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 

For two days only, a cataloger from the Mobile Memory Lab, a service of Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS), will carefully scan or photograph 2D and 3D family heirlooms and community artifacts in high resolution, work with owners to record important details about the items, and catalog them for inclusion in the Illinois Digital Archive. Owners get access to the digital images while ensuring their family’s or business’ stories are shared with future generations.

All items digitized by the Mobile Memory Lab are added to the Illinois Digital Archives, a free and accessible repository for the digital collections of the Illinois State Library and other cultural institutions and libraries across the state.

The Mobile Memory Lab digitizes other items as well, including slides, letters, documents, postcards, 3D historical items (which librarians call “realia”), personal art, and more, as long as the owner holds reproduction rights or the items are in the public domain. All items are returned at the end of each appointment.

Space is limited, and appointments are required. Walk-in appointments may be available but are not guaranteed.

Interested in digitally preserving your family or community treasures during Digitization Day? Sign up for a free in-person appointment with the registration form or email siwilli@siue.edu.

Event hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Lovejoy Library.

Appointments are one hour. This event is free and open to the public. 

PHOTOS: Lovejoy Library and Mobile Lab flyer

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Theater and Dance premiered their production of Tennessee Williams’ classic play “The Glass Menagerie,” directed by Tress Kurzym, MFA, on Wednesday, March 18. The production brings audiences into the fragile, bittersweet world of the Wingfield family as memory, longing and hope shape their lives.

Known for its poetic storytelling and emotional depth, “The Glass Menagerie” remains one of the most celebrated works of modern American theater.

“Having the opportunity to finally direct The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams has been incredibly meaningful. It’s timeless. His use of poetic imagery and language as a tool to explore the dysfunction of family through memory continues to resonate no matter when or where it is produced,” said Kurzym, Area Head for Theater Education. “However, being able to bring this story to life here, so close to the place that inspired much of its creation has made it extra special."

She added, "What has made it truly unforgettable, though, is the remarkable group of student actors and creatives who have showcased their talents and dedication on this production. They are incredibly inspiring and have made the entire process, from the research and analysis of the text to the design and staging of the production, a true joy.” 
 
Photos by Howard Ash 

The week begins on Monday with an interdisciplinary panel titled “Creativity and Critical Thinking in the Age of AI.” Professors Shivendu Singh, PhD, from the School of Business, Sinan Onal, PhD, School of Engineering, Jeff Manual, PhD, professor of history and librarian Mitchell Haas, MSLIS, will discuss AI use creatively and critically at 1:30 p.m. Later that day, Omar Perkins, Director of AI Strategies at the Perkins Institute, will present “The Cultural Mind Shift: Practicing AI Beyond the Tool” at 3:30 p.m.  
 
The first day concludes with a presentation titled “Critical Perspective on A.I.” by SIUE faculty members Gary Hicks, PhD, and Ashton Speno, PhD. The events will take place in MUC Maple-Dogwood Room, and the university community is invited to attend.

On Tuesday, March 24, at 11:30 a.m. students are invited to enjoy the First Amendment Free Food Festival at Dunham Hall Patio, organized and supported by the student newspaper, The Alestle. The festival will be followed by a presentation titled “Creative Workflows with AI: Human and Ethical Issues” by Nick Walden, Partner in Brand and Creative at Elasticity, at 3:30 p.m. Walden will discuss how the creative media industry ethically uses AI into everyday professional workflows.

Sessions on Wednesday, March 25, begin at 2 p.m. with a panel of recent graduates discussing “What we wish we knew before we graduated” in MUC Maple-Dogwood Room. This year’s panelists include Amyri Davis, Producer at KTVI, Syndey Gordon, Broadcast Engineer at KTVI, Hannah Ledford, Individual Giving Coordinator at Nine PBS and Prajakta Pawaskar, account manager at Top Tier Events. The session will be followed by presentations showcasing current graduate and undergraduate student work. Mass communication students will share their research and experiences from their involvement with The Alestle, Mass Comm Club, Global Village, sports streaming, video production and photography projects.

The week concludes on Thursday, March 26, with a screening of the documentary “The Librarians” emceed by Joe Kohlburn at 2:00 p.m. in The Abbott Auditorium at Lovejoy Library. The film highlights librarians as the first responders in the fight for democracy and First Amendment Rights. The screening is supported by the Lovejoy Library and the College of Arts and Sciences. 

