May 29, 2007

Association seeks nominations for service award

by Kathy Dillard

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The Jackson County Chapter of the Southern Illinois University Alumni Association is seeking individuals who have provided outstanding service to the Southern Illinois region.

Nominations are being sought for the 2007 "Service to Southern Illinois Award". The chapter honors a community member on an annual basis for their contributions to areas including art, sports, political affairs, business, civil rights, religion, education and community affairs. The nominee may remain eligible for the award for two additional years once nominated.

Nomination forms are available at www.siualumni.com/programs.htm. The award will be presented at the annual Jackson County Awards Banquet on Nov. 4.

All nominations must be received by Tuesday, Sept. 4. A biographical sketch, list of achievements and outside letters of support should be attached to the nomination form. The completed form should be sent to the SIU Alumni Association in Colyer Hall, Mail Code 6809, Carbondale, IL 62901.

The 2006 winner was Mary Ellen Curd Simon. Simon was an English teacher at SIUC for 14 years before retiring in 1973. In 1997, she received Carbondale's "Citizen of the Year" award for her outstanding contributions to the city. She is active in Carbondale schools, developing inter-generational volunteer programs for students and teachers. Simon was named an "Illinois Woman of Achievement" in 2001 and continues to be active in the community. She is a Life Member of the SIU Alumni Association and member of the SIU Annuitants Board, SIU Foundation Board, and the Women's Club of Carbondale.

For more information, contact the Jackson County Chapter President Kitty Mabus at mabus@siu.edu or Argus Tong at the association office at 618/453-2408.