The Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) is celebrating students in the class of 2021 for achieving a 100% first-time pass rate on the new Integrated National Board Dental Exam (INBDE).

The integrated examination for dental licensure replaces the NBDE Part I and Part II, and covers the basic, behavioral and clinical sciences. According to the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, the new exam combines content from several disciplines, requiring test takers to “integrate their knowledge of science with the clinical know-how involved in the safe practice of dentistry.”

“SIU School of Dental Medicine students continue to excel with strong dedication to their academic advancement and a commitment to achieving clinical mastery,” said SIU SDM Dean Bruce Rotter, DMD. “We are incredibly proud of this noteworthy accomplishment.”

The class of 2021 has endured the particular challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting both their third and fourth year of dental clinical education.

“Despite the additional restrictions placed on them amid the pandemic, these students worked effectively to be productive and manage their patients and work toward fulfilling their graduation requirements,” said SIU SDM Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Saulius Drukteinis, DMD. “We also owe great thanks to SIU School of Dental Medicine faculty and staff for working so hard under the circumstances to help continue to deliver our highest standard of education.”

Photo: The SIU SDM Class of 2021 gathered on campus during their 2017 orientation program.

Season’s greetings bring the familiar customs of holiday decorating, shopping, festivities and more. However, this time of year, which is synonymous with good tidings and cheer, can be anything but for many people. 

To help navigate what can be a lonely, and even dark time of year, staff members at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Counseling Services offer guidance and support. 

“People struggle emotionally during the holidays for various reasons,” said Courtney Boddie, PhD, director of Counseling Services and associate dean of students for Diversity and Inclusion. “Absent family members and being unable to see them (particularly in light of COVID since families may choose against gathering in hopes of reducing the chances of spreading the virus) is one factor.” 

Some other triggers include reminders of loved ones who have died, financial strain and social expectations to celebrate and observe the holidays in a certain way, according to Associate Director of Counseling Services Jessica Ulrich. 

“There can also be feelings of disconnectedness, dissatisfaction with certain interpersonal relationships, low moods due to Seasonal Affective Disorder, weight gain and dysfunctional family dynamics,” added Lisa Thompson-Gibson, staff counselor and coordinator for Outreach and Prevention Initiatives. 

Emotional strain can manifest itself in the following ways:

• Changes in routine, such as sleeping more or less and eating more or less
• Increase in substance use
• Increase in spending
• A sense of hopelessness or helplessness
• Isolating oneself
• Talk of suicide

 “Self-care is highly critical,” Boddie emphasized. “You practice self-care by focusing on self-regulation, which is the ability to monitor and manage your energy states, emotions, thoughts and behaviors in ways that are acceptable and produce positive results, such as well-being, loving relationships and learning.” 

“Self-care is a key element of emotional intelligence,” he added. “It functions as an umbrella under which willpower, executive functioning, flexibility, emotional regulation and self-management exist.” 

“You can provide support by recognizing signs/symptoms of emotional distress,” said Thompson-Gibson. “You can hold space with them and validate their concerns, and offer empathy and a listening ear, without trying to fix the person’s distress. You can also refer those in need to professionals/providers. Low-cost therapy options can be found at Open Path. 

For those suffering, consider the few tips below:

• Be kind to yourself by learning about and then practicing self-compassion. View Kristin Neff
• Use breathing techniques, yoga and/or meditation   
• Get outdoors 
• Practice sleep hygiene 
• Practice nutrition 
• Use a regular exercise routine  

To learn more, visit http://learninginaction.com/PDF/SRS.pdf. 

“A life that centers well-being is a life worth living,” Boddie concluded. “The core message is to commit to self-regulation by scheduling time for it throughout the day, as a means of building automaticity for it. We must plan for prevention. Otherwise, we will constantly struggle to adjust to our current circumstances, whether we like them or not.” 

Counseling Services is open from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, except during standard University closures. TAO Self-Help, which offers fingertip access to mental health modules and mindfulness resources, is available 24/7 to everyone with an SIUE email account. 

Photo:
(L-R) Courtney Boddie, PhD, director of Counseling Services and associate dean of students for Diversity and Inclusion; Lisa Thompson-Gibson, staff counselor and coordinator for Outreach and Prevention Initiatives; and Jessica Ulrich, associate director of Counseling Services.

Through a generous donation from the Richard and Patricia Dremuk International Leader Scholarship Foundation, the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Office of International Affairs has awarded $2,500 scholarships to four undergraduate international students. The awards are competitive and based upon each student’s financial need and contribution to international education at SIUE. 

Aastha Satyal, a senior from Nepal, is a business administration major. Junior Dat Nguyen, of Vietnam, is a computer science major. Sophomore Khuong Tang Hoan, of Vietnam, intends to major in computer science. Fareedah Abisoye Balogun, of Nigeria, is a sophomore nursing major. 

“During these challenging times with the COVID-19 pandemic, these scholarships mean more than ever,” said Mary Weishaar, PhD, executive director of the Office of International Affairs. “All of the awardees demonstrated financial need for this award and were directly impacted by the pandemic.”

Satyal volunteered as an international student ambassador and in career services, assisted international students in locating housing and was a fundraiser and webmaster for Delta Sigma Phi, a business fraternity.

Nguyen took the role of intramural indoor soccer team leader in Campus Recreation and recruited approximately 100 members. He also volunteered as an international student ambassador.

“Because of this scholarship, I will be able to focus on my education and put all my energy into doing well in my classes,” Nguyen said. “The scholarship will allow my goals and dreams to become a reality. I hope in turn one day I will be able to give back and help other students achieve their goals.”

