The SIU School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) student chapter of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) recently returned from ADEA’s Annual Session, hosted in Montréal, Canada, as winners of a Silver Chapter Recognition as well as the ADEA Student Chapter Community Impact Award. The Community Impact Award, a monetary gift of $350, recognized the students’ involvement with the BESt Healthcare Institute, introducing and inspiring multicultural high school students towards careers in dentistry.

“Congratulations to the SIU SDM ADEA Student Chapter for their recent ADEA Community Impact Award and involvement in the BESt Healthcare Pathways Program to introduce students to the profession of dentistry,” said Saulius Drukteinis, DMD, MS, PhD, Dean of SIU SDM. “Special thanks also to Dr. Garcia for helping to orchestrate this important initiative and all faculty involved! Thanks all for representing SIU SDM so well.”

“I am incredibly proud of the students from the ADEA Student Chapter at SIU SDM for their outstanding leadership and dedication. They have not only promoted and led numerous initiatives in educational pathways and academic career development within our school but have also made a meaningful impact beyond our campus,” said Nathalia Garcia, DDS, MS, Assistant Dean for Career Development at SIU SDM. “Their work with programs like the BESt Healthcare Institute demonstrates their commitment to inspiring multicultural high school students to pursue careers in dentistry, fostering the next generation of oral health professionals. This recognition reflects the creativity, initiative, and service-minded leadership that our students bring to both the SIU SDM community and the broader community we serve.”

While the student officers were unable to attend, the award was accepted on behalf of SIU SDM by six students from the ADEA Academic Dental Careers Fellowship Program (ADCFP), whose poster presentation was on display.

This is SIU SDM’s inaugural year in the program. ADCFP is a national, year-long program designed to encourage interest in academic careers by pairing students and residents with faculty mentors and providing exposure to teaching, scholarship activities and other aspects of academic life.

“The ADEA ADCFP program was an invaluable addition to my dental school experience,” said Bhavi Vashi, a D4 dental student. “It challenged me to think critically about the future of dental education while strengthening my communication skills. The program provided a structured way to engage with faculty, learning from their experiences through interviews and shadowing, and gaining firsthand teaching experience with meaningful feedback. It created opportunities to connect with both peers and mentors, and even offered the chance to travel, present, and collaborate with students from other institutions. This experience not only enhanced my preparation for residency applications but also helped me discover a genuine passion for teaching. I am grateful to the faculty and mentors who supported us and look forward to seeing the program continue to grow.”

Currently, seven dental students and two residents are participating in the fellowship, with six attending the ADEA Annual Session to represent the school. The participation of the student fellows to present at the ADEA annual session was due to the financial support of the SIUE Graduate School, SIU SDM Office of the Dean and Dean Emeritus Bruce Rotter, DMD, MS.

Residents and students participating in this program include Michael Greaves, D.D.S. Jenna McCarthy, D.M.D., Sanam Talwar, Bhavi Vashi, Jay Niebrugge, Ria Patel, Vivian Finerty, Brooke Juneau, Jasleen Saini. Their mentors are Lily Kytridou, DDS, Katherine Hanser, DMD, Andres Davila, DMD, MSOB, Jennifer Rapini, DDS, Minaal Verma, BDS, DDS, MDS, Kenneth Rawson, DMD, Tom Sotiropulous, DDS, and Manita Grover Utreja, BDS, MDS, DMD, with faculty liaisons Garcia and Jasbir Upadhyaya, BDS, MSC, PhD.

Garcia is also one of two SIU SDM faculty members selected for ADEA national leadership programs: Garcia was selected for the ADEA Council of Deans Fellowship and Achint Utreja, DDS, MS, PhD, will participate in the ADEA Leadership Institute.

“I am honored to be selected for the ADEA Leadership Institute and grateful for the opportunity to engage in focused leadership development alongside colleagues from across dental education,” said Achint Utreja, DDS, MS, PhD, Chair of the Department of Biomedical and Craniofacial Sciences at SIU SDM. “The Institute’s emphasis on reflection, collaboration and academic leadership will strengthen my ability to contribute thoughtfully as an educator and mentor. I look forward to applying these experiences in ways that enhance the educational environment at SIU SDM and ultimately support our students’ learning and professional development.” 
 
PHOTO: SIUE ADEA chapter officers Brooke Deters, D4 student, Nate Carmichael, D3, Emily Cretors, D2, and Jane Nam, D1, with faculty advisor Nathalia Garcia, DDS, MS, Assistant Dean for Career Development at SIU SDM 

On Saturday, April 4 at the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus, more than 400 visitors gathered for Community Day. An event in which dozens of vendors, employers, mobile clinics and food trucks came together to connect East St. Louis residents with a multitude of valuable health, wealth and job resources.

Community members took part in a resume workshop, record expungement process, gift card giveaways and an egg hunt where local children took home over one thousand eggs filled with candy and goodies on Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Campus.

