October 2007

SIUE Professor Conjures Up Poet For Spirited Halloween Lecture
SIUE School of Education Grant Program Receives Additional Funds
·Noted Philosopher To Speak At Statewide Conference Hosted By SIUE
·SIUE Construction Team Takes Second In Regional Competition
·SIUE Alumni Board President Finds Treasure In His Basement
· SIUE Ranked Among Princeton Review's 290 Best Business Schools
· Dance In Concert To Feature Piece Inspired By Trip To Cuba
· Historical Studies Professor To Share Research
· MEDIA ADVISORY: Commencement Cancellation
·Anthro Students Win Statewide Awards
·Performing Arts Student Named in Who's Who
·Sig Ep Chapter Raises $4,000 for Youth AIDS
· Fresh, Fun Ideas Will Fly During Idea Bounce At SIUE
· SIUE Housing Director Chosen As VP Of International Association
·Entrepreneurship Center At SIUE To Co-Sponsor Summit
·SIUE's Hagan Inducted Into EdTA Hall of Fame
·October Employee Of The Month
Two Speakers Slated To Discuss Sociological, Criminal Justice Issues
· Sou'wester To Celebrate Nearly 50 Years Of Publishing Oct. 25
SIUE Associate Professor Appears On Extreme Makover Home Edition
SIUE Emeritus Professor Inducted Into Illinois Senior Hall Of Fame
Fourth SIUE School of Nursing Alumni Heritage Walk A Success
Acting Now for the Next 50 Years!-Chancellor's Report To University
·Hundreds Of Students Expected To Attend Regional College Fair At SIUE
·FOTAD Presents Its Tenth Annual Mystery Dinner Theater At SIUE
·Retired Four-Star Gen. McCaffrey To Speak Oct. 27 For Arts & Issues
·FOTAD's A Season For The Child Subscription Tickets On Sale Now
·Prime Real Estate Available In SIUE's University Park
·SIUE Friends Of Religious Center Awards Dinner Set For Oct. 20
·SIUE Director To Receive NCURA Distinguished Service Award
·SIUE Emeritus Gerontology Professor Receives Pioneering Award
· Student Art Therapy Assoc. To Present Puppetry, Storytelling Lecturer
· SIUE, SLU, Washington University and SIU Med School Collaborate
· SIUE Nursing Announces Winners of National Scholarships
· SIUE Nursing Assistant Professor Nationally Recognized
· SIUE Nursing Associate Professor Honored With Awards
· SIUE Renews Its Love Affair With The Cougar Mascot
·New Bronze Statue Commemorates SIUE Cougar Mascots
·SIUE Alcohol Awareness Week Set For Oct. 8-12 On Campus
·SIUE Mechanical Engineering Professor Named ASME Fellow
·SIUE Celebrates Homecoming Weekend; Club Sports Logo Launch
·SIUE To Host Two Previews For College-Bound Students And Parents

10/31/07

SIUE Professor Conjures Up Poet For Spirited Halloween Lecture

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) In the spirit of Halloween fun, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Jeffrey Skoblow, professor of English language and literature, summoned a noted Victorian poet, upholsterer and political activist during a lecture at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31, in the Religious Center.

Skoblow portrayed William Morris, a socialist revolutionary agitator, who lived from 1834-1896. The topic of the 45-minute lecture was Art: A Serious Thing, which was written by Morris.

The lecture was presented in connect with a History class that Skoblow is team-teaching with Eric Ruckh, SIUE associate professor of historical studies.

"It's just a fun way to get some of Morris's work out there," Skoblow said. "The timing of Halloween just worked out this way."

During his years in graduate school, Skoblow said he performed the lecture as Morris in Baltimore, London and Los Angeles. The event marked his first performance in 25 years.

Click here for a picture of Jeffrey Skoblow, SIUE professor of English language and literature, performing a lecture to a class he is team teaching with Eric Ruckh, SIUE associate professor of historical studies.

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10/30/07

SIUE School of Education Grant Program Receives Additional Funds

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) A nearly $195,000 award will allow the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Education to expand a program that benefits K-12 schools and teachers in 16 counties.

Thanks to the support of U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Springfield), the Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) program will receive funding beyond 2008, through The Library of Congress.

The program, formerly known as Adventure of the American Mind, has helped provide resources for training and mentoring of more than 500 educators, as well as nearly $250,000 in technology awards to area schools and teachers. Since 2002, the program has been awarded nearly $1.3 million.

