July 31, 2025

SIU welcomes nominations for Women of Action Awards

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Nominations are now being accepted for the fourth annual Women of Action Awards at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, honoring “everyday heroes” who make a difference in the lives of others.

All female faculty and staff members, students and community members are eligible for the awards, which will be presented during a special ceremony at 4:30 p.m. Aug. 26 in Ballroom B of the Student Center. Submit nominations online by Aug. 14.

Organized by the Women’s Resource Center in collaboration with Network Empowering Women, the awards recognize women who have overcome adversity in their workplaces and communities to prevail, lead, inspire, advocate and serve at SIU and in the community.

SIU initiated the awards in 2022 to recognize women of diverse backgrounds for their achievements and contributions.

Several awards are given annually:

  • Woman of Inspiration – recognizing a woman committed to empowering women, a champion for the inclusion of women in the goals and vision of an enterprise, someone who is a role model for others and supports women throughout the university while leading by example.
  • Ascend Award – presented to honor a woman whose early accomplishments distinguish her as a potential future leader in her profession, marking her as a rising star who has already positively impacted women both on campus and in the community through her leadership and inspiration.
  • Above and Beyond Award – bestowed on a current SIU student who is a young role model, inspiring others to act and follow their dreams, someone who has a “go-getter mindset, a drive that ignites her spirit to achieve beyond expectation.”
  • Empowering the Youth Award – presented to a teacher or staff member in grades K-12 who pours her time and energy into the youth of the community, working to create positive change and serve as a meaningful influence.
  • Champion of Change Award – honoring community members for demonstrating sustained commitment to women and/or issues of diversity through leadership, vision and action in an area of expertise or service while using care and compassion.

The Women of Action awards presentation is one SIU’s Week of Belonging events. The theme for the week is “Fostering a Community of Belonging.” A variety of activities are planned Aug. 25-29 to help campus and community members engage with one another, share experiences, build connections, celebrate inclusion and strengthen the bonds that help the region thrive.