May 02, 2024
SIU’s Pancake Study Jam is Sunday
CARBONDALE, Ill. — When finals loom, Southern Illinois University Carbondale faculty and staff go all the way to provide support for students facing this stressful time of year. This weekend, students will be able to avail themselves of a studious – and delicious – tradition.
Students are invited to the latest Dr. Spector’s Pancake Study Jam, a biannual event sponsored by SIU’s Leadership Development Program. The event is set for 3-6 p.m. Sunday, May 5, in Engineering Building Room A-111. Open to all majors, the event organizers will provide free chocolate chip pancakes and hickory-smoked bacon, along with a side of math tutoring, to all who attend.
Kathy Pericak-Spector, a now-retired professor of mathematics, began the event more than 30 years ago. Following her retirement, SIU’s Leadership Development Program picked up the torch and has hosted the event the last seven years. It also receives support from the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences.
The LDP is aimed at molding students into future executive leaders in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) by providing leadership training, mentoring and community service opportunities.
Bruce DeRuntz, professor of applied engineering and technology, who leads LDP, said the event has become a special gathering, with 60-plus students often showing up, along with a dozen or so faculty members and tutors.