Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Arts & Issues will offer a special twist to the holiday season by presenting a live, world-premiere online event created for audiences of all ages, “Christmas Carol.” Manual Cinema, the interdisciplinary theater company, performs Charles Dickens’ holiday classic as a visually inventive adaptation at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10. 

Manual Cinema’s “Christmas Carol,” which runs one hour in length, will be told with hundreds of paper puppets, miniatures, silhouettes, and a live original score in an imaginative re-invention of a cherished holiday tradition. 

Tickets are $15 and available at siueconnect.org/pages/special-events-pages/manual-cinema-christmas-carol. The buyer will receive a link for the presentation. 

An avowed holiday skeptic, Aunt Trudy has been recruited to channel her late husband Joe’s famous Christmas cheer. From the isolation of her studio apartment, she reconstructs his annual Christmas Carol puppet show over a Zoom call, while the family celebrates Christmas Eve under lockdown. But as Trudy becomes more absorbed in her own version of the story, the puppets take on lives of their own, and the family’s call transforms into a stunning cinematic adaptation of Dickens’s classic ghost story. 

“There’s a lot of online performing arts content out there, but it’s difficult to translate something that should be live onto a screen,” said Arts & Issues Director Grant Andree. “I was looking for something creative and different, and Manual Cinema was looking for partners to commission something new. It’s a good fit for the time we find ourselves in. Manual Cinema is always innovative and entertaining.” 

Manual Cinema’s “Christmas Carol” was co-commissioned by Arts and Issues and is sponsored by the SIUE Alumni Association, Commerce Bank and the SIUE Foundation. 

 Arts & Issues is tied to the academic mission of the University. For 36 years, the series has presented some of the world’s finest performing artists and showcased speakers from across the spectrum in areas such as science, history, literature and politics. The program also offers unique opportunities for students, faculty, staff and the community to engage with these performers and speakers through master classes and special sessions.  

Photo:
Arts & Issues presents Manual Cinema’s “Christmas Carol.”

Brian A.D. Richardson Jr., a 2013 SIUE alumnus, been named diversity, equity and inclusion director for the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts. Richardson joins the Colts after serving in the same position for the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs in Bloomington.

Read more about Richardson in reports from WIBC-TV and WISH-TV.

Richardson earned a master’s in kinesiology at SIUE while serving as a graduate assistant for club sports in Campus Recreation.  

Photo: SIUE alumnus Brian Richardson Jr. (courtesy Indianapolis Colts).

The Southern Illinois University (SIU) Board of Trustees, at its regularly scheduled meeting today, approved the purchase of COVID-19 testing services for the SIUE campus, along with a Distinguished Service Award to Congressman John Shimkus (R-15^th District-Collinsville).

The one-year contract with RCA Laboratory Services, LLC (dba GENETWORx) is valued at $1,463,020 and will provide services associated with PCR Saliva tests. The turnkey process provides personnel, infrastructure, test kits, specimen collection processes and shipping. Results will be provided within 72 hours. GENETWORx’s web-based software platform, Aura, will provide scheduling, tracking, reporting dashboards and billing in compliance with government regulations.  The initiative will be funded by University operating funds.

Shimkus will receive the Distinguished Service Award at the May 2021 Commencement ceremonies. The congressman finished his master’s in business administration at SIUE in 1997, as he was beginning his first term in the House of Representatives.

Shimkus will join the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Political Science as an instructor for the spring 2021 semester following the completion of his 24-year career in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In November 2019, Shimkus donated his political records, correspondence, photos and more to create the “Shimkus Collection” at the Elijah P. Lovejoy Library on campus.

Among Shimkus’ many accomplishments are expanding the use of biodiesel fuels, expanding 911 emergency number legislation and coverage, establishing an Internet domain to provide a safe place for young children to surf and learn, encouraging child safety with booster seat testing and placement of heart defibrillators in schools, and advocating for energy issues and a safe environment.

Shimkus’ SIUE roots include many family members with his father, wife and son all earning SIUE degrees. A Collinsville High School alumnus, Shimkus graduated from the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., in 1980. He then served as an active duty Army officer for more than five years. Shimkus earned a teaching certificate from California’s Christ College Irvine (now Concordia University Irvine) and returned to his native southwestern Illinois to teach at Metro East Lutheran High School in Edwardsville before launching his political career.

Christian Watts is grateful for the opportunities, experience and success he has achieved during his academic career at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy (SOP). The third-year student encourages other Blacks, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) to consider a pharmacy career, and for those already interested in the field – to affectionately pursue it.  

“Choosing a career in pharmacy has come with experiences, such as being the only Black face in a lot of spaces,” said Watts, also a healthcare informatics graduate student. “There may not be a lot of students who look like me in this field, but other Blacks should embrace it, and become part of the change they want to see. Never let the lack of diversity stop you from pursuing your dreams. Be the first, if you have to be.” 

Watts is president of the SIUE chapter of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA), where he is also on the Ambassador’s Cabinet of the National Change Create Transformation Foundation. He, too, is involved with SOP’s Ambassadors of Student Services Exemplifying Togetherness (ASSET) program, where he is a mentor and student advisor. 

“The beginning of my exposure to pharmacy occurred when I attended SIUE’s Healthcare Diversity Camp,” said Watts. “The camp informed me of several careers offered within the pharmacy field. Specifically, Dr. Lakesha Butler, former president of the National Pharmaceutical Association, is the reason the Healthcare Diversity Camp is available.” 

Butler became and has remained one of Watt’s most influential mentors. “Dr. Butler is the reason I found my passion in pharmacy,” emphasized Watts. “My parents, Pastor Chris and Lady Joyce Watts, have been my mentors since birth. They are the reason I have values and morals that are dear to my heart. Without them, I would not be the person I am today.” 

