Southern Illinois University Edwardsville researchers are leading and supporting collaborative projects that aim to develop robotic technologies to support the state of Illinois’ specialty crop industry, and quantify perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), so that groundwater testing can be performed.

They are among eight research teams to have received seed funding, totaling $229,000 from the Illinois Innovation Network’s (IIN) Sustaining Illinois program. The program is designed to increase collaborative research among the state’s public universities, focusing on the economy, health and social well-being, while addressing issues of diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Development of robotic technologies tailored to support the specialty crop production in the state of Illinois” is a funded-project involving SIUE’s Nima Lotfi, PhD, assistant professor of mechanical and mechatronics engineering, SIUE’s Carrie Butts-Wilmsmeyer, PhD, associate professor of biological sciences and director of the Center for Predictive Analytics (C-PAN), and Northern Illinois University’s (NIU) Hasan Ferdowsi, PhD, assistant professor of electrical engineering.

“The ultimate goal of this project is to lay the foundation for further research and development into the integration of tailored robotic technologies in specialty crop production,” Lotfi explained. “The outcomes can ensure the sustainability of specialty crop production and locally sourced food supply and economic well-being of Illinois growers. This project will contribute to Sustaining Illinois through potential advancements to high tech industries such as robotics, data science, and artificial intelligence”

According to Lotfi, Illinois is one of the nation’s leading producers of specialty crops (i.e. horseradish, pumpkins, asparagus, etc.). To ensure a sustainable food supply, a need highlighted by unprecedented pandemic conditions, support for locally sourced produce from specialty crops has grown.

“Contrary to grain commodity cropping systems, specialty crop growers lack access to digital agriculture technologies, which have the potential to help with labor-intensive tasks and management strategies, and consequently, to improve the health, quality and value of their crops,” Lotfi noted. “To fill this gap, we aim to identify exact requirements and constraints for deployment of robots in specialty crop fields. The developed algorithms will be validated through field tests using custom-built ground and aerial robots. The data pipelines provided by these robots, along with machine learning algorithms, will be used to investigate the potential of robots in labor-intensive tasks such as scouting and predictive phenotypic modeling.”

SIUE’s Kevin Tucker, PhD, assistant professor of chemistry, is a researcher on the funded-project, entitled “Forever chemicals: PFAs detection, fate and transport in Illinois.” His collaborators include NIU’s Melissa Lenczewski, PhD, professor of geology and environmental geosciences, and Megan Brown, PhD, assistant professor of geology and environmental geosciences.

Tucker’s role is to develop a robust, rugged method of quantifying PFCs in water and soil. Chemistry student Megan Davis, of Galatia, will lead this work as she finishes her senior year and begins graduate school.

The research supports Illinois’ groundwater quality standards, passed in 2020, limiting the levels of several per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) and perflurooctanois acids (PFOA).

“The primary objectives of the project are to develop a method to quantify PFCs and transfer that method to NIU, so that testing for PFCs can be performed at institutions in northern and southern Illinois,” Tucker said.

“PFCs are of particular concern, because their “forever chemical” status means that they are a cyclic problem,” he explained. “When disposed of in a landfill, they can be incorporated in leachate that ends up in a wastewater treatment plant and then remains in wastewater sludge that is either incinerated, sent to a landfill or used, for example, in agriculture. This cycle of disposal affects ‘fence-line communities’ that are often made up of marginalized demographics, posing environmental justice issues.”

The IIN award builds on the environmental training grant that was received by Tucker and SIUE collaborators in 2019 to train undergraduates in the collection of environmental water samples, preparation for analysis and analysis by similar methods. Davis was part of the first group of trainees. The third group will begin in fall 2021.

IIN is a group of 15 university-based hubs across the state working to boost Illinois’ economy through entrepreneurship, research and workforce development. The seed funding was provided by the University of Illinois System and Northern Illinois University.

Photos: Nima Lotfi, PhD, assistant professor of mechanical and mechatronics engineering.

Carrie Butts-Wilmsmeyer, PhD, associate professor of biological sciences and director of the Center for Predictive Analytics (C-PAN).

Kevin Tucker, PhD, assistant professor of chemistry.

Individuals interested in advancing their education and/or making a career change have a prime opportunity to help meet a critical need in the state and revitalize local communities by pursuing a Masters of Arts in teaching (MAT) in special education. 

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Education, Health and Human Behavior’s (SEHHB) accredited MAT special education program offers robust and integrated coursework focused on applied field experiences, evidence-based instructional techniques, research-proven strategies, resources and technologies to meet the diverse learning needs of students.

The Illinois State Board of Education ranks SIUE’s special education program ‘exemplary” in teacher performance and persistence. Program graduates boast an impressive 100% pass rate on a high stakes assessment.

“The MAT program is intended for individuals holding a bachelor’s degree who wish to transition into a special education career,” said Susanne James, PhD, associate professor of special education and program director of the MAT special education. “There is a teacher shortage in special education, and SIUE is a leader in education dedicated to addressing that need. Our MAT special education program prepares highly-qualified educators who add value to their communities through exceptional student support and development.”

SIUE is the only in Illinois and one of 14 universities nationwide to have a classroom simulation lab, called the SIUE Virtual Professional Practice Lab (VPPL). The VPPL is an innovative, mixed-reality technology that simulates experiences and interacts with participants to deliver real-world opportunities to master skills in teaching. It is an important component of the MAT as it gives students the opportunity to practice their instructional skills before applying them in the classroom.

“Entering the MAT program is one of the best decisions I have made,” said Lunetha Robinson, of Belleville. “The cohort exposed me to the Virtual Professional Practice Lab, which gave me the confidence to complete my field placements. In addition, it gave me the opportunity to build lasting relationships with future teachers.”

“The MAT program has allowed me to pursue my goals with a group of individuals who are driven, kind and passionate about becoming the best educators they can be,” added Terry Chapman, of O’Fallon. “The opportunity to earn your master’s while working in the field, and being able to take what you learn and apply it every day is just a small part of what makes this program special.”

Research shows that individuals who already work in hard-to-staff school districts want to stay and make a difference in their communities. “Those already working in a school district will be able to complete their practicums where they work,” James noted. “Students will complete the program in two years, including summers. Evening courses are offered through a mix of online and hyflex courses.”

