like we have been on the road forever," said SIUE women's soccer coach Lynda Bowers. "Lewis is a solid team. Parkside is the top dog even though they lost a few tough games."

The 14th-ranked Cougars battle the Flyers at 5 p.m. Friday (10/7) and the Rangers at noon Sunday (10/9).

SIUE is currently riding a nine-game winning streak. That ties the Cougars for the second longest winning streak in school history set in 1990. The longest steak was 10 set in 1998. "I am still very humble in where we are at tactically," said Bowers. "We still have a long way to go."

SIUE has a record of 11-2 overall, while enjoying a one game lead with 7-0 mark at the top of the GLVC.

Kristine Armstrong (St. Peter's) recorded three goals in wins over Drury and Rockhurst and is tied for first in the GLVC with nine goals. "She has been tremendous," said Bowers. "She had some fantastic individual efforts (over the weekend)," said Bowers.

Freshman Amy Million (Granite City) continued her stellar play with a goal and an assist this weekend. She leads the team with five assists adding five goals. "She is a big part of the reason that Armstrong has quite a few goals," said Bowers. "She makes that extra effort and is playing very aggressive."

Bowers noted that seniors Allison Sweet (Springfield), Kelly Dill (Florissant), Lindsey Kampwerth (Highland), and Crystal Schellenger (St. Louis) have been a vital part of the winning streak. "They are all seeing so many minutes," said Bowers. "They have been key factors in our game."

Volleyball Riding Five-Match Winning Streak

SIUE volleyball coach Todd Gober doesn't want his team to be "satisfied" with three tough Great Lakes Valley Conference wins in five days.

The Cougars defeated defending GLVC champion Southern Indiana, Drury, and 21st-ranked Rockhurst last week. "We have to keep working hard," said Gober. "We can't sit back and be happy with what we have done. We have to move on."

SIUE, 14-5 overall and 4-2 in the league, travels to Lewis and UW-Parkside this weekend. "Lewis is our focus," said Gober. "This is going to be a really tough week. They are always a very good team especially at their place."

The Cougars are one-half game behind the Flyers for second place in the GLVC.

Seniors Heather Bonde (Millstadt) continues to put up outstanding numbers. She leads the team with 255 kills and 3.81 kills per game. Bonde ranks third in the GLVC in kills per game, fourth in total kills and blocks per game at 1.22.

"She has become more comfortable with her own game and what she has to do to be successful," said Gober. "When I look at Heather right now she looks like a very confident, comfortable athlete."

Allison Buss (Towanda) is first in the conference in digs per game with 5.59 after 25 against Rockhurst. SIUE ranks third in the GLVC with 18.04 digs per game. "This is the best defensive team we have had in the last three years," said Gober. "Allison really leads us in that department."

Freshmen Kate Hofeldt (Antioch) and Mallory Clements (Mt. Pulaski) set career-highs in the victory against Rockhurst. Hofeldt notched highs with 16 kills and 12 digs, while Clements had 18 digs. "Mallory and Kate are going to have a number of career games at SIUE," said Gober.

Softball Finishes Up Fall Season

SIUE softball ended its fall schedule with a 11-3 mark. The Cougars defeated six of the nine Division I opponents they faced.

"The fall was great," said SIUE softball coach Sandy Montgomery. "Several people made a lot of progress. I was pretty happy with our success."

Junior Jodie Ohlau (Percy), is a transfer from John A. Logan and is competing for one of the outfield spots. "She did a nice job in the outfield," said Montgomery. "She seems like a clutch player."

Ohlau will go along with two other transfers in pitcher Sabra McCune (DuQuoin) and shortstop Haylee Eubanks (Bethalto).

SIUE's new freshman class includes utility player Nicole Beecher (Blue Springs, Mo.), outfielder Courtney Mall (Tucson, Ariz.), second baseman Amanda Pucel (Minooka), and pitcher Katlin Colosimo (Orland Park). "Our freshman class is a good one," said Montgomery. "They will all be contributors this year. I see a lot of bright spots."

