The SIUE women’s tennis program has been awarded 2021 All-Academic Team honors from the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA). Five Cougar student-athletes were also individually recognized as ITA Scholar-Athletes.

The Cougars accumulated a 3.567 grade point average (GPA) during the fall 2020 semester and improved on that mark in the spring 2021 semester with a cumulative GPA of 3.64. Three student-athletes: Jill Lambrechts, Jordan Schifano and Vanessa Reinicke garnered 4.0 GPAs.

SIUE tennis has earned the All-Academic Team distinction in each of Head Coach Adam Albertsen’s three seasons.

“I am extremely proud of the work our entire team put in the classroom this year,” said Albertsen. “This is an amazing group of student-athletes who push each other on the courts and in the classroom.”

Nationally, a total of 1,505 student-athletes competing in NCAA Division I women’s tennis were named ITA Scholar-Athletes and 210 women’s tennis programs earned All-Academic Team accolades.

In addition to Lambrechts, Reinicke and Schifano, Fabiola Perez and Melissa Vizcardo were each named ITA Scholar-Athletes for their performance in the classroom.

To be named an ITA Scholar-Athlete, a student must record a GPA of no less than 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for the academic year.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Jie Ying, PhD, assistant professor of finance in the School of Business, earlier this week provided expert commentary on “Cheap Car Insurance in Illinois” on wallethub.com.

Ying gives advice to consumers regarding COVID-19’s impact on demand for car insurance, the fairness of setting premiums by age, gender, occupation and whether an individual is a college student.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Professor of Chemistry Leah O’Brien, PhD, has won the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) St. Louis Section 2021 Saint Louis Award. She will accept the award Friday, October 1 at a banquet following a spectroscopy-focused research symposium to be held on the SIUE campus.

The Saint Louis Award, originally sponsored by Monsanto Co., now Bayer, is presented to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the profession of chemistry and demonstrated the potential to further advance the profession. The award consists of a $1,500 honorarium and a plaque.

An SIUE chemistry faculty member within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) since August 1990, O’Brien has been making important contributions to determine and understand the molecular electronic structure of diatomic transition metal ligand molecules and their excited states. These studies guide the development of high-level computational methods to predict the properties of new molecules and materials. Her work has provided fundamental insights into the nature of metal bonding involved in chemical synthesis and catalysis, as well as the structure and properties of the nucleus important in nuclear physics known as electronic field shift effects. 

“Dr. O’Brien’s selection for the St. Louis Section ACS Award confirms what SIUE students and faculty have known for many years—that she is an outstanding teacher and scholar who has made valuable contributions to the discipline of chemistry,” said CAS Dean Kevin Leonard, PhD. “I had the good fortune to work with Dr. O’Brien when she was the chair of SIUE’s Department of Chemistry, and I quickly came to appreciate her careful attention to detail, her dedication to students and faculty colleagues in the department, and her commitment to the advancement of women and members of underrepresented communities in STEM fields.

“This recognition reminds us that the Department of Chemistry and the College of Arts and Sciences offer SIUE students the opportunity to learn alongside excellent researchers. Our students emerge from the labs of Dr. O’Brien and her colleagues with the knowledge and skills necessary to move directly into positions in industry or into graduate programs.”

O’Brien is an active member of the St. Louis ACS section where she has served in various governance positions including section chair and founded the Women Chemists Committee. She has also been an advocate for women and underrepresented minorities in STEM within the St. Louis ACS section, at SIUE and in the local community.

Previously, O’Brien received the St. Louis Section’s 2013 Distinguished Service Award and the 2014 E. Ann Nalley ACS Award for Volunteer Service from the Midwest Region.

Photo: SIUE Chemistry Professor Leah O’Brien, PhD, recipient of the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) St. Louis Section 2021 Saint Louis Award.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will honor nine remarkable graduates at the 2021 SIUE Alumni Hall of Fame ceremony, A Night Among the Stars, on Thursday, Sept. 23. The impressive alumni have made exceptional contributions in their chosen fields, in their communities and at SIUE through their leadership, character and hard work.

 “Those selected for the Alumni Hall of Fame represent the best of SIUE,” said Andrew Ravanelli, PhD, SIUE Alumni Association president. “It is our honor to induct these outstanding individuals.”

The 2021 honorees listed by their college or school:

College of Arts & Sciences: Jessica McCaskill, BA Communications ‘06

Jessica “CasKILLA” McCaskill made her professional boxing debut in 2015. In the lightweight division, she earned the No. 1 female ranking in the U.S. and third in the world. Based in Chicago, she was the first female to headline in the state of Illinois, making history. She has achieved numerous accolades, including being named Ring Magazine’s 2018 Most Inspirational Fighter after winning her first World Boxing Council title, and World Boxing News’ 2020 Women’s Fighter of the Year. She was featured in the 2018 Amazon Prime documentary, “Making McCaskill.” After moving to the welterweight division, she became the unified and undisputed welterweight champion in 2020. McCaskill is one of only three female fighters holding the undisputed title.

College of Arts & Sciences: Bill Land, BA Mass Communications ’73

Land is the TV play-by-play voice of the San Antonio Spurs, where he has spent 18 years and earned three NBA titles. His announcing career spans 17 sports, from basketball and baseball to water polo and power tumbling. From 1988-2016, he served as TV sports announcer and program host for Fox Sports Net, where he covered play-by-play in the Big XII Conference, Major League Soccer and Texas Rangers baseball. Other notable accomplishments from his more than 40-year career include serving as sports director at radio and TV stations in Wichita and Tulsa. During those years, he was the play-by-play voice of Wichita State University, Oral Roberts University and the University of Tulsa. He credits his SIUE education and his WSIE radio experience for providing him with a great foundation to enter the real world.

School of Business: Kelly Malson, BSA Accountancy ‘93

Malson began her accounting career in 1994 with KPMG LLP before moving to Andersen LLP. In 2004, she became finance compliance manager for ITRON Inc.’s IEM Unit before joining World Acceptance Corp. in 2005 as vice president of internal audit. She became vice president and chief financial officer in 2006, a position she held until becoming senior vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer in 2009. She retired from World Acceptance Corp. in 2014. From 2012-20, she also served on the Conn’s Inc. Board of Directors as a board member, audit committee member, and nominating and corporate governance committee member. Before retiring for a second time, she served as chief financial officer of Nicholas Financial Inc. from 2018-19.