Program graduates receive an Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist I license to teach K-12 special education. Military tuition rate, enhanced scholarship and tuition waivers are available.

To join the summer 2021 MAT special education cohort or for more information, contact James at sjames@siue.edu.

Photos: Susanne James, PhD, associate professor of special education and program director of the MAT special education.

MAT special education program students (middle) Lunetha Robinson and (bottom) Terry Chapman.

Samantha Quigley Smith has been named SIUE women's basketball head coach, Director of Athletics Tim Hall announced Tuesday.

Smith is the sixth head coach in program history and the third at the Division I level.

"Today is a great day for SIUE women's basketball," Hall said. "I am so pleased to announce Samantha as our new head coach. Throughout the search, she clearly stood out as the candidate whose vision for the future, relationship-building ability, competency in the x's and o's, recruiting prowess and general positive can-do spirit can take this program to a championship level."

Smith comes to Edwardsville after serving four years in the same position at Lewis University, a Division II institution in Romeoville, Illinois, where she amassed a record of 83-34 (.709 winning percentage). She was honored as the 2020-21 Great Lakes Valley Coach of the Year.

"I am incredibly excited for the opportunity to be SIUE's next leader of the women's basketball program," Smith said. "The phenomenal people I encountered during the interview process truly told our family this was the place for us.

"I want to thank Chancellor Randy Pembrook and Director of Athletics Tim Hall for their support and commitment to women's basketball, and also for this amazing opportunity to lead these bright young women," Smith continued. "I would also like to thank Deputy Athletic Director Jason Coomer and the search committee that worked tirelessly throughout this process."

In four seasons at Lewis, Smith guided the Flyers to two seasons of 20-plus wins and three NCAA Division II NCAA Tournament appearances. Her 2018-19 team went 27-5 and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. While at Lewis, Smith mentored three Division II All-Americans, and coached 2019-20 National Player of the Year Jessica Kelliher and 2020-21 GLVC Freshman of the Year Jenna Badali.

"She is a student of the game and is connected at the highest level of women's college basketball," Hall added. "It is clear that the comprehensive welfare of her student-athletes is a high priority. Many I spoke to talked of long-enduring relationships she has with current and former players."

Prior to her Lewis tenure, Smith was the head coach at St. Francis, an NAIA school in Joliet, Illinois, where she became the youngest head coach in the nation at just 22 years old. At St. Francis, she turned a team that was 10-22 prior to her arrival into a 32-win program which made its first-ever appearance in the NAIA Final Four. She coached three NAIA All-Americans at St. Francis. The Fighting Saints were a combined 62-7 during her final two seasons as head coach and finished the 2017 season as the No. 1-ranked team in the NAIA Division II Coaches Poll.

Academics remains a priority for Smith. While at St. Francis, the program's cumulative grade point average improved from 2.35 to 3.5.

Smith also has been a part of USA women's basketball since 2014, including two seasons as an on-court assistant where she was part of medal-winning teams at the FIBA American and European Championships.

She currently is a member of the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Board of Directors.

As a player, Smith competed at DePaul from 2006-11. She ranked 20^th in school history with 1,273 points. Her 484 career assists rank third all-time for the Blue Demons. She was a two-time All-Big East selection and an Academic All-District honoree.

A 2006 graduate of Joliet Catholic, she finished her high school career with 1,910 points.

She is 2020 inductee into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame as a player.

Smith and her husband, Greg Smith, have four children.

Smith's hiring is pending final approval from the Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees. A formal press conference to introduce Smith will be announced soon.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Randy Pembrook will oversee a series of 10 outdoor, in-person ceremonies at Korte Stadium for 2,325 eligible graduates at the University’s 2021 Spring Commencement exercises during the first two weekends in May. The School of Pharmacy will begin at noon Saturday, May 1.

To adhere to the state’s Restore Illinois Plan, as well as local health and safety protocols, SIUE split ceremonies into smaller groups of approximately 150 graduates with limited guests. If faced with inclement weather, a photo opportunity has been planned in the First Community Arena at the Vadalabene Center.

The School of Pharmacy combines its traditional hooding ceremony with commencement. Conner McClain, of St. Louis, is earning a doctorate in pharmacy and will provide the student address. 

The remaining exercises are scheduled for Thursday-Sunday, May 6-9. All ceremonies will be streamed live on siue.edu/tv.

At noon on Thursday, May 6, SIUE alumni, who were unable to celebrate with an in-person experience for their respective spring or fall 2020 ceremonies as a result of COVID-19 mitigations, have the opportunity to cross the stage.

At noon on Friday, May 7, School of Business students receive their undergraduate and graduate degrees. The School has two student speakers with Samuel Childerson, of Altamont, who is earning a bachelor’s in economics and finance, and Ronald Akpan, of Dunlap, who is earning a bachelor’s in accountancy.

Later that day, the School of Nursing combines its traditional pinning ceremony with commencement at 3 p.m. Bailey Johnston, of Benton, is earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP)/family nurse practitioner (FNP), and serves as the student speaker.

Ceremonies resume at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 8, with the first of three College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) exercises. Student speaker Kenzie Holzinger, of Highland, is earning a bachelor’s in fine art with a specialization in drawing and an interest in painting.

The School of Education, Health and Human Behavior will have two exercises on Sunday, May 9, beginning at 9 a.m. and noon. The student speaker is Peter Romero, of Edwardsville, who is receiving a bachelor’s in elementary education.   

Spring 2021 Commencement concludes at 3 p.m. with the School of Engineering. Leanne Montgomery, of Belleville, who is receiving a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, is the student speaker.

SIUE will also  offer virtual spring 2021 ceremonies to be posted on the virtual commencement website Friday, May 7 at 1 p.m. These pre-recorded virtual ceremonies will include brief remarks from Chancellor Pembrook, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb, and SIU President Dan Mahony along with the student speakers.

Photo: Top row (L-R): Ronald Akpan, Sam Childerson and Kenzie Holzinger.

Bottom row (L-R): Bailey Johnston, Conner McClain, Leanne Montgomery and Peter Romero.

By addressing the history of racism in America and the current-day practices that perpetuate it, pharmacists throughout the nation hope to create a healthcare system that is safe and equitable for all. Earlier this month, the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) welcomed Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Lakesha Butler as keynote speaker of its 17th annual conference to discuss this important topic. 

