Social justice advocate Howard Ross will serve as keynote speaker during Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s second annual Diversity Day, under the theme “From Awareness to Action, SIUE Shaping a Changing World” on Tuesday, Oct. 15.

Ross will speak during the Diversity Day luncheon from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Morris University Center’s (MUC) Meridian Ballroom. Ross will highlight his life’s work and his highly-acclaimed book Everyday Bias, which raises readers level of insight and awareness of important issues surrounding unconscious bias.

“Unconscious bias is a foundational part of how we see the world,” Ross noted. “It impacts every decision we make. Bias is a normal part of the way the human brain functions, but when left unexamined can have disastrous effect. We can learn to mitigate the negative aspects of it and live more consistently with our values. I am always happy to expose this work, because the earlier we learn, the more impact it can have on our ability to live a conscious, inclusive life.”

Tuesday’s Diversity Day events will begin with an Opening Community Gathering and Welcome Breakfast at 8 a.m. in the Meridian Ballroom. The opening session will feature a School of Business alumni panel.

Engagement session tracks are divided into the categories of Awareness (foundational), Enhancing My Knowledge (intermediate), Allyship/Activism/Action (advanced), and Open to All.

Other activities include, but are not limited to:

• Diversity Day Community Fair: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the MUC Goshen Lounge
• Parade of Nations: 9:30-10 a.m. from the Meridian Ballroom to the Stratton Quadrangle
• Athletics, Art Hive and Multicultural Music: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on the Quad
• Taste of Diversity at SIUE: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the MUC Food Court and Fixins’ Restaurant
• Book Signing with Howard Ross: 1:15-2:15 p.m. in the Meridian Ballroom
• Community Service Project: 3:30-5:30. p.m. on the Quad

A complete schedule of events, including details on the array of engagement sessions, is available at siue.edu/institutional-diversity-and-inclusion/diversity-day.

Photos: Social justice advocate Howard Ross.

KMOV-TV reporter Steve Harris posted this story on the SIU School of Dental Medicine’s annual Give Kids a Smile Day on Monday, Oct. 14

Photo: Fourth-year SIU SDM student Jamie Terrill with a young patient.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded a three-year $991,073 grant to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville for the project “ADVANCE Adaptation: Toward an Inclusive Model of Excellence in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).” SIUE Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb, PhD, is the principal investigator. The award began this month and runs through September 30, 2022. 

Cobb is joined in the project by co-principal investigators Lynn Bartels, PhD, professor of psychology in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB); Jessica Harris, PhD, interim assistant provost for inclusive academic excellence; Leah O’Brien, PhD, professor of chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS); and Susan Morgan, PhD, associate dean for research and graduate studies in the SIUE Graduate School, and professor in the Department of Civil Engineering.

Serving as senior personnel on the leadership team are Jamie Ball, JD, director of the Office of Equal Opportunity, Access and Title IX Coordination, and Sandra Weissinger, PhD, associate professor of sociology in CAS.

The project’s goals include: increasing recruitment and hiring of diverse female STEM faculty by implementing the  Progressive Recruitment Initiatives Mark Excellence (PRIME) program; increasing retention of diverse female STEM faculty by improving departmental climate and support for female faculty with the Keeping Educators through Equity Programming (KEEP) initiatives; and increasing promotion of diverse female STEM faculty by mitigating bias in the tenure and promotion review processes through the University Promotion (UP) initiative.

Cobb pointed to an earlier NSF ADVANCE IT-Catalyst award in 2010 as providing the foundation for this grant. “Previously, our team collected data, planned and set the stage for longer-term institutional change efforts to enhance gender representation and gender equity among STEM faculty,” she said. “With this new award, we can pursue the next steps of the work. By focusing on the goals and strategies in this project plan, we will help strengthen processes that serve our goals of inclusivity and equity, and broaden representation in our faculty.”

Together these collaborative initiatives provide a comprehensive approach that will result in diverse applicant hires, improved retention and promotion of diverse female STEM faculty, and stronger academic programs at SIUE. The integrated approach will serve as a model for similar institutions.

“This project is an exciting opportunity to create substantial, lasting changes that improve the work climate for SIUE faculty and SIUE students,” Morgan said.  “Improved gender equity will translate into stronger academic programs that attract quality faculty and students in the increasingly competitive higher education market.”  

The project has national implications. A more diverse faculty will retain and graduate more diverse students in STEM, strengthening and expanding the U.S. STEM workforce. Two graduate student researchers will document the faculty response and impact of the initiatives. Results will be shared at national venues, through an SIUE ADVANCE project website, and through presentations to interested internal audiences and external audiences.

“While the representation of women in academic STEM disciplines has increased steadily over time, there remain ongoing challenges, such as disproportionate underrepresentation in specific disciplines, and underrepresentation at the rank of full professor and in positions of leadership,” Harris said. “These inequities and others must be addressed in higher education if we are to meet the growing demands of a 21st century global economy.”

