Quantcast
Channel: SIUE News
Viewing all 6510 articles
Browse latest View live

Mahony Recommends SIUE's Gupchup as SIU System VP

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

Gireesh GupchupAfter a successful national search, President Dan Mahony is recommending the SIU Board of Trustees approve Dr. Gireesh Gupchup as the new Vice President for Academic Innovation, Planning, and Partnerships for the Southern Illinois University System.

Gupchup is currently Professor of Pharmacy and Director of University-Community Initiatives at SIU Edwardsville (SIUE), where he has been for 16 years.  After serving as the founding Associate Dean until 2010, he was Dean of the SIUE School of Pharmacy for eight years.  

 “Both the Board and I believed that with the expanded role and added responsibilities the new vice president will undertake, we needed to open this search to candidates from across the country,” Mahony said.  “Dr. Jim Allen and the entire search committee did an outstanding job and interviewed a very strong pool of candidates. As is the case sometimes in a national search, you find that the person best qualified is already within the organization. I am very excited to work with Dr. Gupchup and the enthusiasm he brings to the position to advocate on behalf of the SIU system and our campuses.”

Prior to coming to SIUE, Dr. Gupchup was Chair of the PharmacEconomics, Pharmaceutical Policy, and Outcomes Research Graduate Program at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, from 1996-2000 and 2003-04, where he moved through the ranks to become a tenured Associate Professor. In 1995 he was a Purdue-Merck Graduate Research Fellow in Pharmaceutical Economics, Pharmaceutical Economics Research Center, at Purdue University. He earned a doctorate in Pharmacy Practice from Purdue University in 1996 and has since been an active researcher with extra-mural funding during his very active faculty career. He is well published in his field, and has assumed numerous professional and community service roles at SIUE and the University of New Mexico.

“What excites me about the Vice President for Academic Innovation, Planning and Partnerships position is that I have always been drawn to a challenge to build and sustain new endeavors,” Dr. Gupchup said. “I believe that a key to success in many areas of the Vice President’s responsibilities is developing a strategic plan with buy-in from the SIU campuses and external stakeholders. I know this is a key achievement President Mahony wants to accomplish as quickly as possible. I look forward to being a part of that process. Such a plan will consider how each SIU campus with its distinct strengths and missions, when combined, will have the potential to create an array of innovative academic, scholarship and service programs that can benefit students and serve the community in manifold ways.”

The successful search for the new vice president was completed with the assistance of the firm WittKieffer, the same organization involved in the search that brought Mahony to SIU. A 10-person screening committee, led by the System’s Acting Vice President Dr. Jim Allen, participated in a five-month national search, beginning with 45 candidates which resulted in eleven semi-finalists and five finalists. The committee was comprised of representatives from the campus Chancellors’ offices, the Provosts, staff, and faculty at both system universities.  Full-day virtual interviews of the finalists involved other members of the SIU community, including a faculty group drawn from the three main campuses. The President received informed input from more than 25 participants in making this recommendation. 

“Dr. Gupchup is an outstanding choice for the new Vice President position,” said Dr. Allen. “The search advisory committee was impressed by his enthusiasm for working on inter-campus collaborations and partnerships. He is well known and trusted in Carbondale and Springfield, as well as in Edwardsville. I am sure Dr. Gupchup will serve the SIU system exceptionally well.”

At Mahony’s recommendation, earlier this year, the SIU Board expanded the vice president’s responsibilities of academic innovation and planning to include creation of partnerships and to play a central role in securing the future of the system. In this newly-constructed role, the vice president will work closely with the campuses, and their academic leadership in particular, to secure a robust and coordinated array of programs across the System. 

“There is so much more we can do as a united system. Having someone in the president’s office who can not only advocate for the academic side of our operation, but can also assist in developing collaborative community and industrial partnerships will be a tremendous asset to our organization,” said SIU Board Chair J. Phil Gilbert. “On behalf of the board, we’re excited to see these opportunities grow under Dr. Gupchup’s leadership, which will help our campuses progress to an even greater level of success.”

In his position, Gupchup will play a leading role in identifying and engaging with strategic partners to facilitate economic development and community engagement and to promote outreach, collaboration and impact across the system. He is also charged with the execution of an aggressive strategic plan, which will explore opportunities for collaboration in shared academic programs, such as cooperative degrees, the development of collaborative research projects on more than one campus and the recruitment and retention of international students. In all things, the new vice president will be charged with creating inter-university partnerships that while organized at a system level, are done so without sacrificing the distinct characteristics of each campus.

“Supporting the academic needs of each university individually and at the same time finding new ways for them to jointly advance learning opportunities for our students, healthcare needs for the over two million individuals who live within the SIU System footprint and opportunity development for the many communities we serve is a position I’m looking forward to tackling,” said Dr. Gupchup. “Having the opportunity to work in an expanded role with my talented and dedicated colleagues in Carbondale, Edwardsville, Alton, Springfield and everywhere SIU has a foothold is an exciting possibility I look forward to starting.” 

“Over the last two years, our Board of Trustees have been relaying the foundation of our university system, and while the work continues, having Dr. Gupchup in this role will go a long way in uniting not just the strengths of our two great universities, but their often untapped potential to work together to make great things happen for our students, faculty and staff and the communities we serve,” Mahony said.


2020 Metro East Start-Up Challenge Offers $20,000 in Prizes

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

2020 Metro East Start-Up Challenge Entrepreneurs and new business startups are invited to compete in the 2020 Metro East Start-Up Challenge (MESC), Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s 7th annual regional business plan competition.

The MESC is organized by the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at SIUE. The purpose of the MESC is to identify, encourage and support entrepreneurs and business startups across the SBDC’s service area, including Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe and Randolph Counties.

For more information on the 2020 MESC or to initiate the application process, visit siue.edu/metroeaststartup. The initial entry deadline is Sunday, August 9. Semi-finalists will be announced Friday, August. 21. Finalists will be notified on Friday, Oct. 23.

The Challenge will announce its cash prize winners on Friday, Nov. 6 during the monthly Leadership Council SW IL meeting. The first-place winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize. Second and third place winners will receive $6,000 and $4,000, respectively.

Prize winners will also receive an array of in-kind professional services to include legal assistance from Carol Sparks, Attorney at Law; accounting services from Kerber Eck & Braeckel LLP (KEB); web design services by Tech Fusion; and co-working space at The Lodge. The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE is looking to also secure other in-kind services to offer the three winners.

The Challenge is made possible through tremendous regional support. Sponsors include the SIUE School of Business, the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois, Anders CPA & Advisors, America’s Central Port, Edwardsville Bank, Madison County Economic Development, the City of Edwardsville, National Development Council, Town and Country Bank (Edwardsville and Fairview Heights locations), City of Highland, Carrollton Bank, St. Clair County Economic Development, Growth Corp, the City of Alton, Riverbend Growth Association, FCB Banks, Monroe County Economic Development Corporation, Commerce Bank, Barber Murphy Group, and University Park at SIUE.

Scott Credit Union and Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Programs are this year’s Mentor-Semifinalists Networking Event Sponsors to be held at the newly renovated Gateway Center in Collinsville.

SIUE’s School of Business, the SBDC’s host organization, will assist with facilitating the competition.