SIU School of Dental Medicine: Dr. Terry Barnfield, BS Biological Sciences, ’82 DMD ’86

Barnfield has held a private dental practice in Salem, Ill., since his graduation. On the national level, he has been a member of the American Dental Association’s (ADA) House of Delegates for more than 10 years and currently serves as the ADA Political Action Committee director for the 8^th District. He is a fellow in the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists and Pierre Fauchard Academy. At the state level, he is a past president of the Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) and continues to serve as a clinic section lead for the ISDS Foundation’s Mission of Mercy events. He also served the ISDS as a trustee and in the House of Delegates. Locally, Terry is a past president of the Wabash River Dental Society and of the Salem District 111 Board of Education.

School of Education, Health and Human Behavior: Kim Gidley, BS Physical Education, ‘89

Gidley is the winningest coach in women’s tennis history at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA). She begins her 24th season as head coach of the women’s tennis team in 2021-22 with 309 career wins. Since 2003, she has recorded 12 winning seasons, including leading the USAFA to its first 20-win season at the Division l level in 2017. She has earned numerous awards for her work on and off the court, including the U.S. Professional Tennis Association's 2020 Intermountain Region College Coach of the Year. As a student-athlete, Gidley earned All-American honors while helping the Cougars win the 1989 NCAA Division II national championship. She was also invited to the 1984 U.S. Olympic Trials for tennis. In 2008, she was inducted into the SIUE Athletics Hall of Fame.

School of Engineering: Mike Marchal, BS Construction ’94

Marchal is the president of Holland Construction Services, a position he has held since 2011. He began at Holland Construction as a project manager in 1997 and has 27 years of experience in the construction industry. He is a leader who is passionate about nurturing the growth and development of Holland Construction, his family and his community. He has been involved with many professional organizations, including Leadership Council of Southwestern Illinois, Associated General Contractors of America Board of Directors, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the SIUE School of Engineering Construction Management Advisory Board.  He serves as a mentor for high school and college students, and he has held active fundraising roles for the United Way of Greater St. Louis, the Greater St. Louis Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America and his church.

School of Nursing: Christina Moore, MPH, BSN, RN, BS Nursing ‘14

Moore is a Public Health Institute/CDC Global Strategic Information Fellow with the Center for Global Health, Division of Global HIV/AIDS and TB, at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Country Office in Nairobi, Kenya. She conducts monitoring, evaluation, data management, reporting and technical support for the national HIV program in Kenya. Moore has served on the International COVID-19 Task Force as a technical assistance epidemiologist. She earned a master's in public health, specializing in global health from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis. In addition to her SIUE degree, she earned a bachelor’s in health and society with a minor in Spanish from Beloit College. Moore has completed numerous internships, community-based research and testing/treatment programs in Australia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua and Tanzania. 

School of Pharmacy: Dr. J. Cody Sandusky, PharmD ’12

Sandusky is the president of the Illinois Pharmacists Association (IPhA) and director of pharmacy at Harrisburg Medical Center in Harrisburg. In addition to his role with IPhA, he serves on the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) House of Delegates, Harrisburg Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors, and the One Shawnee Tourism Collaboration Task Force. He is a past member of the SIUE Pharmacy Advisory Board and Illinois Pharmacists Association Foundation Board. His career has spanned multiple arenas of pharmacy, including retail and independent community pharmacy, pharmaceutical industry consulting, and health-systems pharmacy. He has been a featured guest speaker for the APhA, developed guidance statements for the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists, and been recognized by the APhA for excellence in COVID-19 vaccine education and promotion.

Graduate School: Sherri Wu, MSA Accountancy ’97, MS Computing and Information Systems ’99

Wu currently manages strategy, key accounts and revenue for VoyageOne Group. Before joining VoyageOne, she was the chief strategy officer and head of international business development of Alitrip at Alibaba Group, where she led a team in building growth opportunities for businesses around the world. Wu also served as head of international development for Americas at Tmall Global, as well as vice president and general manager for product and technology at Orbitz Worldwide. While serving as chief technology officer of PEAK6 Retail, she built the company’s e-commerce development team, and designed and developed e-commerce and financial social networking websites. In addition to her master’s degrees from SIUE, she holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Nanjing University in China.

Event details are still being developed. For more information on A Night Among the Stars, call 618-650-3630, email siuealumni@siue.edu or visit siue.edu/alumni.

What has been the highlight of your summer? For seven Southern Illinois University Edwardsville scholars it was a 3,500-mile trek across parts of the U.S. to chase storms and visit interesting natural features.

The scholars are part of the collaborative GEOPATHS program, funded by the National Science Foundation. The program engages undergraduates in geoscience-related research opportunities.  

“The GEOPATHs program as a whole has been one amazing, career-empowering experience after another,” said Logan Pelo, a senior geography major.

According to Alan Black, PhD, assistant professor of geography, the goal of the June trip was to give students the opportunity to put what they’ve learned about the atmosphere into practice to monitor weather conditions, make a weather forecast and observe storms. 

Black and three other SIUE teacher-scholars participated in the trip, including Shunfu Hu, PhD, professor in the Department of Geography, 

Adriana Martinez, PhD, associate professor in the Departments of Environmental Sciences and Geography, and Sharon Locke, PhD, professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences.

“We saw a few major storms that were absolutely breathtaking,” Pelo recalled. “Watching our group of scholars open up to each other and share our enjoyment of science and weather was the best takeaway.”

“This experience certified that I want to become a climatologist,” said Samantha Gallatin, a senior double majoring in geography and biology, on the environment, ecology and evolution track. “It sparked a greater interest for the humanitarian aspect of geography. I am inspired to look into the connections between the physical environment and human practices within ecumenes. Ultimately, this should allow my future analysis to be more complete, my research to be more thorough, and my work to have lasting and germane impacts.”

The geoscholars and program leaders will depart July 24 for a two-week excursion to western national parks. They will visit the Badlands, Devil’s Tower National Monument and Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Great Sand Dunes National Parks.

As part of their excursion, the students will tour a coal mine in Wyoming, study natural hazards in the parks and their impacts on humans, and learn about Dark Skies and how to protect the night sky by doing astronomy via stargazing in the evenings. 

NSF funding for SIUE’s GEOPATHS program runs through June 2022. For more information and to apply for the program, visit siue.edu/STEM. 

Photos: A “breathtaking” storm was viewed by the participants along their journey. (Courtesy: Sharon Locke) 

Geoscholars and SIUE faculty enjoyed a 3,500-mile educational trek.

The participating group was all smiles, including four faculty members and seven geoscholars.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Jessica Harris, PhD, has named Lindy Wagner Assistant Vice Chancellor for Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development. 