Photo (L-R): SIUE’s Leah O’Brien, professor of chemistry; Jessica Harris, interim assistant provost for inclusive academic excellence; Lynn Bartels, professor of psychology; Susan Morgan, associate dean for research and graduate studies in the SIUE Graduate School; and Denise Cobb provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Well-meaning people can unintentionally create isolation, inequities and even harm to those who are different from themselves, according to Howard Ross, leading social justice advocate and influential expert on identifying and addressing unconscious bias. 

Ross, founder of Cook Ross and best-selling author, was the keynote speaker on Tuesday, Oct. 15 during Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s second annual Diversity Day. The two-day event, under the theme “From Awareness to Action, SIUE Shaping a Changing World,” included artistic offerings, music, presentations, exhibits, guest speakers and a parade of nations. 

Alton and East St. Louis campuses also participated in Diversity Day. The SIU School of Dental Medicine (SDM) featured keynote speaker Jennifer Hernandez, PhD, associate professor in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB). Hernandez delivered the address: “Commercializing Culture: Culture Out of Context.” 

At the SIUE East St. Louis Center, J.T. Snipes, PhD, assistant professor in the SEHHB, facilitated a conversation on the Netflix miniseries, “When They See Us,” created, co-written and directed by Ava DuVernay. Gina Jeffries, EdD, director of the SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School, and Keith Ware, EdD, director of the SIUE Upward Bound Program, coordinated the discussion. 

“Diversity Day is one of those times when SIUE is at its best, and we can show the world our great, vibrant and diverse University community,” said Venessa A. Brown, PhD, associate chancellor for the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion and chief diversity officer. “This year was our first Parade of Nations, where SIUE students represented 49 countries in their native attire and flags. I like to think of SIUE as the United Nations of southern Illinois.” 

“With today’s events, we look forward to the chance to reflect and rededicate ourselves to an institution that has an appreciation and a great love for the differences between us,” said SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook, “rather than the concerns about the differences between us.” 

“I’ve done this work since I was 15, and I’m encouraged by history,” said Ross. “We know that it can be two steps forward, and one step back, and clearly we have taken one step back and are dealing with a backlash reaction.” 

“I have no doubt that in the long run, as Dr.  (Martin Luther) King (Jr.) said, the arc of history bends toward freedom,” continued Ross. “We will keep doing our work and invite people into the conversation. We will speak out when there is something done offensively, but we need to be careful about associating everybody on the other side of us as uniformly bad.” 

Ross gave the audience a practical suggestion on connecting with those with whom you disagree or do not identify – take “the other” to lunch:

• Do not persuade, defend or interrupt. Be courteous, authentic and listen
• Ask such questions as “What are some of your life experiences that have led you to feel the way you do? What issues deeply concern you? What have you always wanted to ask someone from the other side?” 

“One of the things I truly enjoy about this day is our level of commitment regarding diversity and inclusion at SIUE,” said Pembrook. “I’m reminded of one of the things Dr. King said, which is ‘The time is always right to do what is right.’ So whatever spirit that is in this room, let’s keep it going for the next 365 days until we get to the third annual Diversity Day at SIUE.” 

 Following the luncheon, Ross held a book signing with copies of his new book Our Search for Belonging: How the Need for Connection is Tearing Our Culture Apart available for purchase. Ross has also authored the Washington Post best seller, Everyday Bias: Identifying and Navigating Unconscious Judgments in Our Daily Lives, published by Rowman and Littlefield in 2014; and ReInventing Diversity: Transforming Organizational Community to Strengthen People, Purpose and Performance, published by Rowman and Littlefield in conjunction with SHRM in 2011. 

Photos:
Howard Ross, leading social justice advocate and influential expert on identifying and addressing unconscious bias, was the keynote speaker at SIUE’s second annual Diversity Day. 

SIUE incorporated the Parade of Nations for the first time during its second annual Diversity Day. 

J.T. Snipes, PhD, assistant professor in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior, facilitated a conversation on the Netflix miniseries, “When They See Us,” created, co-written and directed by Ava DuVernay. 

Participating in the “When They See Us” discussion included students from the SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School and the SIUE Upward Bound Program.

Prospective college students are invited to learn about available higher education opportunities as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville hosts the Illinois Regional College Fair (IRCF) Fair from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 in the Morris University Center.

The event is sponsored by the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC), in conjunction with SIUE. High school students, transfer students and parents in attendance will have the opportunity to meet with college representatives from more than 100 in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities, to learn about academic programs and other aspects of the student experience.

Financial aid representatives also will be on hand to answer questions. In addition, local high school counselors will be present to assist students looking for guidance on post-secondary options.