Educators can peruse more than nine million historical items in more than 100 themed collections on a Web site, known as American Memory. They can choose pieces from the Web site, www.memory.loc.gov/, to enhance their curricula.

For more information, visit www.siue.edu/education/aam.

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10/30/07

Noted Philosopher To Speak At Statewide Conference Hosted By SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Elliott Sober, the Hans Reichenbach Professor and William F. Vilas Research Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will be the keynote speaker Nov. 9 at the annual meeting of the Illinois Philosophical Association to be conducted this year on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

The noted philosopher will speak about "Evolution Without Metaphysics?" at 7 p.m. in the Redbud-Oak Room, on the second floor of SIUE's Morris Center. Sober is especially known for his influential work in the philosophy of biology.

He is author of numerous books and articles, including The Nature of Selection: Evolutionary Theory of Philosophical Focus (MIT, 1984); Philosophy of Biology (Westview Press, 1999), which has been translated in three languages; and Unto Others: The Evolution and Psychology of Unselfish Behavior, with David Wilson (Harvard, 1998). Sober is working currently on a manuscript for Cambridge University Press, Evidence and Evolution.

For more information about conference registration, contact Todd Stewart by e-mail: tstewart@ilstu.edu or by writing Todd Stewart, Secty.-Treasurer of the IPA, Department of Philosophy, Box 4540, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790

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10/29/07

SIUE Construction Team Takes Second In Regional Competition

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) A six-student team from the Department of Construction in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering took second place in the Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) Great Lakes Region Design/Build competition conducted recently in Downers Grove.

The SIUE team, known during the competition as Trophy Construction, finished behind the 2006 national champion, the Milwaukee School of Engineering. SIUE team members are: Megan Ladwig, of Edwardsville; Matt Giacomini, of Williamsville; Kevin Nesselhauf, of Festus, Mo.; Bill Nolte, of Brighton; Jessica Charles, also of Edwardsville; and Oliver Coulson, of Troy. The team was coached by Associate Professor Kerry Slattery, a member of the construction faculty.

The undergraduate student competition, co-sponsored by the ASC and Associated General Contractors, simulated a real-life, high-pressure situation. The teams were asked to design, price, schedule, and prepare a professional presentation in an extremely tight time frame. The team is judged on estimating, planning, scheduling, thoughtful methodology, creativity, understanding of construction techniques and challenges, and presentation skills.

For this competition, the students were required to submit a prequalification document at 7 a.m. on the first day of the competition. The teams received a request for proposals for a $22 million medical office building for a private orthopedic group. Over the next 17 hours, the teams were sequestered in hotel rooms, and had to create a design and produce an estimate as well as a schedule. To add further pressure, the "owners" submitted changes at various times throughout the day. Completed proposals were submitted at midnight.

Materials for the oral presentations were submitted to the judges by noon the next day, with the presentations made shortly thereafter. A debriefing after the presentations served as the educational component of the competition, allowing students to receive feedback and also ask questions of the judges.

Ladwig was president and project executive; Giacomini was vice president and senior project architect; Nesselhauf was director of pre-construction and senior estimator; Nolte was project manager and scheduler; Charles was senior project engineer and sustainable construction coordinator; while Coulson was project superintendent.

In addition to the SIUE construction faculty, several companies helped the team prepare for the competition: Tarlton Corporation, Korte Construction, McCarthy Building Companies, Kozeny-Wagner, and alumni of SIUE's construction program, who help pay for student registration and traveling expenses with an annual golf tournament fundraiser.

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10/29/07

SIUE Alumni Board President Finds Treasure In His Basement

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Apparently, Dorothy Lexow of Edwardsville didn't mind that a university was springing up from the farm fields about a mile from her home. After all, her son, Larry, was a student there and she was interested in what was happening on campus.

How did she keep abreast of the news at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville? She read The Alestle, of course. Founded in 1957 as the Alton Residence Center News, the paper acquired its unique name a few years later. The newspaper came to represent the Alton, East St. Louis and Edwardsville campuses; hence, the name.

And, to this day, Larry Lexow wouldn't have found a stack of those newspapers well preserved in a box all these years later if Dorothy hadn't been reluctant to pitch them. "My mom was affectionately known as a pack rat," Lexow said. He began attending SIUE in fall 1971, graduating in 1975 with a degree in Mass Communications. He's now president of the SIUE Alumni Association.

