September 04, 2026
SIU’s Simon Institute hosts former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger on Sept. 15
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Former Illinois Congressman Adam Kinzinger will visit Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Sept. 15 for an evening discussion on leadership, public service and his experiences in both government and the military.
Kinzinger will speak from 6 to 7 p.m. in Ballroom B of the SIU Student Center, following a reception from 5 to 6 p.m. Hosted by the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, the event will bring the former six-term congressman to campus to share his perspective on public service, politics and his experiences representing Illinois in Congress and serving his country as a U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard pilot.
The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged but not required.
Media availability
Reporters, photographers and news crews are welcome to cover Adam Kinzinger’s lecture. To arrange for interviews or more information, contact Will Becque, institute communications and marketing coordinator, at 618-453-4009 or william.becque@siu.edu.
“Adam Kinzinger's experiences as an Illinois public servant, Air Force and Air National Guard pilot, and elected official provide a valuable perspective for students and community members interested in leadership and public service,” said Linda Baker, interim institute director.
Early political career
A native of Kankakee, Illinois, Kinzinger graduated from Illinois State University in 2000. He began his career in public service while still in college when he was elected to McLean County Board at 20 years old. Kinzinger joined the U.S. Air Force in 2003 and later the Illinois Air National Guard.
A Republican, Kinzinger was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010, representing the state’s 11th Congressional District, and later the 16th District for six terms from 2011 through 2023.
Kinzinger earned his pilot wings and served overseas, including in Iraq and Afghanistan. He continued flying in the Air National Guard throughout his time in Congress and remains a licensed pilot today.
During his time in Congress, Kinzinger became known nationally for his willingness to challenge members of his own party and for his focus on national security, foreign affairs and democratic institutions. Kinzinger was part of the U.S. House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. He chose not to seek reelection in 2022 and concluded his congressional service in January 2023.
Attendees are encouraged to submit questions for Kinzinger on the registration form or email questions to paulsimoninstitute@siu.edu.
More information, a list of the institute’s upcoming events and past speakers and events are available.
The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute is a nonpartisan institute dedicated to research, civic engagement and public service. The institute honors the legacy of former U.S. Senator Paul Simon by encouraging informed public dialogue and preparing the next generation of leaders for careers in public service.