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SIU Today - September 15, 2025

SIU grad’s research illuminates pollution threats to endangered Calif. fish

Research by May 2025 zoology master’s degree graduate Cristina La, while a part of the lab led by Michael Lydy, a distinguished professor of zoology, contributed to one of the most detailed contaminant profiles of the Sacramento Deep Water Ship Channel and the impact on the region’s ecosystem. The data will help guide management decisions aimed at protecting both wildlife and the millions of people who rely on the San Francisco Estuary for water.

SIU first-year law, medical school students collaborate on professional responsibility 

More than 250 SIU Carbondale first-year professional students confronted and discussed current ethical legal and medical issues together at the SIU Simmons Law School on Sept. 5.

Bob and Bill Odenkirk inspire SIU students

Emmy-winning actor, comedian and 1984 SIU Carbondale graduate Bob Odenkirk returned to campus with his brother, award-winning writer Bill Odenkirk, to share insights from their celebrated careers in entertainment Sept. 10-12.

Arts and crafts activities galore await at SIU’s Craft Shop this fall

A full schedule of workshops, group activities, and private arts and crafts lessons await at the SIU Craft Shop this fall, including the popular poster sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Sept. 18-19, in the Student Center first floor Art Gallery.

Campus Cookout is Oct. 1 

As a token of gratitude, all faculty, staff, and students are invited to a campus cookout to celebrate our strong retention and steady enrollment this fall. Join us from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, between the Student Services Building Pavilion and Faner Hall, rain or shine.

Reminder: SIU Day of Giving is Wednesday

SIU Carbondale will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its Day of Giving on Wednesday, Sept. 17. The 24-hour online fundraiser engages alumni, friends, faculty, staff and students in a day of philanthropy and Saluki pride. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $17 million.

Guidelines for complying with SIU’s new Pepsi contract 

SIU Carbondale’s new contract with Pepsi MidAmerica began this month, giving the company exclusive pouring rights on campus. Pepsi MidAmerica has the exclusive right to display, advertise and promote carbonated beverages, fruit drinks, water, bottled iced tea and isotonic drinks on campus and in connection with the university. The partnership provides a financial opportunity for the university to increase its commitment to support student activities and scholarships.  

$3M committed to Saluki women’s basketball

Diehard fan Craig Englert is a familiar face at nearly every Saluki women’s basketball game, and he recently committed to a $3 million planned gift to support the team.

Save the dates for this fall’s coming attractions at Touch of Nature

Four exciting events are coming to SIU Carbondale’s Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center this fall, so save the dates and make plans now. Registration is already underway.

Reminder: Volunteer to help with SIU Day on Sept. 24

Faculty and staff can welcome hundreds of high school students to campus on Sept. 24 and help them discover what makes SIU Carbondale the place to be for college. The event is expected to attract more than 800 students from the region. Volunteers should sign up online by Friday, Sept. 19.