Tang Hoan is an international ambassador and cougar guide, and has served on student panel during orientation, recorded video with tips for international students for fall 2020 orientation, and participated in other virtual hours hosted by the Office of International Affairs.

Balogun served as a resident assistant in University Housing and helped create a community for international students. She also volunteered at a St. Louis food bank.

Photo (L-R): SIUE international students Fareedah Abisoye Balogun, Khuong Tang Hoan, Dat Nguyen and Aastha Satyal are the recipients of $2,500 scholarships from the Richard and Patricia Dremuk International Leader Scholarship Foundation.

The Gateway Illinois Chapter of The Links, Inc., helped make Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Head Start/Early Head Start parents’ Christmas a little brighter. The service organization’s Services to Youth Facet committee donated $600 in Walmart gift cards. 

Patricia Wharton, a 30-year Links member, presented the gift cards to Head Start/Early Head Start Interim Director Carolyn Jason on Tuesday, Dec. 15 at the program’s administrative offices. 

The donation included 24 gift cards for $25 each. Three gift cards were distributed to the Home Base Option and all seven Head Start/Early Head Start centers, including Belleville, Bluffview, Lovejoy, Cahokia, and Discover Center, Helen Davis and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, all in East St. Louis. 

“Many of our families are now unemployed and struggling to acquire basic household staples,” said Lisa Tate, SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start assistant program director/center operation. “The Links, Inc. donated to our families at this time last year and wanted them to know they are still here to support in any way possible. They decided to give gift cards, so families can determine what their greatest needs are at this time.” 

The Links, Incorporated, one of the country’s oldest and largest service organizations, is an international, not-for-profit corporation established in 1946. Membership consists of more than 15,000 professional women of color in 288 chapters in 42 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and the United Kingdom. The key programming initiatives are organized into five facets: Services to Youth, The Arts, National Trends and Services, International Trends and Services, and Health and Human Services. The Gateway (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, was chartered in 1986. 

The SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start Program serves more than 860 families and children birth through age five, including children with special needs, throughout St. Clair County. The program also provides services to expectant mothers. The program is housed in 12 early childhood centers, seven managed directly by SIUE staff and five collaborations. The program includes a rigorous school readiness program and provides comprehensive services, such as health/ dental screenings and family engagement and support activities. 

Photos:
(L-R) Patricia Wharton, member of The Gateway Illinois Chapter of The Links, Inc., presented gift cards to Head Start/Early Head Start Interim Director Carolyn Jason.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Randy Pembrook conferred degrees upon 1,103 graduates today at the 2020 virtual fall commencement exercises. Commencement can be viewed at siue.edu/virtual-commencement.

“You represent a wide array of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, and you’ve made SIUE a stronger institution,” Pembrook said. “Thanks for making SIUE a better learning environment based on your ideas and efforts.

“As you move from being students to alumni, you also become official SIUE ambassadors. Because of your excellent preparation, we are confident that you will make an incredible difference and inspire those you meet. Through you, we achieve our mission to shape a changing world.”

SIU System President Daniel Mahony, PhD, complimented the class for persevering through an historically challenging time. “At SIUE, we talk about shaping a changing world,” he said. “We want you to have an impact, and we hope that you have a big impact on the world after you leave us, and that you come back and tell us about it. In higher education, nothing is greater than hearing about the success of our graduates.”

Six student speakers addressed their classmates and celebrated their achievements under duress, while also looking forward to making an impact in the future.

From the College of Arts and Sciences, Paulina Fuhrmann, of Collinsville, earned a bachelor’s of political science. She said the most important lesson learned was that we must always prepare for the unexpected. “I am not talking about preparing by stockpiling toilet paper,” she said. “Preparing by maintaining a strong network of people we can turn to for encouragement and support, even if virtually, or by practicing our time management, so we’re ready to adapt and stay on track. While it may seem like this year brought more bad than good, I urge you to remember that you can push through even the most challenging circumstances. After all, our dedication and determination got us to this point.”

Caitlin Phelan, of Glen Carbon, who earned a doctor of nursing practice, represented the Graduate School and praised the graduates for their resilience. “Our hard work, dedication and adaptability helped us achieve our degree and prepare us for the next chapter in our lives. A second-year graduate student advised me during a 2017 orientation session, ‘You can do it.’ 

“Hold tight to those four simple words, and the world is yours. Those words ignited a firm belief in myself, which led me here today. 2020 has certainly been a challenge for all of us, but we learned that we can persevere through tough times.”

Matthew Gregor, of Edwardsville, earned a bachelor’s of business administration, and spoke to the School of Business graduates about the COVID-19 pandemic not only changing our way of life, but also our way of learning. “Amid the uncertainties and challenges, we have displayed flexibility, creativity and perseverance,” he said. “As we transition into a new chapter in life, let us all remember what it took to get to this point. We have shown we are capable of anything. As Colin Powell once said, ‘A dream does not become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.’

“We, the class of 2020, are the future leaders and pillars of our communities. Let this not be a deterrent, but motivation to continue to always exhibit diligence, honesty and integrity.”

Australia native Lara Tupper, of Gold Coast, Queensland, earned a bachelor’s of nutrition from the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior. She quoted Lebanese-born American investment banker, financier, activist and author Ziad Abdenlnour, “Life is all about moments of impact and how they change our lives forever.”

“When I landed in the United States in 2017 as a 17-year-old international student, I never thought that college would have such a profound impact on me, and I am sure many of you have shared that feeling somewhere along your journey at SIUE,” Tupper said. “The vast number of challenges we’ve faced throughout this turbulent year, and more importantly how we’ve overcome them, highlight the incredible influence this class will have on the world.”