The Cougars will return several senior starters including last season's batting leader Alicia DeShasier (Carrollton), second baseman Holly Neuerberg (Orion), third baseman Amy Rogers (Tucson, Ariz.), and center fielder Shanna Waldo (Peoria).

The Cougars begin the season in Phoenix, Ariz., at the Division II Leadoff Classic on February 16-18.

Women's Golf Finishes Sixth At GLVC Tournament

The SIUE women's golf team placed sixth at the Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament in Edinburgh, Ind., over the weekend.

The Cougars finished 63 strokes behind GLVC champion Drury.

"We didn't play up to our capabilities," said SIUE women's golf coach Mark Marcuzzo. "The effort was great, but the kids just had a bad weekend. The off-season is going to be very important to us getting back in the race for the conference."

Brittany Hood (Coulterville) came in 17th after shooting a 161. "Brittany played well for having a bad knee," said Marcuzzo. "When she gets healthy she will do better."

Ashley Hemann (Highland) finished in 21st place, shooting a 165.

Casey Biddinger (Lafayette, Ind.) placed 23rd shooting a 167, and Danielle Kaufman (Nashville) was tied for 24th at 168. "This winter we are going to try and get back to where we need to be," said Marcuzzo.

Banner, Cougars Trip Up No. 13 Rockhurst

Mike Banner scored twice, including the game-winner, as No. 2-ranked SIUE swept past 13th-ranked Rockhurst 3-1 on Sunday (10/2).

The Cougars improved to 9-1-1 overall and 5-0-1 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. The victory extended SIUE's streak of 28 games in the GLVC without a loss. Rockhurst, one of three teams to defeat SIUE last season in its national runner-up run, fell to 7-3-1 and 5-2-1 in the GLVC.

SIUE next faces Lewis on Friday (10/7) and UW-Parkside on Sunday (10/9). The Lewis game is set for 7:30 p.m. The UW-Parkside game is a 2:30 p.m. start.

Trevor House picked up his first goal as a Cougar. The Cougar defender gave SIUE an early 1-0 with a shot from five yards out from Victor Pacheco.

Banner scored what would be the game-winner at 23:07 on a pass from Pete Cacciatore.

After being down 2-0 at halftime, Rockhurst midfielder Michael Ragsdale was red-carded at 48:35 after receiving a yellow card just four minutes into the match. Rockhurst did lay down, however, scoring with a man down at 51:45 as Tom Heinemann scored from 10 yards out from Adam Johnson.

Banner then left no doubt as he scored his fourth goal of the weekend at 70:16. The tally was from 15 yards out on a pass from defender Kevin Thibodeau.

No. 14 Cougars Extend Win Streak To Nine

Kristine Armstrong's (St. Peters, Mo.) scored both goals Sunday as 14th-ranked SIUE defeated Rockhurst 2-1 in women's soccer on Sunday (10/2).

SIUE extended its winning streak to nine games with the victory. The Cougars now stand 11-2 overall and 7-0 in the Great Lakes Vallet Conference. Rockhurst fell to 6-4-1 overall and 3-4-1 in the GLVC.

Armstrong scored her team-leading eighth and ninth goals of the season. Her first goal came at 8:15 from 10 yards out on a pass from Lindsey Kampwerth. The game-winning goal came at 68:45 as Armstrong bombed a shot from 20 yards out with an assist to Amy Million.

The Cougars return to action on Friday (10/7) against Lewis.

Cougar Volleyball Sweeps Past Drury

Tina Talsma's 12 kills sparked SIUE to a 30-16, 30-26, 30-27 win over Drury on Friday night (9/30).

Talsma led the Cougars with a .375 hitting percentage as the team recorded 54 kills on the night. SIUE goes to 13-5 overall and 3-2 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference, while the Panthers fall to 6-11 overall and 3-3 in the conference

The Cougars came out firing in the first game cruising to a 30-16 win. In the second game SIUE battled to a 30-26 advantage, and the Cougars fell behind 0-5 in the third stanz only to comeback for the victory.