Upon entering the SOP, Watts recalls part of the road of learning he embarked upon. “To gain experience with filling prescriptions and learning the names of medications, I served as an employee at Shop ‘n Save Pharmacy for three years. I was also afforded the opportunity to serve as an intern with SIUE Robert J. Noyce Scholarship Science and Math Grants funded by the National Science Foundation, which granted my first teaching experience in the classroom.” 

After obtaining these experiences, Watts discovered he had a passion for working as a graduate-level professor, with a specialty in pharmacy informatics.  

But for now, Watts tells of a few pharmacy-related efforts and projects that fill him with great enthusiasm.

“SNPhA has been hosting the Chinese clinic, a community partnership with the Saint Louis University School of Medicine that has existed monthly since 2017. SOP participants provide uninsured Chinese patients with blood pressure screenings, medication related counseling, and for the first time this year, free flu vaccines,” informed Watts. “Also, SNPhA led another community partnership with the St. Vincent DePaul Community Center in East St. Louis. We provided free flu vaccines and blood pressure screenings to uninsured, Black residents of St. Clair County.” 

While the world continues to grapple with a pandemic, Watts said he is encouraged and motivated to serve communities in need. “This is an excellent time to be in the pharmacy field,” he continued. “Patients need us now more than ever before. Pharmacists are not just knowledgeable about medications. We have expertise in disease states as well. Physician access can be limited, and pharmacists can serve as a valuable resource for patients who have healthcare questions but can’t reach their doctors immediately.” 

“Success as a pharmacist is leading your patients to optimal health, and continuously educating yourself as a lifelong learner,” said Watts. “When I become a pharmacist, I will also find success in creating ways to get more people of color interested in the field of pharmacy.” 

Photo:
Christian Watts is a third-year SIUE School of Pharmacy student and president of the SIUE chapter of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA).

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville community is mourning the loss of graduate student Joshua Ritter, of Columbia, who passed away Monday, Nov. 30 at Barnes Jewish Medical Center in St. Louis. He was 24.

Ritter completed his bachelor’s in business administration from SIUE in December 2019. An MBA student, he had brain surgery in July 2020 to remove several tumors. Unable to take classes in the fall, he had hoped to return to his studies during the spring 2021 semester.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Joshua Ritter’s family and friends,” said SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook. “Whenever a person’s full potential isn’t realized, it is absolutely heartbreaking. He will be missed.”

Visitation will be Saturday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m.-noon at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Columbia. A funeral mass will follow immediately at noon.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Immaculate Conception Education and Activities Center Building Fund 411, Palmer Road, Columbia, IL, 62236; or Make-A-Wish Foundation, 13523 Barrett Parkway Dr., St. Louis, MO, 63021.

Lawlor Funeral Home in Columbia is managing the arrangements. A complete obituary is available at leesmanfuneralhome.com.

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 ext. 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

The SIUE community is mourning the loss of Francis Odemerho, PhD, of Edwardsville, who died Friday, Dec. 4 at his residence from heart failure. He was 68.

A native of Aragba-orugun, Nigeria, Odemerho joined the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences faculty in 1991 as an assistant professor in the Department of Geography and Geographic Information Sciences. He was promoted to the rank of associate professor in 1996 and awarded tenure in 1997. Prior to his arrival at SIUE, he taught at the University of Benin in Nigeria for 10 years. 

"Our University community has lost a valued colleague and long-time member of the SIUE family,” said SIUE Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb, PhD. “We are truly grateful for Dr. Odemerho's many years of service and his contributions, particularly his engagement and support of our international students and the many students he mentored. 

“Beyond his scholarly accomplishments, Dr. Odemerho brought a calm and cheerful disposition to his interactions, and his work added to the cultural diversity and knowledge of his department and our University. We hope that memories of him will bring comfort to our students, faculty, staff and his family during this difficult time."

A specialist in geomorphology, the geography of Africa, Odemerho published articles in a number of scholarly journals, including Applied Geography, Environment and Urbanization, and Geoforum. 

In nearly 30 years as an SIUE faculty member, Odemerho taught many different courses, including Introduction to Physical Geology and Geography, Physical Geography, Meteorology, Geomorphology, and Geography of Africa. He also taught cultural impacts on geomorphic processes and forms, and GIS applications in geomorphology.

Odemerho earned a bachelor’s with honors in geography at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria in 1976. He earned both a master’s and a PhD in geography from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts in 1980 and 1982, respectively.

Arrangements will be made known as they become available.

After evaluating Madison County’s recycling programs that were initiated about 30 years ago, ways to upgrade and expand efforts were determined. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville environmental science management graduate student Omasan Ayonronmi collaborated with the Madison County Planning and Development Department to study the recycling habits and knowledge of its residents. 

“It was an insightful experience involving data gathering and analysis of recycling data from the county,” Ayonronmi said. “The result of this work helped the county identify possible areas for improvement in its waste management practices. Specifically, in collaboration with county officials, we identified a few ways to improve community participation in the county recycling drop-off stations.” 

By collecting data from surveys posted at all seven Madison County recycling sites, Ayonronmi determined there is a need for increased education and participation in the recycling program. She proposed several methods to increase awareness, including announcements in local newspapers, social media, emails, welcome packets for new residents, and signage at intersections to direct residents to the recycling centers. 

Additionally, Ayonronmi suggested the implementation of an “oops tag” system, which is used in Kirkland, Wash., to educate residents when non-recyclable materials have been placed in residential recycling bins. 

Now that the project is completed, Ayonronmi will continue her work in educating the public about recycling. “I will continue in the work of sensitizing the community on recycling materials to reduce material contamination at the recycling drop-off stations,” she explained. “I will leverage my training at SIUE to continue to help communities and companies build an environmentally friendly planet.” 