“The kids went crazy for the egg hunt. It was hilarious and fun just to watch,” said Alex Maxie, a senior public relations major who is a team member of Reach PR, an SIUE senior capstone project that partnered with SIU System Office of Community Engagement to produce the event.

He added, “The parents were just as engaged as the kids were, and from what I could tell, everybody walked away with at least something that they needed from the event, whether that was a resource or just information.” The youth area was housed in the campuses We Care Clinic where children received mental health resources as well.

The impact of Community Day will last longer than one day. Recent graduates of the Macedonia Development Corporation Clean Energy Workforce Hub engaged with employers at the event to discuss potential employment.

“Community Day delivered real results for the community. We saw employers actively recruiting, residents making direct connections to jobs and training programs, and clear pathways opening into the region’s growing clean energy workforce,” said Connie Frey-Spurlock, PhD, Director, SIU System Office of Community Engagement.

“That kind of impact only happens through strong collaboration—from SIUE colleagues like Dr. Tandra Taylor and Dr. Mark Dochterman, to the students who helped bring this event to life, to our partners across sectors including employers, training providers, and policymakers. When we align around opportunity like this, we don’t just host an event—we help create momentum that leads to lasting change.”

First Alert 4 covered the event and spoke with hosts United Congregations of Metro-East who co-presented the event with SIUE and SIU System Office of Community Engagement.

Photos by Howard Ash

The awards, valued at up to $500 each, support the research and creative activities of 52 graduate students studying in the College of Arts and Sciences and Schools of Education, Health and Human Behavior, Pharmacy and Engineering.

“SIUE’s Graduate School is proud to support our master’s students as they pursue research that deepens knowledge and creates real-world impact,” said Christopher Slaten, PhD, Associate Provost for Research and Dean of the Graduate School. “The RGGS awards reflect our commitment to providing resources and mentorship that help students move their ideas forward and contribute meaningfully to their fields. We celebrate the creativity and dedication of our awardees and look forward to seeing the outcomes of their work.”

Faculty advisors oversee the students’ individual research or creative activity. The primary purpose of the RGGS program is to support the graduate students’ work, particularly as it relates to their thesis or final project.

The spring 2026 RGGS projects are listed at siue.edu/graduate-students/awards/research-grants. A sampling of projects is listed below.

• Evaluation of Low Input and Degraded Bone Samples for DNA Recovery and STR Profiling Using Qiagen Extraction Kits (Kennedy Lamb, Forensic Sciences, Faculty Advisor: Sylvia Baehman)
• Participation, Preparation and Educational Pathways in the International Earth Science Olympiads (Pareeksha Gauli, Environmental Sciences, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Sharon Locke)
• Temperature Field Analysis of an Oil-Cooled Single-Cell Battery: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Investigation (Aditta Mallick, Mechanical Engineering, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Majid Molki)
• The Relationship between Food Insecurity and Perceived Stress in African Americans in East St. Louis (Katelyn Calentine, Public Health, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Cedric Harville)
• Exploring Body Image Through Art Therapy for Adolescents with Eating Disorders (Lauren Manhardt, Art Therapy Counseling, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Shelly Goebl-Parker)
• Integrating Real Clinical Data into Digital Patients for Dynamic Nursing Simulation (Richmond Osei Bonsu, Industrial Engineering, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Siqi Zhang)
• Determining if Kismet Interacts with Proteins Correlated with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (Paula Boser, Biological Sciences, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Faith Liebl)
• Metal-Organic Frameworks as Sorbents for Quick and Easy Toxic Metal Analysis with ED-XRF (Joao Nail, Chemistry, Faculty Advisor: Dr. Kevin Tucker)
  
   
  PHOTO: Sydney Worth, graduate student in Chemistry and former RGGS recipient, presents her research at the 2026 Graduate Student Symposium

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville hosted its spring career fair series, connecting students and alumni with employers across multiple industries. 

Hosted by the SIUE Career Development Center, the events are held at the Morris University Center and are designed to support students in their job search and professional development. The fairs are open to SIUE students and alumni, as well as those from partner schools. 

Recent events include the Education Career Fair, Engineering Career Fair, and IT Career Fair, along with a Spring Career Fair welcoming students from SIUE School of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, and other non-teaching majors. 

Each event brings together employers recruiting for internships, part-time, and full-time positions. Students have opportunities to meet with recruiters, explore career paths, and learn more about industry expectations. 

Students interested in attending are encouraged to register through their Cougar Jobline account and come prepared with updated resumes and professional attire. 

The career fair series reflects SIUE’s continued commitment to helping students and alumni build connections and prepare for the workforce. 

SIUE's Elena Palioura and Cydney Rogers have been selected for weekly Ohio Valley Conference women's tennis honors.