Representing the School of Engineering, Norridge native Ashley Spain, who earned a bachelor’s of civil engineering, said this class will go into the world and change it. “Whether that is by building a bridge, writing code, developing a more efficient system, or designing a new engine, our work will shape the world,” she said. “As future engineers, we are trained to look at the complexity of the world, but don’t forget to take a moment each day to notice the beauty of it.”

No students may have faced a more difficult path to graduation than the School of Nursing’s (SON). Cassidy Bruns, of Lincoln, who earned a bachelor’s of nursing, complimented the SON faculty, “The School of Nursing faculty have shown true dedication to their students as we transitioned from in-person classes to synchronous Zoom meetings, alternate simulation experiences and modified clinical experiences that allowed us to intermittently provide patient care safely in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic did not allow for a traditional route for us to obtain our nursing degrees, but our professors continued to deliver high quality education throughout this trying time. This has allowed us to develop skills such as flexibility and adaptability that will be helpful in our careers. We have developed ways to continue persevering through adversity in order to provide compassionate care to those in need.”

Congratulatory messages to the graduates can be posted and viewed on 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.

The pandemic has forced many educators to teach in a virtual format. While not ideal in many cases, the lifelong learners and influencers continue to lead by example and persevere for their students through challenging times.

At Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Educational Administration graduate students are juggling those adjustments at their day job, and simultaneously learning remotely themselves as they pursue an advanced degree.

“We are so impressed by the flexibility and perseverance of our aspiring administrators,” said School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Interim Associate Dean Alison Reeves, PhD. “They have been assisting their school administration as interns where needed while also innovating in their own classrooms.” 

“As a remote teacher in my district, I have students from four buildings in grades 3-5,” explained Rebecca Artime, of Belleville, a special education teacher in Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7, who is pursuing the principal endorsement and a specialist’s degree in educational administration. “It has been difficult to meet the needs of my special education students virtually, but I have embraced the challenge of learning new things. I always try to make the best of a situation, and have chosen to use this time to expand upon my skills as an educator, mentor and leader.” 

“The pandemic has forced me to change roles to an e-learning instructor,” added Cole Stoner, a special education teacher at Pekin Community High School, who is pursuing a master’s in education. “While not ideal, it has given me a different perspective on online learning. As a coach, it has reminded me to be thankful for the opportunities that we have.”

From teachers to learners, Artime and Stoner are completing projects through SEHHB’s Educational Administration program. The applied projects serve to develop their expertise in using research to make changes to school and other learning organizations that improve learning outcomes.

Artime’s project, “Examining the efficacy of Response to Intervention programs with reading,” involved the creation of an action plan targeting improved outcomes in reading, specifically among K-2 students.

“I have been working on utilizing data to make decisions, specifically in the area of literacy,” Artime explained. “I created an action plan in collaboration with our district’s director of curriculum and reading specialists. Its goals include providing professional development to all staff members on the science of reading, professional learning communities and response to intervention, refinement of our Tier 1 (Core) literacy program at the K-2 grade levels to include evidence-based phonics, and providing a pre-k program for students in the northern area of our district. Working closely with the literacy specialists and curriculum director has provided the opportunity to set goals which will benefit our most vulnerable students.”

Stoner’s project, “Exploring curricular change options to better support students in Advanced Placement (AP) courses,” has offered a new lens to look through as a leader.

“The idea was to focus on curriculum development to assist students in their preparation for AP exams,” Stoner said. “We found many positive trend data to show how well our students were performing, and we also found classes that have not produced the desired results. The data we collected was shared with building administrators and department heads to formulate a plan to create a more well-rounded curriculum.”

For more information on the Educational Administration program within the SEHHB Department of Educational Leadership, visit siue.edu/education/edld/edad.

Photo: (L-R) SIUE students in the educational administration graduate program Rebecca Artime and Cole Stoner.

Santa Claus gave out trucks, dolls, stuffed animals, games, educational packets and more during the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Bluffview Head Start/Early Head Start Center’s annual Winter Festival, held Thursday-Friday, December 17-18. 

More than 75 families picked up toys for their tots, which were donated by the Marine Toys for Tots program. For those Bluffview Center families who have not picked up their gifts, they can do so when the Center opens on Monday, Jan. 4, 2021. The Center serves 93 Head Start families and 28 Early Head Start families. 

“Our annual event looked a little different this year due to COVID-19,” said Bluffview Center Coordinator Kathleen Appleby. “Normally, we have it inside the center. After the parents’ monthly meeting, their children would participate with them in making gingerbread houses. Classrooms would have such activities as making ornaments, singing and reading stories. Then, Santa would give each child a toy.” 

This year, Santa Claus, played by Bluffview Building Service Worker Gary Force, along with Bluffview staff, gave presents to families who remained in their vehicles. 

Additionally, 10 families received gingerbread houses for participating in the Winter Festival’s parental Zoom meeting. 

“Parents and children were happy to see the staff, and we were happy to see them in person. We love bringing joy to our families,” said Appleby. “From talking to parents and observing social media, it appears this event was a success even during this time of uncertainty.” 

The SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start Program serves more than 860 families and children birth through age five, including children with special needs, throughout St. Clair County. The program also provides services to expectant mothers. The program is housed in 12 early childhood centers, seven managed directly by SIUE staff and five collaborations. The program includes a rigorous school readiness program and provides comprehensive services, such as health/dental screenings and family engagement and support activities. 

Photos:
Santa Claus, Bluffview Building Service Worker Gary Force, and his two helpers: Bluffview staff members Alexus Warren (left) and Donette Burnett, gave out presents to Bluffview families. 