Wagner will lead and set the vision for the new Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development Hub (The Hub), formerly the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion (CSDI). The Hub will create and maintain antiracism, equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) training, programming, educational opportunities and initiatives, as well as EDI-related resources for students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members.

Wagner has more than 17 years of experience working in higher education and began serving as the director of the CSDI on March 20, 2020.

“Preparing our students for career and citizenship by providing educational experiences that foster cultural competence and humility, build a community of equity-minded faculty and staff, and cultivate a culture of belonging, is key to SIUE’s ability to authentically carry out its mission, live its values, and achieve a range of institutional goals,” said Harris. “The Hub, under Assistant Vice Chancellor Wagner’s leadership, will serve a critical role in leading and activating these efforts campus wide.”

“I am honored to work alongside Vice Chancellor Harris as she restructures and realigns our campus resources in a manner that continues to move the campus’ goals of equity, diversity and inclusion forward,” Wagner said. “Seeing the CSDI grow throughout the last year, and knowing the growth that will happen in the coming years, brings great excitement for the campus and community. I am thrilled to continue building collaborative relationships across campus, and remain committed to providing students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members the best possible resources to make their campus experiences positive and valuable.”

“Our new division will create spaces where students feel a sense of belonging and understand there are people dedicated to seeing them get through every moment on campus,” she added. “The work we do allows students to not only connect with who they are, but also helps them connect with those around them in deep and meaningful ways. Our division will create space for equity, inclusion and social justice in a way that will impact every individual in purposeful ways.”

Wagner came to SIUE after having served in the Office of Associate Chancellor for Diversity at SIU Carbondale. While there, she provided diversity and inclusion training workshops for faculty, staff and students, as well as student organizations. Her extensive experience in higher education programming, training and development uniquely qualifies her to lead The Hub in this new direction.

Additionally, since January 2017, Wagner has served as an associate for the Sustained Dialogue Institute (SDI), where she provides training to campuses across the nation that allows students to explore race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual identity, religion, age, ability status and other topics.

Wagner earned a bachelor’s in international studies from Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, in 2003 and a master’s in counseling and student development from Kansas State University in 2005. She is currently working on her doctorate in intercultural communication at SIU Carbondale.

Photo: SIUE Assistant Vice Chancellor for Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development Lindy Wagner.

Willie and Ericka Logan, founders of Logan & Logan, LLC Management and Accounting Services, are expanding and moving to a larger, more adequate location as they grow and serve more business clients. 

In 2019, Ericka and her husband, Willie, decided to jumpstart their entrepreneurial endeavors by entering into the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Metro East Startup Challenge. After entering the competition, the couple and other contestants were tasked with writing an executive summary, business plan and elevator pitch. Throughout the challenge, candidates including Ericka & Willie received assistance with their business plan and were provided other resources which helped them become a finalist in the competition.

While they did not win the competition, their business journey advanced. “Being a part of the pitch competition helped shape the business and the focus of select services,” said Willie.

In early 2020, the couple leased their first professional office space. Soon after opening, the pandemic shook the world and halted many business operations, at least temporarily. Naturally, this put financial pressure on small businesses including Logan & Logan, LLC. But, the Logans persevered.

They sought financial assistance from the SBDC and Director Jo Ann Di Maggio May. As the Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was not an option for this new business, Di Maggio May helped them explore Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and other available funding.

Additionally, the SBDC put the company on its valued referral list and was able to share the Logans’ services with other business clients needing accounting assistance. Additional opportunities have resulted from their SBDC connection, including a partnership to provide accounting services to business clients through funding the SBDC received from the National Development Council (NDC), a valued lending and training partner that has worked closely with the Center for a few years. These services have helped small businesses tremendously with the cost of bookkeeping and accounting services as they focus on growing their company.

These referrals helped the Logans grow and succeed despite the pandemic. In fact, in late 2020 the couple was ready for a larger location to meet the needs of the company’s growing client base. Again, the SBDC and Di Maggio May were there to help, assisting the Logans with their business plan and financial projections.

“It was a smooth loan process thanks to Jo Ann’s help,” Ericka said. “She was able to assist with getting the proper documentation needed, which led to a guaranteed loan through the Small Business Administration.”

Di Maggio May couldn’t be prouder of the hard working and motivated dynamic duo she has gotten to know.  “The Logans are dedicated to serving their clients and go above and beyond to make sure their clients’ business needs are met. They stay on top of their field so they are knowledgeable about accounting updates and changes that affect businesses. I can’t wait to see where they go now that they have a bigger location.”

Logan & Logan, LLC Management and Accounting Services has relocated to its newly purchased commercial building at 4000 N. Belt West in Belleville. A ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration will take place from 12-4 p.m. Saturday, July, 24.

With over 18 years of experience Logan & Logan, LLC Management and Accounting Services can customize services based on your business needs, saving time and money. Services include business management, accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation and notary services. Ericka Logan can also assist in real estate services. If assistance is needed in any of these areas, contact info@loganacctg.com or access the company website to learn more at loganacctg.com. Also, check them out on Facebook at Logan & Logan, LLC Management and Accounting Services or by phone at 618-825-9098 or ​618-825-9097.

The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East assists start-up ventures like Logan & Logan, LLC Management and Accounting Services, 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 IL SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE at (618) 650-2929.

Photo: Willie and Ericka Logan, founders of Logan & Logan, LLC Management and Accounting Services.

The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) announced this week that SIUE volleyball has earned the U.S. Marine Corps/AVCA Team Academic Award for its outstanding performance in the classroom during the 2020-21 academic year.

This marks the second consecutive season in which the Cougars have received the honor, which was first awarded during the 1992-93 academic year to collegiate and high school volleyball teams that maintain a 3.30 cumulative team grade point average (GPA). The Cougars notched one of the highest team GPAs in program history, collecting a 3.577 mark during the spring semester.

“Our student-athletes absolutely amazed us last semester,” said Head Coach Kendall Paulus. “The fact that our team adjusted to a completely new schedule, along with new class environments shows how adaptable and strong-willed they are. Their classroom goals never wavered just because things looked different and were uncomfortable. We are so proud of their accomplishments during such an unprecedented time.”

In addition to its success in the classroom, the program also experienced one of its best seasons in the Division I era - garnering the highest conference winning percentage (.714) since the 2017 season, placing four student-athletes on All-Ohio Valley Conference squads, and earning one of just four spots in the 2020-21 OVC Volleyball Championship.

There comes a time when even the powerful could use some help. The Empowerment Sculpture, in front of the central offices of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Head Start/Early Head Start on the campus of the SIUE East St. Louis Center, received a needed refresh. 