Palioura, a sophomore from Thessaloniki, Greece, was tabbed the OVC Singles Player of the Week. Rogers, a senior from Jonesboro, Arkansas, joined Palioura as the OVC Doubles Team of the Week.

As a team, SIUE swept both Lindenwood (7-0) and Southern Indiana (4-0) in OVC play.

Palioura was a key player with singles wins over Lindenwood's Megan Caffin 7-6, 1-6, 10-4 and Southern Indiana's Sofia Davidoff 6-1, 4-6, 6-3. Both were at No. 2 singles.

As a No. 2 doubles team, Palioura and Rogers finished 2-0 for the week with a 6-4 win over Lindenwood's Michelle Trochez and Sofija Dunisijevic 6-4 and Southern Indiana's Anais Negrail and Rylie Wilkinson 6-1.

Next up for the SIUE women's tennis team is Senior Day Saturday when the Cougars entertain Western Illinois at the SIUE Tennis Courts. The winner of Saturday's match will claim the No. 1 seed for the upcoming OVC Championships at Dwight Davis Tennis Center in St. Louis.

Brought together by the Climate and Sustainability Advisory Board (CASAB) and Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC), the event is all set to bring regional experts, practitioners, and community members together to promote awareness on the requisite topics of energy, water and food.  

“Water-Energy-Food, is there a more critical part of our everyday needs? Where would we be as a civilization without these basic needs?" emphasized Ricky Lallish, director of ERTC and CASAB board member.  

The symposium will begin with opening remarks from Jennifer Zuercher, PhD, RD, LDN, Associate Professor and Program Director for the Nutrition & Dietetics program at SIUE and chair of CASAB, followed by Benjamin Lowder, director of SIUE Fuller Dome. The event will continue with presentations from the distinguished speakers and will conclude with a question-and-answer session followed by a networking reception.  

Symposium presenters are experts in the fields of energy, water, and sustainability. They are the following:  

• Connie Frey-Spurlock – Director of Community Engagement, SIU System

• Donna Mayer – Associate/Acting Director, SIUE Facilities Management 

• Matthew Maas – Division Manager, Public Water Supplies, Illinois EPA 

• Mike Crawford – Chief Operator, Collinsville Water Department 

• Antonio Brazelton – Senior Research Coordinator, Jackie Joiner-Kersee FAN

• Chad Warner – Urban Ag Coordinator, Jackie Joiner-Kersee FAN 

“This symposium series started in 2017 and became a signature event in the region, organized by SIUE. So far, we had eight of these events in the U.S. and two symposia in Turkey. I am honored to see how much the event grew over the years. This is a success of all contributors including faculty, students, and administration," noted Serdar Celik, PhD, professor in the School of Engineering (SOE) Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, CASAB board member, and the founder of the SIUE Energy Symposium series. 

CASAB board members provide leadership for SIUE’s sustainability initiatives by promoting sustainability on campus and engaging SIUE with other institutions in the region and nationwide. 

“The committee works diligently throughout the year to coordinate an engaging event. This year’s event features speakers from SIU and the Metro East region. From PFAS in the water supply to the work being done at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture, Nutrition Innovation Center, this event is for everyone interested in supporting a healthy planet and population,” said Zuercher. 

Sustainability awareness and activities at SIUE have been constantly gaining momentum over the past decade with numerous achievements, including the following:  

• Founding Member, St. Louis Higher Education Sustainability Consortium
• Silver Rating through the Sustainability Tracking Assessment and Rating System (STARS)
• Recognition as one of the four Living Architecture Regional Centers of Excellence nationally by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and the Green Infrastructure Foundation
• Established bike share program

PHOTO: The Fuller Dome at SIUE 

Marchdown, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s annual step show competition between the fraternities and sororities of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, showcases the rich history of the University’s Black Greek organizations. The event took place at the First Community Arena on March 28 and raised $11,399 for Step Up Scholarship.

According to Kimmel Belonging and Engagement Hub, Marchdown began in the mid-1980’s as a program held during Black Heritage Month to showcase the Divine 9 on the SIUE campus. The program was started and run by the University Center Board and was originally held in the Morris University Center Meridian Ballroom. After expanding in size, the event relocated to the Vadalabene Center in 1991 and was moved to March.

Throughout the 1990’s, and into the early 2000’s, Marchdown featured large, sellout crowds. NPHC was officially founded in 2006 and took over complete control of the program from Kimmel (who had taken over the program in the mid-90’s from the University Center). After the 2022 Marchdown, Chancellor Dr. James T. Minor, PhD, named Marchdown as one of the University’s annual marque events.

Today the event is planned by the executive board of NPHC and the fraternity and sorority life advisors in the Kimmel Belonging and Engagement Hub.

Photos by Howard Ash 
 

SIUE junior golfer Preston Bily (Indianola, Iowa) has been named the co-Golfer of the Week in the Ohio Valley Conference after helping to lead SIUE golf to a runner-up finish at the Butler Spring Invitational.