“We greatly appreciate the support of local high school and community college counselors who help provide this opportunity for students and families to explore numerous institutions, all within one setting, during one evening,” said Todd Burrell, SIUE director of undergraduate admissions and former IACAC president.

Before the IRCF was initiated, college fairs were held several times throughout the year at various area high schools. This annual event on SIUE’s campus serves to consolidate efforts and centralize higher education options for everyone involved.

”SIUE Office of Admissions continues to host the Illinois Regional College Fair each year, and it continues to grow,” added Kelley Brooks, SIUE assistant director of admissions. “Students from the St. Louis Metro area will have a chance to speak with almost 100 colleges from all over the U.S. This is an exciting time of year for high school students as they embark on the journey of selecting the college that will best fit their needs. In partnership with the Illinois Association for College Admission Counselors (IACAC), we are excited to once again host the fair.”

The IRCF will feature StriveScan, which will allow attendees to register in advance or during the fair to gain a barcode via text. They can use that barcode to easily share their contact information with participating colleges. Registration details are available at strivefair.com.

For more information, and a list of participating colleges, visit siue.edu/ircf/. Registration is not required. Free parking will be available in Lots P4-12 for IRCF visitors and participants.

Photo: Attendees at the 2018 Illinois Regional College Fair show interest in the SIUE College of Pharmacy.

Five Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Education Health and Human Behavior alumni were honored at the Illinois Principal’s Association Southwestern Region Fall Social and Awards Presentation held in early September. The awards were for their work as leaders in their respective school districts.

The recipients were:

• Scott Battas, MS ’08, Athletic Director of the Year for Mascoutah School District #19
• Dawn Elser, MS ’97, EdS ’17, Superintendent of the Year for Central 104 School District
• Alyssa Smith, BS ’02, EdS ’14, Reaching Out and Building Bridges for East Alton United Methodist Church
• Rodney Winslow, EdS ’13, EdD ’15, Secondary Principal of the Year for Triad High School, Unit District #2
• Tron Young, MS ’09, EdS ’17, EdD ’19, Jr. High Principal of the year, Joseph Arthur Middle School, Central #104

Legendary cartoonist Charles Schulz once wrote, “happiness is a warm puppy.” Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Beth Wiemers, an elementary education instructor and field supervisor in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior, decided to introduce something of that nature to her classroom on Wednesday, Oct. 9 when the subject for the day was creating a positive classroom culture and/or environment. 

One element to creating that positivity is teachers becoming better acquainted with their students. To model that practice, Wiemers had the students complete an activity called, “I wish my teacher knew.”  Denver Public Schools third grade teacher Kyle Schwartz published “I Wish My Teacher Knew: How One Question Can Change Everything for Our Kids” in 2016. The book revealed the daily realities faced by her students, and of which she was unaware.

“Due to feedback from my students regarding their stress levels, I decided to contact Got Your Six Support Therapy Dogs,” Wiemers said. The therapy dogs came to visit both sections of the CIED 314-Learning Environments class. Sarah Marsh, also an elementary education instructor and field supervisor, led the other section.

“The support dog personnel shared the benefits of support dogs, and how my students, when they become classroom teachers, can contact the organization to assist their students,” Wiemers said. “My students were then allowed to sit with the dogs and decompress. The difference in my students’ demeanor was amazing. Many thanked us for listening to their concerns and doing something to address them.”

Wiemers will have the support dogs back for an encore during the spring semester. “Another high pressure time for these same students is when they are submitting their EdTpa’s for teaching certification,” Wiemers said. “Our plan is to bring the dogs back during that submission week to help with stress.” 

The support dogs will also return for the fall 2019 learning environments class to not only assist students, but also make them aware of the available options when they are classroom teachers.

Photo (Upper Right, L-R): SIUE education students Madison Hamby, Marina Taylor, and Ashley Orr.

Lower Right: Beth Wiemers’ elementary education class at SIUE with support dogs.

The Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) will provide free dental care to veterans on Thursday, Nov. 14 during its second annual Veteran’s Care Day at the SDM’s main clinic in building 263, 2800 College Ave. in Alton.

“At the SIU SDM, it’s important that we meaningfully demonstrate how appreciative we are of our veterans’ sacrifice and service,” said Katie Kosten, DMD, director of Community Dentistry. “We understand that the selflessness of those who serve our country is the exact reason we enjoy our freedoms. We are honored to say thank you to our veterans with the services that the SDM is capable of providing.”

A year ago, nearly $22,000 worth of free comprehensive care was provided to 33 patients during the inaugural Veteran’s Care Day. SIU SDM third- and fourth-year dental students, under the supervision of dental school faculty who are all licensed dentists, will provide free exams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings and extractions at no cost.

Reservations for the SIU SDM Veterans Dental Care Day are required and will begin on Monday, Oct. 21 at 9 a.m. Due to the high demand for dental services realized at last year’s event, appointments will be made available based on reservation order until all appointments are filled. Walk-in appointments will not be available the day of the event.