Photo:
SIUE environmental science management graduate student Omasan Ayonronmi.

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Center for STEM Research, Education and Outreach, in partnership with campus researchers and area students, have deployed an environmental monitoring network across the St. Louis Metropolitan and Metro East areas.

The network of sensors is collecting data that will guide research considering how levels of noise pollution and air quality affect various communities throughout the region, and how events and various regional activities contribute to varied levels. Since June, 10 sensors have been installed on SIUE’s Science West Green Roof, and in surrounding cities such as Highland and Mitchell, Ill. and Ferguson, Mo.

The establishment of the network is contributing data for participants in two grant-funded programs:

• Environmental Health Investigators: Building STEM Interest to Promote Careers in the Health Science, supported by a five-year, $1,337,855 grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Science Education Partnerships Award program
• A Youth-Led Citizen Science Network for Community Environmental Assessment (Y-CITYSCI), funded by a three-year, $1,033,648 award from the National Science Foundation Division of Research On Learning

“The intersection of these two programs was a happy accident as we considered how to creatively engage and empower middle and early high school students in authentic science experiences in environmental science — a shared focus of both initiatives,” said SIUE STEM Center Director Sharon Locke, PhD, professor in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Environmental Sciences.

“The environmental monitoring network is helping students in the Environmental Health Investigators program understand how various environmental factors affect individuals’ health,” she explained. “Simultaneously, the data being collected are helping students in the Y-CITYSCI program build their scientific skills and their competence in sciences, which will lead them to form a more solid science identity.”

Despite COVID-19 restrictions on in-person gatherings, researchers are virtually interacting with students to teach them scientific concepts, and help them participate in data collection, analysis and interpretation through the monitoring network.

“Each week, we are giving students assignments to get them safely outside and exploring their world,” said Carol Colaninno, PhD, assistant research professor in the SIUE STEM Center. “Given the circumstances, we are providing background information and offering more time for participants to discuss what they are doing and learning during regularly scheduled Zoom meetings. Then, we give them weekly ‘missions’ to collect information or data about their environment.”

“In 2021, we hope that participating middle and high school students may be able to develop their own scientific questions,” Colaninno added. “Because these data are collected using calibrated scientific instruments and are real data, students can use them to make interpretations about their community or more broadly about the region. We hope that through this process, they will be able to make an original contribution to science.”

Environmental sciences graduate student Josh Gifford, of Monticello, is among the SIUE students helping develop and maintain the environmental monitoring network. In doing so, Gifford is gaining valuable experience for his professional future in the field of environmental science.

“Currently, we are looking at noise and air pollution, and in the future, we will also be collecting data on soil and nitrates,” Gifford explained. “I organize and analyze the extremely large datasets that we glean from the monitoring network. This experience is allowing me to become experienced and knowledgeable on how to collect and utilize environmental data in the same fashion that it is done by professionals in the field.”

Network data will support the thesis research of Gifford and graduate student Christine Favilla, who has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining the network. Additionally, undergraduate students will work with the data to conduct analyses and make scientific interpretations, as well as learn how the monitors are maintained and the steps necessary to process these data and make them usable.

The air quality sensors used in the network are PurpleAir monitors, which offer real-time tracking and download options. Find the SIUE monitor via www2.purpleair.com.

Photos: After retrieving data, SIUE environmental sciences graduate student Josh Gifford reinstalls a noise sensor on the Science West Green Roof.

SIUE graduate student Josh Gifford (left) and the STEM Center’s Carol Colaninno, PhD, retrieve data and change batteries in the sensors installed on the Science West Green Roof.

Princeton Review has ranked the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Business Online Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) program among the top 50 nationally. See the complete list at princetonreview.com/business-school-rankings.

The Top 50 Online MBA Program ranking is based on a combination of institutional and student survey data, including career outcomes, technological infrastructure, academic rigor, cost, and affordability, among others. Princeton Review has rated the School among the best in the country for on-campus MBA for 15 consecutive years.

“We are pleased that Princeton Review has recognized the quality of our online MBA program,” said SIUE School of Business Dean Tim Schoenecker, PhD. “The online platform helps our School of Business meet our commitment to deliver quality, affordable business education to working professionals.

“We launched our fully online MBA program two years ago and student interest in the program has exceeded our expectations. Furthermore, the growth in enrollment has enabled us to offer new specializations to meet the needs of our students and their employers.”

Princeton Review is a leading tutoring, test prep and college admission services company. Every year, it helps millions of college and graduate school-bound students achieve their education and career goals through online and in-person courses delivered by a network of more than 4,000 teachers and tutors, online resources, and its more than 150 print and digital books published by Penguin Random House. Princeton Review is headquartered in New York, N.Y. The company is not affiliated with Princeton University.

SIUE’s School of Business and the accountancy programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, representing the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. The Princeton Review lists SIUE as one of the top 252 business schools in the U.S. for the 13^th consecutive year. Undergraduate degrees are offered in accountancy and business administration, with specializations in computer management and information systems (CMIS), economics, entrepreneurship, finance, human resources, international business, management and marketing. Graduate degrees include accountancy, business administration, CMIS and marketing research, with specializations in tax, project management and business analytics. More than 26,000 alumni have earned degrees from the SIUE School of Business. For more information about the School of Business, visit siue.edu/business.

Photo: SIUE School of Business Dean Tim Schoenecker.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Jeremy Jewell, PhD, professor in the Department of Psychology, has received the Illinois Probation and Court Services Association’s (IPCSA) 2020 Exemplary Service Award. The award honors Jewell’s established and dedicated partnership in developing evidence-based practices with the Madison County Probation and Court Services Department.