Bily posted the best finish and the lowest 54-hole total of his career, finishing in third place with a 204 (69-67-68). It also matches the seventh lowest individual 54-hole total at SIUE. He finished just a shot back of second place and three strokes behind the Individual Medalist, Leo Zurovac of Butler. It was his second career top-10 finish.

His second-round 67 is the second-lowest round of his career.

The award is the first of Bily's career and the first weekly award for the Cougars this season.

SIUE is back on the course Monday and Tuesday at the Murray State Racer Invitational.

As small businesses navigate an increasingly competitive and complex economic environment, having the right foundation and professional network is critical. This event, held at 10025 Bunkum Rd., Fairview Heights brings together expert guidance, strategic connections, and essential startup education, all in one place.

 "The SBDC is dedicated to delivering the targeted support entrepreneurs need to thrive," says Jo Ann Di Maggio May, Director. "Recognizing that capital remains a significant hurdle for growing firms, this initiative provides an immediate link to transformative funding opportunities. We appreciate Ryan Jenkins and the City of Fairview Heights hosting the SBDC and supporting our local business ecosystem.”

Event Highlights for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners:

• One-on-One Business Consultations (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.): Entrepreneurs and established business owners can schedule private sessions with SBDC advisors to receive personalized guidance on business planning, startup strategy, HR support, and growth opportunities.

• B.A.I.L. Team Access (Beginning at 3 p.m.): Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with key members of their external professional team—Bankers, Accountants, Insurance providers, and Lawyers—who play a critical role in building a strong and sustainable business.

• Startup & Foundational Seminar (3 p.m. – 5 p.m.): The “Starting Your Business in Illinois” seminar provides a comprehensive overview of launching a business, including business planning, financing, legal structure, marketing, and other essential startup considerations.

In addition, Tracey Glenn from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will be on hand from 2-4 p.m. to provide insight into state-level resources and support available to business owners.

Registration Information:
Attendance is at no cost, but space for one-on-one consultations is limited. To schedule a confidential appointment, call (618) 650-2929. Seminar registration is available online. 

The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East assists entrepreneurs as well as existing business owners operating in the nine-county Metro East region of Madison, St. Clair, Clinton, Calhoun, Jersey, Bond, Monroe, Washington, and Randolph counties. It enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance through counseling, training, research, and advocacy for new and expanding businesses.

Illinois SBDC services are funded in part through a cooperative agreement among the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as a service to the community.

To learn how these no-cost services may help your business venture, contact the Metro East SBDC at (618) 650-2929 or sbdcedw@gmail.com.

PHOTO: Promotional flyer for Starting Your Business in Illinois

The SIUE Graduate School celebrated the achievements of graduate students and faculty scholars at the annual Spring Research Symposium on March 31 in Morris University Center’s Goshen Lounge on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Students from graduate programs across SIUE presented their research, scholarship and creative activities during the Student Symposium portion of the event. The annual Student Symposium creates opportunities for graduate students to share their work with the campus community, receive constructive feedback from faculty evaluators, and gain experience discussing their scholarship in a public facing format.

“The Graduate Research Symposium reflects the very best of SIUE’s teacher-scholar mission. It provides an important platform for our graduate students to share their research, scholarship, and creative activities with the campus community while also strengthening the culture of inquiry that defines a vibrant university. When our students present their work publicly, they are not only advancing their own professional development, they are contributing to the exchange of ideas that drives innovation and discovery across our campus” said Chris Slaten, PhD, Associate Provost for Research and Dean of the Graduate School.

The Research Symposium concluded with the Provost’s Celebration of Research that recognized the accomplishments of many faculty scholars and their continued commitment to SIUE’s teacher-scholar mission.

The faculty honorees included first-time Principal Investigators on external grant proposals and recipients of the Hansen Humanities Award, Representing Research Impacts Award, Vaughnie J. Lindsay New Investigator Award, Hoppe Research Professor Award and the Distinguished Research Professor Award.

“I look forward to this event each year, “said Denise Cobb, PhD, Provost and Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “As a University, our academic strength is rooted in our teacher-scholar model. Our faculty engagement in scholarly activities not only enhances discovery and their disciplines but also contributes to a more vibrant learning environment.”

PHOTOS: Ankit Kumar Mahato, MS in Environmental Sciences student, shares his research project; Srija Rasoori, MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering student, shares her research project; Mariam Oladepo Ajagbe, MFA student in Studio Art, shares her research project, which consists of fabrics she created and displayed containing symbolic motifs designed to create familiarity and comfort in the midst of separation and emotional pain; Denise Cobb, PhD, Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs addresses attendees at Provost’s Celebration of Research

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will host its fifth annual One Day, One SIUE celebration at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, bringing together alumni, partners and the campus community for a day of giving and an evening celebration that will glow.