Students from the SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts’ summer session revitalized the 15-year-old statue, under the direction of SIUE alumnus Andra Lang Jr., art teacher. The figure consists of three figures reaching out from the same base to represent Head Start/Early Head Start’s commitment to enhancing the development of children, empowering families and strengthening communities. 

“The Empowerment Sculpture is beautiful and adds so much to our campus, but it had faded over time,” said Performing Arts Director Homer Simmons. “So, I thought it would be good for our art students to spruce it up.” 

In spring 2006, Kitty Lawrence, Empowerment Sculpture designer and then SIUE art therapy graduate student; Gussie Klorer, PhD, then director of the SIUE Graduate Art Therapy program; and Edna Patterson-Petty, SIUE Head Start art therapist, introduced the art project to Head Start/Early Head Start students and parents. The would-be artists painted more than 1,200 river rocks, which were assembled onto the steel sculpture. 

“The rocks had faded over time, and the names on them were ineligible,” said Lang. “We used primary colors and spray painted the head and arms. We used a golden color for the center and brown for the base. The brown represents a dirt mound, to give the idea of people being uplifted.” 

“I love it,” he added. “The students did an amazing job.” 

The SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts has a long, rich history. The legendary dancer, anthropologist, and social activist Katherine Dunham founded the Center for Performing Arts at the SIUE East St. Louis Center in 1964. At its peak in the 1990s, the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts provided year-round instruction to more than 1,000 youth and became a training ground for professional artists of all disciplines. For decades, the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts provided performing arts classes to students and community members to develop local talent and to cultivate a love of the arts. Classes often culminated in musical and theatrical productions. 

Photos:
Students from the SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts’ summer session re-painted the SIUIE Head Start/Early Head Start Empowerment Sculpture.

Under the watchful eyes, encouraging nods and trained patience of instructors at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts, students are diligently practicing for a curtain call at 6 p.m. Friday, July 30 at the East St. Louis Senior High School, 4901 State St. 

The performance, which is free and open to the public, will mark the end of the program’s summer session. 

“Our students are ready and looking forward to showcasing what they have learned this summer,” said Performing Arts Director Homer Simmons. “‘The City of Champions’ was the theme of our summer session and the title for our concert. Our children are part of a long and rich legacy of legends and greats who have hailed from East St. Louis. The audience will be delighted with the talents that our students will bring to the stage.” 

Students, ages 6-17, participated in the summer session that taught piano, guitar, violin, African drumming, keyboards, hip-hop, ballet, Dunham Technique, West African, jazz, chorus, arts and crafts, and more. 

A sample of the July 30 performance includes: 

• “Back to School” – a suite featuring hip hops songs and dance with students ages 6-8, choreographed by McKinley Smith 

• “Stronger Together – a suite featuring musical theater songs and dance with students ages 9-12 and 13-17, choreographed by Ta’Shayla Montgomery 

• “Becoming: A Tribute to Michelle Obama” – a suite featuring contemporary ballet songs and dance with students ages 13-17, choreographed by Montgomery 

• “Reflection" from the Disney movie, Mulan, on chimes with students ages 13-17, directed by Mary Jo Pembrook, PhD 

• “My Girl,” guitar trio with students ages 13-17, directed by Pembrook 

• Piano duet, “Ode to Joy” with students ages 9-12, directed by Pembrook

Other performing arts instructors include Phil Ring, Esau Toombs, Gerald Williams and JayKayla Winford. 

Students also spent the summer session making arts and crafts, under the supervision of SIUE alumnus and art teacher Andra Lang Jr. Lang earned a bachelor’s in studio arts in 2020. He and students will do the set design. 

“Three words come to mind about where we have been and where we are going,” reflected Simmons. “Pandemic. Pandemonium. Possibilities. When you look at the talents and gifts of our students, their possibilities are endless. Our children are walking in the light of such trailblazers as Miles Davis, Katherine Dunham and the Hudlin Brothers, and we need to support them in any way that we can. That’s why we are celebrating ‘The City of Champions.’”

For more information and details on fall registration, contact Simmons at hosimmo@siue.edu. 

The SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts has a long, rich history. The legendary dancer, anthropologist, and social activist Katherine Dunham founded the Center for Performing Arts at the SIUE East St. Louis Center in 1964. At its peak in the 1990s, the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts provided year-round instruction to more than 1,000 youth and became a training ground for professional artists of all disciplines. For decades, the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts provided performing arts classes to students and community members to develop local talent and to cultivate a love of the arts. Classes often culminated in musical and theatrical productions. 

Photos:
Students from the SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts program practice for their July 30 performance.

Although vertical farming is a rapidly-growing industry, the practice struggles to achieve profitable returns and provide the promise of affordable healthy food for future generations. To overcome those challenges, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering (SOE) alumnus Chico Weber has invented GrowMotion, a robotic grow light, to enhance vertical farm profitability and help feed the world.

GrowMotion mimics the motion of the sun by slowly passing over crops, covering the grow space of three fixed grow lights. The moving grow light is designed for farmers and food service companies that wish to reduce energy use and the cost of running grow lights in a greenhouse or indoor vertical farm.

Weber graduated from the SOE in 2013 with a bachelor’s in manufacturing engineering. In January, he founded Squarefruit Labs, a research facility focused on developing technology that reduces the amount of energy needed to grow food.

“When I first started building my own hydroponic grow systems, I was blown away by the expensive price of modern LEDs,” shared Weber. “It’s a huge capital cost to cover a large indoor grow space with lights, whether they are LEDs or metal halides. This makes most indoor farms unprofitable. I saw an opportunity in the market to not only reduce energy, but also reduce the cost of covering a large space with grow lights.”

In partnership with Beloved Streets of America, Weber began searching for a solution to food deserts in the St. Louis area. Throughout the partnership, he designed and tested numerous hydroponic and aeroponic systems before utilizing 3D printing and motion control systems to create GrowMotion.

“What sets GrowMotion apart is how it uses sensors and machine learning to spread the light over crops more efficiently and most importantly, evenly,” said Weber. “This is something competitors haven’t figured out.”

Squarefruit Labs is working with a small group of local non-profits to roll out a series of community gardens that will grow food year-round using GrowMotion. These gardens will provide food locally with a higher goal of providing onsite job training in the robotics and agtech space. Weber expects the first development sites to go online in fall 2021. Currently, GrowMotion demonstration spaces are running at MADE Makerspace and the St. Louis Science Center.

Weber credits his time at SIUE with providing the hands-on experiences necessary for inventing energy-saving technology.