Contact Valerie Donahue at the SIU SDM at 618-474-7200 to make reservations.

Patients should note that treatment needs will be evaluated and prioritized, and all necessary care may not be able to be provided in this one day. At the conclusion of each appointment, all veterans will have the opportunity to become patients of SIU SDM if they need ongoing care.

The SIU School of Dental Medicine students manage approximately 35,000 patient visits each year at its patient clinics in Alton and East St. Louis. In addition, students offer oral health treatment, screenings and education to more than 10,000 people annually through a wide variety of off-campus community outreach events. These opportunities provide students the training they need to graduate and become highly skilled dentists. The School of Dental Medicine is a vital oral health care provider for residents of southern and central Illinois, and the St. Louis metropolitan region.

Photo: A veteran receives dental care during the 2018 SIU School of Dental Medicine’s Veteran’s Care Day.

Eight Southwestern Illinois-based entrepreneurs and their innovative business concepts have been selected to move on to the final round of the Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s 6^th annual Metro East Start-Up Challenge (MESC) business plan competition.

A total of 16 semifinalists completed and submitted their full business plans with the support of the SBDC and professional business mentors. First prize is worth $10,000, second prize is $6,000 and third prize is $4,000. Winners are also offered an array of in-kind services.

“We’re extremely pleased with the sustained level of interest in our region’s business plan contest,” said Jo Ann Di Maggio May, SBDC director. “There has been a robust outpouring of enthusiasm about the Challenge from applicants, community leaders and our small business development partners.

“The Challenge creates the opportunity to engage with the region in cultivating an important economic development strategy. Although only eight companies remain eligible for the top prize, we encourage everyone who considered or entered the Challenge to access the SBDC’s wide menu of resources and expertise.”

The Challenge’s final round requires the competitors to pitch their business concept to five judges on Thursday, Oct. 24. The winners will be announced immediately following the pitches.

The 2019 MESC finalists are:

• House of Ninjas LLC, O'Fallon
• Maydai Trauma Focused Clinical Research & Network Center, East St. Louis
• Stone’s Essential Care Package: Just for YOU! Belleville
• Tricentum Technologies LLC, Prairie Du Rocher
• Cover Me, Edwardsville
• Grain Densification International, Granite City
• Daughtsy, Belleville
• 724 St. Louis Road, LLC, d.b.a. Hyperion Commercial Properties, Collinsville

The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE and East St. Louis assists start-up ventures like these, as well as existing businesses headquartered in the nine-county region of southwestern Illinois, including Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe and Randolph counties. It is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and SIUE as a service to Illinois small businesses.

By aiding entrepreneurs and companies in defining their path to success, the SBDC network positively impacts the Metro East by strengthening the business community, creating and retaining new jobs and encouraging new investment. The SBDC enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance to individuals by means of advising, training, research and advocacy for new ventures and existing small businesses. When appropriate, the SBDC strives to affiliate its ties to the region to support the goals and objectives of both the SIUE School of Business and the University at large.

To learn more about the SBDC, contact the IL SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE at (618) 650-2929.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Pre-Collegiate Programs welcomed 21 students to campus on Thursday, Oct. 10 from SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School (CHS) and Collinsville High School, according to Makesha Harris Lee, EdD, assistant director.  

During the first Pre-Collegiate event of the 2019-20 school year, juniors and seniors spent a full day attending the following breakout sessions: Leadership Development, Financial Aid, Paying for College via an Interactive Game of Jeopardy, and a “Real Talk” student panel with current SIUE graduate and undergraduate students.  

“Students discussed their academic aspirations, and explored academic majors and career options in STEM-related fields,” said Harris Lee. “Students also learned the value of hands-on learning experiences through Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) at SIUE.” 

“SIUE Charter High School students already enjoy working with the SIUE Pre-Collegiate Program,” said Tarael Kee, Collinsville High School counselor. “Our students are receiving early college experiences that are not always available, because our counselors have very high caseloads. This Pre-Collegiate Program event allowed our students to tour SIUE, and learn valuable lessons about leadership and the financial aid process. We are extremely thankful to have had the opportunity.” 

The next SIUE pre-collegiate event for freshmen and sophomores at CHS and Collinsville High School will occur Wednesday, Nov. 6. 

The SIUE Pre-Collegiate Program offers resources critical for college preparedness for students who may not have the personal resources to obtain them. Students are able to visit SIUE. In addition, the Pre-Collegiate staff visits students at local high schools and provide services that include an orientation, assistance with Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), math tutoring, and other supplemental programs. The Pre-Collegiate Program currently provides math tutoring two days per week to students at Collinsville High School and will deliver math assistance to SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School students in the spring. 

