Nancy and John Jackson are the primary donors for the production of the new children’s book, “SIU A to Z.” (Photo provided)
November 06, 2025
SIU Alumni Association to launch ‘SIU A to Z’ children’s book
CARBONDALE, Ill. — A vibrant, new children’s board book created by the SIU Alumni Association will introduce Southern Illinois University Carbondale to generations of potential future Salukis through colorful illustrations, campus landmarks and fun facts.
Created in partnership with publisher Campus A to Z, “SIU A to Z” is more than just a kids’ book — it’s a legacy piece designed to promote literacy, celebrate the university’s heritage and build what the association hopes will become a lifelong connection to SIU.
To mark the launch of this special publication, the SIU Alumni Association will host a book launch celebration at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19, in the Morris Library Rotunda. The free, public event will feature remarks from university and community leaders and book readings.
“We wanted to create something meaningful that would bridge generations,” said Molly Hudgins, executive director of the SIU Alumni Association. “Whether it’s a bedtime story alums can read to their kids or an afternoon class read in a local pre-K or kindergarten, ‘SIU A to Z’ is about sharing Saluki pride and introducing children to the values of education and community that SIU stands for.”
The book blends foundational literacy skills with fun insights into campus life, celebrating SIU’s legacy through iconic traditions and landmarks. Hudgins said she wants it to strengthen alumni ties by offering a memorable, tangible connection to their alma mater that’s also a unique keepsake for alumni families and young Saluki hopefuls.
In addition to alumni and family engagement, “SIU A to Z” will serve as a fundraising tool, with proceeds from book purchases supporting scholarships, alumni programming, and community outreach. It will be available for sale through the SIU Alumni Association.
Media advisory
Reporters, photographers and news crews are invited to cover the book launch of “SIU A to Z” at 4 p.m. Nov. 19 in the Morris Library Rotunda. Molly Hudgins, executive director of the SIU Alumni Association, and longtime SIU supporters John and Nancy Jackson will be available for interviews.
The project has been made possible through the generous support of John and Nancy Jackson, longtime supporters and friends of Southern Illinois University. John Jackson has held various roles in faculty and administration since 1969. He is currently a visiting professor with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute. Nancy is a 1982 graduate of SIU. She majored in elementary education and taught reading instruction in the Carbondale public school system. She also led the “Book in Every Home” program at SIU, which has collected tens of thousands of books to donate to the children of the region. Their philanthropic commitment to SIU spans decades, reflecting their deep belief in the power of education, literacy and community engagement. Their gift helped bring this project to life, ensuring that the joy of learning and Saluki spirit can be shared with children and families.
“As lifelong educators and proud members of the SIU community, we’ve seen firsthand how early exposure to books and reading can shape a child’s future,” said John and Nancy Jackson. “We’re delighted to help make ‘SIU A to Z’ possible — because fostering a love of learning and introducing young children to the values of SIU is one of the best ways we can invest in tomorrow.”
SIU Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Sheryl Tucker and her husband, David Beech, also provided support for the book project. Tucker became SIU Carbondale’s chief academic officer in 2023.
“David and I are delighted that this project has come to fruition through some creative brainstorming, serendipity, visionary leadership in the alumni association, and the Jacksons,” Tucker said. “What started as a conversation between the chancellor’s and provost’s offices about holiday gift ideas for Head Start children gained momentum to the wonderful book you see today. As a family of avid readers, we love the fact that in the Saluki family, people see and are open to possibilities!”
Other contributors of note include Virginia Rinella, a retired employee of the SIU School of Social Work, as well as Andrea and Dustin Borum, who founded the Walker Borum Foundation, named after their late son, to bring awareness to new parents about the importance of early literacy. The foundation has worked for the last few years to donate a book to the family of every baby born at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
Copies of “SIU A to Z” will be donated to local preschool programs throughout Southern Illinois to help promote childhood literacy and foster early connections to higher education.
“’SIU A to Z’ is a celebration of who we are and what we value,” Hudgins said. “Thanks to the generosity of John and Nancy Jackson, we’re able to share that message with our youngest future Salukis while also investing in their growth as readers and learners.”
About Campus A to Z
Campus A to Z partners with universities nationwide to create custom-illustrated children’s books that highlight each institution’s unique culture, traditions and landmarks. Their mission is to help colleges and universities engage alumni, families and future students through storytelling and literacy-based outreach.
About the SIU Alumni Association
The SIU Alumni Association connects more than 260,000 alumni worldwide with the mission, vision and values of Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Through programs, scholarships, networking opportunities and community engagement, the association fosters lifelong relationships that advance the Saluki spirit and strengthen the global SIU community.