IPCSA’s Exemplary Service Award is a statewide award presented annually to one deserving individual who has served to further probation and court services through their dedication and commitment within the private sector. The award was presented to Jewell during IPCSA’s Annual Fall Conference, held virtually over Zoom.

For more than 17 years, Jewell has served Madison County, offering beneficial services such as program development, program evaluation, and staff training. Through this long-standing partnership, Jewell has provided research-driven programs developed to help probation clients improve their anger management and compassion skills. His published analyses and outcomes have been shared by the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts and serve as resources for individuals and courts nationwide.

Upon receiving the award, Jewell expressed surprise and humility. “My collaboration with the Madison County Probation Department began almost 20 years ago and has been one of the highlights of my career,” he said. “I am fortunate to work with many wonderful professionals who are dedicated to reducing crime and providing treatment to court-involved individuals in our community.”

Madison County Juvenile Detention Center Program Coordinator Scott Elliff praised Jewell’s programs for providing rewarding educational experiences for area youth, center staff and SIUE undergraduate students.

“I nominated Dr. Jewell for this award, because much of the work people perform for the greater good of society often goes unnoticed or taken for granted,” Elliff said. “Dr. Jewell exemplifies altruism. He has been generous with his time and freely shares his expertise, academic knowledge, and experiential wisdom.”

Jewell’s research lab has developed two programs focused on improving coping skills in detained youth—the Relaxation Skills Violence Prevention program (RSVP) and the Compassion Approach to Learning Meditation (CALM). While utilizing the strengths of both programs, Jewell’s lab is currently piloting a third program that will focus on helping teens in detention learn new ways to cope with anger, stress and frustration.

“This award is a way to celebrate our thanks and appreciation for Dr. Jewell’s contributions to our programming efficacy, staff development, and ultimately, the populations we serve,” added Elliff. “I hope this award symbolizes a deeper respect for those like Dr. Jewell who want to help improve communities through a shared understanding of the value of our work.”

“Despite the difficulties presented by COVID-19, we have done our best to move forward with several initiatives to improve services to probation clients,” said Jewell. “We are fortunate to have a best-practice juvenile detention facility here in Madison County with great administrators. I know of no other detention facility in the state that provides so many needed services to its detainees.”

To learn more about Jewell’s research, visit probation.illinoiscourts.gov/data/Illinois-publications.

Photo: SIUE’s Jeremy Jewell, PhD, professor in the Department of Psychology, has received the Illinois Probation and Court Services Association’s (IPCSA) 2020 Exemplary Service Award.

International attendees exchanged scientific developments and discoveries during the successful online Conference Series on Nonlinear Dynamics and Complexity, founded and hosted by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering’s Albert Luo, PhD, distinguished research professor in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering.

Held in late November, the virtual conference series presented an opportunity for acclaimed researchers like Luo to present on fundamental and frontier theories and techniques for modern science and technology, stimulate research interest, and share new knowledge with the next generation of researchers, engineers and technologists.

The conference featured six plenary talks, five award presentations, 15 invited talks and 91 presentations from 31 countries, including Russia, China, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, Poland, Brazil, Mexico, Canada and more. Topics included mathematical modeling of nonlinear dynamical systems, disease pandemic modeling and predictions, fractional dynamics, data science and artificial intelligence, and artificial systems.

According to Luo, among the positives of the online format was attendees’ ability to access presentations as convenient in various time zones.

“The conference organization committee shared the videos on YouTube, which accommodated the time zones of local symposium organizers,” Luo explained. “Participants liked the conference style, as they could efficiently discuss problems to resolve their puzzles in research. The online format saved people both time and cost, while still achieving our goals of research communication and international networking. Two groups of scientists from Portugal and Greece have since indicated their interest in organizing the next conference on Nonlinear Dynamics and Complexity.”

Luo presented on his pioneering research, “Bifurcation trees of periodic motions to chaos in nonlinear mechanical systems.”

“This research has provided a way to determine periodic motions to chaos in mechanical systems,” Luo explained. “One can better understand the dynamical behaviors of mechanical systems. Further, one can use and control the mechanical systems well to serve society. Such breakthrough will change traditional thinking in nonlinear mechanical systems.”

“If the similar method is applied in disease pandemic modeling, one may accurately know the development of disease pandemic evolutions,” he added. “Such new results will help smart city and artificial intelligence to develop more efficient algorithms.”

Awards were granted to five scientists for their contributions in nonlinear science complexity:

• Lagrange Award: Vladimir Nekorkin, of Russia, for his lifetime achievements in nonlinear dynamics and bifurcation theory. Nekorkin presented “Dynamics of oscillatory adaptive networks.”
• M. Zaslavsky Award: Dimitri Volchenkov, of the United States, for development of a non-perturbative Quantum Field Theory approach to stochastic nonlinear dynamics. Volchenkov presented “How Structure Creates Force.”
• Afraimovich Award: Vitali Vougalter, of Canada, for his exceptional achievements in the Theory of non-Fredholm integro-differential equations. He presented “Solvability of some Integro-differential Equations with Concentrated Sources.”
• S. Hsu Award: Miguel A. F. Sanjuán, of Spain, for his outstanding achievements in Chaos Theory, which opens new perspectives on predictability in Nonlinear Dynamics and Complexity. He presented “Binary Black Hole Shadows: Chaos in General Relativity.”
• S. Hsu Award: C. Steve Suh, of the United States, for his incredible advancements in Nonlinear time-frequency control and application of ultrafast techniques to advanced manufacturing. He presented “On Time-frequency Control of Nonlinear Systems.”

For more information on the conference, visit ndc.lhscientificpublishing.com.

Photo: SIUE’s Albert Luo, PhD, distinguished research professor in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering.

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy (SOP) has received an $8,000 Walgreens Diversity Donation to expand its pipeline development programs and aid in its efforts to increase diversity among student pharmacists. 