Photo:
SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School and Collinsville High School students work on an activity during SIUE Pre-Collegiate Program opening event.

More than 60 Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students went through a few hours with their newly acquired identities, and more importantly, financial net worth, determining how to eat, shop, work, get to school, pay bills and survive.  

The School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Department of Applied Health’s Nutrition Program and the Food and Nutrition (FAN) Club held a poverty simulation on Thursday, Oct. 10 in the Multifunction Room in Evergreen Hall. During the simulation, students role-played the lives of low-income families to empathize with what life is like month-to-month for those living in poverty, according to Jennifer Zuercher, PhD, RD and assistant professor in nutrition, one of the event coordinators. 

In the simulation, participants were assigned to various families. Some were newly unemployed, recently deserted by the “breadwinner,” homeless, recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), senior citizens receiving disability or retirement, or grandparents raising their grandchildren. 

Tables lining the perimeter of the room represented various community resources such as a bank, super center, community action agency, employer, utility company, pawnbroker, social service agency, payday and title loan facility, mortgage company, childcare center and others. 

“This is a simulation and not a game,” said Zuercher. “You may be tempted to treat it as a game because of the play money and other props that are part of it. The statistics and situations are real and based on real life experiences. 

“Poverty is not a game for the more than 39 million Americans and the more than 35,000 Madison County residents who are living in poverty,” she emphasized. 

SIUE junior Drake Aten is sitting in his “house” with his “nine-year-old son” senior Michael Ademiyi, looking and feeling overwhelmed. Minutes ago, a representative from his mortgage company posted a warning on his front door, and told him he had until next week to make his payment or face eviction. 

“I got the eviction warning, because I wasn’t able to make it to work,” said Aten, who is playing the role of 40-year-old Quenton. “I don’t have any transportation, and I didn’t have the cash on me at the moment. I don’t get paid until end of the week.” 

Quenton is a single dad with a nine-year-old son, a 20-year-old daughter and a one-year-old granddaughter. His ex-wife does not pay child support. 

“This is tough. I tried to play this out 1,000 times in my head,” Aten continued. “A survey question asked ‘Do you believe that people in poverty are not as smart as others?’ I answered I did not believe that at all. Looking at this, they have to be twice as smart just to make it.”

Poverty affects the entire family, added Ademiyi, who is playing Kirby, the nine-year-old son of Quenton. “It’s crazy watching my parent and older sister go through this. It takes some of the fun away for me. Poverty can be hard on the kids, as well.” 

Several SIUE students who completed the Oct. 10 poverty simulation will serve as community representatives in the same simulation that will be conducted for teenage participants from Metro East Community Church later this month. 

Photos:
The Department of Applied Health’s Nutrition Program and the Food and Nutrition (FAN) Club held the first poverty simulation lab. 

(L-R) SIUE students Jake Schnettler a senior majoring in civil engineering; and Kaylin Daggs, a junior majoring in public health, talk to one of the community resources about something they need.

Southern Illinois University’s School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) served 85 children between the ages of 3-13 at its 14^th annual Give Kids A Smile Day on Monday, Oct. 14 at the SDM’s main clinic. The volunteer dentists and staff provided $53,604 in preventive, restorative and surgical treatment for the children who participated.

Fun activities for children took place in the gym throughout the event. SDM first-year dental students hosted a variety of “Smile Stations” featuring fun, educational activities and games to help children learn the importance of a good diet and oral hygiene.

 “The holiday affords those needing urgent and routine dental care to come see us,” said Katie Kosten, DMD, assistant professor in the SIU SDM and director of community dentistry. “Children had their dental concerns addressed and had some fun at the same time.”

Give Kids a Smile Day annually offers free comprehensive dental care, including examinations, x-rays, cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings, sealants, stainless steel crowns and extractions. All dental services were provided by SIU SDM faculty, students and staff, and Lewis and Clark Community College dental assisting and dental hygiene faculty and students. Professionals and volunteers from the community also participated.

Give Kids A Smile Day is a national event sponsored by the American Dental Association to provide free dental treatment for underserved children. The event is organized to promote community awareness of the need for dental services among the underserved.

The SIU School of Dental Medicine students manage approximately 35,000 patient visits each year at its patient clinics in Alton and East St. Louis. In addition, students offer oral health treatment, screenings and education to more than 10,000 people annually through a wide variety of off-campus community outreach events. These opportunities provide students the training they need to graduate and become highly skilled dentists. The School of Dental Medicine is a vital oral health care provider for residents of southern and central Illinois, and the St. Louis metropolitan region.

Photo: First-year SIU SDM student Grant Russell face paints a young patient at the annual Give Kids A Smile Day.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Campus Recreation is hosting the 2019 Illinois Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (IIRSA) State Workshop Wed.-Thu., Oct. 23-24 at the Student Fitness Center. Approximately 100 professionals representing 20 different colleges, universities and community colleges from Illinois, Missouri and Kansas are expected to attend.