PHOTO: SIUE Mass Comm student crew in newly renovated television studio
 

SIUE standouts Stefaniya Anikina and Marguax Guibal Britt have been selected as the Ohio Valley Conference Women's Tennis Doubles Team of the Week.

The Cougar duo were 6-1 winners Saturday in SIUE's OVC opener against Tennessee State. They defeated Natalie Walsh and Julie Tungamarial in the No. 1 doubles match to help lead the Cougars to a 7-0 sweep over the Tigers.

Anikina and Guibal Britt shared the honor with Western Illinois' Mana Fawcett and Jessica Hess.

SIUE returns to action Sunday for a 1 p.m. road match at OVC rival Southeast Missouri.

SIUE softball's McKayla Anderson was named the co-Ohio Valley Conference Pitcher of the Week.

The sophomore right-hander from Algonquin, Illinois, tossed a two-hitter Saturday in SIUE's three-game sweep of OVC rival Morehead State. She also tossed one scoreless inning against Minnesota.

For the week, she posted a perfect 0.00 earned run average in eight innings pitched, allowing two hits, walking one and striking out two. Anderson now holds a season record of 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA.

Anderson, who was the OVC Pitcher of the Week last week, shared this award with Tennessee Tech's Emily York.

SIUE returns to action Wednesday for a 5 p.m. contest at Saint Louis. The Cougars return home to Cougar Field this weekend for a three-game series against Eastern Illinois.

 
As part of a system-wide initiative, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has partnered with Google and the National Association of Higher Education Systems (NASH) to provide Google Career Certificates to students as co-curricular offerings or embedded into academic programs. SIUE students, faculty and staff now have the opportunity to Grow with Google and earn no-cost training licenses in the form of Google Career Certificates and Specialization. SIUE Online Services and Educational Outreach will facilitate Google Certificate courses from now through December 31, 2027.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access to high-quality, career-aligned learning that meets the evolving needs of students, faculty, staff and employers. These certificates provide flexible, industry-recognized pathways that help learners build in-demand skills while strengthening the regional workforce. By offering these opportunities across the SIU System, we are connecting education directly to economic growth and ensuring our graduates and our communities are prepared for the future,” said Gireesh Gupchup, PhD, FAPhA, Vice President for Academic Innovation, Planning and Partnerships, Southern Illinois University System.

Google Career Certificates are industry-recognized credentials that equip students with job-ready skills in high-demand fields such as cybersecurity, data analytics, business intelligence, people management, digital marketing and e-commerce, and user experience (UX).

Recently Google launched the Google AI Professional Certificate, directly based on research from Ipsos and Google that reveals while 70% of managers believe an AI-trained workforce is critical for success, only 5% of the workforce is considered "AI fluent.”

SIUE Online Services emphasizes the flexibility involved as part of the Grow with Google initiative. On-demand certificates require about 10 hours a week and can be completed in less than six months. No prior experience or degree is needed.

“Grow with Google at SIUE is a win for everyone—students, alumni, employees, employers, and our wider community. It’s practical, job-aligned learning people can use immediately, and it strengthens the talent pipeline that keeps our region moving forward,” said Tyann Cherry, SIUE Interim Director of Online Student Services and Educational Outreach.

As a member of the pilot program, SIUE, SIU Carbondale and SIU School of Medicine receive the following: 

• Targeted technical assistance and professional development
• Networking and collaboration opportunities with other participating systems, including access to virtual and in-person convenings about microcredentials, AI, and the future of work
• Access to resources and promising practices, including playbooks, case studies, and marketing collateral
• Opportunities for sharing best practices and driving sector-wide progress
• $15,000 stipend per system to be used flexibly to support action-oriented outcomes
• Up to 15 credit hours for qualified participating undergraduates 

In addition to enrolled students, faculty and staff, SIUE alumni and local employers have the opportunity to further their education and upskill areas of online proficiency by partnering with SIUE and participating at no cost in some cases. Partnership conversations are available by contacting outreach@siue.edu.

Select courses by visiting the Google Career Certificates information page. 

PHOTO: SIUE Cougar Statue on the Stratton Quad