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SIU Today - February 26, 2026

SIU researcher traces ancient dogs' origins to reveal new clues about the Maya world

Chris Stantis, assistant professor of anthropology, was part of an international archaeological team that analyzed chemical "fingerprints" preserved in dog teeth and bones to study the ancient Maya world. The findings that some dogs appeared to have traveled hundreds of miles were recently published in the Journal of Archaeological Science.

SIU trumpet ensemble looks to make noise in national competition 

For a second straight year, the School of Music will vie for a title in the small ensemble division of the collegiate National Trumpet Competition. The competition is March 19-22 at the University of Iowa. The ensemble will perform at the chamber ensemble concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, in Shryock Auditorium.

Deaconess Illinois, SIU formalize partnership to support healthcare workforce and student well-being 

SIU Carbondale and Deaconess Illinois Medical Center signed a series of agreements on Feb. 24 for a partnership that expands support for students in the College of Health and Human Sciences and strengthens the regional healthcare workforce pipeline. 

Encourage students to meet with academic advisors

As the 2026 spring semester reaches midpoint, now is the time to encourage students to set up appointments with their academic advisors before leaving for spring break to ensure they stay on track and complete their degrees on time. Registration for the 2026-27 academic year opens in late March for most current students.

SIU, Kaskaskia College access to agricultural bachelor’s degrees

Beginning with the fall 2026 semester, Kaskaskia College students will be able to complete select agricultural degree bachelor's degree pathways through a combination of in-person and hybrid courses taught by SIU Carbondale faculty at Kaskaskia College, along with online courses offered by SIU.

U.S. Air Force Shades of Blue jazz ensemble to perform Saturday 

The U.S. Air Force Shades of Blue jazz ensemble will give a free, public performance, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, in Shryock Auditorium.

SIU students, faculty to be honored at All Ag Banquet Friday

The College of Agricultural, Life and Physical Sciences will celebrate the successes of its students, faculty, staff and alumni at the 74th All Ag Banquet on Friday, Feb. 27.

Reminder: SIU equipment inventory underway 

The annual SIU equipment inventory kicked off earlier this month, with faculty and staff working diligently across campus and all SIU locations to complete the inventory. All unit officers or delegates must ensure every item is scanned and submit the final approval by March 20. Property Control Inventory Workshop training slides are available for viewing if you missed the workshop. Request forms to sign out a scanner or make changes to your unit officer delegation are available on the Property Control website in the “2026 Inventory” section. Reach out to propertycontrol@siu.edu with any questions. 

Reminder: Student Distinguished Service Award nominations open

Faculty and staff are encouraged to nominate a deserving student for a 2026 Student Distinguished Service Award by presented by the SIU Board of Trustees. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. March 16.

Watch Saluki baseball, women’s basketball teams at home

The Saluki baseball team has a five-game homestand at Itchy Jones Stadium — three games against Seton Hall — 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, and 1 p.m. Sunday, March 1, and two games with North Dakota State at 3 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, March 3-4. The Saluki women’s basketball team hosts Drake at Banterra Center on Senior Day at 2 p.m. Feb. 28. The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams compete in the Missouri Valley Conference Championships, Feb. 25-28, in Evansville, Indiana. The men’s and women’s indoor track and field teams compete March 1-2 in the MVC Championships in Indianapolis. Be sure to check team schedules at siusalukis.com.   

SIU Today spring break schedule 

SIU Today will also take a spring break next month. The last issue before spring break is Thursday, March 5. The submission deadlines remain the same. The deadline for the March 5 edition is 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3. SIU Today will resume on March 16.