John Charles, director of government and public affairs for the SIU System, will speak at the opening general session to share insights regarding current discussions among state legislators that could have an impact on higher education.

“This workshop provides an opportunity to network with colleges from across the state,” said Amanda Couch, SIUE fitness operations and student development coordinator. “We can learn from one another on what’s working, what’s not and gain insights from each other. It provides growth opportunities as students and professionals offer presentations to their peers.”

A number of topics from changing trends in higher education to group fitness to intramurals and the future of Esports will be addressed. A sample of the sessions includes:

• The College Arms Race: Changing Higher Education in the U.S.
• Developing Students through Risk Management Training
• Generation Z and Mental Health
• Building Up Your Student Employees

In Couch’s experience, she has appreciated hearing from other professionals specifically related to her areas of responsibility. “Campus Recreation is a great machine, but we all have quite different roles,” she said. “Hearing from others that share my role helps me to build within my area. It also opens up conversation and communication with other current professionals, who we may not otherwise have the opportunity to meet.”

Keith Becherer, director of campus recreation, sees the local economic impact of hosting the conference and the resulting prestige for SIUE Campus Recreation as valuable on a variety of levels. “The opportunities to present, discuss topics with colleagues, engage with vendors at the equipment showcase, and gather the latest industry information from presenters is critical to student and staff professional development,” he added.

The purpose of the IIRSA is to foster and enhance the quality of recreational sports programs, facilities and services in various settings throughout Illinois. This may be accomplished through professional meetings, publications, and/or other methods for the dissemination of ideas. All policies and activities shall be consistent with the philosophy of NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation.

JewelRide, a forward-looking transportation company serving the Metro East with a primary focus on non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), has opened in Edwardsville.

Owner Tapiwa Mupereki has worked with the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Director Jo Ann DiMaggio May since August, receiving assistance to successfully plan and start the business.

 “Each year, more than 3.6 million people miss an appointment due to lack of reliable transportation,” Mupereki said, “I have always had a passion for initiatives for access to healthcare for individuals and communities. It is important to me to help those who don’t have transportation access.”

Mupereki and his wife, Rutendo, a pharmacist and pediatrician, respectively, understand the importance in increasing access to healthcare. They were inspired to provide this critical service since there is no medical transportation service like it in the area, and they are extremely proud to be fulfilling this need within their own community.

JewelRide takes pride in offering reliable, trustworthy, and affordable non-emergency medical transportation to bring smiles and convenience to individuals, families and communities. Their services also include medical and hospital appointments, dialysis visits, seniors’ transportation, assisted living transfers, pharmacy/drugstore prescription pick-up, errands, and tailor-made transportation needs.

Mupereki is quite appreciative of the SBDC and DiMaggio May for the diverse range of useful business guidance offered thus far, including a strong business plan, marketing, creating both a social media and web presence, and thinking about clients and employees.

“The SBDC has a visible intention to help small businesses succeed,” Mupereki shared. “They put in a lot of time and commitment to going through each step, understanding where you are and what needs to be done.”

Looking to the future, Mupereki has high hopes that JewelRide will grow and become a household name throughout the Metro East and surrounding areas.

“Tapiwa has been diligent in learning everything needed to be a successful business owner. It has been an honor and joy working with him,” DiMaggio May said. “JewelRide is going to be a true asset to the Metro East. I look forward to assisting Mupereki further as he grows his company.”

Services extend to all villages, towns, and cities in Madison and St. Clair counties, as well as transporting those who have travel needs from these two counties to the greater St. Louis metro area.

JewelRide can be contacted at 618-250-4771 or tmupereki@jewelride.com. For more information, visit jewelride.com or find them on Facebook at JewelRide.

The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East assists start-up ventures like JewelRide, as well as existing businesses headquartered in the nine-county region of Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe and Randolph. It is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and SIUE as a service to Illinois small businesses.

By aiding entrepreneurs and companies in defining their path to success, the SBDC network positively impacts the Metro East by strengthening the business community, creating and retaining new jobs and encouraging new investment. It enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance to individuals by means of counseling, training, research, and advocacy for new ventures and existing small businesses. When appropriate, the SBDC strives to affiliate its ties to the region to support the goals and objectives of both the SIUE School of Business and the University at large.

To learn about the SBDC, contact theIL SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE at 618-650-2929.

Photo: JewelRide owner Tapiwa Mupereki and his wife, Rutendo.

For 50 years, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Early Childhood Center (ECC) has provided quality education to preschoolers by building trusting relationships with families and the community. 

The ECC is looking for former students and families to help celebrate its tradition of excellence during an Alumni Open House and Family Play Day to be held from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2 at the Center, 795 NW University Dr. in Edwardsville. 