His "treasure find" comes at the right time. SIUE is currently celebrating its 50th Anniversary and "first half century of excellence." The University has grown from 1,776 students in 1957 to nearly 13,500 students today. The University is considered a catalyst for the cultural and intellectual vitality and economic development of Southwestern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region.

"My mother and father were big supporters of SIUE and very interested in what went on at the University," Lexow said. "I would bring The Alestle home to read and she would go through them. I had no idea that she saved so many from that period (1970-75), but I recently was cleaning out some boxes in the basement and there they were."

Lexow said Dorothy was very interested in SIUE's development. Her son was the youngest of four siblings and the first one to attend college. "I grew up in a house on old Route 66 (now Illinois 157)," he pointed out. "The house is now used for our offices-Lexow Financial Group.

"SIUE was a major factor in my development and career. So, Mom always had a fondness for the University. She used to listen to me when I was on WSIE-FM every weekend with a show called The Weekender." Lexow explained that Dorothy had her fourth child when she was 40, while the others had grown and moved out. "I was raised like an only child. She was always very interested in my development and my career." Lexow said.

The headlines from Lexow's stash of Alestles could have been written today. "I find it fascinating that many of the headlines, the issues discussed and reported in these papers, could be re-published today and they would be relevant," he said. "Whether it's concern about the availability or the price of gasoline or student issues and complaints about parking on campus, these seem to be repeated quite a lot today."

Some of the early editions saved by his mother show the changing atmosphere on the campus at a time when the University was given autonomy from the Carbondale campus. "More services became available as SIUE became more autonomous and I could sense the change on this campus," Lexow explained.

"I had a chance to meet John Rendleman (SIUE's first president) because I was a member of Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity that was big on campus at the time. He was quite the speaker and seemed a real gentleman," lexow said. "A lot of the articles in these papers deal with Rendleman's vision and what SIUE was doing to realize that dream, such as the growth and the plan for a research park. It's interesting to read about the vision of the University at that time and how much of that vision has been realized." SIUE's University Park, founded in the mid-1980s, is a research and technology park, currently with 23 tenants representing a number of business sectors including agricultural biotechnology, health sciences, design professionals and Information Technology.

As a member of Alpha Phi Omega, Lexow was involved with the bonfire during Homecoming and the tricycle races in the old Hairpin for Springfest. "Of course, we painted the rock and we also had a tradition of putting a pumpkin and boxer shorts on Rodin's The Walking Man in Lovejoy Library. That was always fun to see if we could do that one without getting caught. And, we had Chimega (SIUE's first live mascot) here at that time. I occasionally helped the Cougar Guard and I had a chance to actually play with Chimega," Lexow said. "We would take her to SIUE basketball games, which at that time were played in the Edwardsville High School gymnasium. She was so sweet; just a big cat."

The Alestle articles reveal news of a burgeoning university in Southwestern Illinois and Lexow seems happy to reminisce about the "old days" on campus, reliving some of the activities at that time. "You can see that some of the issues still haven't been resolved," he points out.

Lexow muses that things haven't really changed all that much and also that what goes around comes around. "I was a student here and now I'm president of the Alumni Association Board," he said. "I guess the acorn hasn't fallen all that far from the tree." He also pointed out that recently the Office of Alumni Affairs sponsored the MRF (Mississippi River Festival) Bash and Lexow found many of articles about the MRF, indicating how popular the concert series was in the region for more than a decade.

Lexow said he hopes to donate the newspapers to the University in a way that others can have access. "I know that the University offers us so much today and what kind of struggle it was then to make that happen."

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10/29/07

SIUE Ranked Among Princeton Review's 290 Best Business Schools

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's School of Business has been ranked as a Best 290 Business School in the 2008 edition of the Princeton Review.

Results are based on student surveys and institutional data from 2007. The Review stated students surveyed indicated they were drawn to the SIUE School of Business because of its reputation and its accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)-International. Students also said they were attracted to "the convenience of night and weekend courses" and the school's affordability-being the most affordable tuition in Metropolitan St. Louis.

"We are pleased that the Princeton Review has confirmed that our School ranks among the country's best," said SIUE School of Business Interim Dean Tim Schoenecker. "Even more gratifying is that this recognition is based, in part, on feedback from our students."