The funding will support a Walgreens Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Award, and a Walgreens Multilingual Scholarship, as well as the enhancement of pipeline programs targeted at increasing enrollment of diverse groups.

“Industry partnerships and support contribute significantly to enriching student life at SIUE,” said SOP Dean Mark Luer, PharmD. “This wonderful financial commitment by Walgreens provides additional scholarship support for students to more fully engage in the professional program by lessening the economic burden they have undertaken to pursue their studies. This in turn allows the students to focus on their academic success.”

Walgreens has been a steady supporter of the SOP’s scholarship program since its inception. This additional funding will enhance the School’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusion by contributing to increased student support, educational programming, curriculum development and community outreach.

“We thank Walgreens for their continued support, especially in the area of diversity and inclusion,” said SOP Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lakesha Butler, PharmD, clinical professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice. “Financial support from Walgreens has previously supported our annual Healthcare Diversity Summer Camp by eliminating the financial barrier for our participants.”

“Continuing to diversify our student body is of importance and is a key goal of our current SOP Diversity and Inclusion strategic plan,” she added. “However, diversity is just one piece of the puzzle. We have to pursue equity for our students by addressing barriers such as socioeconomic limitations that may hinder their path towards becoming a pharmacist.”

Scholarship awards developed through the Walgreens Diversity Donation program will be accessible to students via the University’s Academic Works system. Applications will be evaluated by the School of Pharmacy Scholarship and Awards Committee based on criteria established by the scholarship donor.

Photo: SIUE SOP Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lakesha Butler, PharmD.

These stories are not from the pages of worn books, old audio tapes or reels of archived film. These accounts of struggle and triumph come directly from the mouths, minds and hearts of Black East St. Louisans who recall living during times that were simple but not easy, close-knit but segregated, and more courteous but racially hostile. 

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) Campus Center is working on one of its initiative’s known as East St. Louis stories or e-stories, according to Connie Frey Spurlock, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Sociology and TRHT core planning team member. 

“E-stories provide an infrastructure for sharing and documenting the individual experiences of community members through oral histories and digital storytelling,” explained Frey Spurlock. “These experiences will form the basis of a shared narrative of the SIUE and East St. Louis communities.” 

The initiative is modeled after the Humans of St. Louis project, a 501(c)(3) that shares first-person stories and photographic portraits of people and places in St. Louis, according to Frey Spurlock. In the aftermath of Michael Brown’s murder and protests in Ferguson, Humans of St. Louis documented the perspectives of St. Louis residents and members of the Ferguson Commission to bring attention to the reports’ calls for action, including racial equity. 

“In utilizing this structure, as well as building on it by bringing in theater, other visual arts and highlighting the day-to-day lived experiences of East St. Louisans and SIUE students, staff and faculty who call East St. Louis home, we hope to present a more positive image of the city and raise awareness about the effects of structural racism on the city,” she continued.  

SIUE students have worked since August in collecting e-stories under the supervision of College of Arts and Sciences faculty members Sandra Weissinger, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Sociology, and Kathryn Bentley, associate professor in the Department of Theater and Dance. Students contributors include Mario Diaz, a senior sociology and psychology double major; Yoseline Miranda, a senior sociology and theater/dance double major; Andrea Perez and Sean Thomas, both senior sociology majors; Rhonda Whittier, a freshman theater/dance major; Heaven Bones, a sophomore psychology major; and Tyrice Collier, an undeclared sophomore. 

East St. Louis natives and residents who were interviewed include: 

• Darryl Cherry 
• Rodney Coates 
• Clint Collins
• Lydia Jackson 
• Edna Patterson-Petty 
• Reginald Petty 
• Eugene B. Redmond 
• Wesley Robinson-McNeese 
• Lorenzo Savage 
• Simone Williams 

 “I wanted to be part of something that acknowledges and speaks out against the dangers of living in a society that oppresses certain humans purely based on their race,” said Perez. “I was responsible for obtaining oral histories (personal experiences) through semi-structure interviews of individuals who have a strong connection with East St. Louis. These documented oral histories will be used to create stories that will be shared with the community to fight the negative narrative of this city, to work towards racial healing and to show the real beauty behind East St. Louis.” 

In interviewing a number of people and collecting data, Perez found that it had a profound impact on her. 

“I learned how strong everyone is for not allowing racial oppression to stop them from their achievements. I was able to see how hopeful people are,” she added. “I also felt a connection with everyone, which is something I was not expecting.” 

“It’s important to value oral histories, because these are the personal experiences of individuals who have been impacted by racism,” continued Perez. “These stories help us learn a part of history that many people do not know. We must acknowledge everyone’s history in order to understand and help each other. These stories will become an opportunity to connect with people, that others might not have otherwise. Feeling connected will help restore compassion toward others.” 

The e-stories project is also critical because of the influence it is having on SIUE students, according to Frey Spurlock. 

“Students are gaining knowledge, skills, and courage to tell the truth regarding the ways in which racism has impacted our campus, region and relationships,” noted Frey Spurlock.  

SIUE’s TRHT is working with I Am East St. Louis, The Magazine as a community partner. The stories are expected to be completed in January and will be shared on the SIUE Successful Communities Collaboration Lab website, via social media and in I Am East St. Louis, The Magazine. 

For more information about e-stories, contact Frey Spurlock at cfrey@siue.edu, 618-650-2945. 