“We have planned an exciting, fun-filled day for our alumni, and all those who would like to help us celebrate,” said ECC Director Rebecca Dabbs MacLean. “One of our special attractions will be Jennifer Ward, noted children’s author from Edwardsville. She will share some readings from her children’s books as well as share activities with families from her, “I Love Birds!” family activity book. 

The day will also include art and STEM activities, field games, an art and photo exhibit, the Beet Box Mobile Farmers Market, Burgers STL food truck and more, according to Dabbs MacLean. The Family Play Day will take place at the Center and at the Outdoor Recreation Sports Complex (Rec-Plex) across the street. 

Please register for the event at Alumni Open House and Family Play Day. ECC alumni and family  members are urged to contact Dabbs MacLean at 618-650-2556 or rdabbsk@siue.edu for more information. 

The ECC recognizes the potential of each child and the vital contributions parents make to the ECC community. Our philosophy is strongly influenced by the Reggio Emilia Approach. Our work with children and families is grounded in our commitments to nurturing trusting relationships. We are devoted to growing a deeply connected community that allows intellectual and emotional risk-taking. We emphasize a joyful, playful climate with a culture of intellectual inquiry and critical thinking. 

Photos courtesy of SIUE Library and Information Services:
The SIUE Early Childhood Center will celebrate its 50^th year anniversary on Saturday, Nov. 2.

The Edwardsville Arts Center (EAC) is presenting a juried ceramic cup show, with the help of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s ceramics program. 

The opening reception of “Raise a Toast: An Exhibition of Ceramic Cups” was held Friday, Oct. 18.”  More than 70 artists applied online for the exhibit, and only 40 were selected to submit their artwork to the EAC. 

Mark Arnold, who earned a master’s of fine arts in art from SIUE in 2017, served as juror of the exhibit. Joseph Page, assistant professor in the Department of Art and Design and EAC board member, originated the idea for the exhibit and asked his former student, Arnold, to judge the artwork. 

Cups in the show range from mugs to tumblers, espresso cups to cappuccino cups, ornamental cups to sculptural cups. Each artist had the option to submit up to three pieces. Arnold sorted through nearly 200 cups and selected 87 to be featured. 

The exhibit will run through Wednesday, Nov. 6. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. The EAC is located at 6165 Center Grove Road in Edwardsville on the campus of Edwardsville High School. 

In addition to the juried artists, the following six invited artists will have their work featured: Mike Cinelli, Naomi Clement, Chandra DeBuse, Ben Jordan, Tim Kowalczyk and Stephanie Wilhelm. Along with Arnold, these artists have made their mark in the clay world with their skillful and unique work. 

 All of the cups will be for sale. For more information, visit edwardsvilleartscenter.com. 

Photos:
“Raise A Toast: An Exhibition of Ceramic Cups” is on display through November 6 at Edwardsville Arts Center.

The SIUE community is mourning the loss of student Michael Peel, who passed away last week from an ATV accident while in Greece. He was 24.

A Chicago native, Peel was a member of the Iota Pi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Although taking a semester off, he was a senior in the College of Arts and Sciences, majoring in mass communications with a minor in business administration. He was just a few hours short of graduation.

As information regarding visitation and services becomes available, it will be passed along.

The following is a list of resources available to members of the campus community:

On-Campus

• To support acceptance, coping, and grieving, short-term options are available through Counseling Services, co-located with Health Services in the lower level of the Student Success Center (adjacent to the Morris University Center), suite 0222. By calling x-2842, Psychotherapists are available for the following:

­   Crisis Support

­   Individual Therapy

­   Attend on-campus memorial events

­   Facilitate group, classroom or team discussions/debriefings

Local Community Resources

• NAMI
• Heartlinks

Many hands drew, colored and dipped themselves into paint with one common purpose – to illustrate the importance of diversity. The hands belonged to students at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Cahokia Head Start Center. The reason was to participate in SIUE’s second annual Diversity Day on Tuesday, Oct. 15. 

“My center has participated in Diversity Day for the past two years,” said Florence Y. Chears-Lawrence, Cahokia Head Start Center coordinator. “This year, students in each classroom, along with their parents, created a work of art that represented diversity. We explained the word diversity in terms that the children could understand: ‘We are all different, yet we are all the same!’” 

“One class chose to make paper plate faces,” continued Chears-Lawrence. “This taught the children that everyone has a face, and although there are differences, they are all beautiful!” 

It was also important for the Cahokia Center staff to participate in the Diversity Day, according to the coordinator. 

“My staff needs to know that they are part of the University, and although the work they are doing with preschool-aged children is different than the work that SIUE faculty does, their jobs are still critical,” noted Chears-Lawrence. “This was an amazing event. I am looking forward to next year’s and the excitement it will bring!” 

SIUE Athletics joins the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as the state’s top public institution in graduating student-athletes and tied for 13^th nationally, according to the NCAA Graduation Success Rate (GSR) report.