For the second match in a row senior Krystal Majernik had 40 assists adding 12 digs. Kindra Westendorf led the Cougars with 13 kills, and Heather Bonde had 12. Allison Buss notched 22 digs rising her GLVC leading average to 5.64. Freshman Mallory Clements added 14 digs for the Cougars.

SIUE held Drury to a .025 hitting percentage on the night. The Cougars outdug the Panthers 72-54 in the contest. The Cougars host 21st-ranked Rockhurst tomorrow (10/1)at the Vadalbene Center at 2 p.m.

No. 2 Men's Soccer Heads West

The SIUE men's soccer team travels west this weekend for contests with Drury and 13th-ranked Rockhurst.

"It is important that we don't overlook Drury for the sake of Rockhurst," said SIUE coach Ed Huneke. "That would be a big mistake."

The second-ranked Cougars have a 7-1-1 overall mark and are in first place in the Great Lakes Valley Conference with a 3-0-1 record.

SIUE will be in Springfield, Mo., on Friday night (9/30) at 7:30 to face the Panthers. The Cougars then battle the Hawks on Sunday (10/2) in Kansas City, Mo., at 2:30 p.m.

"The Rockhurst game is looking like a good matchup," said Huneke. "This match could have implications that could go beyond the regular season."

The Cougars will face a ranked opponent in two of its next four contests, and they play four of six games on the road. "It is a tough stretch of the season," said Huneke. "When you are in our conference, and play the schedule we do, there are a lot of tough games back to back."

SIUE is fresh off a win over Kentucky Wesleyan last Friday (9/23) before its contest with Southern Indiana was postponed due to rain.

Victor Pacheco (San Luis, Brazil) notched a goal and an assist in the victory over the Panthers. He now leads the team with 10 points and is tied with Tim Collico (St. Louis) for the club lead in goals with four. "Victor is having a very good year," said Huneke. "He is deadly on restarts outside the area."

SIUE is second in the country with a 0.33 goals against average, thanks mostly to a solid defense and goalkeepers Nicholas Frasca (St. Charles) and Greg Crook (Columbia), who have combined for six shutouts this season. "Teams have a hard time playing against our defensive alignment," said Huneke. "We play well as a team, but we also have outstanding individual players."

No. 14 Women's Soccer Set For Tough Stretch

Even though SIUE women's soccer has a seven-game winning streak, coach Lynda Bowers knows her team has hard work ahead.

Of the next seven games, the 14th-ranked Cougars play, five contests are against teams ranked in the top 10 of the Great Lakes Region. "We have got a lot of big games ahead," said Bowers. "I am not putting a lot of stock in the No. 14 ranking. We have a lot of tough opponents left."

SIUE begins the string of games traveling to Drury at 5 p.m. on Friday (9/30) before battling Rockhust on Sunday (10/2) at noon. "They are both good teams," said Bowers. "They are both the type of team that can beat us, like every team in our conference."

The Cougars hold a 9-2 overall mark, while staying in first place in the Great Lakes Valley Conference with a 5-0 record.

Kristine Armstrong (St. Peter's) ranks first on the team and is tied for third in the GLVC with six goals this season.

Freshman Amy Million (Granite City) is second on the club with 11 points (four goals, three assists). "Our attack is really beefed up," said Bowers. "We are having some good combination plays between a few people."

Kayla Fromme (New Berlin) continues to score after being moved up in the attack. She has four goals in the last five games. "Kayla has been such a spark for us," said Bowers. "She has allowed us to play better."

The Cougars lead the GLVC with 17.1 shots per game. SIUE's six shutouts this season also leads the league.

Volleyball Taking It One Game At A Time

After beginning the Great Lakes Valley Conference season with two losses, the SIUE volleyball team knows it has a chance for redemption.

The Cougars have won two conference matches since then and are set to take on the two teams that defeated them just two weeks ago.

SIUE entertains Drury on Friday (9/30) night at 7 and 21st-ranked Rockhurst on Saturday (10/1) at 2 p.m. "That loss from Drury is still fresh in our minds, " said SIUE volleyball coach Todd Gober. "Right now anytime we can get someone on our home court is an advantage to us. Rockhurst will be a tough match."

