The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Office of Admissions on Friday delivered about 50 signs to merchants in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon. Business owners displayed the “Welcome SIUE Students” signs either inside or outside of their stores.
“We’re happy to do it,” said John George, co-owner of Bev George & Associates, Realtors, 235 North Main St. in Edwardsville. “Our daughter, Sarah, graduated with her master’s in English from SIUE this year.” John’s wife, Bev George, is a SIUE alumna. She received a bachelor’s in English in 1975 and a master’s in education in 1978.
Laura Lynch, owner of Bailey Cakes, 229 N. Main St. in Edwardsville, said she was displaying her sign because of the importance of SIUE in the community.
“The purpose of SIUE Sign Distribution Day is to allow businesses to welcome SIUE students,” said Kelley Brooks, admissions coordinator of recruitment.
Students begin arriving on campus Thursday, Aug. 15. SIUE classes start on Monday, Aug. 19.
The practice is more than 10 years old, according to Todd Burrell, director of the Office of Admissions. The office has additional signs for any merchant desiring one. For more information and to obtain a sign, please call (618) 650-3705 or visit their website.
Photo Information:
Elizabeth Fillback, SIUE graduate student, and John George, co-owner of Bev George & Associates, Realtors in Edwardsville, show the University’s new welcome sign.
Laura Lynch, owner of Bailey Cakes in Edwardsville, accepts a “Welcome SIUE Students” sign from Elizabeth Fillback, SIUE graduate student.