“The Metro East Start-Up Challenge elevates the discussion of and support for entrepreneurship across our region,” said Jo Ann Di Maggio May, SBDC Director. “Interest in the annual Challenge continues to grow with each passing year.”

The 2020 MESC invites entrepreneurs and startup businesses from four target industries (but not limited to): information technology, manufacturing, healthcare and sustainable food. For a startup business enterprise to be eligible, it must have been established after April 30, 2017, and be headquartered in the SBDC’s nine-county service area. For pre-venture entrepreneurs, proposed new business operations will need to be located within the same nine counties.

Past winners are grateful to have competed, since the MESC positively and productively extended their business efforts, and strengthened their entrepreneurial journey.

Sharon and Michael Sabo’s Tricentum Technologies LLC, of Monroe County, earned $4,000 for third place in MESC 2019. Sharon describes the experience of being a competitor: “One of the many positive things I'd like to stress are the individuals to start with, specifically Paul, Martha and Jo Ann. They were incredibly supportive, you could always approach them with any question, and they always helped you think. The business plan was a huge part of this. I'm not going to even call it confidence building because confidence building indicates that you don't have confidence. I’m going to call it confidence discovery. Because discovering what you desire and what will drive you forward was what this competition provided. It was incredible. Since last year, we've achieved our patents and we've achieved our tool and die, so we have our die created. And that was partly possible through these award funds.”

Tyler Mueth and his five brothers won the MESC 2018. Their hydroponics company, Vast Produce, has kept them busy. “The business plan competition was a truly rewarding experience,” they said. “The opportunity to network and discuss our idea and business plan with industry experts and leaders of the community was invaluable. We continue to grow and learn with the help of the SBDC and leaders we met through the competition.”

“The competition is a great experience for anyone interested in owning their own business,” says Joshua Colclasure, owner of Pint Perfect, LLC. “I am happy we could be a part of something so awesome. After winning the competition in 2017, I have been able to launch my company and start taking on clients. We were excited then and we are even more so now. Going to the SBDC is easily one of the best decisions we have made for our company. Jo Ann is wonderful and is truly passionate about seeing others succeed on their path to entrepreneurship. I look forward to the long relationship to come with Jo Ann, her staff and the SBDC. It is truly incredible to have such support. The MESC competition is icing on the cake!”

“Although it was a lot of work to put together a thorough business plan, we are thankful that we took the time to do so and participate in the Challenge,” said 2015 third-place finisher Tammy Rahm, co-owner of Stubborn German Brewing Company. “It forced us to look at every detail of the business and plan its direction. Now that we’ve been open for a year, we’re in the process of reviewing the business plan and ensuring we’re on the right track.”

“The MESC was an invaluable experience,” said 2014 second-place finisher Adam Stumpf, owner of Stumpy’s Spirits. “It allowed us to hone our business plan and define a route to market before launching our distillery. Feedback from the judges was an integral part of guiding our business in its first year. Bootstrapping our distillery forced us to stretch every dollar we had, and the award provided by the MESC was a key part in getting our business off the ground.”

The MESC includes three rounds, beginning with a brief questionnaire and executive summary submittal that is open to all applications that meet the eligibility guidelines. Participants selected for the second round are invited to expand on their entrepreneurial concept by submitting a full business plan. These semifinalists are paired with business professionals that will mentor them through the competition and potentially beyond. The last round is the “final pitch” in front of a panel of business experts.

The Illinois SBDC Network is a service to the community supported, in part, by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and the SIUE School of Business.

SIUE operates two Small Business Development Centers and the International Trade Center. All three Centers provide resources, information and support to entrepreneurs, and small business owners in the nine-county Metro East region of Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe and Randolph. By aiding entrepreneurs and companies in defining their path to success, the SBDC positively impacts the Metro East by strengthening the business community, creating and retaining new jobs, and encouraging new investment. 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 how the SBDC can help your small business, contact the Metro East SBDC at (618) 650-2929 or sbdcedw@gmail.com.

SIUE and Madison CUSD 12 Partner to Prepare Teacher Mentors and Elevate Student Outcomes

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

Brian Johnson, PhD, associate professor in the SIUE School of Education, Health and Human Behavior’s (SEHHB) Department of Teaching and Learning.Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Madison ​Community Unit School District 12 have announced a new partnership beginning this summer. SIUE is providing a series of graduate courses aimed at preparing district teachers to engage in reflective practices improving their effectiveness and helping increase mastery of student learning. In turn, trained educators will be prepared to serve as professional teacher-mentors elevating student outcomes across the district.

The selected group of teachers was recruited to the program based upon their ability to serve in a mentoring role throughout their respective school buildings. The teachers will take a series of courses over two summers to improve their own teaching practice in preparation to serve as mentors.

Brian Johnson, PhD, associate professor in the SIUE School of Education, Health and Human Behavior’s (SEHHB) Department of Teaching and Learning, has been leading efforts to engage practicing teachers in continuing professional development since arriving at SIUE in 2013.

This unique partnership with Madison CUSD 12 allows the district to fund the graduate courses on behalf of participating teachers. With course costs covered by the district, SIUE is working to remove additional barriers to help the teachers prepare for the courses.

Participating educators will receive admission and enrollment services from the SIUE Office of Online and Educational Outreach, as well as course orientation meetings with Johnson, prior to the first day of classes. This preparation for summer courses is typically done onsite in spring as the school year is winding down, but this spring Madison teachers have successfully navigated an online approach to this work.

“Orienting teachers to a graduate course reinforces important educational concepts and models how the they can share these concepts with colleagues and students,” Johnson said.

Office of Online and Education Outreach Director Mary Ettling and her staff work within existing enrollment practices to offer service onsite and online as needed or through a one-stop shop approach.

“Working adult students want learning experiences that are immediately relevant to them,” said Ettling. “They have the pressures of job and family which sometimes present barriers to continuing their education.  This program provides learning directly applicable to teaching practices. Our office strives to make the administrative process as simple as possible for the teachers who are part of the program. With our partners in the SEHHB Department of Teaching and Learning, we hope to continue expanding our efforts for teachers and paraprofessionals, as well as those looking to change careers and enter the teaching profession.”

Photo: Brian Johnson, PhD, associate professor in the SIUE School of Education, Health and Human Behavior’s (SEHHB) Department of Teaching and Learning.

SIUE Administrators' Personal Deliveries Give Students Unique Collegiate Finale

$
0
0

Diploma Deliveries

Despite people’s best efforts, sometimes mistakes happen. Unfortunately, that was the case when the names of approximately 70 Southern Illinois University Edwardsville graduates were inadvertently left out of the May 2020 Virtual Commencement ceremony.

Understanding the disappointment those students felt, SIUE administrators took it upon themselves to divide and conquer, traveling across Illinois and Missouri dressed in full regalia to personally deliver those students’ diplomas throughout the week of June 22.

“Commencement is such an important ritual to celebrate students’ achievements and mark their transition to their next stage in life,” said SIUE Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb. “It was disappointing for students, their families, friends and our University community to know that commencement could not happen in person in May. When we had the error with the virtual commencement, our leadership team knew that we needed to make sure that our students could see that we recognize the importance of the moment. I am always touched by commencement, and this year, it was even more important to make sure that students’ hard work, perseverance and resilience could be celebrated. I am hopeful we were able to help.”