Four-year-old Aden Wright, son of Arline Rudd, smiles at Santa and his helpers. 

Santa gives a gift to a “good girl,” three-year-old Lizbeth Rodriguez, daughter of Patricia Herrera.

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Holidays from SIUE.

The offices of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will observe winter break beginning Dec. 24 and continue through Jan 3. Offices will re-open Monday, Jan. 4, 2021. 

In the following video message, SIUE Chancellor Randy and Mary Jo Pembrook express their appreciation and gratitude to the SIUE community during this Holiday Season.

SIUE alumnus and State Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill) is leaving the Illinois Senate, effective Jan. 17, and will become a senior advisor to Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Manar earned a bachelor’s in history from the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences in 1997. He has served more than 22 years in public office.

 Details on his professional career were posted in the Edwardsville Intelligencer on Monday, Jan. 4. Read the article here.

A new undergraduate course at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville that will chart the history of intercollegiate athletics from its start as student-run sporting clubs in the 1800s, to the multi-billion-dollar industry it is today, is being offered this spring semester. Southern Illinois University (SIU) System President Dan Mahony, PhD, and SIUE School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Dean Robin Hughes, PhD, are co-instructors of the 16-week course Cl495.222, “History and Current Issues in College Athletics” that begins Wednesday, Jan. 20 and will meet from 11a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. 

 “The course examines the impact of social class, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality and disability on intercollegiate athletics,” explained Mahony. “The content will also cover topics such as amateurism, labor unions, protests, academic scandals and attempts at reform.”  

According to Hughes, “Student-athletes and athletics are an integral part of college campuses. I am not sure how one studies or specializes in the study of higher education without some knowledge about how student-athletes experience college.” 

“I like this class, because there is a lot of misunderstanding about college athletics past and current issues,” added Mahony. “It is important for people, inside and outside of college athletics, to know more.” 

“Students will learn the role of college athletics on campuses,” noted Hughes. “The course will also show how college impacts student-athletes, and in turn, how student-athletes impact college campuses.” 

Both Mahony and Hughes are excited about the new course offering at SIUE, which is open to anyone, and to be working together. 

“We have both taught a similar course at previous institutions,” detailed Hughes, “and I have been teaching one since 2001. We will use this course in the newly established higher education student affairs track, with a focus on athletic leadership. People interested in preparation for positions in collegiate athletics will likely have an interest in this degree track.” 

“I am looking forward to teaching this class again. It is a course that most students have enjoyed over the years, and I think it is even more interesting this year,” said Mahony. “I am fortunate that Dean Hughes has agreed to teach the class with me. I personally like teaching, because it keeps me more closely connected to the students.”

Photo:
SIU System President Dan Mahony, PhD, and SIUE SEHHB Dean Robin Hughes, PhD, are co-instructors of the 16-week course, “History and Current Issues in College Athletics.”

For the 29^th consecutive semester, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville student-athletes have earned a combined grade point average (GPA) better than 3.0, combining for a 3.424 GPA for the fall 2020 semester.

Cougar student-athletes finished better than 3.4 for the second semester in a row. A total of 14 teams finished with a GPA above 3.0, eight of which were above a 3.4.

“I continue to be impressed with the resiliency and persistence shown by our student-athletes,” SIUE Director of Athletics Tim Hall said. “While continuing to deal with changing conditions and schedules, their dedication to success in the classroom has never wavered.”

For the second consecutive semester, men’s soccer claimed the top spot for the men’s teams with a 3.607. Men’s golf earned second place among the men’s teams with a 3.513, while men’s cross country was third at 3.426.

Women’s soccer bested its previous term GPA to earn the top spot overall with a 3.618. Softball came in a close second among women’s programs at 3.585. Women’s tennis was third with a 3.567.

Men’s basketball (3.351) and baseball (3.426) both earned their highest team GPA since transitioning to Division I.

“Our academic staff along with the faculty and staff within the University has also persisted through the challenges presented to them,” Hall continued. “I thank them all for their dedication and their willingness to serve our student-athletes.”

A record 55 percent (137 student-athletes) earned Dean’s List honors for the fall semester, while 76 percent (190 student-athletes) earned a 3.0 or higher GPA, breaking the previous record from spring 2020.

A total of 61 student-athletes earned a perfect 4.0.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville launched its re-entry COVID-19 testing initiative on Monday, Jan. 4. The mandatory testing runs through Thursday, Jan. 21.

By end of day Thursday, Jan. 7, more than 2,600 faculty, staff and students had been tested. The average turnaround time for results is approximately 65 hours. Of the first 1,668 re-entry test results received, the positivity rate is 0.11% with 15 positive, 1,652 negative and one inconclusive outcome.

“We are pleased with the scheduling response we’re experiencing for this mandatory re-entry testing, as it is imperative for preserving the health and safety of our community,” said SIUE COVID-19 Response Coordinator Michael Schultz. “Our strategy aligns with the campus commitment to health and safety, and new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).”

SIUE’s program requires that all employees and students who will be on campus complete a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test within 48 hours of visiting any SIUE campus, including Alton, East St. Louis or Edwardsville.

Testing on the Edwardsville campus is taking place in the Student Fitness Center. The School of Dental Medicine site is in the Science Building, and the East St. Louis Center multi-function room in Building D serves as the testing site for that campus.

University Housing residents returning to on-campus housing in January will be required to sign up for a time to return to campus and also submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test result prior to their return. Full details on University Housing requirements are available at siue.edu/housing/about/operation-updates.