In 2025, the SIUE community raised $2,880,842.81. The amount included seven new scholarship endowments, one new program endowment and more than 1,070 first-time donors. Gifts came from 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the United Kingdom, and students raised more than $8,000 through a calling blitz in the SIUE Foundation Engagement Center.

“The success of One Day, One SIUE is rooted in campus-wide planning and collaboration,” said Julie Babington, senior director of annual giving. “Every detail is thoughtfully designed to create meaningful connections and an unforgettable experience that inspires generosity.”

This year’s event builds upon that success with expanded engagement opportunities. A Bonus Dollar Challenge for student organizations will return with a new category highlighting SIUE Athletics programs, joining existing categories for fraternity and sorority life and registered student organizations.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., there will be eight VIP Unit Tent Receptions hosted by individual academic units, the John Martinson Honors Program and Athletics. These gatherings offer opportunities for alumni, donors and friends to connect with fellow alumni, current students, faculty and staff.

Weather permitting at 6 p.m., the celebration will take flight with the inflation of three hot air balloons on site from pilot Kendall Spicer, PharmD, ’21, and Hannah Spicer, PharmD, ’23. Guests will have opportunities to take photos and enjoy live music from the Charles Glenn Group Band, featuring Charles Glenn, the legendary voice of the St. Louis Blues’ national anthem for 19 years.

The evening, hosted by emcee and Voice of the Cougars Joe Pott, will also feature food, beverages and remarks from Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, School of Pharmacy Dean Mark Luer, PharmD, FCCP, and Distinguished Community Leader Lisa Spencer, RN, FACHE, BSN ’93, MSN ’01, president of Anderson Hospital.

“One Day, One SIUE really brings out the best in our community—alumni, community partners and campus supporters coming together in support of the students and programs we care so deeply about,” said Connie Collins, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and CEO of the SIUE Foundation. “Our theme for the fifth annual Giving Day, ‘Soaring to New Heights,’ reflects the shared pride and connection that truly lifts SIUE.”

Explore the giving hub for ONE DAY, ONE SIUE and join SIUE in reaching new heights.

Graphics: One Day, One SIUE graphic featuring aerial view of SIUE campus; One Day, One SIUE with a scene from 2025.

The Mid-American Conference placed 59 wrestlers on this year's 2025-26 Academic All-MAC team. All 12 of the league's teams were represented, including five from SIUE.

Bryson Buhk, Drew Davis, Nick Nosler, Caleb Tyus and Brock Woodcock were honored Wednesday by the MAC. 

The Academic All-MAC honor is for a student-athlete who has excelled in athletics and academics. To qualify, a student-athlete must have at least a 3.20 cumulative GPA and have participated in at least 50 percent of the contests scheduled or completed in the particular sport. First-year students and ANY transfer students in their first year of residence are not eligible for the award. 

2025-26 Wrestling Academic All-MAC Team

Bloomsburg (1)
William Morrow, Sr., Business Admin/ Finance, 3.75

Buffalo (4)
Kaleb Burgess, R-Sr., Health & Human Services, 3.24
Sam Ewing, R-So., Accounting, 3.44
Rafael Knapp, R-So., Health & Human Services, 3.56
Marcus Petite, Grad., Education Studies, 3.5

Central Michigan (6)
Chandler Amaker, R-Sr., Public Administration, 3.66
Nick Blackburn, So., Marketing, 3.76
Cody Brenner, R-Sr., Mechanical Engineering, 3.33
Nick Cochran, R-So., Exercise Science, 3.68
Adrien Cramer, R-Sr., Master of Business Administration, 3.50
Jimmy Nugent, R-Jr., Information Systems, 3.29

Clarion (4)
Joey Fischer, Grad., MBA, 3.20
Scott Johnson, Jr., Integrated Business, 3.27
John Meyers, Grad., MBA, 3.77
Ethan Wiant, Grad., Exercise Science & Health Promotion, 3.86

Edinboro (6)
Ryan Burgos, Sr., Advanced Study in Education, 3.8
Brody Evans, Jr., Secondary Education, 3.79
Jared McGill, Sr., Business Administration, 3.59
Ryan Michaels, Sr., Interdisciplinary Studies, 3.81
Parker Sentipal, So., Exercise Science, 3.76
Chris Vargo, So., Sports Management, 3.84

George Mason (7)
Kaden Cassidy, Grad., Graduate Certificate in Business, 3.666
Joshua Dragovich, Sr., BA Communications, 3.344
Malachi DuVall, Grad., MS Finance, 3.917
Logan Messer, Grad., BS Biostatistics, 3.899
Benjamin Monn, Grad., MS Electrical Engineering, 3.34
Donovon Sprouse Sr., BS Management, 3.464
Thomas Stofka, So., BS Kinesiology, 3.808

