March 23, 2026
Saluki Takeover Tour is visiting Springfield, Peoria
Chancellor Austin A. Lane and other university leaders are heading to Springfield and Peoria this week to celebrate the momentum that is shaping SIU’s future.
Lane and SIU Carbondale leaders including Wendell Williams, vice chancellor for enrollment management, and other staff will visit area high schools and community colleges while in the region to meet with administrators and students. The tour also includes events today (March 23) through Wednesday for SIU alumni and friends and alumni to learn more about the highlights shaping SIU.
The Chancellor’s Reception in Springfield is from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at the LRS Hangar at the Springfield Airport Complex, 820 S. Airport Road, Springfield. This is the second Saluki Takeover Tour visit to the state capital since 2023. Other events include a “Saluki Connect and Inspire” event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. today (March 23), hosted by SIU alumni and Springfield alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase. The free event is at 5th Street Gem, 221 S. 5th Street in Springfield.
The Chancellor’s Reception in Peoria is from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, 222 SW Washington St., Peoria. The free event marks the first time the tour is coming to Peoria and gives SIU alumni and friends across central Illinois the opportunity to meet SIU leadership and enjoy exclusive access to the museum’s lobby and galleries.
For more information, email the SIU Foundation or call 618-453-4900.