Following the virtual ceremony in May, Cobb immediately expressed a heartfelt apology via video to the affected students, and their graduation fees were refunded. Then, SIUE leaders began planning for the students’ diplomas to be personally delivered.

From the playing of pomp and circumstance, to vibrant graduation signs and congratulatory parades, the graduates and their families made the visits extremely special.

“A non-traditional student who had been pursuing his degree since the 1980s had his mother, sisters, wife and children lined up for the diploma picture as I arrived,” Chancellor Randy Pembrook recalled. “It was a beautiful setting. Everyone was so happy and proud.”

“These trips reminded me of why we do what we do, even under extraordinary circumstances,” he added.

“Commencement is an important rite of passage, so we were thrilled to celebrate with some graduates,” said Rachel Stack, Vice Chancellor for Advancement. “The students I visited were appreciative that we took the time to deliver their diplomas in person.”

“I met one of the students at the red “e” on campus and took photos,” added Rich Walker, Vice Chancellor for Administration. “Her mom and dad drove from their hometown to be there. They brought her a cap and gown, and mom had decorated the top of the cap with “Isolation Graduation SIUE 2020.”

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jeffrey Waple drove more than 700 miles around the state to deliver diplomas. Frequent stops for caffeine helped on his travels, but what really energized the leader were the stories he heard from the graduates and the smiles they displayed upon his arrival.

“My first delivery was to Jacob in Hebron, four miles from the Wisconsin border,” Waple explained. “He told me that his father graduated from the SIU School of Dental Medicine. On my second delivery in Hoffman Estates, the student, Brett, looked familiar. He told me he was a LeaderShape participant, and that he’s returning to SIUE this fall to pursue a master’s.”

“I then went to Carol Stream to greet Nathan, who played soccer for SIUE,” he continued. “His parents were completely decked out in SIUE gear and the backyard was decorated with SIUE swag. Finally, I made my way to Katie’s house in Lansing. Her parents were extremely proud of her. We took many pictures. They made signs, and neighbors drove by and honked in celebration!”

Photo: SIUE administrators personally delivered diplomas to students whose names were inadvertently not displayed on the screen during the May 2020 Virtual Commencement ceremonies.

Happy Independence Day

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

Wishing you and yours a very Happy 4th of July from SIUE!

The offices of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2020 in observance of the Independence Day Holiday. Offices will re-open Monday, July 6, 2019. 

SIUE’s Candace Hall Keeps Lines of Communication Open with Students

$
0
0

CandaceHallTreated to lunch by your college professor? Why not? It’s 2020, and things certainly are different. 

In an attempt to continue caring for students during the pandemic, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Candace Hall, EdD, is meeting in person and online with her students over lunch, and at her expense. 

“It is crucial for me, both as their course instructor and program director, to acknowledge that the world is on fire,” said Hall, co-director of the College Student Personnel Administration Program (CSPA) and instructor in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior’s Department of Educational Leadership. “So, I challenged myself to think about ways to continue showing up for students amid this crisis and to consider ways of creating space for students to process the ‘new normal’ while continuing their education.” 

When social distancing, stay-at-home orders and online instruction first became mandatory, Hall was checking in on her students via technological means. When summer session started, she thought of ways to do more.   

“I committed to having lunch with my practicum students,” added Hall. “Most of them are local or within driving distance. I want to see them in person, break bread together, and create space for them just to be. For those students who live out of state, I’m scheduling Zoom lunches. I order takeout meals to be delivered to their houses, so we can eat together and have conversation. All lunches are funded by me.” 

Strict social distancing guidelines are observed during the in-person lunch meetings, noted Hall. 

“I usually choose a park or somewhere outdoors on campus, but always near a body of water,” she continued. “We make sure to practice social distance and are always at least six feet apart from each other. I bring wipes to wipe down the park benches we might sit on and disinfectant spray. I wear my mask, which I always have with me, and have plenty of hand sanitizer. 

 “We talk about how their practicum is going, how their other courses are going, and what we’re looking forward to doing when things get better. We talk about life.” 

The lunches, which have been a source of joy for Hall, is her reminder to be conscious of taking care of others. 

“Recently, I attended a panel discussion on ‘Dismantling Institutional Racism,’” informed Hall. “One of the panelists, Dr. David Stovall, when speaking on self-care said, ‘Self-care is not just asking: Am I okay? It is a collective question of asking: Are we okay? How do we get to self-care?’ Since then, I ponder ‘How do we get to self-care?’ These gatherings and check-ins with students are my way of getting to that collective self-care."

Photo:
Candace Hall, EdD, co-director of the College Student Personnel Administration Program (CSPA) and instructor in the SEHBB’s Department of Educational Leadership, recently met with Ishmael Allensworth, graduate assistant in Housing and a student in Hall’s EDAD 554 practicum course. Hall, observing social distancing guidelines of being at least six feet away, checked in with Allensworth on Monday, July 6 on the campus of SIUE. Each were masked prior to taking the photo. The two met a few weeks earlier for lunch.

DREAM Collective to Host Webinar on Institutional Racism in U.S. Higher Education

$
0
0

Jim ScheurichThe DREAM (Dismantling Racism through Education, Advocacy and Mobilization) Collective at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will host a webinar featuring Jim Scheurich, PhD, at 1 p.m. (CT) Thursday, July 16. Scheurich is an anti-racist, community activist scholar committed to addressing the institutional and structural inequities and injustices within educational and community contexts.

Scheurich formerly led the doctoral program in Urban Education Studies at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). Prior to serving IUPUI, he was a professor at the University of Texas at Austin for 12 years and at Texas A&M University for 8 years. His research interests include anti-racism, equity, and inclusion in schools and communities.

Register for the webinar at siue.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Yu9MRviOS6qrmQMVIpgvsg.

Scheurich helped start and now serves as president of the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) Community Coalition, a local organization committed to local control of IPS and the success of its students. He has also worked with the Indianapolis-based Kheprw Institute, a Black-led grassroots community organization committed to youth and community empowerment, for nearly seven years.

This is the third public offering coordinated by the DREAM Collective. The Collective is committed to serving the southern Illinois and greater St. Louis area through supporting community members, educational organizations and professionals in the process of naming, addressing and dismantling racism through education, advocacy and mobilization.

Its team of faculty activists seek to create effective programming and foster cultural competency in responsive educators and community members. Members include education faculty Jennifer Hernandez, PhD, Jessica Krim, EdD, J.T. Snipes, PhD, Nate Williams, PhD, and SEHHB Dean Robin Hughes, PhD.

For more information, visit the DREAM Collective on Facebook at @DREAMCollective20, Twitter at @DREAMcollect20 or Instagram at @DREAMCollective20, or email TheDREAMCollective@siue.edu.

Photo: Jim Scheurich, PhD, will be the featured speaker in a webinar hosted by the DREAM Collective.

SIUE Summer Success Program Prepares Incoming Freshmen

$
0
0

MaKesha Harris and Fannie AcoffBeing successful is learning how to adapt and excel in the face of difficulty and change, and this year is providing some excellent opportunities, said MaKesha Harris Lee, EdD, assistant director for Pre-Collegiate Programs at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. 