Butler, PharmD, director of diversity, equity and inclusion and clinical professor in the School of Pharmacy’s (SOP) Department of Pharmacy Practice, presented the John G. Kuhn Keynote Lecture entitled, “Dismantling Structural Racism in Pharmacy: Our Individual and Organizational Responsibility.” More than 1,400 pharmacy professionals attended the conference virtually. 

Pharmacists vow to devote themselves to a lifetime of service to others by considering the welfare of humanity and the relief of suffering. However, some communities continue to disproportionately suffer. “The social determinants of health—a set of six environmental conditions—have a profound impact on death rates and life expectancy for everything from cancer to COVID-19,” explained Butler. 

Butler described these six conditions as economic stability, access to a quality education, access to quality healthcare and neighborhoods, social and community context such as discrimination, and access to healthy food. During her lecture, she explained how structural racism is perpetuated by individual and institutional biases, behaviors and policies. 

“It was an absolute honor to be invited to speak in this capacity on such a critical and continuously relevant topic,” shared Butler. “I commend HOPA for bringing this topic to the forefront and for their leadership being committed to disrupting structural racism individually and collectively.” 

“There is much work to be done, and we need the masses to move from being bystanders to active allies and accomplices in order for this work to be executed and sustained,” added Butler. “An ally is a disrupter and an educator. We all must first look inward at our own beliefs, biases and socialization and disrupt oppressive behaviors and ideologies.” 

The Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) supports hematology/oncology pharmacy professionals and promotes the role of the pharmacist in collaborative cancer care. Founded in 2004, HOPA provides crucial education, networking, and advancement opportunities frequently sought by pharmacists, pharmacy interns, residents, fellows, students, technicians, researchers, and administrators who specialize in hematology/oncology pharmacy. Its vision is to ensure that all individuals affected by cancer have a hematology/oncology pharmacist as an integral member of their care team. 

Photo:
Lakesha Butler, PharmD, director of diversity, equity and inclusion and clinical professor in the School of Pharmacy’s (SOP) Department of Pharmacy Practice.

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering’s (SOE) Cougar Rockets enjoyed a strong showing in the team’s first national competition, placing fourth at the 2021 Argonia Cup.

The Argonia Cup, held in late March, is an annual competition that challenges collegiate teams to design, construct and execute a multi-disciplined rocketry project through innovative engineering and technology concepts.

“Cougar Rockets is a relatively recent addition to our student organizations,” said SOE Dean Cem Karacal, PhD. “They started with great enthusiasm a few years ago, and managed to build and launch their first high altitude rocket in record time. The progress they’ve made in such a short time and the national ranking they achieved speaks volumes about the caliber and dedication of the students involved in this organization.”

The team had prepared to go to its first competition last year, but the pandemic cancelled the event. They remained committed and redesigned their rocket via online meetings.

“We had worked hard, put in so much time, and developed many new skills specifically to compete,” said club president and senior computer engineering major William Heine, of Florissant, Mo. “We had to go to the Argonia Cup to make it worth the effort.”

According to Heine, the team was in third place after launching its rocket, “Cherry Bomb.” To secure a podium spot, the students quickly reassembled the rocket to attempt a second launch, but unfortunately time ran out.

“It was sad that we couldn’t get the second launch in, but it was worth the effort,” said Heine. “Last year, our motto was Ex Cineribus Resurgemus, meaning ‘from the ashes we rise.’ This year, our motto is Dignitas Conatum, meaning ‘worth the effort.’ It speaks to the extra lengths our team members went through to continue designing and building with the added difficulty of COVID-19. The payoff of being able to compete was great.”

The team plans to return to the Argonia Cup in 2022. It intends to expand its scope to work on different projects, designs and builds outside of competitions.

“The organization’s leadership from inception to today needs to be recognized for making this success story happen,” added Karacal. “Despite the setbacks our organizations suffered due to the pandemic, this group managed to stay active and continued with their design and build activities. Their hard work resulted in such a great accomplishment, and the dean’s office will continue to support this team in the future.”

Photo: SIUE Cougar Rockets team at the Argonia Cup included (L-R) Ben Koopman, Ben Kashcke, William Heine, Brayton Larson and Evie Edwards.

The Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees today approved a tuition freeze for the third consecutive year for all new undergraduate students at SIUE, effective fall 2021.

Tuition for the 2021-22 academic year will remain $9,123 for new, full-time undergraduate students (15 hours per semester) entering fall 2021. Undergraduate students currently in a guaranteed tuition plan will also maintain their annual tuition rate.

“The State of Illinois is developing strategies so that 60% of its population can attain a higher education credential by 2025,” said Chancellor Randy Pembrook. “Access and affordability are two essential elements in achieving this goal. By keeping tuition and fees flat, SIUE achieves its goal of providing a competitive price point with the lowest tuition and fees of any public university (doctoral and overall) in Illinois.”

In fall 2017, in-state tuition became available to all new and continuing domestic undergraduate students. Offering in-state tuition to out-of-state students streamlines tuition rates and produces less confusing rate structures, while broadening the institution’s recruiting opportunities.

In fall 2021, all domestic graduate students will be charged the in-state graduate tuition rate of $8,155.20 (12 hours per semester) for the third consecutive year.

International students will continue to be assessed a 2.5 times surcharge on the in-state rate, unless they qualify for an alternate tuition rate.

For the fourth consecutive year, School of Dental Medicine (SDM) tuition will remain the same. In-state SDM students will pay an annual tuition of $29,998. Since fall 2019, the SDM has offered the in-state rate to all new and continuing domestic dental students in its traditional program to build and maintain a diverse student population. This does not include the SDM International Advanced Placement Program, which remains at 2.3 times the in-state dental rate.

The School of Pharmacy (SOP) in-state tuition will also remain flat at $24,096 for new and continuing domestic pharmacy students. International pharmacy students pay 1.2 times the SOP rate.  

Visit siue.edu/paying-for-college for more information about tuition and fees.

The Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees today maintained the general student fee (GSF) charge for the Edwardsville campus for the fall and spring terms of the 2021-22 academic year.