The SIUE School of Business is among an elite 10 percent of business schools worldwide that have earned the prestigious seal of approval from the AACSB. Only 30 percent of all business schools in the United States are accredited by the AACSB.

The Princeton Review, based in New York, is known for its test-preparation courses, education services, and college and graduate school admission services. To learn more about the Princeton Review, visit the Web site: www.princetonreview.com.

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10/26/07

Dance In Concert To Feature Piece Inspired By Trip To Cuba

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Two Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Theater and Dance faculty visited Cuba earlier this year and came back with stories to tell and, of course, visions of spirited music and salsa dance.

Professors C. Otis Sweezey and J. Calvin Jarrell traveled to Cuba to soak in some culture and also bring back a flavor of the island to students. The results of their efforts will be seen in Fusión de Carnaval en Santiago de Cuba, a vibrant dance with nearly 20 dancers moving to the salsa beat but also with African influences and a contemporary dance flavor.

Fusión will appear in Dance In Concert 2007, set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, Nov. 7-10, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11, all in the theater at SIUE's Katherine Dunham Hall. The concert also features works by Mikey Thomas and Kerry Shaul, also members of the SIUE dance faculty.

"I wanted to make contact with some Cuban dancers and/or choreographers and, perhaps, visit the National Dance Museum in Havana," Jarrell explained. "I met William Danger (DAHN-herr) who is artistic director of his own dance company, Santiago de Cuba, blending Cuban dance with contemporary movement."

Jarrell, who is a certified movement pattern analysis practitioner, said Cuban culture has for centuries had a tradition of music and dance. "The whole country moves, from the time they learn to walk," he said. "I was astonished to see that even elderly people dance and they were moving as exuberantly as the young people."

In Cuba, Carnaval finds its origins in the 18th Century when each city would celebrate on the feast day of that city's patron saint. Some 250 years later, the celebration came to symbolize Fidel Castro's takeover in 1959. "The first half of our dance has the Carnaval flavor embodied in the movement and in the costumes," Jarrell said, "but the second half blends African, Australian, jazz and fusion influences."

The Carnaval aspects also have been captured in Sweezey's exciting costumes. "Look anywhere in the Caribbean or Latin America," Sweezey said, "and you'll find vibrant colors, probably because the sun is so intense it brings out the natural colors of the islands. In turn, the colors are represented in the costume dance traditions. "They also use 'moveable floats' in the parades," Sweezey said. He noted Cubans construct lightweight metal structures with wheels over which parade participants drape the costume. "I decided these moveable float structures look like walkers that elderly people use to get around," he explained. "so I purchased a few walkers to save time and money.

Sweezey said he's incorporating a variety of colorful fabrics. "Some satins, shiny and sparkly fabrics," he pointed out. "But, when we move into the African portion of the dance, the costumes will change to African patterns as opposed to solid colors.

"It's going to be an exciting dance and I hope the costumes will add to that experience for the audience."

Thomas' piece, The Candy Pitch, is "a result of the aerial dance training we had last year for the dance students," Thomas said. "It's our chance to use that training." Thomas pointed out that the dance piece is reminiscent of a circus act à la Cirque du Soleil, "but without the height," he said. "The piece is extremely physically demanding, colorful and fast-paced. There's no intent to tell a story but I hope the audience will find a connection to circus."

Thomas explained that aerial dance started in the 1970s in California and was based on circus trapeze acts but with more artistry. "For our piece, most of the devices are low to the ground and we don't need nets," Thomas explained. "It's been quite physically challenging for the dancers. It's like going out on your swingset in the backyard and having a show."

Tickets to Dance in Concert 2007 may be purchased through SIUE's Fine Arts box office, (618) 650-2774, or, toll-free, (888) 328-5168, ext. 2774.

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10/25/07

Historical Studies Professor To Share Research

Assistant Historical Studies Professor Laura Milsk Fowler, director of the Museum Studies Program in the Department of Historical Studies, will speak about "All Roads Lead to Chicago: Chicago's Downtown Railroad Terminals and Modern Public Space, 1871-1925'" as part of the Focus on Faculty Research series Nov. 8 in Lovejoy Library.

Fowler will speak at 1:30 p.m. that Thursday in the conference room on the third floor of Lovejoy. The series presents informal lectures about methodologies and resources for scholarly research. The presentation is open to SIUE employees and students; refreshments will be served.