Harris Lee opened the second year of the SIUE Summer Success Program (SSP) on Monday, July 6. She devised and designed the program with the goal of helping first-generation college students be successful in the transition from high school to college. The inaugural session was held during summer 2019. 

This year, the five-week program is being held online. Fourteen students are divided into two groups, with the program running from 9:15 a.m.-4:15 p.m. Monday-Friday, Aug. 7. The graduation ceremony will be announced at a later date. 

“The program is open to a select cohort of newly admitted first-year students who demonstrate a financial need or hardship, and those who may self-identify as first-generation college students,” said Harris Lee. 

SSP 2020Class1“For most students, beginning the college process can be scary,” said Fannie Acoff, SSP program coordinator. “Imagine being a student who graduated from a small high school or a student who will move two or more hours away from home to attend a mid-size university. This can cause various levels of stress and anxiety. Students who embrace their new environment and become actively involved in campus life early on, are often those who will be successful in graduating from college, barring any family or financial barriers.” 

The three major components of the SSP entail academics, campus resources and social development. 

The program involves various SIUE staff members leading discussions. Topics will include:

  • Self-Advocacy with Jeffrey Spinks, lecturer in Learning Support Services
  • Campus Safety with Prince Robertson, student conduct advisor in the Office of Student Affairs
  • Avoiding the Freshman 15 with Kelly Atkins, assistant director in Academic Advising
  • Real Talk Student Panel with students from the 2019 SSP serving as panelists 

SSP 2020Class2Students will also complete the (Academic Development) AD 115 Study Skills Course with Jeff Spinks and their General Education requirement for Health Experience through the Midday Learning Sessions, according to Harris Lee. 

“In addition, students will build a peer network with their cohort and establish relationships with campus leaders, all while becoming more familiar with campus resources,” said Dominique Peel, SSP graduate assistant. “The program positions students for what we want most for them – favorable outcomes.” 

“This program is being implemented through scrupulous and intentional planning,” said Karagan Romoser, graduate assistant for Pre-Collegiate Programs. “We have created various online lessons and activities for the students. We will be using PowerPoint presentations, Zoom, Doodle Poll, Kahoot!, YouTube and various other online resources. Our goal is to have students understand SIUE policies and procedures, be able to successfully complete their first full year, get good grades and eventually graduate!” 

“I am quite pleased with how our program is unfolding,” said Harris Lee. “As we correspond more and more via Teams and Zoom, it is interesting to see how the students are quickly opening up. Building positive relationships and rapport virtually has already proven to be much easier than I first imagined. The students are going to shine as new cougars, and I cannot wait to meet them in person.” 

Photos:
Heading up this year’s SIUE Summer Success Program are Makesha Harris Lee, EdD, program creator and assistant director for Pre-Collegiate Programs (left) and Fannie Acoff, SSP program coordinator. 

Fourteen incoming SIUE freshmen are participating online in the 2020 SSP.


SIUE Police Members Compete in Mustache Mayhem to Benefit Students

$
0
0

MustacheMayhemIt was partly due to a whim that the Army veteran had to look like the character of Van Pelt in the 1995 Jumanji movie, but it was mostly the desire to help students that Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Patrol Officer Larry Bowles forwent shaving his face for the entire month of June. 

Bowles won first-place in the Mustache Mayhem contest designed to raise money for SIUE students impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic and sponsored by Illinois Fraternal Order of Police (IL FOP) Lodge #328. 

“I decided to compete in Mustache Mayhem, because it was a good opportunity to raise money for impacted students in our community,” said Bowles, IL FOP president. “Also, getting to grow a pretty cool mustache is always a plus in my book. The event allowed us to stay within the guidelines of the COVID-19 pandemic and also have a little fun with our facial hair. I’m always one to volunteer and help out, especially if it means being able to make someone laugh or smile.” 

The IL FOP Lodge’s goal is to help bridge the gap between police departments and their communities, according to Maria Ferrari, SIUE patrol officer and lodge secretary.           

“One way we hope to do this is by hosting fundraisers, like Mustache Mayhem, to financially give back to our communities,” added Ferrari. “The idea of the mustache contest was that of SIUE Patrol Officer Jeff Wooldridge.” 

The fundraiser began Monday, June 1, with contestants paying a $15 entry fee and submitting photos of their clean-shaven faces. Contestants submitted a final photo by Tuesday, June 30. A $5 fee was charged to those who voted on their favorite mustache. 

“We raised a total of $175, and our Lodge will match 100% for a grand total of $350 to be donated to the SIUE Foundation,” said Ferrari. “The Foundation will ensure that a student who needs it the most will receive the money. Coming together during a crisis is what communities do, and we are glad we could do our part.” 

“The IL FOP Lodge #328 is a Fraternal Lodge comprised of SIUE Police Department patrol officers and other department members,” noted Ferrari. “We started the Lodge in 2017 and currently have 28 members. The Lodge was formed to promote unity within the SIUE Police Department, other police departments, the SIUIE community and the surrounding communities.” 

For more information, visit the Lodge’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Lodge328,  email siuepdlodge328@gmail.com or write to P.O. Box #553, Edwardsville, Ill., 62025. 

Photo:
Larry Bowles, SIUE patrol officer and president of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police (IL FOP) Lodge #328, is seen before and after the Mustache Mayhem contest.

SIUE Alumnus Lee’s Photography Featured in Rolling Stone

$
0
0

Christian LeeSIUE alumnus Christian K. Lee has a photo essay entitled “Cancelled Prom” featured in Rolling Stone Magazine. See the photographs in this slideshow.

Lee earned a bachelor’s in mass communications from the College of Arts and Sciences in 2018.

See an interview with Lee regarding this project on youtube.com.

Lee’s work first drew public acclaim in February 2015 when he displayed his exhibit “Ferguson Unrest” following the fatal shooting of Michael Brown. The exhibit was held in the Morris University Center’s Goshen Lounge.

As photo editor for The Alestle, SIUE’s student newspaper, Lee also captured a 2016 Illinois College Press Association first place award in the large-school division, general news photo for on-campus coverage of protests by the Black Lives Matter movement. He also earned a first place award in the sports photo category for coverage of a wrestling event.

SIUE Selects Pankl as Dean of Library and Information Services

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

LIS Dean Lis PanklThe Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees today approved Lis Pankl as dean of SIUE Library and Information Services (LIS) following completion of a national search. Pankl will assume the role effective Monday, Aug. 3.

“The library is the academic ‘heart’ of a campus, supporting scholarship, faculty and staff development, and community engagement,” said SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook. “Dr. Pankl has tremendous enthusiasm for all of these areas, and will lead SIUE’s efforts to continue our growth in research and innovation while supporting those who rely on our library – faculty, staff, students and community members.”   

Pankl arrives at SIUE after serving as head of Graduate and Undergraduate Services, associate librarian for the J. Willard Marriott Library at the University of Utah (UofU) in Salt Lake City since 2016. She provided strategic vision and leadership for Graduate and Undergraduate Services.