Instituted during the 2018-19 fiscal year, the consolidated GSF charges a consistent amount per credit hour for undergraduate, graduate and professional students whether enrolled in on-campus, off-campus, online or hybrid courses. Continuing the fees from fall 2020, the GSF will be $103.20 per credit hour for the 2021-22 academic year.

The GSF is applied toward areas including facilities, Information Technology Services (ITS), the Morris University Center (MUC), Student Success Center (SSC), student government, Counseling and Health Services, Career Development Center, Textbook Service and Intercollegiate Athletics.

Facilities Services is continually updating campus buildings and infrastructure, as seven major campus buildings constructed between 1965-79 need internal systems updates. Renovation of classrooms and offices continues as funding is available.

ITS allows the University to continually expand and enhance computing resources and the campus network infrastructure to satisfy the increasing demand, as well as maintain and support ITS services for students.

The MUC is supporting several necessary facilities updates during the upcoming years, as well as managing small renovation projects.

The SSC provides funds to support the physical facility that provides students with a central location to have their academic support and personal needs addressed in a central location in the campus core. Textbook rental fees provide an economic alternative to purchasing most textbooks, no matter how many books are needed for class.

Student Government, Counseling and Health Services, and the Career Development Center support various programs and positions to better serve SIUE students. Intercollegiate Athletics has annual operating expenses associated with SIUE’s evolution as an NCAA Division I program.

University Housing rates are also remaining the same. The revenue funds debt service payments and maintains adequate fund balances in housing operations.

Dining Services also froze the meal plan charges for residents living in residence halls on the mandatory meal plan. Revenue covers labor and food expenses.

Visit siue.edu/paying-for-college for more information about tuition and fees.

The Southern Illinois University (SIU) Board of Trustees, at its regularly scheduled meeting today, approved three equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) positions as the SIU System emphasizes its focus on battling systemic racism. Two positions are on the Edwardsville campus: Jessica Harris, PhD, was officially appointed as the vice chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion (VCEDI) for SIUE. Venessa A. Brown, PhD, was approved as associate athletics director for diversity, equity and inclusion, chief diversity officer for the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, and special assistant to the chancellor.

Harris is SIUE’s inaugural VCEDI after serving as assistant provost for academic equity and inclusive excellence in the SIUE Office of the Provost in 2020 and serving as the interim assistant provost for the previous two years. An SIUE faculty member since 2011, Harris has served as an associate professor of historical studies in the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and director of the interdisciplinary Black Studies program.

Harris’ work at SIUE has included a special assignment as a Provost Fellow for Diversity and Inclusion. In this role, she collaborated with faculty colleagues, undergraduate and graduate students, the Honors Program, and the Division of Student Affairs to launch a pilot of Sustained Dialogue, a powerful five-stage social action model encouraging dialogue across differences, as a curricular and co-curricular program. She received the Faculty Humanitarian Award at SIUE’s 2018 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration.

The VCEDI will serve an integral role in two important current initiatives – implementation of the Anti-Racism Task Force (ARTF) 78 recommendations 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).

A longtime supporter of Cougar athletics, Brown is the Department of Athletics’ first associate athletics director for equity, diversity and inclusion. She is tasked with moving SIUE Athletics to the forefront on campus and nationally with regard to DEI. She already has led several training sessions with SIUE coaches and athletics staff.

Brown joined the SIUE faculty in 1995 as an assistant professor in the Department of Social Work and became a full professor in 2006. She was most recently the associate chancellor for the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion, and chief diversity officer. She holds a tenured faculty appointment as professor in the Department of Social Work. She also has served as associate provost in the Office of the Provost and Academic Affairs, and executive director of the SIUE East Saint Louis Center (ESLC).

Photo (L-R): SIUE’s Jessica Harris, vice chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion (VCEDI); Venessa A. Brown, associate athletics director for diversity, equity and inclusion, chief diversity officer for the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, and special assistant to the chancellor.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Stacie Kirk, PhD, professor of special education in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior, joined KMOX’s Megan Lynch on the podcast, Total Information Weekend, which aired Saturday, April 24.

Kirk spoke about the benefits of unstructured play for children. Listen here.

Four Collinsville High School seniors, recipients of a total of $84,200 in scholarships, are headed to college this fall, thanks in part to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center’s Collinsville Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) program. 

Three of the Collinsville upperclassmen – Claudia De La Cruz, Sierra Hoffmann and America Gutierrez-Trejo – have selected SIUE as their college of choice, according to UBMS Program Director Desiree Tyus. UBMS student Donald Thomas, of Pontoon Beach, is enrolling in the University of Illinois Champaign – Urbana. 

“I am extremely proud of our four seniors, as well as our other UBMS students,” said Tyus. “Despite all of the obstacles, this year highlighted the resiliency of our students. Our seniors not only persevered, but excelled in their academics and grew in their character development.” 

“UBMS is designed to support eligible high school students in becoming academically and socially/emotionally prepared to pursue and complete a four-year college education in a STEM-related career field,” she added. 

“Before joining the Upward Bound Math and Science program, I had no idea what I was going to do after high school. UBMS gave me the opportunity to explore so many different careers,” said De La Cruz, who plans to major in industrial engineering. She has a 4.43 GPA and has earned $24,235 in scholarships. “The program allowed me to meet and ask questions of people working in careers I was interested in, which helped me come to a decision. I also learned how to be successful in college. Their support has given me the confidence to be an engineer.” 

Hoffman plans to major in wildlife biology. “I love animals and the environment, and I decided to combine the two,” she said. “UBMS helped me strengthen my skills and gave me opportunities to meet new people, all while helping me toward my journey to college.” Hoffman has a 3.75 GPA and $22,835 in scholarships. 

“UBMS helped me over the roof! The program exposed me to different careers, and encouraged me to go above and beyond. It also helped me with my networking skills. I’ve met so many great, new people,” added Guitierrez-Trejo, who has 3.41 GPA and $1,500 in scholarships. She will start at Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) and transfer to SIUE.

“UBMS showed me that college is not something to fear,” said Thomas. “It is something to prepare for in order to have the best experience possible.” Thomas, who has a 3.95 GPA and $35,630 in scholarships, plans to major in integrative biology. “I want to use my natural talent for mathematics for something not traditionally connected to math. I want to use data to address problems, such as pollution and climate change.” 