The Cougars are 12-5 overall and 2-2 in the GLVC after dumping Southern Indiana on Tuesday night (9/27). "We have a deep enough and talented enough team, that we don't have to play great all the time," said Gober. "We just need to come in and play hard and get consistent effort from everyone."

Krystal Majernik (Normal) leads the team with 7.47 assists per game after a 40-assist performance against the Screaming Eagles. "Krystal has done a great job," said Gober. "I have a tremendous amount of confidence in her setting ability."

Allison Buss (Towanda) is tops in the conference with 5.55 per game. "She, to me is having an All-American caliber year, said Gober."

Seniors Heather Bonde (Millstadt) and Tina Talsma (Orono, Ontario) are one and two on the team in kills. Bonde has 218 while Talsma has notched 152. "We have the best middle combination in the conference," said Gober. "They are a great blocking duo."

Gansauer Wins Great Lakes Regional For Men's Golf

SIUE men's golfer Kyle Gansauer (Centralia) won the Great Lakes Regional Tournament over the weekend.

The Cougars finished sixth out of 20 teams, placing ahead of eight other Great Lakes Valley Conference teams. SIUE had a two-day total of 593, 12 strokes behind regional champion Saginaw Valley. "We went into the regional as an unknown," said SIUE men's golf coach Mark Marcuzzo. "We left the regional very well known."

Gansauer shot a 71 on Sunday (9/25), following that up with a round of 69 on Monday (9/26). "It was a great accomplishment," said Marcuzzo. "Our chance to get in the NCAAs and win conference in the spring is looking pretty good."

Kyle Lickenbrock (Freeburg) placed 11th with a two-day total of 145. Craig Heinzman (Breese) came in 44th after shooting a 152. "They have stepped up their game and really played well," said Marcuzzo.

The Cougars will be in Mankato, Minn., next week for the Minnesota State-Mankato Tournament.

Women's Golf Prepares For GLVC Tournament

The SIUE women's golf team travels to Edinburg, Ind., for the Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament this weekend.

SIUE recently finished in fourth place with a score of 333 at the USI Screaming Eagle Classic Open this past weekend. The Cougars were 17 shots behind tournament champion DePauw. "The girls did nice job," said SIUE women's golf coach Mark Marcuzzo. "They know that could have played a lot better. We need to make sure we get the job done this week at the conference."

Ashley Hemann (Highland) tied for seventh with a 79. "We have been working hard on her swing," said Marcuzzo. "She did well."

Brittany Hood (Coulterville) came in 22nd with a score of 84.

Danielle Kaufman (Nashville) and Natalie Connaway (Nashville) were tied in 29th place each shooting 85. "We need to make sure we get the job done this week at the conference," said Marcuzzo. "It will be nice to go to the conference with a full squad."

Cougars Break Through With Victory Over S. Indiana

It had been more than two years and four straight match losses since the SIUE volleyball team has defeated Southern Indiana.

But, the Cougars broke through Tuesday night with a 30-14, 34-32, 30-28 win over the Screaming Eagles.

Senior Heather Bonde led the Cougar charge with a team-high 11 kills and a .435 hitting percentage. Bonde is first on the club with 218 kills.

SIUE improves to 12-5 overall and 2-2 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. Southern Indiana drops to 10-8 overall and 2-2 in the league.

The Cougars cruised to a win in the first game but had to battle to a 34-32 win in the second. In the third game, SIUE fell behind 14-7 only to come back for the win.

SIUE notched a .282 hitting percentage while holding the Screaming Eagles to a .147 percentage.

Freshman Kate Hofeldt matched Bonde's team-high with 11 kills, middle hitter Tina Talsma recorded 10, and Kim Potthast had nine. Krystal Majernik led the way with 40 assists and 10 digs, while Allison Buss had 14 digs.

The last time SIUE defeated Southern Indiana was Sept. 20, 2003, when the Cougars won 25-30, 30-21, 30-27, and 30-19 at the Vadalabene Center.

The Cougars are back in action Friday (9/30) night as Drury visits the Vadalabene Center before a home match with 21st-ranked Rockhurst on Saturday (10/1).