“I like to build products—everything from 3D printers to robotic arms to agtech solutions,” said Weber. “SIUE gave me the opportunity to get my hands dirty while working on their solar car and with their 3D printers. I learned the necessary skills to develop new innovative products within the School of Engineering.”

GrowMotion models, 10-feet and 5-feet, are currently on sale, along with tents and modular grow bed systems. For more information on GrowMotion and Squarefruit Labs, visit squarefruitlabs.com.

Photo: SIUE alumnus Chico Weber, creator of GrowMotion.

Dressed in their best business casual, sitting on the edge of their seats and participating in a table drumroll, squeals of delight erupted as the winners were announced during the End of the Summer Showcase and Awards of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center’s Collinsville Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS). 

The Showcase was held Thursday, July 22 in the Morris University Center’s Cougar Den. 

“You students have so much to be proud of,” UBMS Program Director Desiree Tyus told students and their guests. “This summer, we had a total of 45 participants this summer attend our weekly courses, electives, field trips, residential program and/or Summer Bridges pre-collegiate preparatory program. 

“I attribute our program’s success to the type of family culture we have developed between students, staff and their extended support systems. Through a close collaboration with Collinsville School District #10, our Upward Bound Math and Science TRIO program has served 64 students. Our students had an average grade point average of 3.5 this year, despite the instability that the COVID pandemic placed on them.”    

The Showcase began with selected students giving a recap of what was learned over the summer. Topics and activities included:

• English
• Math
• Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
• French
• Science, Health Medicine (SHM)
• Technology, Engineering and Math (TEM-focused exploration)
• Electives: adulting 101, chess, mental health, UBMS TV production
• Departmental tours 

Of the many awards given at the Showcase, a few highlights included Outstanding Student recognition for freshman Kaylee Cooper, sophomore Jack Easley, junior Tremonte Dickerson, Jennifer Carrillo, and Outstanding residential spirit recognition for Reznor Hartmann.

“Our annual End of the Summer Showcase and Awards banquet provided a perfect opportunity for students to share what they accomplished with their peers, family and other stakeholders,” continued Tyus. “I am proud to say that 100% of our seniors have been accepted to college!” 

“As a first-generation student, I found the Upward Bound Math and Science program critical,” said Monserrat Munoz, a sophomore at Southern Illinois University Carbondale majoring in exercise science, whose parents were born in Mexico. Munoz, who participated in UBMS as a high school senior in 2020, worked as an administrative assistant this summer in the program. 

“The counselors really helped me learn about different colleges and what they offered,” Munoz continued. “By my working with the program this summer, I thought it would be a great opportunity for students to see someone who graduated from the program and is now in college.” 

“The program was enjoyable and exposed me to how life in college will be,” said Christian Smith, a junior at Collinsville High School. “It was a nice experience to stay in a residence hall on the SIUE campus, while in the program this summer.” Smith plans to major in mechanical engineering at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. 

Claudia De La Cruz, who has been a student in the program for two years and graduated from Collinsville High School in May, will attend SIUE in the fall and major in industrial engineering. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do before participating in the program,” she said. “They exposed us to so many different career and job options, and brought in biologists, doctors, nurses and speakers of all kinds.” 

“Today was incredible,” said Tarael Kee, assistant principal at Collinsville High School. “Our students learned critical things. They became acclimated to college, practiced math, science, English, foreign language, STEM and more over the summer. This type of support, guidance and benefits are immeasurable.” 

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.  

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students are among the inaugural recipients of the 2021 SIU System Distinguished Student Service Awards. Awardees were honored during the Board of Trustees meeting held via Zoom Thursday, July 15.

During the meeting, Dianah McGreehan, chair of the award selection committee, announced the recipients and shared brief highlights of their outstanding acts of service. Each will receive $100 and an honorary plaque.

Winners included:

• Madalynn McKenzie – SIUE graduate student
• Taylor Jeans – SIUE undergraduate student
• Nourah Abdul Kader – SIU School of Dental Medicine (SDM)
• Justin Shiau – SIUE School of Pharmacy (SOP)
• Alexander Worix – SIU School of Medicine
• Daniel Asonye – SIU School of Law
• Otis Duncan – SIUC graduate student
• Nelson Fernandes – SIUC undergraduate student

“The accomplishments of these students are incredible,” said SIU System President Dan Mahony. “We thank you for all that you have done as students, and for everything you’ve done for the SIU System. I could not be more impressed with your tremendous dedication to our campuses and communities.”

McKenzie is pursuing a master’s in industrial/organizational psychology. She is a graduate assistant in the Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development Hub (The Hub), formerly the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion (CSDI). She has served on several important SIUE and SIU System search committees, and participated as a panelist in the first Conversation of Understanding, sponsored by the SIU System and Mahony.

Jeans is studying public health. She serves as a peer support volunteer within the public health program, and was selected to serve the SIUE CORE TEAM, which works with low-income high school students and first-generation students to prepare them with resources to excel both in high school and to prepare for college. Jeans is also an Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) assistant.

Abdul Kader is pursuing the SIU SDM’s International Advanced Placement Program (IAPP). Over the past year, she launched a non-profit organization that simplifies the admissions process for international students into U.S. dentistry programs. She also serves as the community service chair for the Special Care Dentistry Association, which increase access to oral healthcare for special needs patients.

Shiau is a fourth-year student in the SOP. He’s made a tremendous impact as a campus leader serving as president of the Student Society of Health System Pharmacists and as leadership and development chair of Phi Lambda Sigma, the pharmacy leadership society. He is co-founder of the Industry Pharmacy Organization. Additionally, he volunteers to provide patient care at the St. Louis Chinese Center, a free monthly clinic that provides pharmaceutical care to underserved Chinese speaking patients from the greater St. Louis area.

Noting the strong applicant pool featuring exemplary students from all SIU System campuses, McGreehan also acknowledged several students who received honorable mention, including, but not limited to SIUE graduate student Amanda Depew, SOP third-year student Aneesh Asokan and SIU SDM student Allison Lang.

Photo: 2021 SIU System Distinguished Student Service Award winners (L-R) Madalynn McKenzie, Taylor Jeans, Nourah Abdul Kader and Justin Shiau.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major challenges for individuals worldwide. Add to the more common trials a volcanic eruption that showered an island country in ash and left it with little running water and power, and then try to imagine pursuing a higher education degree amid it all.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville international student Sorenya Miller has persevered through those very challenges with grace and determination as she pursues a master’s in kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise and sport psychology.

“One thing I’ve learned is not to take anything for granted,” she said. “One day it can be sunshine, and the next ashes, literally.

A native of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Miller began her graduate education at SIUE in fall 2020. While the online learning environment of that semester proved difficult for her, she has since better mastered the digital world.