“Our seniors have been shining stars,” said UBMS Program Counselor Coordinator Melissa Bidinger. “They are intelligent, driven leaders, and I am so grateful to have worked with these four students! It is no shock to me that all our seniors are going to their dream colleges with significant scholarships. I am proud of everything they have achieved and am extremely excited to see what they accomplish in college.” 

All of the UBMS seniors were recognized during the program’s End of the Year Showcase/Award Ceremony at Collinsville High School on Tuesday, April 27. De La Cruz was named UBMS student of the year. 

“The Student of the Year award is not given solely to seniors,” Tyus said of De La Cruz’s win. “It is for any UBMS participant who has utilized our resources and services the most, as well as maintained a competitive GPA while pursuing a rigorous math and/ or science coursework.” 

UBMS participants were recognized in 11 different award categories, some of which included:

• Students who completed 100% of their grade-level individual learning plans for staying on track for college
• Highest attendance/program participation per grade level
• Highest GPA per grade level
• Students who attended SAT bootcamp 

“This year, our staff was challenged to think outside of the box to create and deliver meaningful, impactful programming,” said Tyus. “Like educators around the world, we have had our share of challenges to contend with during the pandemic. Still, we were able to successfully engage our students through building STEM kits for participants to pick-up and complete at home during Zoom instruction. Our ability to ramp up our hands-on learning experiences, be compassionately flexible, conduct weekly one-on-one check-ins with counselors, expose them to STEM professionals, conduct home visits as needed and develop safe spaces for students to reflect, breathe and relax all positively contributed towards our students’ success.” 

The seniors are looking forward to an extension of regular UBMS services, through their participation in the Summer Bridge program at SIUE. “Upward Bound pays all expenses, including tuition, travel, room and board, an end-of-summer stipend, as well as a laptop for their collegiate-level courses,” added Tyus. “Our graduates will continue to work closely with their UBMS counselor, receive individualized assistance, reside in a freshman residence hall, participate in STEM-related field trips, visit various SIUE departments and take a course instructed by SIUE faculty.  This simulated college experience is designed to ease the transition from high school to college.” 

The SIUE Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) program helps youth prepare for higher education and serves students from Collinsville. Participants receive instruction in literature, advanced mathematics and science during the school day, homework assistance and hands-on STEM workshops twice a week after school, and cultural, career and college preparation on Saturdays. During the summer, students participate in a six-week residential program that allows participants to reside on Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s campus and undergo college preparedness. Services provided prepare students for successful high school completion and entrance into post-secondary programs. The program is designed to serve low-income and/or potential first-generation college students who are currently in grades 9-12. For more information about how you can get involved in our program, please visit us at collinsvilleubms.com.  

Photo:
(L-R front row): SIUE Collinsville Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) seniors America Gutierrez-Trejo, Sierra Hoffmann and Claudia De La Cruz (L-R back row): UBMS student Donald Thomas, UBMS Program Counselor Coordinator, Melissa Bidinger and UBMS Program Director Desiree Tyus.

The Southern Illinois University (SIU) Board of Trustees, at its regularly scheduled meeting yesterday, approved a permanent easement for Madison Country Transit (MCT) to build a bicycle and pedestrian trail and bridge connection to the SIUE campus.

MCT has secured a “Re-Build Illinois” grant to design and construct the Yellowhammer trail and bridge connection. This will extend the existing Delyte Morris Bikeway from its northern terminus to the MCT Goshen Trail. It will expand trail access to thousands in the University community, Edwardsville area residents and the downtown Edwardsville business district.

MCT intends to expand the 135 miles of bikeways in its trails system. The SIUE portion of the project covers an 830-foot long, 100-foot wide permanent easement that crosses three SIUE parcels. The project also supports MCT’s mission to reducing single-occupancy vehicle use and improving air quality.

MCT will be responsible for the expense of designing and constructing the trail and bridge connection, and will be responsible for its long-term care and maintenance.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Office of Online and Education Outreach has won the Innovation Award from the Illinois Council for Continuing Higher Education (ICCHE). 

The ICCHE annually recognizes innovative initiatives, both credit and non-credit, which relate directly to and advance the ICCHE’s purpose and mission. SIUE’s Mary Ettling, director of online and education outreach, and Courtney Breckenridge, specialist of alternative credentials and grant development, created the “Alternative Digital Credential Project.”

The Office of Online and Education Outreach has been collaborating in the Digital Badge space with Robert Dixon, PhD, associate professor in the SIUE Department of Chemistry, and the Madison and St. Clair County employment, workforce and training groups to assist both traditional students and non-credit students in identifying and articulating demonstrated competencies to be competitive in the job market. 

The project involved three targeted stakeholders:

• Employers who need short term training programs to prepare workers to be effective on day one in the job
• State and county workforce boards who support funding, and create a bridge between employers and the University
• A willing academic unit that aligns with those identified jobs

“Digital badges and related alternative or microcredentials demonstrate great promise as a strategy for closing the skills gap, and supporting the alignment of industry skills with innovative curricular offerings and applied, hands-on learning,” said Ettling. “This project will serve those dislocated by the COVID-19 pandemic as we anticipate 100 trainees completing the program in the next 18-24 months.

“The training, which incorporates online learning, remote reality elements and competency based in-person learning, leads to industry aligned credentials in high demand jobs.”

Photo: SIUE’s Mary Ettling, director of online and education outreach, and Courtney Breckenridge, specialist of alternative credentials and grant development.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy (SOP) began the commencement season Saturday, May 1, at Korte Stadium as Chancellor Randy Pembrook and Dean Mark Luer conferred degrees upon 79 graduates in the 2021 class. The outdoor ceremonies were the first held at SIUE since the early 1990s.

To return to in-person commencement exercises during the COVID-19 era, Pembrook is overseeing a series of 10 smaller outdoor ceremonies for 2,325 eligible graduates during the first two weekends in May. All ceremonies are streamed live on siue.edu/tv.

The School of Pharmacy combines its traditional hooding ceremony with commencement. Conner McClain, of St. Louis, earned a doctorate in pharmacy and provided the student address.