Kent State (8)
Ethan Barr, R-Jr., Sport Administration, 3.75
Corey Boerio, R-So., Biology -Pre-Medicine/Podiatry/Dentistry, 3.64
Nico Callello, Sr., Physical Education & Sport Performance - Physical Education Licensure, 3.75
Landen Duncan, R-So., Nursing, 3.241
Nate Roth, R-So., Business Management, 3.301
Blake Schaffer, Sr., Finance, 3.521
Trent Thomas, R-So., Integrated Social Studies - History & Political Science, 3.297
Mason Tieffel, R-Fr., Construction Management, 3.658

Lock Haven (3)
Avery Bassett, Grad., Sport Management, 3.70
Tucker Hogan, So, Business Administration, 3.43
Gable Strickland, Grad., Sport Management, 3.50

Northern Illinois (7)
Collin Arch, R-So., Nursing, 3.614
Tommy Bennett, R-jr., Nursing, 3.627
Devon Dawson, Grad., Sports Management, 3.89
Dominic Heim, R-Fr., Kinesiology, 3.526
Caleb Roe, R-Jr., General Studies, 3.529
Brett Smith, R-So., Business Administration, 3.5
Blake West, R-Sr., Biological Sciences, 4.00

Ohio (6)
Ryan Meek, Jr., Exercise Physiology, 3.75
Jeremy Olszko, R-So., Business Analytics, 3.92
Sal Perrine, Grad., Business Administration, 3.73
Garrett Thompson, Grad., Business Administration, 3.732
Wyatt Schmitt, R-Fr., Sociology-Criminology, 3.632
Paul Woo, Jr., Marketing, 3.58

Rider (2)
Tyler Klinsky, Grad., Special Education, 3.883
Will Betancourt, Grad., Talent & Organizational Development, 4.0

SIUE (5)
Bryson Buhk, R-Jr., Psychology, 3.533
Drew Davis, So., Exercise Science, 3.769
Nick Nosler, R-So., Exercise Science, 3.333
Caleb Tyus, R-Sr., Kinesiology, 3.477 UG, 4.0 GRAD
Brock Woodcock, Jr., Mechanical Engineering, 3.892

On March 28, the final spring Preview SIUE event drew close to 300 student attendees. Prospective students from across the region traveled to campus to join housing and campus tours to see what everyday life is like as a Cougar, speak with supporting offices from across SIUE during the resource fair, and attend breakout discussions about how to succeed on campus, maximize financial aid and make the most out of every academic and extracurricular program offered.

Students were also able to tour academic departments and speak with the faculty. Several high school and Upward Bound groups in attendance also participated in Marchdown.

Photos by Howard Ash

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students and administrators joined colleagues in Springfield, Ill. on Tuesday, March 25 for SIU System Day at the Capitol. The day on the rotunda highlighted SIUE programs and partnerships that strengthen Southern Illinois communities by supporting workforce development and innovation.

The annual event brought together representatives from SIU campuses, giving the opportunity to meet with state legislators. For SIUE, the day elevated growing programs including the Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC), Community-Oriented Digital Engagement Scholars (CODES), the National Corn to Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) and the School of Engineering (SOE).

Illinois Gov. J. B. Pritzker spent time engaging with SIU System representatives, speaking directly with SIUE students, faculty and program leaders about their work and impact.

Gov. Pritzker’s conversations with SIUE focused on workforce development, infrastructure needs and the role higher education plays in preparing the next generation of professionals across Illinois. ERTC Director Ricky Lallish and student representatives shared how the center prepares individuals for careers in water and wastewater management, emphasizing its unique role in job placement and municipal workforce pipelines. Within the SOE, John Cabage, PhD, chair of construction management, discussed the growing demand for land surveyors and the need to introduce a new generation into the field to support infrastructure development statewide.

“The highlight of the day for me is the ability to showcase the brilliance of our students, the work in which they are engaged, the connections to the workforce, and how our students, as a part of their curriculum, are improving communities across the state of Illinois,” said Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD. “For the governor to spend time asking them about their work, is a unique and special opportunity. I am proud of the way that our students represented the University.”

Minor also pointed to the ERTC as an example of how SIUE fundamentally improves the quality of life for communities within its reach.

“Water quality, for example, is an important conversation for residents in Venice, Brooklyn and Cahokia and the idea that there is a resource in the University community that can improve water quality is just a powerful testament to how universities can improve communities.”

CODES also drew attention from legislators, including Assistant Minority Leader Rep. Amy Elik, who connected with students about their research experiences.

“I really love to hear the students, in their own words, talk about what this meant to them, the excitement level that they had for the program, and especially the interaction with the students in Alton Schools,” said Elik.

First-year CODES student Tamaruis Toles shared insights from her research with the Artist Place Initiative (API), a St. Louis nonprofit focused on providing housing for low-income and unhoused artists.