“I aspire to help athletes overcome mental barriers, so they can be successful,” explained Miller, who earned a bachelor’s in psychology from Benedict College. “I chose SIUE, because I was impressed by its exercise and sport psychology curriculum, and I was awarded the Graduate Scholar Award (GSA).

“In the fall, I wasn’t accustomed to the online classes, because I learn better in person and in a small group setting. But, I have the most amazing professors and they adapted well in creating Zoom-based sessions.”

In spring 2021, Miller was awarded a $5,000 Alumni Association scholarship. The Alumni Association’s annual scholarships support standout students who are selected based on co-curricular activities, community involvement, academic achievement, financial need and a written essay.

“My GSA was only for two semesters and I was unsure how I was going to pay for the tuition moving forward,” she recalled. “I walk by faith, not sight. Being awarded this scholarship assured me that I’m doing the right thing by pursuing my master’s. I’ll be the first in my family to obtain one, and I want to make them proud.”

Miller was in St. Vincent when the eruption took place in April. Knowing it would take time for the country to rebuild, she traveled to her uncle’s home in Barbados in order to safely pursue online courses.

“The spring semester was quite interesting, but I was able to bounce back and use my studies as an escape,” Miller recalled. “Overall this is experience is one I’ll never forget, especially the feeling of uncertainty. My heart went out to those who lived nearby the volcano, because they barely have anything to go back to. What kept me sane was communicating with friends and family, and knowing they are safe. I also had many people reach out to me, and for that I am grateful.”

While she has appreciated the opportunity to continue her studies online, Miller hopes to be on SIUE’s campus for the fall semester. She is slated to graduate in May 2022, and plans to pursue a doctorate in sport psychology.

“In the long run, I hope to work with para athletes, and help rebuild the sports culture within my country,” she concluded.

Give to the SIUE Alumni Association scholarship program and support deserving students like Miller, by visiting siue.edu/give-now/alumni-association. 

Photo: SIUE international student Sorenya Miller holds her nephew, whom she helped care for, in St. Vincent.

La Soufrière, a volcano on the island of St. Vincent, erupted in April 2021.

With an engaging smile, dancing eyes and quick, witty responses, Germaine Yancy, of East St. Louis, tells of his plans for his brand-new blue pinstripe suit. Yancy was one of almost 50 veterans who received a free suit and one of more than 120 people who attended the Veterans and Active Duty Resource Fair, hosted by the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center’s Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) program. 

H.E.R.O.E.S. Care provided 250 suits and more than 30 organizations attended the event, which was held Monday, July 26 at the East St. Louis Higher Education Campus. In addition to adding to their wardrobe, the resource fair connected area veterans and active duty men and women to agencies that deliver needed services, according to VUB Program Director James Robbins. Helping veterans select a suit was H.E.R.O.E.S. Care volunteer McKinley Hubbard, a Vietnam Army veteran, and his wife Shirley. 

“This is great! It doesn’t fit exactly like I want, but I will have my tailor take it in,” said Yancy of his suit. “I will be styling and profiling in this, and I will look good when I take it for a spin on the dance floor.” Yancy served in all branches of the military and retired from the Air Force Reserve, after more than 28 years total in the service. 

While the veteran was appreciative of the new suit, in a somber moment Yancy did express his desire to see better treatment for military men and women. “Veterans should be treated with more dignity,” he said. “We put our lives on the line and have been through a lot. I am glad to see the different agencies here, because we should be able to get what we need from the resources available.” 

Roderick Bell, of St. Louis, was also pleased with his light brown suit. He served in the Marines from 1968-71. 

“Anything they do for veterans is necessary, because many people don’t care about veterans,” shared Bell. “When I hear people say, ‘Thank you for your service’ it seems like a lack of thought. I am a Vietnam vet. You either went into service, or you went to jail. When I came home, I wasn’t in the airport for an hour before I had coffee thrown on me, and I was spat on – and this was while I was in uniform.” 

“There has been and there remains a lot of pain for many of our veterans,” acknowledged Robbins. “This is why this resource fair was so important, to provide tangible ways in which to help.” 

On site was the Wounded Warrior Project, one of the largest non-profit agencies that serves only post 911 veterans nationwide. “We started out small and have grown to include a multitude of services that help veterans in many comprehensive ways,” said representative Chris Miller. 

“Our organization was founded after wars in Iraq and Afghanistan started,” explained Miller. “Our founders wanted to find a way to help warriors. They began making backpacks with t-shirts, sandals, toothbrushes and other items. When I woke up in the hospital in Iraq, I had a backpack that had shorts, a t-shirt, a pair of socks, sandals, a hair brush, toothbrush, toothpaste and more. 

“Since there are less people coming home from war, we have shifted our focus to caring for veterans and their families in the U.S.,” continued Miller. “We provide mental health, fiscal health, wellness activities, employment assistance, resume writing, job finding assistance and more. All programs are free and are provided by donations from the American people.” 

The Wounded Warrior Project funds Emory Health Care, which was also at the resource fair. “We are a

two-week intensive therapy program for post 911 service members,” said Joshua Moss, “who might be dealing with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), anxiety, depression, military sexual trauma or other emotional challenges.” 

The remaining agencies who participated in the fair included: 

• 2X4 For Hope Madison County
• Chestnut Health Services SSF
• Congressman Boost Office Veteran Representative
• Dept. of Veterans Affairs Hope Recovery Center
• Disabled American Veterans
• East St. Louis American Legion Post
• Friends Adult Day Care
• Gateway Veterans in Education Collaborative
• Got Your Six Service Dogs
• Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid
• KSDK Community Outreach

• National Council of Jewish Women
• Reboot Combat Recovery
• Scott AFB Transition Unit
• SIUE Career Development Center
• SIUE Performance Students
• SIUE Military and Veteran Services
• SIU School of Dental Medicine
• St. Louis Vet Center
• Student Veterans of America
• The Kaufman Fund
• Travis Mannion Foundation
• The Vet Center of Metro East
• Veterans Advantage Urgent Care
• Veterans Upward Bound
• VUB Women Veterans Group 

With a focus on empowering people and strengthening communities, the SIUE East St. Louis Center is dedicated to improving the lives of families and individuals—from pre-school through adult—in the Metro East region. The Center offers programs that give the community renewed hope and an opportunity to reach educational, career and life goals. It does so by providing comprehensive programs, services and training in the areas of education, health, social services and the arts.  

Photos:
Germaine Yancy, of East St. Louis, tries on a suit jacket at the Veterans and Active Duty Resource Fair, hosted by the SIUE Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) program. Assisting Yancy is H.E.R.O.E.S. volunteer McKinley Hubbard. 