The series is co-sponsored by the Projects and Development Committee of Library and Information Services and by the Graduate School.

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10/25/07

MEDIA ADVISORY: Commencement Cancellation

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Because there will be renovations of SIUE's Vadalabene Center during the summer of 2008, summer commencement exercises originally slated for August 2008, have been cancelled.

Students preparing to graduate in the summer can walk at commencement exercises during fall 2008 ceremonies, which will be held Dec. 20, 2008, in the newly remodeled gymnasium.

Degrees still will be conferred upon students at the completion of the summer term. For more information, please call (618) 650-5765.

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10/24/07

Anthro Students Win Statewide Awards

Lacey Heflin (BS, 2007) won the Illinois Archaeological Survey (IAS) Student Paper Award. She received the award at the IAS annual meeting in September. Earlier this month, it also was announced at the Midwest Archaeological Conference (MAC) that Heflin had won the 2007 MAC Student Paper Award. She tied with a student from Indiana for that honor. Erin Marks (BA, 2007) also presented her senior project at the MAC conference this month.

Marks was supported by the SIUE Undergraduate Research Academy, a program that offers stipends to undergraduate students as they do research often only accomplished by graduate students. "That's the third year in a row that an SIUE student has won the IAS student paper award," said Julie Holt, chair of the SIUE Department of Anthropology. "In 2005, Kelly Arnold won the MAC student paper award," Holt said. "Her senior project also was supported through the URA. Most remarkably, SIUE anthropology student Chris Hagan won the American Anthropological Association's (AAA) student paper award, also in 2005." The AAA is the premier professional anthropological association in the country, Holt explained.

"Professor Emeritus Ted Frisbie recently wrote to me that SIUE anthropology faculty of the 1970s 'built/created one of the finest undergrad programs in the country.' I don't know about the rest of the country, but I think it's safe to say that we have the best undergraduate program in the state of Illinois today. This is clear to me from the paper competitions and URA awards our students have won over the last several years, and also in their publication records. For example, the latest issue of Illinois Archaeology, which is a peer-reviewed journal, contains the senior projects of Mat Terry (2004) and Valerie Starr Eachus (2006); Kelly Arnold's senior project (2005) was published last year in Illinois Antiquity.

"Simply put, no other anthropology program in the state is engaging undergraduate students in research the way we are."

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10/24/07

Performing Arts Student Named in Who's Who

By Patricia Merritt

(EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill.) A good student works hard, always does her homework and pays attention in class, says 12-year-old Ahmah Gladney. And she should know. Ahmah, an A-average scholar at Steger Sixth Grade Center in St. Louis and a dedicated student at the East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts, was listed in the recent 5th and 6th Grade Edition of Who's Who Among Outstanding Students of America 2006-2007.

"School is important because it gives me knowledge of what I need to know in the future to survive," said the sixth grader. "It's also important to keep learning and not just be concerned with grades, because grades only tell you how well you did on an assignment."

Virginia Walker, Ahmah's fifth grade teacher, nominated her for the national recognition because of academic excellence. According to Who's Who, some of Ahmah's accolades and involvements included: Distinguished Honor Roll, Outstanding Academic Achievement Award, Math Award, Battle of the Books, Principal's Award, Science Fair Award, State Scholar, Class Representative, Peer Tutor and Community Volunteer.

She was also listed as participating in ballet, jazz dance, drama, modern dance and school musicals, most of which she studied at the SIUE East St. Louis Center for the Performing Arts, where Katherine Dunham Certified Master Teacher Theodore H. Jamison is program director.

Ahmah has been a student at the Performing Arts Center for the past six years and has become trained in West African dance and the Katherine Dunham Technique, said her mother, Flora Gladney. "She was asked to teach her classmates West African dance and Dunham Technique," Ms. Gladney said, "and her class performed on Cultural Exchange Day (when she was a student) at Edgar Road Elementary."

A lot of potential is wrapped up in the 12-year-old, said Jack Williams, staff instructor at the SIUE East St. Louis Center for Performing Arts who has taught Ahmah for the last five years. "She is a very dedicated student and has an excellent memory. She retains choreography very well," Williams said. "If ever anyone forgets something, we just have to ask Ahmah. She has a steel-trap mind."