Students and employees who are learning or working remotely and are not otherwise planning to be on campus do not need to participate in this mandatory testing. However, anyone who re-engages in on-ground activity during the Jan. 4-21 period, regardless how brief or intermittent the campus contact, is expected to get a screening test within 48 hours of arrival to campus.

Surveillance testing will be ongoing beginning January 25 through Wednesday, April 28. After the initial January re-entry mandatory screening test period, the continuing screening tests will be on a voluntary basis with incentives to participate.

To encourage participation, approximately 600 employees and students will be selected through a random sample and be invited to be tested each week. Those participants will be eligible for a variety of incentives, including Cougar Bucks, parking hang-tag raffles and an end-of-semester raffle for a Fall FY22 tuition waiver. Individuals do not need to be invited to be tested, however they will not be eligible for the aforementioned incentives.

For further details, including reporting forms, campus updates and the University’s testing policy, please visit siue.edu/coronavirus.

Photos: Campus community members line up to participate in the mandatory re-entry testing program.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jeffrey Waple participates in the University’s mandatory re-entry testing program during its launch on Monday, Jan. 4.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering alumnus Quentin Schukar has swiftly scaled the surveying ladder, from intern to vice president and director of surveying at Sherrill Associates, Inc. in Edwardsville.

During his undergraduate studies, Schukar’s professional potential was immediately apparent to Sherrill Associates’ owner and Chief Financial Officer David Sherrill, PLS, who is a lecturer in the SOE’s Department of Construction.

Sherrill’s intuition was correct. Schukar has proven his dedication toward professional growth and advancement since first joining the company as an intern in 2011. He completed a bachelor’s in construction management with the land surveying specialization in 2012.

Since then, he has held roles as an instrument operator in the field, crew chief, drafter and field crew coordinator. He’s obtained professional licensure in Illinois and Indiana, and a federal license. Schukar found his professional passion, and it shows.

“I enjoy surveying, because you get to work on something different almost every day, and no two jobs are exactly alike,” reflected Schukar, a Vandalia native. “Everything is so much easier when you are doing something you love. My advice to current students is to not let yourself get complacent. Keep trying to better yourself as a professional.”

“Quentin is an integral part of Sherrill Associates, Inc.,” Sherrill said. “He’s part of our ownership team and is the future of the company. His education and personal drive are what all growing companies seek.”

“The surveying specialization at SIUE prepared me for entering the workforce and becoming a professional,” Schukar said. “It taught all the basics I needed to hit the ground running once I graduated. The program also prepared me to take the Surveyor-in Training (SIT) and Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license exams.”

In his current role, Schukar manages the company’s five field crews, initial research for all jobs, and the setting of property boundaries for each of the states in which he’s licensed.

“I enjoy working at Sherrill Associates, because we are a small company that truly cares about the quality of our work and takes care of our clients,” he said. “I also enjoy that most of our work is boundary surveying versus a lot of engineering work or construction staking.”

“Long-term, I would like to be involved more on the business side of Sherrill Associates,” he added. “I would like to expand the company to involve more drone work, LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and 3D scanning.”

As for industry advancement, Schukar strives to make students more aware of surveying in order to build a robust pipeline of future leaders.

“Professional surveyors in general are aging as a group, and many will retire in the near future,” Schukar explained. “There aren’t enough young surveyors to replace them. I didn’t hear about surveying until my second year in college. Introducing the industry to students at an earlier stage could grow our profession.”

Photo: SIUE School of Engineering alumnus Quentin Schukar, vice president and director of surveying at Sherrill Associates, Inc.

The Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SDM) is increasing its concentration on diversity, equity, inclusion and well-being. SIU SDM Dean Bruce Rotter, DMD, has appointed Cornell Thomas, DDS, as chief diversity officer and director of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

Thomas will maintain his role as assistant dean for Admissions and Student Services, but will place a more focused and sustained emphasis on diversity and equity issues. His dedication to “lower barriers not lower standards” has been woven in his exemplary efforts to advance the SDM since his tenure began in 1979.

“Dr. Thomas has led numerous diversity efforts on our campus for several years, but due to his many other duties has not had the opportunity to devote the amount of effort we feel this role deserves,” Rotter said. “This added emphasis on equity and diversity issues is both extremely important and timely for the future growth and direction of the SDM. Dr. Thomas’ leadership will positively affect all members of the SDM community.”

“I am honored to serve in this capacity,” Thomas said. “It is work that I have been doing, but I can now devote more time and energy to focus on this endeavor. I have support from my dean, Dr. Bruce Rotter, who shares in my vision about the work in diversity, equity and inclusion. He has provided the opportunity to move us forward. He has a clear insightfulness to bring change for the betterment of the SDM. With his shared vision, we can make a difference in how we develop and sustain an inclusive environment in which faculty, staff, students, administrators and patients can connect.”

As the chief diversity officer, Thomas will facilitate communication for SDM to the essential values of anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion for faculty, staff and students. Thomas will provide support for Black, indigenous, people of color (BIPOC) and historically underrepresented people at the SDM.

“The DEI Office will provide transparency across and among groups in an effort to increase the numbers of underrepresented minority (URM) faculty, staff and students at the SDM,” Thomas explained. “The office will empower the campus community to maintain an environment as it relates to honesty, civility and open-mindedness. The officer will strive to dismantle systemic racism and oppression. We can build a sense of togetherness and inclusivity in our teaching, research and service to each other and the communities that we serve.”