Five SIUE programs earned a perfect score of 100 percent in the latest GSR figures. The men’s golf, women’s basketball, softball, women’s tennis and volleyball teams all earned a perfect scores. The GSR for the SIUE student-athletes in the 2009-2012 cohort is 92 percent overall.

“SIUE student-athletes continue to demonstrate success in the classroom from year to year,” said SIUE Director of Athletics Tim Hall. “SIUE has been among the top public institutions for many years now, and this report is a reflection of our student-athletes’ diligent work.”

Public Institutions in Illinois (GSR for 2009-12 cohort)
SIUE 92
Illinois-Champaign 92
Illinois State 90
SIUC 90
Illinois-Chicago 88
Northern Illinois 88
Western Illinois 86
Eastern Illinois 84
Chicago State 80

SIUE also is the top public institution among Ohio Valley Conference schools.

“Student-athlete success is at the forefront of our institutional goals,” added Hall. “Creating a regionally-prominent and nationally-respected athletics program begins with a strong academic reputation.”

GSR was created in 1995 in response to Division I college and university presidents, who wanted a rate that more accurately reflected the mobility of all college students than the federal graduation rate (FGR).

The GSR formula, intended to be a more complete and accurate look at student-athlete success, removes from the rate student-athletes who leave school while academically eligible and includes student-athletes who transfer to a school after initial enrollment elsewhere.

Public Institutions Nationally (GSR for 2009-12 cohort)
New Hampshire 96
Cleveland State 95
North Carolina-Asheville 95
Vermont 95
William & Mary 95
Minnesota 94
South Carolina 94
Utah State 94
Utah 94
Virginia 94
Michigan 93
Nebraska 93
SIUE 92
UCLA 92
Illinois 92
Middle Tennessee State 92
Toledo 92
Green Bay 92
UMKC 92

For the first time, pre-collegiate programming is being offered at Collinsville High School (CHS), under the direction of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center (ESLC) Upward Bound (UB) program. The new offering also creates a partnership between SIUE and Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 that has not previously existed. 

“SIUE is excited to work with Collinsville High School for the betterment of students in the area,” said Timothy Staples, EdD, ESLC director. “When I came to the school, it was clear that everyone is vested in the success of the students.”  

“Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 and the Board of Education are excited about the Upward Bound partnership with SIUE, and the positive impact the program will have on first-generation college students,” said Dr. Mark B. Skertich, CUSD #10 superintendent. 

The ESLC will operate an UB and an Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) program at Collinsville, which will begin Monday, Nov. 18. The programs are for first-generation and or low-income students. The program directors are Desiree Tyus (UBMS) and Yvonne Hart (UB). Some programmatic offerings include: 

• Advising and one-on-one homework during school hours.
• Local college tours on the first Wednesday of each month. Students will visit SIUE Dec. 4.
• Workshops, guest speakers, hands-on activities, and career placement on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school.
• Workshops and cultural field trips on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. 

“I was not familiar with the Upward Bound program initially,” said CHS Principal David Snider. “The SIUE team did a wonderful job educating us. I know this is going to be a successful and rewarding program for the students and the school.” CHS has a student population of more than 1,850. 

“Parents are emailing me nonstop about the program,” said CHS Counselor TaRael Kee. “They want in. We have many students here who have need, and we have limited resources in the form of counselors to help them. ” 

“That is one of the great things about the Upward Bound program,” interjected Latoya Berry Coleman, CHS director of curriculum and instruction. “The Upward Bound staff will be able to give students one-on-one counseling, meet their individual needs and expose them to college opportunities.” 

More than 500 teenagers came to UB’s first student orientation, according to Tyus. 

“We received more than 65 applications,” she continued. “We then hold interviews after looking at the applications to see who will be the best fit. My program can enroll a total of 60 students, and Mrs. Hart’s program can have 60 students, totaling 120 students.” 

“We will expose our UBMS students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers and encourage, as well as prepare them, to acquire degrees in these fields,” said Tyus. “Also, in our intensive six-week summer residential program on the SIUE campus, students will work closely with faculty, graduate assistants and external partners to deepen their interest and knowledge in STEM-related subjects.” 

“I’m excited about all the things we are going to accomplish,” said Hart, “because Collinsville High School has a culture of teamwork and student success.” 

Photo:
The SIUE Upward Bound Program recently entered into its first partnership with Collinsville High School. Seated (L-R): seated are Renee Kurtz, CHS counselor, and David Snider, CHS principal. Standing (L-R): Chris Andre, UB staff; Desiree Tyus, UB program director; TaRael Kee, CHS counselor; Yvonne Hart, UB program director; Latoya Berry Coleman, CHS director of curriculum and instruction; Dan Toberman, CHS assistant principal; and Timothy Staples, EdD, ESLC director.