Ahmah is also a joy to work with, said her longtime dance instructor, Jamila Ajanaku. "She never gets angry when you give her instructions, but tries very hard," said Ajanaku, staff member at the Performing Arts Center. "She's very focused and always attentive." According to Ajanaku, Ahmah "wasn't that good" when she first came to the Performing Arts Center."But she's gotten much better," Ajanaku said. "She still has a long way to go, but you can see the progress."

Even with all of Ahmah's extracurricular involvements, in recent years she has scored an average of 97 percent on the State Assessment test (Terra Nova) and scored in the proficiency average range and advanced proficiency range on the Missouri Assessment Program, Ms. Gladney said.

Ahmah says she's excited about her future academic days, considering possible career choices in the fields of law, science or acting. "I haven't totally made up my mind," Ahmah said, "but I know it's going to take hard work."

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10/24/07

Sig Ep Chapter Raises $4,000 for Youth AIDS

The men of Sigma Phi Epsilon Illinois Eta Chapter at SIUE recently held its Greek Goddess pageant on campus, raising $4,000 for the national Youth AIDS' prevention education program. Nationally, Sigma Phi Epsilon is the largest fraternal organization partnered with Youth AIDS, creating campaigns to educate students on the awareness and severity of the global fight against AIDS. Last year, Sig Ep nationally raised more than $200,000 for Youth AIDS.

Greek Goddess is a beauty pageant in which each SIUE Greek Life organization has one female representative. There are three events throughout the night: formal wear, fraternity/sorority wear, and night wear. As each event is completed, Sig Ep brothers go through the crowd and collect votes for each individual contestant. Each vote costs a dollar; at the end of the night the contestant with the most votes/money will be crowned Greek Goddess. This year, Rachel Latinette, representing Alpha Kappa Lambda fraternity, and a member of Alpha Phi, was crowned the 2007 Greek Goddess.

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10/24/07

Fresh, Fun Ideas Will Fly During Idea Bounce At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Those who have ideas for businesses or want to discuss their ideas with a group of experienced business owners and potential investors are invited to attend Idea Bounce from 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

The event will take place in Goshen Lounge, on the first floor of SIUE's Morris University Center. "This is an opportunity to share creative, innovative and maybe just weird ideas," said Kristine Jarden, director of the Southwestern Illinois Entrepreneurship Center at SIUE.

Ideas can be submitted at www.ideabounce.com. Once ideas are submitted, individuals will have a chance to present ideas during the hour-long event and possibly win prizes.

The event is sponsored by the Entrepreneurship Center. For more information, or to register, call Jarden, (618) 650-2166, or e-mail kpolo@siue.edu. Registration also can take place at the event. For more details, visit www.siue.edu/BUSINESS/EC.

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10/24/07

SIUE Housing Director Chosen As VP Of International Association

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Michael Schultz, director of university housing at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, has been elected vice president of the Association of College and University Housing Officers International (ACUHO-I).

ACUHO-I, of which Schultz has been a member for more than 25 years, is comprised of more than 5,800 members representing 800 colleges and universities from countries from around the world, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, England, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and more. Members represent institutions that provide services to 1.8 million students around the globe and 205 companies.

The volunteer-driven association is based on the campus of The Ohio State University.

"I'm very excited about the challenge before me," Schultz said.

Schultz, who has served in other leadership roles in the organization, has taken the helm as vice president for 2007-2008 and will serve as president elect in 2008-2009. He will assume the role of president of the association for the academic year 2009-2010.

Schultz has been with SIUE university housing since 1989. During his tenure, the University has built four residence halls and made major on-campus housing renovations in Cougar Village.

In 2005, SIUE was designated a primarily residential university by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education. Currently more than 3,500 students live on campus.

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10/22/07

Entrepreneurship Center At SIUE To Co-Sponsor Summit

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Jerome Katz, the Coleman Chair of Entrepreneurship at Saint Louis University, will speak about obtaining financing through relatives and friends in starting a business at the Southwestern Illinois Entrepreneurship Summit on Nov. 13 at River's Edge Enterprise Center, 1635 W. First St., Granite City. Registration deadline is Nov. 9.

The summit-scheduled from 2-6 p.m. that Tuesday and co-sponsored by the Southwestern Illinois Entrepreneurship Center at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville-will give attendees the opportunity to hear from successful entrepreneurs and learn about how to overcome various entrepreneurial barriers at any age.

It also will feature presentations designed to educate attendees on the local entrepreneurial resources available. The conference aims to facilitate networking and relationship-building between various industry participants, entrepreneurs, start-up businesses and other attendees.