“We look at systematic racism, like gentrification and things of that nature,” said Toles. “API wanted us to do historical research because they didn't want to come in and renovate vacant houses and make them like new houses and mark up the price. The goal is to make the neighborhood back to what it used to be, to restore it as well as they can. And so by the time that we graduate, or sometime relatively soon, we'll have a historical archive.”

Minor noted that the CODES program reflects a distinctive element of the SIUE undergraduate experience.

“The unique thing about CODES is that, in their first-year of college, students are partnering with community organizations and conducting research as a part of their curriculum, said Minor. It is a very unique strand of our curriculum, and something that is very special about the undergraduate experience at SIUE.”

Additional legislators who engaged at length with SIUE included Rep. Katie Stuart (112), Sen. Erica Harriss (56) Sen. Christopher Belt (57), who visited ERTC and the new Health Sciences Building at SIUE earlier in March, Rep. Charles Meier (104) and Rep. Paul Jacobs (118), who expressed interest in visiting the ERTC.

“Everybody’s interested in finding out a little bit more about what we're doing, but also finding ways to support it,” said SIU System President Dan Mahony, PhD. “So many of these are initiatives either where we have existing state support or looking for more.”

Photos by Tahzive Islam: 1- SIUE Group with Gov. Pritzker; 2- Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chris Gordon, Ricky Lallish, 3- Chancellor Minor, CODES scholar Mihlali Kapatamoyo, 4- At the SIUE ERTC, Photos by Howard Ash: Senator Christopher Belt and Ricky Lallish, 5- Charles Fulford, Ricky Lallish, Sen. Christopher Belt, Cem Karacal, 6- Sen. Belt, Jalyn King, Charles Fulford.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will open registration for the 2026 summer and fall terms later this month.

For incoming, visiting, and current students looking to lighten their fall course load, stay on track for graduation, or explore new subjects, SIUE’s Summer Session offers more than 850 credit-bearing courses designed to help students reach their academic goals. Many courses meet for five weeks or less, leaving plenty of time for other summer plans. Summer Session registration opens for all students on Thursday, March 26.

To register and learn more about SIUE’s Summer Session, visit siue.edu/summer.

Fall registration will roll out by class level beginning Monday, March 30, and continue into early April. Registration opens for all students, including visiting students, on Thursday, April 9. Registration begins each day at 10 a.m. For complete registration information, visit siue.edu/register.

“Registering early provides current students with the best opportunities to build a schedule that supports their goals and keeps them on track,” said Patrick Sears, MPA, registrar. “By meeting with their academic advisors, students can make informed decisions and move into the next term feeling confident and prepared.”

Graduate students should contact their graduate program advisor for guidance on registration.

“Early registration positions students for a strong start,” said Kevin Wathen, interim vice chancellor for enrollment management. “Securing classes when registration opens helps students stay on track for graduation, avoid unnecessary stress, and build a schedule that supports their academic and personal commitments."

PHOTO: Students studying at an SIUE picnic table. Photo by Howard Ash.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville admissions staff and multiple campus partners hosted admitted students for the academic year 2026-27 along with their families. During two weeks in March, the SIUE delegation, which included alumni, greeted more than 100 students in venues across Chicago and St. Louis, Mo.  as well as high school counselors from nearly 40 suburban Chicago high schools.

"What stood out in Chicago was the energy across all the events. At the student receptions, students weren’t there just to learn more and inform their decision, most showed up already confident in SIUE. That excitement carried through the room with families and our staff,“ said Kevin Wathen, EdD, Interim Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management.

In Naperville, SIUE also hosted a luncheon for Hope Chicago staff and 51 high school counselors and staff from 37 high schools throughout the Chicago and northwestern suburban area. Wathen was impressed with the engagement of community partners, saying, “At the counselor event, they came in just as engaged, asking thoughtful questions and really wanting to understand how we support their students.”

A total of 131 admitted students and guests enjoyed dinner at Dave & Busters in the Chicagoland area, a tour of the St. Louis City Museum alongside Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, and practice swings at the driving ranges at Top Golf in both regions.

“Our number one goal each year is to host admitted students and their families and to provide timely and accurate information to allow students to make their final decision for fall,” said Kelley Brooks, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions. “This year we were excited to welcome SIUE Alumni from the Chicago and St. Louis area as well as campus partners such as Summer Success, University Housing, Financial Aid, and New Student Families and Programs. Admitted students and their families had a great time attending the receptions!”

Wathen agreed, adding, “Across all events, you could feel the momentum around SIUE and the level of care and commitment across the institution, from the Chancellor joining us, to the staff who showed up and did what they do best- connect with students and families.”

Photos by Howard Ash 

“We are encouraged by these outcomes,” said Efrosini Hortis, EdD, Interim Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Persistence and Success. “They reflect the intentional, day-to-day praxis of our advisors in cultivating trust, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting students so they feel confident, capable, knowledgeable, and authentically connected.”