McClain praised his classmates for their perseverance. “Our class has utilized our competitive nature to propel us forward amid adversity,” he said. “Our perseverance and ambition began when we exceeded expectations on difficult exams that have left our professors saying they should have written harder questions. It continued when we ranked number one on the Pharmacy Curriculum Outcomes Assessment exam out of 142 pharmacy schools in the United States. And it was further exemplified amid the pandemic as we upheld the prestigious nature of the SIUE School of Pharmacy despite the drastic changes made to our clinical rotations.

“We have proven that no matter the obstacle, not only will we overcome it, but also we will grow as individuals and further develop our pharmaceutical knowledge and skills along the way.”

The remaining exercises are scheduled for Thursday-Sunday, May 6-9.

At noon on Thursday, May 6, SIUE alumni, who were unable to celebrate with an in-person experience for their respective spring or fall 2020 ceremonies as a result of COVID-19 mitigations, have the opportunity to cross the stage.

At noon on Friday, May 7, School of Business students receive their undergraduate and graduate degrees. The School has two student speakers with Samuel Childerson, of Altamont, who is earning a bachelor’s in economics and finance, and Ronald Akpan, of Dunlap, who is earning a bachelor’s in accountancy.

Later that day, the School of Nursing combines its traditional pinning ceremony with commencement at 3 p.m. Bailey Johnston, of Benton, is earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP)/family nurse practitioner (FNP), and serves as the student speaker.

Ceremonies resume at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 8, with the first of three College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) exercises. Student speaker Kenzie Holzinger, of Highland, is earning a bachelor’s in fine art with a specialization in drawing and an interest in painting.

The School of Education, Health and Human Behavior will have two exercises on Sunday, May 9, beginning at 9 a.m. and noon. The student speaker is Peter Romero, of Edwardsville, who is receiving a bachelor’s in elementary education.   

Spring 2021 Commencement concludes at 3 p.m. with the School of Engineering. Leanne Montgomery, of Belleville, who is receiving a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, is the student speaker.

SIUE will also  offer virtual spring 2021 ceremonies to be posted on the virtual commencement website Friday, May 7 at 1 p.m. These pre-recorded virtual ceremonies will include brief remarks from Chancellor Pembrook, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb, and SIU President Dan Mahony along with the student speakers.

Photo: School of Pharmacy 2021 commencement ceremonies at Korte Stadium.

(L-R): Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb and School of Pharmacy Dean Mark Luer present a doctoral hood to Kayla Dowell (center).

“Don’t be afraid to fail.” The advice may sound cliché and surely, it’s easier said than done, but it may be just the life lesson needed to keep someone motivated to turn their dreams into reality.  

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering’s (SOE) Leanne Montgomery is living proof that failure does not mean an end to something. Rather, it’s often a growth moment, an opportunity to reassess and strive for more.

Montgomery is a non-traditional student who will earn a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering during SIUE’s commencement exercises being held May 6-9. She will impart her wisdom as the student speaker for the SOE ceremony at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 9.

“In your life, you are sometimes going to find yourself in social, professional and business situations where you cannot snatch victory from the jaws of defeat,” she’ll share. “But, failure is a better teacher than success. It is only in falling short that we realize where we need growth. It is only by experiencing failure that we realize the world won’t end, and we become more resilient. And, it is only by being willing to fail that you sometimes eke out a success.”

Her advice is based off life experience – one of the “superpowers” that has helped her succeed as a non-traditional student.

It was a tumultuous math class at the University of Tulsa in 1994 that initially dissuaded Montgomery from chemical engineering and led her to pursue other passions. In fact, she holds a bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate in art history, with a specialty in medieval architecture. She’s a wife and mom of two.

“I figured if I couldn’t make it past that first calculus class, I would never make it through the rest of the chemical engineering curriculum,” Montgomery explained. “I could hear the voice of every mediocre math teacher I’d ever had in my head: “You’re not very good at this, are you?” I couldn’t bear the thought of failing or even struggling. When I say that 1994 class haunted me for over 20 years, I’m not exaggerating.”

After five years of trying to forge a teaching career, change was necessary. Her husband asked, “What would you like to do if you weren’t trying to leverage your previous education? Just imagine a blank slate.”

“I thought about the things I’ve been interested in lately and researched growing fields,” she recalled. “In the overlap, I found mechanical engineering. I had been interested in space as a kid. I liked science a lot. And, the space industry, which relies on mechanical engineers, was booming in a way it hadn’t for many decades.”

That fall, she attended an open house at the SOE and met Serdar Celik, PhD, professor of mechanical and mechatronics engineering, in the School’s Aerodynamics Lab.

“The wind tunnel was so neat, and after talking to him about the discipline of mechanical engineering, I was confident I was on the right track,” she confirmed. “I was confident SIUE would be a good fit.”

From that time, it took a year of taking math placement tests, remedial math courses and other practice before Montgomery was at SIUE and ready for the engineering program. But, she says, it was “worth the wait.”

“The advice I would share with other people thinking of jumping back in is to not underestimate yourself,” she said. “Life experience, time management and being willing to look unsure are like superpowers as a student! You don’t have to be the smartest person to go back to school. You have to be willing to keep putting one foot in front of the other, ask for help when you need it and keep trying.”

Montgomery is quick to note that she has not achieved this latest milestone on her own. She credits her husband, Ronald, and kids, Aurelia and Veronica, with being an incredible support system.

“Ronald has been incredibly supportive and made so many sacrifices to allow me this opportunity,” she shared. “He has walked beside me through the valleys of the last five years and shared my triumphs. I will forever be grateful for his support and companionship.”

“My kids have been patient when I’ve had deadlines to meet and understanding when schedules get out of whack during the end-of-semester crunch,” she added. “I hope I’m setting an example that you can change your mind, you can change your life, and consistent work does pay off.”

Montgomery’s academic pursuits at SIUE won’t stop after commencement. This summer, she has an internship working on a heat transfer project at NASA. This fall, she will begin working on her master’s in mechanical engineering. She is pursuing SIUE’s 3+2 program and will complete her master’s in one year. She will then be ready to start a permanent job in aerospace working in thermofluids.

She didn’t let failure – withdrawing from a challenging math course – stop her pursuit of achieving a career in aerospace. 

To her fellow graduates, she’ll conclude: “I wish you great success in your future endeavors, but I also wish you the failures that will help get you there.”

