SIU Today - October 19, 2026
2026 Lincoln Academy student laureate bridges community service, politics
Kaitlynne Franklin has a dual goal for herself — excel academically and maintain a lifelong commitment to community service. The SIU Carbondale political science major is the university’s 2026 Lincoln Academy of Illinois student laureate. She will receive the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award on Saturday, Oct. 24, in ceremonies at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield.
SIU Foundation reaches $500M fundraising goal 20 months early, sets sights on even greater impact
The SIU Foundation has reached the $500 million goal of its Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign 20 months ahead of schedule, marking the largest fundraising achievement in university history and the fifth-largest campaign in Illinois higher education history.
SIU Simmons Law School, Illinois Supreme Court partner in creating Housing Justice Clinic
The Housing Justice Clinic initiative, a new collaboration between the SIU Simmons Law School and the Illinois Supreme Court, will expand access to legal representation for people facing housing-related issues while giving law students valuable hands-on experience.
Haunted Hollow returns to SIU’s Touch of Nature on Oct. 25
Haunted Hollow, the always-popular fall family fun fest at the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, returns Sunday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Conversation of Understanding looks at confronting racial terror and pursuing safety
A virtual Conversation of Understanding on Wednesday, Oct. 21, will “examine the history of lynching and racial terror in America and its enduring implications for safety, belonging and community today.” The session is from noon to 1 p.m. on the SIU System’s YouTube channel.
Former Gander Mayor Claude Elliott to Share 9/11 memories Thursday
Former Gander, Newfoundland, Mayor Claude Elliott will share his firsthand memories of Sept. 11, 2001, and the extraordinary generosity shown by his community during a free, public event at noon Thursday, Oct. 22, at the Tedrick Welcome Center.
Celebrate the holiday season with the Lights Fantastic Parade
The Lights Fantastic Parade is one of the region’s brightest holiday traditions — and it takes to Carbondale’s Illinois Avenue on Saturday, Dec. 5. The registration deadline is Nov. 20.
Additional Glassman Lecture-related events set
SIU faculty, staff and students have an opportunity to discuss the future and the world’s biggest challenges with two more events in connection with the Michael and Nancy Glassman Lecture on Tuesday, Oct. 20.
Reminder on prohibited political activities
The SIU Ethics Office reminds all SIU Carbondale employees and appointees about the importance of individuals complying with the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, especially on the topic of political activity.
SIU alumni dedicate ‘Coalesce’ sculpture to celebrate Saluki love stories
SIU Carbondale alumni Nick and Amanda Martin have funded “Coalesce,” a new heart-shaped sculpture outside the Agriculture Building celebrating generations of Salukis who met, fell in love and built their lives together.
Reminder: Electronic travel-reimbursement training underway
Training sessions are underway for a new electronic travel-reimbursement process. Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, Accounting Services will no longer accept paper travel expense vouchers.
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