According to Thomas, specific initiatives include:

• Increase enrollment of URMs at the SDM and increase the number of faculty and staff of color
• Provide diversity and inclusion training to continue a safe and welcoming environment on our campus
• Develop and implement a plan to recruit faculty from underrepresented groups
• Provide advocacy for SDM students, faculty and staff from underrepresented groups, other cultures and genders, races and LGBTQIA groups.
• Provide mentoring for these groups to thrive in the campus environment

In support of Thomas’ additional roles, Admissions and Records Supervisor Angela Pritchett will take responsibility for the direction of daily operations in the SDM Office of Admissions and Student Services.

Photo: SIU School of Dental Medicine’s Cornell Thomas, DDS, chief diversity officer, director of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and assistant dean for Admissions and Student Services.

Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SDM) Dean Bruce Rotter, DMD, is the first individual to have received the COVID-19 vaccination on campus.

Rotter exemplified his leadership receiving an initial dose of the Moderna vaccine on Tuesday, Jan. 12 on the Alton campus during the University’s first coordinated vaccination clinic, hosted in partnership with the Madison County Health Department. Amanda Pruitt, Madison County Health Service Director and Operations Chief of Vaccine Administration, helped lead the clinic.

“As health care providers, it is incumbent on us to take the necessary precautions to protect the patients we serve as well as each other,” Rotter said.

During the clinic, dentists, hygienists and clinical dental students on the Alton campus received the vaccine. According to SIUE Health Service Director Riane Greenwalt, participating individuals will receive the second and final dose in four weeks.

Greenwalt notes the University’s vaccine distribution clinic aligned with Phase 1A as identified by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Phase 1A includes healthcare personnel and residents of long-term care facilities.

Greenwalt emphasizes that receiving the vaccine, in addition to regularly practicing the 3Ws (wear a mask, wash your hands, watch your distance), will protect against the Coronavirus and ensure the health and well-being of all individuals.

For more information on SIUE’s COVID testing processes and vaccination distribution, visit siue.edu/coronavirus.

Photo: SIU School of Dental Medicine Dean Bruce Rotter, DMD, receives the first dose of the Moderna vaccine during a vaccination clinic on the Alton campus.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the completion of the Fuller Dome Center for Spirituality and Sustainability (CSS) on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, by renowned sustainability pioneer R. Buckminster Fuller and his architectural partner Shoji Sadao. The CSS’s new director, Ben Lowder, plans to use the observance as a way to further advance CSS’s mission and Fuller’s vision. 

“This occasion provides an opportunity to place the Center and its organizational mission onto a global stage through its importance to Bucky’s legacy,” said Lowder. “Increased awareness will amplify fundraising opportunities that will allow us to address the physical needs of the building, while maintaining the metaphysical aspects of our mission.” 

Lowder, who currently serves as a board member for Fuller Dome Home at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, has long been involved with Fuller’s legacy and mission on both the SIUC and SIUE campuses. 

Lowder began helping in efforts to restore the Dome Home in 2010, by designing communication materials used to raise funds for its preservation. The Dome Home was successfully restored and is now open for tours. 

He has worked as a creative consultant with CSS since 2014. “Most of my duties involved crafting and communicating the Center’s mission to promote humanity’s sacred connection to the earth and each other,” he said. “I used my previous experiences as a marketing director and commercial artist to connect the Center’s mission to the legacy of its designer, Buckminster Fuller, through printed materials, the website, special events and programing.” 

The CSS board elected Lowder in September 2020 to be director. “I am passionate about providing a lived example of Bucky’s praxis and utilizing the architectural metaphor of the Center’s miniature earth dome to promote unity through the ways in which our diverse faith traditions overlap,” expressed Lowder. 

As to some of the tasks facing the CSS, Lowder noted, “The building itself, which is central to the organization’s vision, needs considerable capital investment to be viable as a gathering space for another 50 years. Our goal is to achieve a ‘Net Zero’ carbon footprint for the Fuller Dome building.” 

“The Dome allows us to offer a space on the SIUE campus where all faith traditions and belief systems are welcome. Like all organizations in this time of a global pandemic, we are pivoting from a purely physical gathering space to a hybrid space of virtual and in-person gatherings. It is our challenge to maintain the Dome as a sacred space, while addressing the secular concerns of finances and technology.” 

However, Lowder puts these problems into perspective. 

“As we look at the daunting challenges facing us, the legacy of the Center’s designer, Buckminster Fuller, provides a hopeful example of how one person dedicated to making a difference can nudge us towards an abundant and unified future,” he continued. “As early as the 1920s, Bucky predicted that without preventative action we would be facing the social and environmental challenges that we are in fact facing today. The Southern Illinois University System is blessed to have Bucky’s legacy as part of its history. It is time to properly honor that legacy, and share it with the world.” 

The Center for Spirituality and Sustainability is a non-profit, multi-faith home for spirituality and sustainability efforts housed in the Buckminster Fuller Dome on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus. 

Photo:
Ben Lowder, director of the Center for Spirituality and Sustainability.

The Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) has selected HOK-St. Louis as the preferred architectural design firm for preliminary design of the Health Science Building (HSB) on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus.

The CDB released $10,537,000 in planning funds in Jan. 2020 to create preliminary designs for the HSB. The complex will include approximately 221,000 square feet. The project’s total cost is approximately $105 million. It would be the largest building on the SIUE campus.

“For years, SIUE has been a pillar of the community in southern Illinois, providing vital medical services to residents of Edwardsville and beyond. In order to properly prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals, we must give them the tools and facilities that will help them learn, grow and thrive,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This investment in our students, funded through Rebuild Illinois, will allow future healthcare providers to learn in state-of-the-art classrooms and simulation facilities, strengthening the region’s long-term economic vitality for decades to come.”