“We are excited that Dr. Pankl has agreed to join the SIUE community, and we look forward to her leadership of Library and Information Services,” said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb, PhD. “The Library is a central nexus for academic support for students, faculty and staff on our campus.

“The Library faculty and staff and its resources are critical to meeting our goals of academic excellence, whether in terms of instruction or research and creative activities. Dr. Pankl’s interdisciplinary scholarship and previous experience will help support the evolution of our library services, facilities and holdings. I look forward to working with her and to her contributions to our University.”

 “I sincerely thank Provost Denise Cobb and the LIS Dean Search Committee for their hard work and dedication during this process,” Pankl said. “I am delighted to be joining the SIUE community. SIUE was particularly attractive because of its student-centered focus, as well as its strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.” 

Under her direction, Pankl sees LIS anticipating and serving the needs of the SIUE community in a rapidly evolving higher education environment. “My goal is for Lovejoy Library to be a welcoming and inclusive place that serves as a hub for learning and exploration at SIUE,” Pankl said.  

At UofU, Pankl served on the Research & User Services Leadership team to develop strategic directions for the division. She was a liaison to the Departments of Geography, English and Latin American Studies. She developed and implemented best practices in teaching, learning and assessment for the library. She partnered with key campus leaders and units to engage students in the UofU’s intellectual and social lifecycles.

The Cheney, Washington native began as an instruction librarian and assistant librarian in 2005 at the Louisiana State University (LSU) Libraries in Baton Rouge, La. While teaching library research methods and information literacy sessions for the Department of History, she also helped develop and define collections and services that supported and enhanced faculty research and student learning.

Pankl began an 8-year tenure at Kansas State University (KSU) in Manhattan, Kan. in 2007, where she advanced to an associate professor, and faculty and graduate services librarian. Beginning as an assistant professor and humanities librarian, she continued in dual roles by teaching information literacy sessions for the Departments of English and Modern Languages, while developing and defining collections and services that supported and enhanced faculty research and student learning. She later provided customized services for faculty and graduate students in the Departments of English, Modern Languages, Geography, Philosophy and History.

In 2015, Pankl moved eastward for a year to become the Head of Academic Engagement and associate librarian for the Stony Brook University (SBU) Libraries in Stony Brook, N.Y. She led all SBU faculty librarians in teaching and liaison activities. While supervising a core academic team of faculty librarians, she partnered with campus departments, units and student groups to engage with SBU’s academic lifecycle. Serving on the Research & User Engagement Administrative team that guided strategic vision for library spaces and services, she participated on an engagement team that provided online and in-person research assistance to the SBU and local communities.

Pankl earned a PhD in geography from Kansas State University in 2015. She holds three master’s degrees: in English from Abilene Christian University, in Abilene, Texas in 2001; in library science in 2005 from the University of North Texas, in Denton; and in public administration from the UofU in 2020. She also earned a bachelor’s in English in 1999 from Washington State University, in Pullman.

Pankl steps into the role after Lydia Jackson served as interim dean since November 2017.

The SIUE Library and Information Services (LIS) consistently strives for new and inventive ways to deliver information to students, faculty and the community. LIS is home to Lovejoy Library, the heart of the University. The library provides SIUE faculty and students the information required for their academic pursuits that result in improving our communities. LIS faculty and staff   nurture SIUE students’ scholarship with resources that support the collaboration and innovative thinking needed to succeed in the global marketplace.

Photo: SIUE Library and Information Services Dean Lis Pankl.

SIUE Duo Launches Podcast Marketing and Management Company

$
0
0

Madeline Zuber and Beckie Scanlan A trendsetting pair of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville May 2020 graduates didn’t waste any time utilizing their education and experience to launch an entrepreneurial endeavor.

Madeline Zuber and Beckie Scanlan each earned a bachelor’s in applied communication studies (ACS) with a focus on public relations. They are co-founders of SocialCast Media, a public relations agency targeting the marketing and management needs for podcasts.

“I have met so many people looking to start a podcast, but they don’t have time,” said Zuber, SocialCast Media CEO. “I had the time and experience to make podcasting a reality, and a fun one at that, for anyone.”

“The podcasting industry is rapidly growing – anybody can podcast about anything,” said Scanlan, president of SocialCast Media. “I’m extremely excited to help amplify our clients’ voices in this loud industry.”

“Our teachers from the ACS department have shared their stories and given us the tools to be successful in the public relations industry,” Scanlan added. “The most valuable experience we got from our education at SIUE was our public relations senior project, where we learned how to communicate and work with a real-world client. This has helped us attract and cater to our clients of SocialCast Media.”

The new business owners offer services for both established and brand new podcasters through two packages. The Monthly Management package includes podcast editing and copywriting, weekly social media promotion, weekly newsletters, website maintenance and management. The Launch Package covers the monthly management package, in addition to branding assistance, social media and website set up and distribution for a two-month period. Consultations are free.

For more information, visit SocialCastMediaGroup.com or follow SocialCast Media on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Photo: SIUE May 2020 graduates (L-R) Beckie Scanlon and Madeline Zuber have launched a new company: SocialCast Media.

SIUE Nurse Educator Program Tabbed #1 in Illinois, #7 in Nation

$
0
0

SIUE School of Nursing’s Andrew Griffin, PhD, CRNA, APRN, assistant dean for graduate programs.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing’s premier programming is again being nationally recognized. EduMed’s 2020 ranking of Best Online Master’s Programs in Nursing Education tabs SIUE’s completely online nurse educator program #1 in Illinois and #7 in the nation.

EduMed’s ranking methodology considers programs with proper accreditation that boast an exemplary combination of affordability, quality and flexibility.

“We have worked intensely in the School of Nursing to find the perfect balance for our graduate programs,” said Andrew Griffin, PhD, CRNA, APRN, assistant dean for graduate programs in the SIUE SON. “Our focus has been to provide high-quality courses and curricula, while maximizing learner flexibility and affordability. We have seen tremendous growth in our graduate student population. National rankings such as this prove we are accomplishing our goals.”

“The faculty have worked diligently to plan and deliver an up-to-date curriculum that prepares our graduates for nurse educator positions in both academic and healthcare settings,” said Kay Gaehle, PhD, RN, associate professor and coordinator of the nurse educator program. "Our completely online program is affordable, flexible and high quality. As students progress through the program, they are challenged to apply what they have learned, so that the final outcome is that each student is prepared for taking on the role of a graduate level nurse educator.”

According to Gaehle, there is a shortage of nurse educators, particularly in academic settings. In order to educate entry level staff nurses, master’s prepared nurse educators are needed to teach in undergraduate nursing programs, as well as help new graduates make the transition into the role of the new nurse in acute care settings.

SIUE’s program provides a strong foundation for both nurse educators in academic as well as acute care settings. The SON nurse educator master’s program offers students three face-to-face applied learning opportunities working with preceptors in education, university and hospital-based settings at convenient locations that are selected to meet the individual academic needs, interests and professional experience of each student.

After finishing the program and gaining two years of teaching experience, graduates are eligible to take the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator exam. The SON’s nurse educator post-master’s certificate offers coursework that prepares students with theory preparation for the national certification examination.

For more information on SIUE’s nurse educator master’s program, visit siue.edu/nurse-educator.