Photo:
Top row (L-R): Lydia Jackson, assistant to the provost for library and community engagement and associate professor at Lovejoy Library; Eugene B. Redmond, SIUE emeritus professor of English and East St. Louis Poet Laureate; and Simone Williams, SIUE alumna and assistant professor in Library and Information Services 

Bottom row (L-R): Edna Patterson Petty, SIUE alumna and celebrated artist; Reginald Petty, civil rights leader, activist, educator, author, historian and former Peace Corp director; and Darryl Cherry, Office of Student Opportunities for Academic Results (SOAR) student retention coordinator and SIUE Collegiate 100 advisor.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Randy Pembrook will oversee the 2020 virtual fall commencement exercises at 1 p.m. on Friday Dec. 18 for the 1,103 eligible graduates. Commencement will be available at siue.edu/virtual-commencement.

SIU System President Daniel Mahony, PhD, will address the graduates.

The student speakers include:

• College of Arts and Sciences, Paulina Fuhrmann, of Collinsville, bachelor’s of political science
• Graduate School, Caitlin Phelan, of Glen Carbon, doctor of nursing practice
• School of Business, Matthew Gregor, of Edwardsville, bachelor’s of business administration
• School of Education, Health and Human Behavior, Lara Tupper, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, bachelor’s of nutrition
• School of Engineering, Ashley Spain, of Norridge, bachelor’s of civil engineering
• School of Nursing, Cassidy Bruns, of Lincoln, bachelor’s of nursing

Congratulatory messages to the graduates can be posted at the alumni kudo board by visiting  kudoboard.com.

Photo (L-R): Top Row - Cassidy Bruns, Paulina Fuhrmann and Matthew Gregor.

Bottom Row - Caitlin Phelan, Ashley Spain and Lara Tupper.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, educators worldwide have quickly adapted traditional in-person courses to virtual settings. This transition has presented ample challenges, including but not limited to, creative measures educators are taking to offer online courses that typically involve hands-on learning experiences.

An example is Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Foundations of Science course, which is required for elementary education students, all of whom aspire to teach the next generation.

The fast-paced course features weekly earth science and physics topics, and is aimed at teaching educators how to guide their future K-8 students through scientific experiments.

“The biggest challenge in this course was adapting the activities,” said course instructor Colin Wilson, outreach specialist in the SIUE STEM Research Center. “Some of the lessons previously used computer programs or written resources and could be easily adapted as-is, but the majority had physical components and needed rewriting.”

To adapt the course’s hands-on experiential activities, lessons were revised to include the use of common household items, such as using a propped-up book instead of the lab’s plastic ramp tracks. Virtual activities such as simulation labs or instructional videos were also utilized, along with video lectures and online exams uploaded to Blackboard.

“I’ve always relied heavily on Blackboard in this course to keep track of grades and improve communication with students,” said Wilson. “Until this semester, I hadn’t made use of all the features. I took a workshop through Lovejoy Library on Knowmia, a service integrated into Blackboard that makes recording a slideshow presentation fast and easy. I hadn’t used it before March, but now use it weekly. The same goes for Blackboard’s exam features, in-line grading, Zoom sessions and breakout rooms, video editing software, ADA caption transcription, and other awesome services provided by SIUE.”

Elementary education students Alison Blades, of McLeansboro, and Katherine Krausz, of New Baden, praised Wilson’s presence online, noting that he responded to questions and concerns in a timely manner.

Blades, a sophomore, has missed the camaraderie found in a traditional classroom throughout the semester.

“My experience this semester has been quite different than any before,” said Blades. “It has not been an easy change, but it has been adaptable. The biggest challenge is not having a professor or lab partners nearby while completing activities each week. I am used to having my professor and peers completing the labs alongside me, and helping answer any questions I may have.”

In the future, Blades hopes to use the skills she gained from online learning as a middle school math teacher. She aspires to earn a master’s and doctorate in educational leadership, and make a difference in students’ lives.

“In this course, we used many virtual resources that I hope to take advantage of one day,” Blades added. “Although this class was challenging, it has positively influenced me to use all resources available, to listen and follow directions, be confident in my work, and use creativity to the max.”

Krausz, a junior, enjoyed the hands-on assignments she completed throughout the semester, noting the final design project as a highlight.

“My overall experience in this class was a positive one, despite it being moved online,” said Krausz. “Professor Wilson did a great job communicating with us and helping us get through the crazy semester. I enjoyed the design project, because he let us pick the topic and gave us an objective. It was still a great experience despite having to do it at home.”

“This class will influence my future career, because I feel more confident in my science abilities and knowledge,” Krausz added. “As an elementary teacher, you need to know the basics, and this science course was a great way to reintroduce foundational topics.”

Photo: SIUE Instructor Colin Wilson (top) leads a virtual lesson on lunar phases with students Katherine Krausz and Alison Blades.

Perhaps the truest test of knowledge is successfully applying what one has learned and teaching others. Senior assignments at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville support that premise as students embark on initiatives that represent the culmination of their undergraduate experience.

Fittingly in fall 2020 amid the Coronavirus pandemic, public health students pursued projects that directly related to the health crisis, as well as benefitted local partners. Teams of seniors planned, implemented and evaluated health education programs in the community.

While dealing with an entirely online environment, student teams pursued such projects as “Serenity in Sixty,” a 60-minuter interactive webinar on stress management techniques for Edwardsville Public Library patrons, and “Spread Joy, not COVID-19,” an informational video campaign on safe travel habits that was shared on TikTok.

“What has been most impressive about these students is their flexibility, adaptability, determination and guts,” said Nicole Klein, PhD, professor and public health program director in the Department of Applied Health. “They were all unexpectedly forced to adapt to new conditions, including online learning, using online tools for collaboration, illnesses, financial insecurity and general COVID funk.”

Further underscoring students’ perseverance and successful project completion, Klein added, “We all knew someone with COVID at some point in the semester. But, these students continued to work together, asked for the help they needed, did the hard things, took care of the big and little tasks, and rolled it all into an unforgettable senior experience.”