The advising team’s use of a more student-centered advising curriculum identified the basic knowledge every first-year student should learn. Hortis and team defined relationship, trust and meaningful conversation as advising strategies for students to develop clarity in general education and major requirements.

Assessment has also become a vital part of OFTA’s practice. Over the past three semesters—Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Fall 2025—approximately 350 students per semester, for a total of over 1,000 students, provided feedback on what they learned and experienced: 

• 98.9% felt welcomed at the front desk
• 98.6% felt welcomed by their advisor
• 90.1% felt comfortable reaching out about academic or personal concerns
• 98.6% reported clear explanations of general education and major requirements
• 97.3% expressed overall satisfaction with their advisor
• 91.1% would recommend their advisor to another student

These efforts are reflected in student persistence as well. Students reported feeling welcomed, informed, supported and trusted. “First-year retention remains one of the foundational priorities of our work, particularly as we serve students with diverse needs, pathways, and lived experiences, and we approach this responsibility with care and a strong sense of ethos,” Hortis said.

According to Hortis, most OFTA advisors have four or more years of service in the office, providing the department with continuity, shared expertise, meaningful collaboration and trust. The unit advises students across at least 45 different majors, and allows for mentoring, reflection, consistent practice, trust and growth. “I am deeply grateful for our advising team and the meaningful relationships we have built as a team, and most importantly, with students,” she said.

One year in, the OFTA model has established a strong foundation for continuous improvement. Hortis added, “While these results are affirming, we remain committed to listening closely to our students’ feedback and applying that insight with purpose to continuously improve our services and strengthen the support we provide.”

PHOTO: Students on SIUE campus

SIUE graduate outfielder Terrick Thompson-Allen (Sioux City, Iowa) has been named the Co-Player of the Week in the Ohio Valley Conference after helping the Cougars to a weekend sweep at Morehead State to open conference play.

Thompson-Allen had a monster week for SIUE, hitting .650 (13-20) for the week with four home runs and 11 RBIs. He ended the week with an on-base percentage of .682 and a slugging percentage at 1.450.

He opened the week going 3-4 at Illinois State, but really went off at Morehead State, going 10-16 with four home runs and 11 RBIs. He homered twice on Friday and once each on Saturday and Sunday.

Thompson-Allen capped the weekend by hitting for the cycle Sunday going 5-6 with 5 RBIs. He is the first Cougar to hit for the cycle since 2010.

The award is the third this year for a Cougar player and the second consecutive week an SIUE player has earned the award. It is the first for Thompson-Allen.

SIUE will play at Saint Louis Tuesday before playing host to Tennessee Tech for a weekend series at Simmons Baseball Complex.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Office of Student Financial Aid is organizing a series of outreach workshop events to help attendees fill out their 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  
The sessions include a list of events:  

• Completion Nights with financial aid staff walking attendees through the FAFSA, answering questions and providing one-on-one assistance 
• Virtual information sessions with expert support, sharing helpful tips 
• Financial aid pop-up locations in residence halls to assist attendees with application completion 

More information is available on the SIUE FAFSA Completion Nights information page.

A free application completed by current and prospective college students across the country, FAFSA is one of the most important tools for lowering the cost of higher education and is an essential step to determine eligibility for student financial aid. Submitting FAFSA applications ensures students are not leaving free resources like grants and scholarships out of their calculations.        
 
The FAFSA determines federal, state, and institutional aid eligibility and is available to students on an annual basis in order to leverage the funding benefits. Funding distributed through this process, such as federal grants, work study positions and other need-based aid, does not have to be repaid. 

The application for 2026-27 opened ahead of schedule last year on September 24, and SIUE encouraged all current and incoming students to file their applications early to maximize potential financial aid and not miss out on time-sensitive funding. Applications for the 2026-27 school year may be filed October 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Any corrections or updates can be submitted by September 12, 2027.     

“Completing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps students can take to make college more affordable. We know the process can feel overwhelming, so we’re here to help,” says Don Pulliam, MBA, director of financial aid at SIUE. “Filing early gives students the best chance to maximize their financial aid and avoid missing out on available funding. That’s why we’ve designed these workshops to remove barriers, meet students where they are, and provide the clear guidance and support they need to complete the FAFSA with confidence and successfully plan for the upcoming academic year.”  

Student applicants will need their FSA ID, social security number, and 2024 federal tax information to complete the application form. Students who are considered dependent by federal standards will also need to have their parents’ information to file. All applicants are encouraged to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool if they are eligible to import verified tax information directly into the FAFSA instead of having to enter it manually. 

For more information, visit the SIUE Financial Aid Official website or call 618-650-3880 to speak with a representative.

PHOTO: SIUE Cougar Statue on the Stratton Quad