SIUE Upward Bound Scholars Academy Program Encourage Students to Engage Professionals

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

UBSA-SummerSpeakerSeriesThe joy of dancing. The thrill of theater. The love of teaching art. The pleasure of culinary arts. These things and more can be experienced if a person has the desire and commitment to pursue a career in the arts. 

Students from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center Collinsville’s Upward Bound Scholars Academy (UBSA) program listened in on why a group of panelists decided on their careers and how they arrived at their destination. 

“We are exposing our students to a host of careers and professionals during our summer Friday Career Exploration Speaker Series,” said Yvonne Hart, UBSA program director. “The students have an interest in a myriad of things. Instead of me talking about the various career choices, we thought it better to have the students question the professionals for themselves. Virtual learning through zoom has provided an exciting opportunity to interact with people beyond the Greater St. Louis region.” 

Hart, along with staff members Stephanie Bargiel, UBSA summer coordinator and SIUE public health graduate student, and Kayla Grobe, UBSA summer teaching assistant and SIUE art therapy graduate student, contacted professionals in the fields of nursing, public health, accounting, education, arts, public policy, psychology, law and business.  In addition, the career exploration panels would not be possible without the support of Julie Monken, Senior Executive of The Exploring programs for the Boy Scouts of America, Greater St. Louis Area Council. 

Hart, along with her graduate assistant Stephanie Bargiel, UBSA summer coordinator and SIUE public health graduate student, surveyed program students about their career interests and contacted professionals in the fields of nursing, public health, accounting, education, arts, public policy, psychology, law and business. 

The five-week Zoom presentations, which began June 19, are held from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Fridays through July 24. 

Guests for the June 26 and July 10 panel included:

  • Rafael Collazo, political affairs director, UnidosUS, the nation’s largest Latino civil rights organization; and host of “Found in Translation,” the country’s longest running independent Latino- led news talk podcast
  • Kirk Greer, business administrative associate for the SIUE East St. Louis Center
  • Michael Maldonado, high school counselor at the International School of Kenya
  • Kathryn Bentley, associate professor in the SIUE Department of Theater and Dance, artistic director of SIUE’s Black Theatre Workshop and director of the SIUE Black Studies Program
  • Mark Favazza, chef and general manager at Favazza’s Restaurant, St. Louis
  • Suzanne Gorgas, assistant professor of fine arts at Joliet (Ill.) College and director of the Laura A. Sprague Art Gallery
  • Vielia Jeffries-Evans, art teacher at Jackson Park Elementary School in the University City School District, St. Louis
  • Amy Johnson, director of the Union Colony Children’s Music Academy in Greeley, Colo. 

Guests slated for the Friday, July 17 panel include:

  • Arne' Burns, community worker providing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) education to East St. Louis and surrounding areas, University of Illinois Extension Education
  • Shannon Kaecker, therapist at Adventure Works of Dekalb County, Inc.
  • Frank Lyerla, PhD, associate professor in the SIUE Department of Primary Care and Health Systems Nursing and director of the SIUE Health Informatics Program
  • Dillon Meyer, senior accountant at West & Company, LLC in Edwardsville
  • Deni Taveras, county council member in Prince George’s County, Md., and chair of Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee 

“In visiting with our career panelists, students realize that work skills used in one job are transferrable to other jobs and careers,” concluded Hart. “They also can see that passion, perseverance and building positive relationships with others will be essential to achieving success.” 

Upward Bound Scholars Academy (UBSA) is a TRIO program federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education. UBSA serves high school students, ages 14-18, from low-income families and from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education.  

Photo:
SIUE East St. Louis Center Collinsville’s Upward Bound Scholars Academy Program Director Yvonne Hart (second from left at top) leads program students and presenters in a Friday Career Exploration Speaker Series on July 10.

SIUE’s Larrisha Tidwell Moves Barriers for Clients

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

LarrishaTidwellOn the surface it may seem like a minor thing – a signature from a medical doctor. But when you don’t have ready access to one, your financial means are limited and your disability restricts your mobility, the “small” thing is huge. 

Once Southern Illinois University Edwardsville graduate student, Larrisha Tidwell, learned of the barrier facing several of her clients at Chestnut Health Systems (CHS) – a physical and mental health support facility in Granite City – the social worker began in earnest to remove it. 

Some of Chestnut’s housing residents who needed a discounted bus pass could not obtain one, because they did not have a doctor’s signature on their Attachment A – the required documentation needed to validate disabled status. 

The following is part of an email that Tidwell sent in February to the Illinois Department of Aging, Madison County Transit, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, Attorney General Kwame Raoul, U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Rep. Mike Bost, State Rep. Jay Hoffman and State Sen. Christopher Belt. 

“My name is Larri Tidwell, and I work for Chestnut Health Systems at the Madison Housing Unit. We have been having some issues with our residents being denied the MCT Benefits Access Free Ride ID due to their Attachment A Physician’s Statement being signed by their nurse practitioner, instead of a MD. Due to insurance changes and the high demand for doctors, most of our residents see nurse practitioners. Is there someone we can talk to who can assist people who qualify for full disability, to help us get over this hurdle?” 

Tidwell, who is slated to graduate with a master’s in social work on Aug. 8, has been employed at CHS since April 2019 as a part-time crisis intervention specialist. She has worked full time for the Department of Children and Family Services on an investigation team in East St. Louis since June 2013. 

“I do client support, such as therapy, conflict resolution, case management and provide transportation and case management at CHS,” explained Tidwell. “I also find resources and connect people with those resources to support them and help them live their best life. It was in the course of doing my job that one of my clients told me she didn’t have any freedom, because she couldn’t obtain a bus pass. She has a mental illness diagnosis, and I thought that she should have been able to obtain a bus pass without any problems.” 

After the February email, repeated correspondence with various local and federal agencies and political offices and delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, Tidwell followed up with Hoffman’s office on June 23. The state representative’s office responded on June 30 with an email chain that explained the change needed to be made legislatively, and the request had been sent to the Department of Aging’s legal team for them to determine how to resolve. 

The state representative’s office responded on June 30 that the matter had been resolved and nurse practitioners’ signatures would now be accepted on Attachment A’s. 

“Larri has a passion for her clients,” said Jill Schreiber, PhD, chair and associate professor in the Department of Social Work. “She is committed to meeting them where they are and supporting them with what they think they need, rather than imposing other people’s standards on them. Larri is willing to go the extra mile to advocate for people, as is evidenced by this work to change the laws to ensure people can get bus passes.”  

“It’s these kinds of victories that make me happy,” said Tidwell. “This was an unnecessary barrier for the people who this benefit was created for. I love every part of social work. I want to help people live their best lives and maintain their independence.” 

Chestnut Health Systems (CHS) is a private, not for profit agency that has been accredited by The Joint Commission since 1975. CHS uses an “All-Access Model” approach to physical and mental health treatment by offering an extensive variety of primary care, mental health, substance abuse treatment and prevention services, as well as, credit counseling and applied behavioral research, training, and publications. To be more specific, CHS provides primary care physicians, nurses, onsite pharmacies, psychiatrists, therapists, case workers, outpatient and inpatient detox units (separate adults and adolescents facilities), crisis intervention, and supportive community integrated housing. CHS is based in Granite City, with satellite Illinois offices in Belleville, Maryville, Peoria, Bloomington, Normal, Chicago, Joliet and Hillsboro, Mo. 