Public health seniors Jasmyn Kloster, of Edwardsville, and Jessica Sauer, of Springfield, each provided exemplary leadership to their project groups throughout the semester.

Kloster led “Spread Joy, not COVID-19,” and collaborated with teammates Maddison Bierbaum, Kaylin Daggs, Cassidy Reynolds and Fion Yim.

“Studies have proven that college students who travel are more likely to spread COVID-19 compared to those who do not travel,” explained Kloster. “We wanted students to know the correct precautions to take before going home to visit family for the holidays.”

The project team based their video content off the “3 Ws of COVID,” which include washing your hands, watching your distance and wearing a mask. Three videos were created and sent to SIUE students, along with an evaluation link. Approximately 256 students watched the TikTok videos and participated in the evaluation.

Kloster aspires to work for a company that combines public health and social media, so strengthening leadership skills through this project will prove valuable.

“Whether it be for sexual health, nutrition, personal wellness or any other aspect of public health, I found that I enjoy combining social media with spreading knowledge,” said Kloster. “It has proven to be a quick and effective way for young people to learn.”

Sauer’s project, “Serenity in Sixty,” focused on providing the community with different ways to cope with the stresses caused by COVID-19. Her team members were Jordyn Flood, Damilola Oyeside, Morgan Reichert and Hannah Sieferman.

“The main goal of our project was to provide patrons of the Edwardsville Public Library with techniques to better manage stress and anxiety, especially amid COVID-19,” said Sauer. “Throughout the semester, we developed a program that contains many researched techniques.”

During an hour-long Zoom seminar, Sauer and teammates discussed the differences between stress and anxiety and provided library patrons with six ways to cope with stress during the pandemic. Additionally, project members practiced diaphragmatic breathing, meditation and music therapy with attendees.

Prior to her graduation in spring 2021, Sauer will provide community support through an internship with SIUE’s COVID Coordinator Michael Schultz. She will conduct contact tracing for SIUE. She will develop a script for contact tracing, interview students diagnosed with COVID-19 to trace those with whom they’ve been in contact, provide information on isolation and quarantine protocols, and refer traced contacts for possible testing.

“This will be a meaningful experience for me, because COVID is a life-changing health issue,” explained Sauer. “Through this internship, I will learn more about contact tracing, isolation and quarantine protocols, interviewing skills, and much more.”

Sauer aspires to earn a master’s in nursing, and incorporate nursing and public health in her future career.

“The future is bright for these public health students,” said Klein. “What employer or graduate school isn’t going to want a new graduate who found themselves in a less-than-ideal situation, took a deep breath and just did the work. All of our students have done that, and they did it well.”

Photo: SIUE public health seniors present on their senior assignments during a Zoom session.

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering (SOE) contributed 100 face shields to Anderson Hospital on Monday, Dec. 14. It is the second time during the COVID-19 pandemic that the SOE has assisted Anderson Hospital with personal protective equipment (PPE).

SOE Lab Manager Jagath Gunasekara, PhD, and Brent Vaughn, lab specialist and lecturer in the Department of Civil Engineering, delivered the face shields to Anderson Hospital’s Lisa Huddleston.

“This is another excellent example of University/community collaboration,” said SOE Dean Cem Karacal, PhD. “Through the dedicated work of Lab Managers Brent Vaughn and Jagatah Gunasekara, they were able to quickly make production runs last spring.” 

The face shields have four main parts: a frame with headband adjuster clips; foam strips for cushioning the frame from the wearer’s forehead; headband strap; and clear plastic shield material.

Vaughn noted that there is some assembly required by the recipients. “We buy precut 8-1/2 x 11-inch transparency material that we punch four holes into,” he said. “We give them to the recipients in the original packaging to install themselves to keep the sheets from collecting dust, oils and scratches.”

Earlier this year, the SOE donated 50 protective face shields to the SIUE Police Department along with 60 to Anderson Hospital. The SOE also supplied face shields to the SIU School of Dental Medicine and a private dental clinic in Alton.

Vaughn said conversations began in late March among SOE and SIUE Biological Sciences faculty regarding their 3D printers to produce PPE for nearby hospitals and first responders. “Through those collective ideas, we chose to focus on a face shield design (attribution to IC3D, Inc. and Budmen Industries) that had been reviewed by National Institutes of Health to meet FDA requirements for production of protective face shields,” he said.

Gunasekara acknowledged collaboration with Principia College, which donated 200 face shields to the effort. “Because of an on-going relationship with our solar car teams, Dr. Gunasekara reached out to me to see if there was anything Principia College could do, and we offered 3D printing services and materials,” said Principia’s Brian Kamusinga, assistant professor of chemistry. “Over several weeks, we made hundreds of components that were used to manufacture face shields. As an SIUE alumnus, I’m excited about continuing such collaborations in the future.”

A significant donation from Narayan Bodapati, PhD, former chair of the SIUE Department of Construction, greatly assisted the effort. “Dr. Bodapati is a well-known name in the region’s construction community,” Karacal said. “When he heard about our attempt to help with the crisis, he donated $10,000 to the School, so we could buy three additional 3D printers to increase production and acquire the raw materials to make most of the face shields produced through early summer.”

Photo (L-R): Anderson Hospital’s Lisa Huddleston inspects face shields with SIUE’s Brent Vaughn and Jagath Gunasekera.

To help students struggling with grades, school and life in the midst of COVID-19, the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Education, Health and Human Behavior offered its students a virtual mindfulness class on Tuesday, Dec. 8. 

“We thought it would be nice to give students a care package with goodies, an eye pillow for relaxing and offer a mindfulness session for them to connect to a smaller group,” said Wendy Weber, PhD, professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning. “During the class, we introduced a few concepts of mindfulness and meditation. We practiced breath and body awareness, and self-compassion.” 