Photo: SIUE School of Engineering graduate and student commencement speaker Leanne Montgomery.

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing (SON) and Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC) have agreed to offer an accelerated path to a bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) that would allow students to complete their general education courses at IVCC, earning an associate’s in nursing, then complete their baccalaureate nursing coursework online through SIUE.

Students can take classes at IVCC and begin a job in their profession, while working online to obtain their BS from SIUE.

The SON accelerated registered nurse to Bachelor of Science (RN to BS) in nursing option is offered in a flexible, entirely online format to accommodate the needs of working registered nurses (RNs). The program format consists of eight-week courses, and can be completed in one year (three semesters) if most of the general education requirements are met at the time of admission. A student’s academic progression plan is customized to meet their individual needs. Those interested in attaining an RN to MSN or DNP may apply for accelerated graduate nursing options.

“Much like our program, SIUE’s School of Nursing is an excellent value, is well-respected and affordable,” IVCC Director of Nursing Programs Jennifer Grobe said. “Nursing students often have to keep up with demanding courses while also juggling family and work responsibilities. This partnership is a way to earn a BSN with minimal expense and travel.”

“The SIUE School of Nursing is enthusiastic about this long-term partnership with Illinois Valley Community College,” said Sheri Compton-McBride, DNP, RN, assistant professor, and director of the SON RN/BS Nursing Program and Contract Management. “In all of our partnerships, we are dedicated to positively impacting access to nursing education and growth within the nursing profession, as well as contributing to a diverse, productive nursing workforce. Together, we will work with students to provide a seamless transition to obtain their bachelor’s degree, and for those interested, access to graduate nursing program options.”

For more information, contact IVCC at 815-224-2720 or ivcc.edu/admissions/nursingadmissions or visit siue.edu/nursing/academic-programs.

About IVCC

Illinois Valley Community College has served the educational needs of its north-central Illinois district for 97 years by providing a high-quality, accessible, and affordable education that inspires individuals and its community to thrive. IVCC is the preferred gateway to advance individual and community success.

Photo: SIUE’s Sheri Compton-McBride, DNP, RN, assistant professor, and director of the School of Nursing RN/BS Nursing Program and Contract Management.

Laura Bernaix, PhD, RN, is retiring as dean of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing (SON), effective May 31. An interim leadership plan will be announced shortly.

Bernaix’s service to the University, the community and healthcare field have made a tremendous impact.  The SON has experienced significant expansion, developed innovative programs, and provided an exemplary model for creative partnerships. With record enrollment and exciting new initiatives, the School thrived during her tenure.

An SIUE alumna, Bernaix served the University for more than 30 years. She provided significant service to the School in various capacities, including chair of the Department of Primary Care and Health Systems Nursing from 2009-13 and associate dean from 2013-2014. Bernaix was named dean in April 2016 after serving as interim dean since June 2014 and securing the position after a national search.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the School of Nursing,” said Bernaix. “I am grateful to have worked alongside the School’s exceptional faculty, staff and students, as well as our community and agency partners, in order to prepare expert nurse clinicians, educators, administrators and leaders for the region.”

Under Bernaix’s leadership, the SON has experienced continued growth and received numerous external accolades. The SON’s record enrollment of 1,877 students highlighted SIUE’s fall 2020 enrollment picture. With its 5% increase from fall 2019, the SON saw record enrollment for the second consecutive year. The momentum continued in spring 2021 with a 4.3% enrollment increase, as the SON grew to a spring record of 1,643 students.

Among its many national accolades, the SON has been ranked:

• 6^th for Doctor of Nursing Practice Program by RegisteredNursing.org
• 19^th for its online Accelerated Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science (RN to BS) program by Nursing School Hub

• 21^st for best value among nursing schools by College Factual
• 45th for Online Master’s Programs by U.S. News and World Report

“Dean Bernaix was one of the first deans I had the opportunity to select in my role as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs,” said Denise Cobb, PhD. “She has been a valued colleague and partner.  It is difficult to express how important her leadership has been and what a critical role she has played as a campus leader and in helping demonstrate how we can evolve to better meet the needs of the region and new learners, amidst a rapidly changing field while keeping the University’s priorities at the center.” 

“I now challenge all deans to be part of an academic leadership team that advocates for student-centered approaches, academic quality, collaboration and innovation,” Cobb continued. “Laura has exemplified that kind of leadership, and I will remain grateful for all that she has done for the University. Her impact will be far-reaching.”

A search committee has been formed, received its charge and begun its work. The University is contracting with an external search firm to support the search and the committee’s efforts.

Also retiring at the end of May is the SON’s Roberta Harrison, PhD, associate dean for academic programs and community/global partnerships.

“Dr. Harrison was instrumental in the redesign of the RN to BS program to its current online accelerated format, the development of multiple corporate and community college partnerships, and the recognition of the needs of non-traditional students in the nursing workforce,” Cobb said. “Given the impact of this powerful team, the importance of sustaining their good work and building on the School’s momentum will be important moving forward.”

Photo: Dr. Laura Bernaix, dean of the SIUE School of Nursing.

Five St. Clair County and East St. Louis Area caterers and foodpreneurs have been selected to move into the second round of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s inaugural East St. Louis food industry business plan competition.

Numerous entrepreneurs expressed interest in the local competition, according to Jo Ann Di Maggio May, challenge coordinator and director of the Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE, and Ali Vlahos, SIUE Learning Resource Center program coordinator. Ten individuals completed the entry process and five were invited to participate in the next round.

“We’re extremely pleased with the level of interest in our first East St. Louis Café of Champions Challenge,” Di Maggio May said. “There has been a robust outpouring of enthusiasm about the Challenge from applicants, community leaders and our small business development partners.

 “Although only 5 semifinalists remain eligible for the $4,500 in cash prizes, we encourage everyone that considered or entered the Challenge to access the SBDC’s wide menu of resources and expertise.”

The 2021 East St. Louis Café of Champions Challenge semifinalists include:

• DJ’s Catering (Cahokia)
• Miss Jays Cafeteria (Cahokia)
• Queen Hattie’s (East St. Louis)
• Susie Q’s Catering (Swansea)
• The Crab Trap (Cahokia)

Round two of the Challenge will require semifinalists to create a condensed business plan, develop financial projections, and clearly define reasons how their business concept will be successful. The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE will offer guidance and support to semifinalists via workshops throughout May 2021.