Roderick Bell, of St. Louis, inspects a light brown suit.

Ora Lockett, counselor for the SIUE East St. Louis Center’s Building Futures program, is grateful for the media attention she’s been getting lately. The CEO and founder of The Gr8full Company has been spotlighted for her plant-based hair, skin and body products.

Lockett began developing her products in 2018 after much research and frustration over her hair loss. Armed with an abundance of drive and determination, Lockett launched her company in 2019. In her quest to help others in establishing and growing their business and after discovering ways to keep her company afloat during the pandemic, Lockett started the Build Gr8ness Network this year.

Read more about Lockett’s endeavors and products in VoyageSTL. Last month, Lockett was also featured in the US Insider’s, Top 20 Instagram Accounts to Follow in 2021.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Randy Pembrook announced today that he has extended Director of Athletics Tim Hall’s contract through the 2024-25 school year. Hall became the Cougars' eighth leader in July 2019.
 
Hall has guided SIUE through unprecedented circumstances, including the cancelation of the spring 2020 athletic season and the postponement of the fall 2020 season. Despite the challenges, SIUE programs have continued to excel.
 
"We are extremely pleased Director of Athletics Tim Hall has agreed to a contract extension through 2025," Pembrook said. "Tim has accomplished many things during his first two years at SIUE, including building on the academic strength of student-athletes who have achieved an aggregate GPA of at least 3.0 for 15 consecutive years. In addition, he has undertaken a comprehensive plan to upgrade facilities, implemented a strategic plan for fundraising that has been highly successful, and created a strong infrastructure relating to coaches, advisors and leadership within the Department of Athletics." 
 
Volleyball and men's basketball each returned to the Ohio Valley Conference tournament, while women's soccer captured its third tournament title in seven seasons and returned to the NCAA Tournament.
 
"I want to thank Chancellor Pembrook for the extension and for his endorsement relative to the progress we are making," Hall said. "All the thanks goes to our wonderful coaches and staff who have the welfare of our student-athletes as their highest priority."
 
Utilizing SIUE Athletic Training, Athletic Performance and University Health Service, Hall led Athletics through the Covid-19 pandemic, including testing protocols and return to play parameters. Hall helped several programs navigate many schedule changes, which resulted in minimal loss of competitions.
 
Hall also has overseen the Athletic Department's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, leading to the development of the "Cougars As One" initiative, and including the hiring of Dr. Venessa A. Brown, who became Intercollegiate Athletics' first Associate Athletic Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Athletics Chief Diversity Officer.  
 
"Tim has proven to be a leader relating to diversity, creating programs which encourage important discussions and action regarding equity and inclusion," Pembrook continued. "I want to thank Tim and his staff for leading through a pandemic year which required almost every athletic event to be re-scheduled. His commitment to safety and COVID testing is greatly appreciated. We look forward to many more years of Tim serving SIUE."
 
"I look forward to continuing our efforts with all of our constituencies that comprise Cougar Nation," Hall added.

Scooter’s Coffee is now open on Rte. 159 in Glen Carbon. A client of the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at SIUE, the drive-thru coffeehouse is open from 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Saturday.

The franchise was first established in Bellevue, Nebr., and is now available locally thanks to Robert (Bob) Semptimphelter and his wife’s good taste. After relocating to the Edwardsville area after 13 years in Omaha, Semptimphelter and his business partner decided it was the right time to open a business.

“It was important for us to align ourselves with a company that shared our values,” Stemptimphelter said. Bob immediately thought about a coffee shop his wife always had visited in Nebraska: Scooter’s Coffee.

In 2020, Semptimphelter began working on the Scooter’s Coffee business plan and connected with the SBDC and Director Jo Ann Di Maggio May for assistance. Financing was secured and the process advanced quickly.

Di Maggio May also assisted with finding employees to staff the new coffee shop. After receiving a job description, the word was out, and thanks to Di Maggio May, that was one more task marked off of his list.

Later, not long after finding the perfect location for the new business, building began. Di Maggio May then reconnected with Semptimphelter to offer additional assistance from the SBDC.

While the COVID-19 pandemic caused a few delays in business development, it did not impact Semptimphelter’s dream of starting the franchise.

“This being my first business venture, the SBDC helped point me in the right direction,” he explained. “We received guidance on our business plan as well as our financial projections. When it was time for us to start hiring, Jo Ann gave us recommendations on hiring procedures, and helped us get our job postings out locally.”

Semptimphelter was glad to know the resources and support available to him to help guide them during the business startup process. “I can remember asking a specific question regarding SBA financing, and Jo Ann was extremely helpful in getting our question answered.”

“Bob was eager to listen to advice and use the resources offered,” Di Maggio May said. “His goal of opening his own coffee shop is coming true and I couldn’t be prouder. I am happy to have been able to help and look forward to assisting along the way as Scooter’s Coffee grows.”

Semptimphelter thanks Walter D. Williams, EDFP, MBA, for helping connect him with Di Maggio May at the SBDC.

“Our goal is to own and operate as many Scooter’s units as we can handle,” said Semptimphelter. “We hope to provide a path for our employees to grow within our business, and create jobs for the communities in which we operate. We are excited to serve the communities that we will operate in and stick to our brand promise of Amazing People serving Amazing Drinks, Amazingly Fast.”

Visit the Scooter’s Coffee website at scooterscoffee.com and download the Scooter’s Coffee app to earn rewards.

The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East assists start-up ventures like Scooter’s Coffee 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 IL SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE at (618) 650-2929.

Photo: Robert (Bob) Semptimphelter and Scooter’s Coffee 

In tribute to such legends as Katherine Dunham and Miles Davis, and in honor of such celebrities as Darius Miles and Eugene B. Redmond, the East St. Louis Senior High School auditorium stage became the platform on which “The City of Champions” was celebrated and revered through song, dance and musical instrumentation. 

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center (ESLC) for the Performing Arts brought its summer session to a close Friday, July 30 with a performance given by students, ages 6-17. 

Those thanking the audience and bragging on the students included SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook, SIUE ESLC Executive Director Tim Staples, EdD, and ESLC for the Performing Arts Director Homer Simmons. 

“This is an exciting night. We are celebrating champions right here in this great city,” said Simmons. “We celebrate their careers in sports, medicine, education, social services, entertainment and the list goes on and on. Some of our youth performing tonight, you never know, could end up having their names listed among some of East St. Louis’ champions.” 