“I registered for the class because of how stressed I’ve been this semester,” said Corbin Johannpeter, a junior sociology major. “Earlier this semester, I was finally able to admit that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Accepting who I am, coupled with the stress of 2020 opened the door to a lot of emotions that have been challenging.” 

Specifically, the hour-long class taught students about stress management, self-compassion, increased focus and clarity, how to create a healthier relationship with themselves, how to feel more connected to others rather than feeling isolated, and how to get better sleep, according to Weber. 

“This class provided something that has been extremely difficult to find during the pandemic – human connection,” added Johannpeter. “It was truly a refreshing experience.” 

Photo:
Wendy Weber, PhD, professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning.

 Princeton Review has named Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s School of Business as one of the best in the country for on-campus MBA for the 15th-consecutive year. The education services company features the School in the 2021 edition of its book, “The Best 244 Business Schools.”

“Combined with our AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation, the recognition as a Best Business School from Princeton Review gives our students the assurance that our faculty are providing a high-quality business education,” said SIUE School of Business Associate Dean Janice Joplin, PhD. “We value the Princeton Review ranking because it is based on feedback from our students and alumni about their experiences in the SIUE School of Business.”

According to Rob Franek, Princeton Review editor-in-chief, “We recommend Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as an excellent choice for an aspiring MBA. What makes our Best Business Schools list unique is that we factor in data from our surveys of students attending the schools about their campus and classroom experiences. For our 2021 list we tallied surveys of more than 17,800 students at 244 business schools.”

Princeton Review’s 80-question survey asked students about their school’s academics, student body and campus life, as well as about themselves and their career plans. The student surveys were conducted during the 2019-20, 2018-19 and 2017-18 academic years.

Princeton Review surveyed business school administrators during the 2019-20 academic year. The administrator survey, which numbered more than 200 questions, covered topics from academic offerings and admission requirements to data about currently enrolled students, as well as graduates’ employment.

 “The Best 244 Business Schools: 2021 Edition” has profiles of the schools, with sections on their academics, student life, admissions information and graduates’ employment data. View the SIUE profile at princetonreview.com. The profiles also have five ratings – academic experience, admissions selectivity, career, professors interesting and professors accessible – that Princeton Review tallies based on data from its administrator and/or student survey.

Princeton Review is a leading tutoring, test prep and college admission services company. Every year, it helps millions of college and graduate school-bound students achieve their education and career goals through online and in-person courses delivered by a network of more than 4,000 teachers and tutors, online resources, and its more than 150 print and digital books published by Penguin Random House. Princeton Review is headquartered in New York, N.Y. The company is not affiliated with Princeton University.

Photo: SIUE School of Business Associate Dean Janice Joplin.

Single parent. Doctoral candidate. Frontline healthcare worker. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville graduate student Caitlin Phelan is a multitasking, difference maker. Perhaps selfless is the best word to describe the woman who provides skilled, compassionate care to all with whom she interacts.

Phelan will earn a doctor of nursing practice degree from SIUE during the virtual commencement ceremonies that will go live at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 at siue.edu/virtual-commencement. Phelan will speak on behalf of her fellow graduates during the Graduate School ceremony.

In her speech, she plans to encourage individuals to hold tight to four simple words: “You can do it.” No matter how difficult the times get or how many responsibilities there are to juggle, a firm belief in oneself will keep you on course to achieving your goals, Phelan concludes.

“There will inevitably be more challenges ahead of all of us,” Phelan notes. “But, when we can find what sustains us and live with intention, we are better prepared for whatever life has in store. Whatever ‘it’ is, you can do it.”

This fall certainly brought added challenges for full-time healthcare professionals like Phelan. She is a nurse practitioner at a local veteran’s hospital. This week, she will begin aiding in the administration of COVID-19 vaccinations to healthcare workers at her facility, including herself.

“When the pandemic began, my role as an occupational health provider shifted toward the field of public health,” Phelan reflected, “with an emphasis on surveillance, testing, contact tracing and case management. I consider it an honor to be a part of this milestone in the fight against COVID-19.”

Among the biggest challenges brought forth by the pandemic has been witnessing its effects on healthcare workers, Phelan noted.

“From the beginning, many were torn between their sense of duty to care for their patients and the possibility that they might bring COVID-19 back home to their families,” Phelan explained. “Now, they are exhausted, frustrated and many are suffering from moral injury as a result of the things they are being asked to do each day. But, these nurses, doctors and other frontline workers continue to show up, day after day, to do what’s right for their patients. Truly, I have seen a dedication and courage from them like none other, and that is how I know we will win this fight.”

Phelan was a journalist before realizing that healthcare was the career for her. She completed a bachelor’s in nursing in 2006 and a master’s in the family nurse practitioner specialization in 2011, both from SIUE. With her doctorate, she intends to expand her positive impact on veterans care.

“One of the reasons why I love working with veterans is that they have a story to tell,” Phelan said. “It is truly living history to listen to veterans talk about everything they saw, their experiences and the places they’ve traveled. Unfortunately, they are sometimes misunderstood by healthcare professionals who have not had exposure to military culture.”

“Increasing awareness about the unique spiritual, mental and physical issues veterans face is important for improving clinical outcomes,” she added. “I hope that this degree will give me a platform to contribute to that process.”

With her passion for working with underserved communities and an abundance of academic and clinical experience, it’s clear Phelan is living true to her words. Whatever “it” is, she can do it.

“As a single parent, this journey has not been easy,” Phelan said. “I feel so much gratitude for the love and support from my family, friends and the School of Nursing. I give thanks to God for seeing me through this chapter of life and look forward to whatever the next one holds!” 

Photo: Caitlin Phelan will earn a doctor of nursing practice degree from the SIUE School of Nursing during the fall 2020 virtual commencement ceremony.