Competitors have until Tuesday, May 18 to submit their business plans and financial statements. Judges will select three finalists, who will then present a taste testing pitch starting on Saturday, June 5 through Monday, June 7 to a select panel of judges. The winners will be announced on Thursday, June 10.

First place will win $2,000, second place will receive $1,500 and third place earns $1,000.  Prize money is thanks to the generosity of the National Development Council, First Bank and the East St. Louis Center Foundation. The first-place winner also receives 12 months of rent and utility free space. 

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

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

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

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s first Master of Public Health (MPH) cohort has spent the spring semester working diligently to complete mandatory community-based capstone projects. Despite pandemic-incited challenges, students Stephanie Bargiel, Kyana Nunnally and Aldara Henderson creatively adapted their projects in collaboration with an approved community partner.

“The students in our first MPH cohort tackled timely topics that truly reflected the challenges of these times,” said MPH program director Alice Ma, PhD, MPH. “They conducted successful capstone projects that also demonstrated their ability to persevere and be flexible. I am incredibly proud of their accomplishments, and I look forward to see what they contribute to the public health field next!”

Bargiel, of Highland, utilized a social ecological approach to explore resilience among emergency department healthcare providers and nurses in her timely project entitled “Resiliency of ER Healthcare Providers.” She investigated how levels of personal qualities, interpersonal connections, organizational structure, community and policy contribute to resilience.

“My primary goal was to analyze emergency healthcare worker experiences to further understand how to provide support and propagate advocacy for those who dedicate their lives to caring for the community day in and day out,” said Bargiel. “I believe in this project, and those who have agreed to participate in my research.”

Bargiel thanks the MPH program for allowing her to learn new skills, such as conducting interviews and writing a thesis, while completing a project that is personally fulfilling. Upon graduation, she aspires to begin medical school to pursue her interests in emergency medicine, gastroenterology and primary care.

Nunnally, of Chicago, pursued her master’s due to the countless possibilities within the public health field. Her capstone project, titled “Pregnancy Experiences of Minority Women,” uncovers disparities minority women face during maternal care and calls for equitable healthcare policy for all women.

“This project was created to learn more about minority women and the struggles they face within the healthcare system,” explained Nunnally. “Racial differences in maternal mortality can be defined by definite differences in the rates of mortality between Black and white women during and after delivery. According to Howell (2019), Black women are 3-4 times more likely to experience maternal mortality compared to white women.”

Nunnally collected data on minority women’s access to maternal services throughout the stages of prenatal, childbirth and postnatal care. She hopes to discover how accessible services are and how knowledgeable women are on the options available to them. She aspires to work in maternal and child health with a goal of opening a birthing center for women of all ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Five years ago, Henderson, of Belleville, was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and told she had four months to live. After enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy, two surgeries, and abdominal radiation, she returned to school to pursue public health with the goal of assisting others in a similar situation. Her capstone project, entitled “Preparedness and Resiliency of Cancer Patients,” examines U.S. cancer patient preparedness and resiliency in response to a disease outbreak such as COVID-19.

“Cancer patients are a vulnerable population, especially during a health pandemic,” said Henderson. “By identifying challenges, I hope that more efficient and helpful long-term preparations can be made so mistakes are not repeated.”

Henderson utilized social media to find study participants who completed an anonymous online survey. The survey’s open-ended questions allowed participants to explain the challenges associated with treatment delay, diagnostic procedure, office and telehealth visits, mental coping, and health costs during COVID-19.

After graduation, Henderson intends to apply to a public health doctoral program. Her ultimate goal is to utilize her research skills to work with global health organizations to help drive public policy change in the U.S.

To learn more about SIUE’s MPH program, visit siue.edu/academics/graduate/degrees-and-programs/public-health/.

Photo: SIUE students completing a master’s in public health (L-R) Stephanie Bargiel, Kyana Nunnally and Aldara Henderson.

TheOther40 business plan competition offers Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students the opportunity to take a business idea through the stages needed to launch a product or service.

The SIUE School of Business hosted its 11^th competition in 2021, which concluded on April 26 with an online video pitch. More than $10,000 in cash prizes were awarded to the finalists.

School of Engineering senior Timothy Nodorft and his team achieved first place and $5,000 with BambAI. BambAI is a remotely controlled animatronic deer decoy that mimics deer behavior.

“The winning pitch from BambAI combined an innovative idea with true market potential,” said School of Business Dean Tim Schoenecker, PhD. “We expect the prize money will help that team move its prototype closer to market. I’ll be excited to see where BambAI goes in the future."

Taking the $3,000 second place prize was Eli Hawkins with ETCH. The company is a dual-sided app and website that will greatly reduce barriers between the workforce and hiring companies by allowing the companies to educate employees prior to hiring.

Jeanna Picha with ALGO News earned third place and $2,000. ALGO News is a one stop daily video accessible on your phone from an app that provides customized accurate unbiased news to viewers.

Other finalists included Carter McCall (Sonomu Games LLC), Nathan Macklin (All-in-One Sports Collectables and Memorabilia) and Jared Lauritson (Check It!).

TheOther40 derives its name from data that shows approximately 60% of startups fail within five years. The goal of the program is to find, engage and support the other 40%. The competition is supported by an entrepreneurship education initiative gift provided to the SIUE School of Business by the Martinson Foundation.

This year, an additional prize of a year of “free connectivity” is being provided to each of the three winners courtesy of T-Mobile.

“The pandemic has led to many challenges this year, and I greatly appreciate the efforts of the SIUE CEOU student team in keeping TheOther40 alive for an 11^th straight year,” Schoenecker said. “In particular, I want to recognize School of Business seniors Jacob Bloemker, Sophie Tremblay, and Madison Magee for managing every aspect of TheOther40 and ensuring that the competition went smoothly. I also appreciate the efforts of our Small Business Development Center and director Jo Ann DiMaggio May to provide workshops for the participants and identify judges for the various rounds of the competition.”

Photo: The BambAI team (L-R) Nathan Medsker, Zach Pappas, Joe Phillips, Tim Nodorft.