“We are pleased and proud to bring to everyone another fantastic performance, directed by our amazing and hard-working staff and performed by our wonderful and talented students,” said Staples. “We are grateful for the collaboration with East St. Louis School District #189, the East St. Louis Senior High School and East St. Louis Senior High School Principal Valencia Martin. We are also happy to have joining us tonight, SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook and College of Arts and Sciences Dean Kevin Leonard.” 

“There are many traditions at SIUE, but I think the SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts summer programming is one of the best traditions of this University,” Pembrook said to roaring applause. “There is so much talent that comes on the stage each summer. … Also, I’m married to one of the teachers, Mary Jo Pembrook. Let’s give a round of applause to all the teachers, Homer Simmons and Jack Williams for all they do. Thank you, to all of you for sharing your children with us this summer. The study of the arts, whether it’s music or dance, helps with discipline, focus and creativity, and that serves people throughout their lives.” 

The show’s numbers consisted of students performing beginning piano, guitar, violin, drums, bass guitar, West African drumming, keyboards, hip-hop, ballet, Dunham Technique, West African, jazz and chorus. 

Some highlights from the evening included:

• “E String Concerto,” music accompanied and arranged by Anna Cecelia Villegas and performed by William Hill, Donteaus Lee and Marshall Thornton
• “Ode to Joy,” music written by Ludwig Van Beethoven and performed by William Hill and Donteaus Lee
• “We are the Champions,” music written by Freddie Mercury and performed by Gabby Mitchell and Dr. Mary Jo Pembrook
• “Pretty Hurts” dance number, choreographed by Jay’Kayla Winford
• “Reflection” (from Mulan), music written by Matthew Wilder and David Zippel and performed by age 13-17 chimes choir and assisted by SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook and Ana Cecelia Villegas
• “Stronger Together,” dance number choreographed by Ta’Shayla Montgomery
• “Work it Out” band selection, music arranged by Esau Toombs 

Students performing included (ages 6-8): Kristen Edwards, Aubree Jackson, Joseph King Jr., Karsyn Lee, Harper Mitchell, Amilya Morning, William Ratliff, Ella Richmond and Mackenzie Willis; (ages 9-12): Imani Barnes, Lauren Bell, Jalynn Clayton, Pillar Coates, Karenza Cox, Joslyn Howell, Aun’ya Lee, Donteaus Lee Jr., Madisyn Lee, Semaj Lee, Gavin Mitchell, Mark Ratliff, Marshall Thornton and Layla Wilson; and (ages 13-17): TyAnna Andrews, Nia Barnes, Olivia Bell, Kayona Brown, Jason Coates, Khylon Edwards, Jamaya Johnson, Jo’Ell King, Gabrielle Mitchell, Hailey Tucker and Willis Wright Jr. 

Performing arts instructors included: Ta’Shayla Montgomery, ballet/contemporary/jazz dance; McKinley Smith, hip-hop dance; Jay’Kayla Winford, lyrical jazz dance; Dr. Mary Jo Pembrook, piano/chimes; Ana Cecilia Villegas, violin; Phil Ring, guitar, Esau Toombs, band, Gerald Babatunde Williams, West African drumming; and Andra Lang Jr., art instructor/artistic scene design. 

The SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts program continues with its free After-School Program from 4-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, Tuesday, Sept.7-Friday, May 13, 2022. For more information and details on fall registration, contact Simmons at hosimmo@siue.edu. 

The SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts has a long, rich history. The legendary dancer, anthropologist, and social activist Katherine Dunham founded the Center for Performing Arts at the SIUE East St. Louis Center in 1964. At its peak in the 1990s, the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts provided year-round instruction to more than 1,000 youth and became a training ground for professional artists of all disciplines. For decades, the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts provided performing arts classes to students and community members to develop local talent and to cultivate a love of the arts. Classes often culminated in musical and theatrical productions. 

Bridging the gap between education and practice, pharmacy residencies are crucial to pharmacists wishing to improve their skillsets and patient care. To simplify and help students navigate the application process, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy (SOP) alumna Kristen Ingold, PharmD, created informative videos filled with wisdom and best-practice advice.

Ingold, of Freeburg, graduated with a Doctor of Pharmacy from SIUE in May 2021. While participating in the SOP’s Improving Patient Care for Tomorrow (ImPACT) program, she was inspired to develop a resource to assist her peers in gaining residency experience.

As defined by the American Society of Health System Pharmacists, a pharmacy residency is an organized, directed, postgraduate training program in a defined area of pharmacy practice. Residencies provide the knowledge and experience that pharmacy practitioners need to face challenges in today's complex healthcare environment, while also providing essential skills to meet the practice demands of the future.

“Pharmacy residencies are highly sought by new graduates,” said Ingold. “Interested individuals competing for limited residency positions want to better their skills as a practicing pharmacist and improve patient care. Providing a new, valuable video resource to these individuals will help prepare and educate those who are interested in pursuing a pharmacy residency.”

Ingold’s videos feature virtual interviews with residency program directors (RPDs) nationwide on numerous topics, including GPA and electives, curriculum vitae, pitfalls with the Pharmacy Online Residency Centralized Application Service, letters of intent, residency characteristics, meetings and showcases, appropriate follow-ups, and the power of social media. Reflecting differences in RPDs across the nation, video topics are available for the western, southwestern, midwestern and eastern regions of the U.S.

“RPDs are the individuals who oversee the residency program at their institution,” explained Ingold. “They play a large role in deciding who to select from the applicant pool for their program each year. Therefore, the purpose of interviewing RPDs was to better understand their advice and opinions on what they look for and expect out of residency applicants.”

Ingold chose to pursue pharmacy because of her strong affinity for STEM subjects. “I have always been interested in the healthcare field,” she shared. “Pharmacy combined my passion for anatomy and physiology with my interest in medicine and chemistry. A career in pharmacy provides me the ability to care for patients, educate future healthcare professionals, and continuously learn in the ever-growing field of healthcare.”

Ingold is currently a post-graduate year 1 (PGY1) pharmacy resident at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, Va. As a PGY1 resident, she is training as a clinical pharmacist in multiple disciplines such as transplant, infectious disease, emergency medicine and more.

“I am currently training under board certified pharmacy specialists to enhance my knowledge as a new pharmacist in a health system,” explained Ingold. “I also provide case presentations, topic discussions and continuing education opportunities throughout the year for the hospital. At the end this residency, I will be better equipped to care for patients and be a valuable asset to the healthcare team.”

Ingold’s videos are publicly available on the SIUE Pharmacy YouTube channel.

Photo: SIUE School of Pharmacy alumna Kristen Ingold, PharmD.