Photo:
SIUE social work graduate student, Larrisha Tidwell, worked for policy change to benefit her clients at Chestnut Health Systems.


Brown Named SIUE Director of Purchases

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

Dir. of Purchases Matt BrownSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville has selected Matt Brown as director of purchases following a national search. Brown assumed his responsibilities effective July 1.

Brown brings a wealth of procurement experience in the state of Illinois, most recently as a portfolio manager with the Department of Central Management Services. His experience also includes administering all of the procurement functions for the office of the Illinois Secretary of State for more than two years as state purchasing officer.

“Matt’s background is impressive not only in purchasing administration, but also as an author contributing to the procurement code and its rules since their inception,” said Director of Financial Affairs Rich Hampton.  “I am pleased that the search committee was successful in the formidable task of replacing Shelly Albert, who retired after a distinguished 33-year career in SIUE Purchasing.”

“At its core the purchasing function serves customer departments by providing acquisition of low cost or a best value for goods and services,” Brown said. “I believe that we must also strive to help our customer departments achieve their best along the way. I’m looking forward to achieving both of these in service to SIUE.”

“On behalf of Vice Chancellor for Administration Rich Walker, I would like to thank search committee members Bev Bevineau, Kim Labonte, Craig Holan and Teresa Shipton for their valuable insight and flexibility working through this process during this unusual work environment,” Hampton said.

Willis Young, Retired SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School Assistant Director, to Serve as Board’s New President

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

WillisYoungSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School’s (CHS) Board of Directors has elected a new president. Willis Young, who retired as assistant director of the East St. Louis Charter High School in July 2019, is heading up the 13-person board, effective July 9, 2020.

“I am honored and pleased to have been chosen as board of directors president for the SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School,” said Young. “I have worked at the Charter High School in several capacities over the last 20 years and have found them all to be rewarding because of the important work that the school does.” 

Young replaces Kim Durr, chief of staff in the Office of the Chancellor, as CHS BOD president. Young is the first Black to lead the board. During Young’s CHS tenure, he worked as a computer education instructor, assistant director and acting director. 

“I am elated that Mr. Young was elected as the CHS Board of Directors president,” said CHS Director Gina Jeffries, EdD. “Mr. Young will be an outstanding president. He has more than 20 years of Charter High School experience. He has the tools and the experience to lead our students, parents, staff and community in the right direction.” 

Young plans to address the following during his one-year term:

  • Make sure the Board provides all necessary resources needed to make all students successful
  • Support CHS with space, staffing and address other unknown challenges as it relates to the coronavirus pandemic
  • Investigate how CHS can assist families in these times of uncertainty and unrest 

“The Charter High School has a strong and positive foundation on which to build an even greater legacy,” said Young. “For instance, the school offers various programs and projects that better educate our students and build an even stronger community. The robotics team teaches students about team building and analytical skills. The school also has numerous food drives and fundraising projects. When there is an unfortunate incident in the community, the students immediately spring into action to help families.” 

“I want the educational opportunities at the Charter High School to constantly increase,” Young continued. “I want the Board to be known for providing students with cutting-edge education. I also want us to continue assisting Charter with its school motto that ‘Failure is Not an Option.’” 

The SIUE Charter High School is a school-of-choice for families in the East St. Louis School District 189. The mission of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School is to prepare students who are career- and college-ready upon graduation. To achieve this mission, the school and its staff will positively impact the educational and economic lives of East St. Louis, Illinois youth through individualized instruction in core academic subjects, exploration of career interests and aptitudes, assistance in realizing students' talents, high academic goals, and expectations that graduates will become competitive employees for the 21st century.  

Photo: Willis Young, retired SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School assistant director, is the new CHS Board of Directors President.

SIUE Head Start Offers Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Classes this Summer

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

KindergartenReadiness1The first day of kindergarten is exciting and memorable, and the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Head Start program wants to make sure its students are equipped for a successful year. 

“The inaugural SIUE Head Start Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Summer Program will help students and families better transition and excel during the thrilling year ahead,” said Lisa Tate, SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start assistant program director/center operations. 

The SIUE Head Start Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Summer Program will kick-off with its Parent Zoom Discussions (which are at capacity with 50 pre-k parents), and will run from 1-2 p.m. Monday-Friday, July 27-Aug. 7. During the sessions, parents will receive pertinent information about preparing their children for kindergarten, and discuss topics and concerns about their children returning to school in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. All parents of kindergarten-bound preschoolers who attended Head Start managed sites and collaboration sites were eligible to attend. 

“In addition to the weekly parent discussions, parents and their children will be engaged in completing interactive educational lessons and activities on SIUE-issued iPads for at least 15 minutes on a daily basis,” explained Tate. 

KindergartenReadiness2To successfully complete the two-week SIUE Head Start Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Summer Program, parents and students received:

  • A Transition to School Backpack with school supplies
  • A Transitional Book Library, totaling seven books
  • An SIUE Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Summer Program t-shirt to decorate
  • An SIUE Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Summer Program resource booklet with various activities, school district contact information, health and social emotional tips, and additional community agencies resource information 

“We hope to equip the parents with the resources, support and a desire to continue to prepare and advocate for their children’s educational journey,” offered Tate. “We hope to create within the homes of the participants, a routine of daily parent-child interactions that support the notion of making learning fun!” 

“SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start is extremely excited to provide this kindergarten transition opportunity to our children and families,” said Interim Program Director Carolyn Jason. “Through supplemental summer funds provided by the Office of Head Start (OHS), SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start has been able to creatively plan this kindergarten overview for families. School readiness, beginning in the early years, has shown to be a key predictor for lifelong success. School readiness is also one of the founding principles of Head Start when it began more than 55 years ago!” 

Photos:
SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start children engage in learning during previous classroom sessions.

SIUE Successful Communities Collaborate to Curb Youth Violence in East St. Louis

$
0
0
Stay in touch with the latest news.

TAKEGrant-Connie-VickieImagine less gun shootings and fewer violent exchanges among young people in East St. Louis and the surrounding area. The thought doesn’t have to be an imaginary one, if grant writers from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Teens Against Killing Everywhere (TAKE) get their way. 

SIUE Successful Communities Collaborative (SSCC) is working with TAKE in writing and developing a Violence Prevention Plan. The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) awarded a total of $185,754 to TAKE, and TAKE enlisted SSCC as a subcontract awardee, to develop the plan. 

“We have received funding to develop a plan to curb violence among 16-35 year-old’s in the East St. Louis general area,” said Connie Frey Spurlock, PhD, SSCC director and associate professor in the Department of Sociology. “The plan is being developed by task force members who represent various sectors of the community, including non-profit, religious, academic, local government, residents and more.” 

TAKEGrant-StudentsSSCC is serving as coordinator, preparing meeting agenda and minutes, hosting Zoom meetings, maintaining and organizing task force records, conducting research and analyzing data, according to Frey Spurlock, who said she was excited to finally be working with TAKE. 

