SIU Carbondale alumnus Eric Frazier will reflect on the impact SIU had on his varied career at a Sept. 30 presentation in Morris Library’s John C. Guyon Auditorium. The discussion is hosted by the Southern Illinois African American Heritage Center, which is on the library’s sixth floor. (Photo provided)
September 23, 2026
SIU Carbondale to host noted musician, educator and alumnus Eric Frazier Sept. 30
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Noted jazz musician, educator and Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumnus Eric Frazier — the first graduate from the school’s then-Black American Studies program — returns to his alma mater to inspire current Salukis by sharing his own career journey.
Frazier will discuss his SIU experience and its impact on his life during a free, public discussion from 4:30-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30, in Morris Library’s John C. Guyon Auditorium. The talk is hosted by the Southern Illinois African American Heritage Center (SIAAHC), located on the library’s sixth floor. The center’s mission is to preserve and promote education about Black heritage in the region, including the Metro East.
A 1971 graduate, Frazier has attended all the university’s Black Alumni reunions but one. This visit, he said, is special because it gives him an opportunity to express his gratitude to the university. SIU’s Africana Studies program was one of the very few of its kind at the time he attended.
“I always wanted to return to speak to future generations to inspire them on their journeys and motivate them to know who they are in terms of their story on this earth including their culture and heritage,” Frazier said. “That foundation affects every experience in life and leads to a tradition of success, honor, respect, appreciation, wealth, health and the value of working together.”
Frazier is a jazz musician and recording artist whose career includes teaching at the elementary, middle and high school levels, serving as an assistant principal and high school principal at each of the levels. He has been a noted speaker and lecturer for audiences of all ages.
Frazier “will share reflections on his journey as an artist, educator, and cultural ambassador, exploring how his experiences with African music and culture have shaped his artistic identity and worldview,” said Sherrica Hunt, assistant vice chancellor for affinity, philanthropy and strategic initiatives and chief diversity officer with the SIU Foundation. “He will also reflect on his experience with Black Studies and the role his education played in deepening his understanding of African American history, identity, and cultural expression.”
SIU provided a foundation for success
Frazier came to SIU Carbondale from Brooklyn, New York. He followed his older brother Bill to SIU and like his brother, competed for the Saluki track and field team. He wasn’t busy only as a student athlete. He earned his bachelor’s degree in just three years, adding a double minor in economics and sociology and cultures.
“The education I received at SIU impacted my life by giving me a foundation from which to visualize and launch ideas, put them into practice, evaluate them, and assure successful outcomes,” he said. “The SIU experience provided me the tools needed to enter the real world. It equipped me with a set of life skills that were useful in navigating various situations in the career avenues of my choosing.”
Frazier said while attending SIU he learned about money, investments, economic relationships and economic principles that had significant impact on his personal and business activities.
“I developed a clear picture of the way forward regarding plans to enhance my family situation and plans to sculpture my life. They both have worked and I am forever grateful,” he said.
Frazier said the accomplishments he enjoys most “are those that give direction to people who need it,” whether through one of his songs, a book, music, his television show, social media, speeches, or other avenues.
Frazier also has two master’s degrees and completed doctoral courses, all from Teacher’s College, Columbia University. He received an honorary doctorate of humanitarianism from Global International Alliance, an international award and advocacy organization’s online program.
SIAAHC’s mission
The Illinois Board of Higher Education recently gave temporary approval to establish the SIAAHC and there are plans to seek IBHE approval for permanent center status after four years. Featuring guests like Frazier is part of the center’s broader mission “of preserving, celebrating and sharing African American history and culture,” Hunt said.
“Through music, storytelling, and reflection, Dr. Frazier will demonstrate how the arts can serve as a powerful vehicle for preserving cultural heritage, connecting generations, and ensuring that our stories continue to be shared,” she said.
Center hours
Located in Morris Library 640A, SIAAHC is open for browsing books, using computers, studying, and conversation during the same hours as Morris Library. For assistance or to learn more, please contact the Special Collections Research Center, Monday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. at 618-453-2516.