SIUE operates a School of Pharmacy (SOP), a School of Nursing (SON), a School of Dental Medicine (SDM) in Alton, and related health sciences programs in various disciplines to serve central and southern Illinois. SON, SOP and various SIUE Health Science programs, particularly in Applied Health, will be housed in the HSB. SDM programs focused in Alton will also interact with programs in the new HSB as part of an emphasis on interprofessional health education. Currently, the SOP is primarily located in three buildings in University Park, while the SON is housed in Alumni Hall within the campus core. The SDM will remain in Alton.

The University has seen broad expansion of the health sciences program in the Department of Applied Health, including exercise science, kinesiology, nutrition and dietetics, public health, and speech-language pathology and  audiology. Additional programs in education, psychology and social work throughout the University support integrative learning opportunities for health services professionals on the core campus.  

“The new Health Science Building will allow SIUE and the SIU System to expand its leadership in health science education throughout the region,” said SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook. “A Health Sciences Complex has been a long-term plan for many on this campus as our faculty and administrators envisioned a future building that could enrich our programs, create synergies in the health sciences, and expand our capacity to serve SIUE students and the needs of southern Illinois. This new facility will allow our exemplary health sciences programs to flourish and enhance their current capabilities with additional space to facilitate more simulation training, research, and growth.”

The CDB will oversee the project’s design and construction in accordance with protocol for state-appropriated capital projects.

“The Capital Development Board is excited to begin the first phase of design for this much needed educational facility,” said CDB Executive Director Jim Underwood.

As part of the HSB project, renovations and modifications are expected for the existing SOP buildings and the surrounding proposed site in University Park, such as parking lots, sidewalks, pathways and roadways. The HSB will also include considerations for seismic loads and must achieve LEED silver.

The HSB will provide modern classrooms, teaching and research laboratories, faculty offices, administrative spaces, and student resource and study spaces. It would also increase SON student capacity and increase the size of the SON Simulation Laboratory. 

“Liberating self through the pursuit of freedom, while chasing the shadow of justice” is an illuminating descriptor of the pedagogical philosophy, rooted in Critical Race Theory (CRT), held by a young Black educator who has pledged himself to socially-just, community-based teaching, scholarship and activism. 

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Nate Williams, PhD, associate professor in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior’s (SEHHB) Department of Teaching and Learning, has been on campus for five months and is already knee-deep in classes, programs and initiatives that seek to secure the educational liberation of marginalized people and amplify knowledge for everyone. 

“My teaching is intimately linked to my community-engaged research,” offered Williams. “The fundamental questions I ask about the nature of schooling emerged from the daily injustices I witnessed, and was implicated in during my time as a student and classroom teacher in urban schools. 

“In response, I intentionally characterize my pedagogy by three elements, regardless of the course I am teaching. These elements are facilitation, critical reflection and creativity. As an educator, my responsibilities center on promoting opportunity and hope, while liberating my students through content acquisition and critical reflection. I employ collaborative learning and reciprocal teaching, which allows my students to take ownership in the classroom by assisting in the design of lessons covered.” 

Williams’ expertise is vast, some of which includes critical race pedagogy, critical race praxis, bi-racial identity development culture, politics and education, bi-racial identity development, and inquiry assessments and design. 

He is also co-vice president elect of the Critical Race Studies in Education Association (CRSEA) with Dr. Timberly Baker, associate professor in educational leadership at Arkansas State University. CRSEA is an interdisciplinary consortium of experts who recognize global implications of race and education for minoritized people. Through scholarship, they identify and expose inequities for the ultimate eradication of white supremacy. 

“Critical Race Theory is a tool for scholars and scholar-activists to label and analyze asymmetrical systems of racialized power in the world,” explained Williams. “CRT is an established, yet evolving conceptual framework that is an amalgamation of Critical Legal Studies, Black Intellectual Thought and a Black liberation tradition, centered on deciphering the legacy of white supremacy and racialized tyranny in society. 

“CRT is important, because it is the best tool to understand and disrupt the dehumanization of practices of white supremacy, which mitigates success, access and humanity for all peoples.” 

Williams’ knowledge and passion can be discovered in various campus duties and projects that include:

• Lead designer/architect for SEHHB’s secondary education program redesign, which involves reconceptualizing the secondary education licensure program through a critical race pedagogy framework
• Faculty member of the DREAM (Dismantling Racism through Education, Advocacy and Mobilization) Collective at SIUE, where he helps develop, coordinate and participate in podcast episodes and webinars
• SEHHB liaison for the SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School, where he has designed an enrichment program for Black males, supports food security efforts, and has created the new Project T.E.A.M. (Transformative Education Achievement Model) @ SEHHB to be launched in the spring 

Williams, who was an assistant professor in the Educational Studies Department at Knox College in Galesburg, became interested in SIUE as a result of learning about some of its progressive ideas and happenings from his mentor and friend SEHHB Dean Robin Hughes, PhD. 

“After first hearing about SIUE from Dean Hughes, I did my own research and liked what I discovered,” he continued.  “The aesthetics of the campus continue to leave me awestruck. As well, the anti-racist feats SIUE is attempting to accomplish is noteworthy. For example, SIUE is headed in the right direction with many of the new hires, specifically Black faculty and administrators across campus. Admittedly, I have to emphasize though, that there still aren’t enough Black employees. However, the new hires and campus-wide initiatives (like the DREAM Collective) provide hope for authentic change. Although the path before us is arduous, we will march forward and make SIUE an anti-racist institution.” 

