Eden Thorne

(Photos by Tim Crosby)

May 11, 2011

Ten questions with ... Eden Thorne

Job on campus/department you work in: Development Director, College of Engineering

How long at SIUC: Over 2 ½ years

Hometown: Peoria, but I have lived in Southern Illinois since 1980 and I call it home.

When you were a youngster, what did you want to be when you grew up? A flight attendant (but I called them a stewardess back then). They get to travel, meet new people – all the things I enjoy!

People don’t know that you… were extremely shy and introverted as a younger person. I was not a people person at all! For anyone who knows me now, that seems rather unbelievable.

If you could choose another profession, what would it be and why? Professional chef with a TV show and a maybe a restaurant too. I really enjoy cooking and inventing new recipes to try. I love the enjoyment of sharing good food with people!

What is something you still want to accomplish in life? Become a really talented artist -- probably watercolor or acrylics.

What was the first “album” you ever bought, and was it an LP, 8-track or CD? Definitely an LP. Probably Neil Diamond or Beach Boys, I bet.

What is one random fact about you? I play the clarinet and have marched every Homecoming football game halftime since 1980 with the Marching Saluki Alumni Band.

Who has inspired you, and how? My sister, Amy. As a Navy officer, she is a very strong and independent woman and has always supported me to help me to develop into the person I am today.

What is your pet peeve? Rude and inconsiderate people, whether they realize it or not. And especially if they do it on purpose.

What would you like your gravestone to say about you? She brought a smile with her.

Favorite cartoon character? Why? Dilbert. As someone who has worked with engineers for many years, I think that humor is not only hilarious but so very true. I can name a real person for every scene in there.