“I have been in conversation with TAKE for more than a year about collaborating on projects in the East St. Louis community that we are mutually interested in,” explained Frey Spurlock. “This is our first successfully funded collaboration project.” 

  “Once I learned about SIUE’s Successful Communities Collaborative, I was determined to work with them as often as possible,” said TAKE CEO Vickie Kimmel. “I was extremely impressed with SSCC’s Tiny Garden in Washington Park.” 

Specifically, the two groups are developing the plan through the use of an online survey, social media and a series of forums with youth connected to violence and community stake holders to hear problems, concerns and solutions. 

As a result of responses so far, the grant writers are considering incorporating the following into their proposal:

  • Shifting the culture to where violence is abnormal, through the efforts of an intense media campaign
  • Building the capacity of existing programming to better reach those who are most closely involved with violence
  • Acknowledging and building into the approach the understanding of the extraordinary trauma that the community continues to experience
  • Addressing the pragmatic challenges of community members such as access to training, education, jobs that at least pay a living wage and parenting classes 

“SSCC students will also conduct a gap analysis of existing violence prevention programming and develop a website,” noted Frey Spurlock. “The students involved are Nikolle Sanguinette, Breanne Burton and Stephanie Lagona. Nikki is the team’s go-to-person for quantitative data analysis and is designing some engaging graphics to highlight select data findings. Breanne is leading the qualitative data analysis and doing some mapping. Stephanie is processing the paper surveys and leading the development of the website.” 

“SSCC’s mission is to connect Illinois communities with SIUE students and faculty,” continued Frey Spurlock. “This project allows us to do just that. We are able to leverage University resources to support our community partners’ objectives and goals.” 

“As with many cities in the United States, systemic racism, discriminatory banking practices, redlining, access to nutritious foods, low school funding, easy access to guns, and housing issues contribute to violence, theft and even murder,” said Lagona, a senior majoring in sociology. “East St. Louis has been ranked one of the most violent cities in the U.S., based on statistics from 2017. Poverty, redlining, police brutality, and lack of community programs and supports greatly impact communities like East St. Louis.” 

“I believe there can be a reduction in violence among the youth in the Metro East, if political, social and economic issues are addressed,” offered Burton, a sociology graduate student. “I also believe violence can be reduced by listening to the residents who are most impacted and by providing a platform for them to advocate for their community. Our team of researchers are primarily there to listen and interpret data, so residents’ voices can be amplified in how to best serve and heal their community.” 

The final violence prevention plan is due to the ICJIA by Monday, Aug. 31. If funded, SSCC and TAKE will begin implementation. 

“I don’t know how many grants the ICJIA will give out, but we are extremely hopeful that we will receive one,” said Shannon Anderson, TAKE executive assistant. “We have a great need, and we are the only ones submitting a grant in the Metro East area.” 

SIUE Successful Communities Collaborative (SSCC) is a cross-disciplinary program that supports one-year partnerships between the University and communities in Illinois to advance local resilience and sustainability based on community-identified environmental, social and economic issues and needs. Our mission is to connect Illinois communities with the dynamic resources of SIUE students and faculty. 

Photos:
(L-R) Connie Frey Spurlock, PhD, SSCC director and associate professor in the Department of Sociology, and TAKE CEO Vickie Kimmel.

(L-R): SIUE students working with the University’s Successful Communities Collaborative violence prevention planning project with Teens Against Killing Everywhere are Nikolle Sanguinette, Breanne Burton and Stephanie Lagona.

SIUE Student Affairs Names Boddie Associate Dean for Diversity and Inclusion

$
0
0

Courtney BoddieSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jeffrey Waple, PhD, has amplified the leadership of Courtney Boddie, PhD, director of Counseling Services, with the added role of Associate Dean of Students for Diversity and Inclusion. 

Boddie is a respected campus leader with extensive experience and academic expertise in the areas of minority stress and cultural trauma, both of which link culture to psychological wellness.

As Associate Dean of Students for Diversity and Inclusion, he will serve as a member of the Student Affairs Senior Leadership Team and a divisional consultant to offer support services, review policies and contribute to training. He will chair the Division of Student Affairs Diversity and Inclusion Committee, oversee the progress and implementation of the Student Affairs portions of the University Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan, and serve as a divisional liaison for multiple initiatives being led across campus.

“I look forward to working with Dr. Boddie and our entire Division on these critical issues, and to create action steps to advance professional practice and remove institutional barriers in order to improve student success, retention and graduation,” said Waple. “In this role, Dr. Boddie will provide oversight to our diversity and inclusion efforts with emphasis on policy, training, consultation and connectivity.”

“Dr. Boddie brings many talents to this new role, including his own lived experiences and expertise in multicultural counseling,” added Dean of Students Kara Shustrin. “We are excited to have Dr. Boddie on the Student Affairs leadership team to guide us in looking at the division from a 30,000-foot view, and to review policies, training, programs, staff hiring and development, with diversity and inclusion as a centerpiece to better serve our students.”

Boddie asserts that to be student-ready, culture needs to be centralized as a major variable for decision-making. According to Boddie, students need to be engaged as cultural beings, who possess group identities, stressors and strengths.

“As higher education has diversified, it has yet to jettison its original design, one crafted to work only for white, wealthy, young, highly verbal, cishet, able, U.S.-born men,” he said. “As such, in a reactionary manner, we are often attempting to retrofit a clunky and inflexible system to accommodate cultural differences. This must change. We now need to focus on infusing equity-mindedness in all aspects of practice. This is part in parcel of how we institutionalize factors like anti-racism.”

Boddie aims to apply his professional skills and themes of triage, assessment, diagnosis and treatment to support the division in fulfilling its commitment to student readiness.

“As a mental health provider, my job is to quickly establish a trusting relationship in the rich cultural context of a patient’s life,” Boddie explained. “Ultimately, I seek to support the patient in becoming aware of and motivated to change problematic patterns in living.”

“As director of the center that provides these services,” he continued, “I am a veritable treasure trove of structural, institutional and interpersonal ills of a cultural nature. I note this as my professional practices are grounded in our fields’ multicultural and social justice competencies. These competencies guide us not only to address concerns as they present to the clinic, but also require that we engage in structural advocacy to reduce the likelihood that said concerns would present at all.”

An accomplished academic and proven student champion, Boddie knows the challenges will be many, but believes the SIUE community has a genuine interest in overcoming challenges and removing barriers in order to dismantle systemic racism.

“While my role will centralize and streamline divisional diversity and inclusion efforts, I am in no way a compliance or optics officer,” he concluded. “I am here to support everyone in doing their work as individuals and professionals committed to true student readiness.”

Boddie has been director of Counseling Services since July 2017 and served as interim director of the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion from October 2018-Jan. 2020.

He is actively engaged in University service, including initiatives such as Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation, Scholarly Connections and Rewarding Engagement, African American Male Initiative, University Diversity Council, and the Anti-Racism Task Force. He teaches courses in the Department of Psychology, including Psychosocial Foundation of African American Worldviews and Multicultural Counseling.

 

Photo: SIUE Associate Dean of Students for Diversity and Inclusion and Director of Counseling Services Courtney Boddie, PhD.

Viewing all 6510 articles
Browse latest View live