Williams has plans to accomplish many great things at SIUE, some of which include:

• Help to make SIUE #1 in graduating licensed Black male educators
• Help to increase the number of Black male educators by creating a pipeline to the SEHHB from area high schools
• Help make SIUE the go-to institution for CRT work and CRT scholars 

“I choose to engage in the work I do, because I know that I am not here by my own doing,” Williams added. “I am also motivated by those whom I believe should be in a similar professional status as myself, but bullets (literally and metaphorically) of inequity, injustice and racism have struck them down.”  

Photo:
Nate Williams, PhD, associate professor in the SEHHB’s Department of Teaching and Learning.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has selected two internal candidates among its three finalists in the search for its first Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (VCEDI). SIU School of Dental Medicine (SDM) Chief Diversity Officer, Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Assistant Dean for Admissions and Student Services Dr. Cornell Thomas is chairing the search committee. The candidates will participate in virtual interviews in late January and early February.

“The new VCEDI will provide leadership and guide SIUE forward in an ever-changing dynamic of our pursuits for inclusive excellence in all that we do,” said Thomas. “The person selected will lead SIUE in creating a space that promotes anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion as the norm in the core aspects of our hiring, teaching and retention.”

The national search, which began in mid-October, 2020, produced 46 applicants. The search committee narrowed the field to the following candidates:

• Lakesha Butler, PharmD, BCPS, has served as the director of diversity, equity and inclusion for the SIUE School of Pharmacy (SOP) since 2017, and as a clinical professor of pharmacy practice in the SOP since 2006. She is serving as the only pharmacist on the National Medical Association (NMA) COVID-19 Commission on Vaccines and Therapeutics among a panel of Black doctors to vet COVID-19 vaccines to overcome mistrust in the healthcare system, especially in the Black community.
• Jessica Harris, PhD, was named assistant provost for academic equity and inclusive excellence in the SIUE Office of the Provost in 2020 after serving as the interim assistant provost for the previous two years. An SIUE faculty member since 2011, Harris served as an associate professor of historical studies in the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences and director of the interdisciplinary Black Studies program before being promoted into administrative roles.
• Debbie Thomas, PhD, served as vice chancellor for learning and instruction at Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis, Arkansas from 2019-20. Prior to that appointment, she was provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at Kentucky State University from 2017-18.

The VCEDI will serve an integral role in two important current initiatives – the Anti-Racism Task Force (ARTF) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Quality Initiative focusing on anti-racism. The VCEDI also will work closely with the SIU System and its new vice president for diversity, as well as the Diversity Advisory Council (DAC).

The VCEDI’s direct responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Lead the Office of Diversity and Inclusion
• Supervise and administer the offices of EOA/Title IX, Military and Veterans Services, and the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion
• Work with equity advisors for staff searches and the Impact Academy for staff positions  
• Through the Diversity Council, continue to advance the recently developed Diversity Strategic Plan and be responsible for SIUE’s diversity goals
• Lead ongoing Anti-Racism Task Force efforts, including developing training and professional development opportunities, and implementing the recommendations from that group in coordination with the ongoing Higher Learning Commission Quality Initiative (QI)
• Coordinate the Institutional Diversity Leadership Team 
• Chair the Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) 
• Participate in certain functions of the EOA/Title IX appeals processes in consultation with the EOA Director
• Provide guidance in the Strategic Hiring Initiative as it pertains to SIUE Staff 
• Assume responsibilities for anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion programming, including growth of campus constituency groups

Photo (L-R): SIUE finalists for vice chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion (VCEDI): Lakesha Butler, PharmD, BCPS, director of diversity, equity and inclusion for the SIUE School of Pharmacy (SOP) and clinical professor of pharmacy practice; Jessica Harris, PhD, assistant provost for academic equity and inclusive excellence in the SIUE Office of the Provost; and Debbie Thomas, PhD, former vice chancellor for learning and instruction at Arkansas State University Mid-South.

According to the National Diaper Bank, one in three families struggle to provide clean diapers for their baby. To help fulfill that need locally, the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Early Childhood Center (ECC) partnered with The Metro East Diaper Bank to supply 17 of its families with diapers. On Thursday, Jan. 14, approximately 2,400 diapers were distributed to parents who expressed a need.

“This is an important offering for our families, because many are struggling during this time as they juggle school, parenting and sometimes, multiple jobs,” said Lealia Williams, ECC family support specialist. “We thought it would be nice for them to have one less thing to worry about.”

The partnership came to fruition after Williams had previously met Norma McCandless, founder and executive director of The Metro East Diaper Bank, while volunteering for a book and diaper giveaway. Upon learning of the non-profit’s work, Williams calculated the number of diapers and sizes needed by interested ECC parents, and filled out an application to receive supplies.

“At the Early Childhood Center, one of our goals is supporting our student parents and makings sure their needs are met, and that they stay on track to graduation as they juggle their other responsibilities,” Williams said.

“Thank you for your generous gift of diapers,” said Abidemi Ajayi, a student in the School of Pharmacy. “It is challenging to be a full-time student and provide for my child. With your help, we do not have to worry as much about diapers.”

The Metro East Diaper Bank is a 501c3 non-profit. The organization partners with area agencies, charities and other non-profits that have a population with a diaper need and are located in the Metro East. According to Founder Norma McCandless, for some, diaper donations are supplemental, and for others, it may be their only source for diapers.

The SIUE Early Childhood Center provides full-day, year-round early childhood care and education for the children of students, faculty, staff and others, ages two through five. The ECC assists student parents with their goal of degree obtainment by providing them with convenient and affordable childcare and connecting them to resources. The ECC serves as a demonstration site for research, observation and practicum purposes.

Photo: (L-R) ECC Director Rebecca Dabbs MacLean, ECC Family Support Specialist Lealia Williams, and Norma McCandless, founder and executive director of The Metro East Diaper Bank.