In addition to the Entrepreneurship Center at SIUE, co-sponsors include the Madison-Bond Workforce Investment Board, the SIUE School of Business, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Mid America Workforce Investment Board, Madison County, St. Clair County, SIUE's University Park, Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois, the Growth Association of Southwestern Illinois, River's Edge Enterprise Center and the Tri-City Port Authority.

Cost of the event is $25. For more information, and/or to register, contact Kristine Jarden, (618) 650-2166, or by e-mail: kpolo@siue.edu. To register online, visit the SIUE School of Business Web site: www.siue.edu/business.

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10/22/07

SIUE's Hagan Inducted Into EdTA Hall of Fame

Lana Hagan, director of theater education in the SIUE Department of Theater and Dance, was among four inductees to the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) Hall of Fame for 2007. She was honored at a ceremony recently at the EdTA Annual Conference in New York City.

A professional organization dedicated to theater education and founded in 1929, EdTA's mission is to create a network for theater arts educators, students, professionals and enthusiasts to share ideas and support the effort to have theater arts education (including film, television, and other related media) recognized in all phases of education and lifelong learning. EdTA operates the International Thespian Society (ITS), an honorary organization for middle school and high school theater students.

The inductees are EdTA members who have been nominated for the honor by a peer or student for dedicating 20 or more years of service to the cause of theater education. Hagan has been involved with EdTA since the beginning of her career as a theater educator in 1983 at Washington High School in Washington, Mo. While there she served as director of the school's International Thespian Society troupe 4233-which is EdTA's student honorary organization. Hagan also has served as Missouri State Thespian chapter director and EdTA leadership coach.

A graduate of Webster University and Roosevelt University, Hagan has been in the classroom for more than 20 years, transforming the theater program at Washington High from one drama class into a full curriculum. In 1997, she joined SIUE, where she created the undergraduate theater education program. "In whatever dramatic direction she travels, Lana is a pacesetter," says Carol Lommen, a theater educator in Las Vegas and one of two individuals to nominate Hagan to the Hall of Fame. "She brings energy, innovation and growth, and is an exemplary educator."

Debbie Corbin, director of Thespian troupe 3482 at Branson (MO) High School, who also nominated Hagan, said, "Ever since I became involved with Missouri State Thespians, Lana has served as a personal mentor for me. She offers encouragement and support and is completely dedicated to the field of theater education."

EdTA Executive Director Michael Peitz echoed that sentiment: "From her work as a Thespian troupe director to her service as the Missouri State Thespian chapter director and as an EdTA leadership coach, Lana has given her talents and time in service to students, adults and the Association. Her work in and out of the classroom, and on the stage, has touched the lives of many students and EdTA members. This is a fitting accolade for someone who has advanced the cause of theater education and shows no sign of slowing down in the future."

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10/19/07

October Employee Of The Month

Congratulations: Bonnie Sanderson (second from right), administrative clerk in the Office of Academic Counseling and Advising, is recipient of the October Employee Recognition Award. She is shown here with Kristi Halfond, an advisor in the same office who nominated Sanderson; Kenneth Neher (far left), and Bill Hendey, director of Academic Counseling and Advising. In addition to the plaque she received, Sanderson was awarded a $25 gift certificate to the SIUE Bookstore, a parking spot close to her office for one month, and two complimentary lunch coupons to the University Restaurant. (SIUE Photo by Bill Brinson)

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10/19/07

Two Speakers Slated To Discuss Sociological, Criminal Justice Issues

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice Studies will host two free events that are open to the public, featuring two distinguished speakers, Thursday, Nov. 8, in the Mississippi Room, on the second floor of SIUE's Morris Center.

At noon, Marc Boucher, head of the Quebec Government Office in Chicago, will present Québec, Canada and the Evolution of La Francophonie in North America. Boucher will lead a discussion on the many issues regarding the history and current state of French-speaking North America.

At 7 p.m., James Loewen, distinguished scholar and author of Lies My Teacher Told Me and Lies Across America as well as his latest work, Sundown Towns, will offer insight about race and take audience questions. The event is co-sponsored by the Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing Opportunity Council.

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10/19/07

Sou'wester To Celebrate Nearly 50 Years Of Publishing Oct. 25

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Sou'wester magazine, a literary journal of the Department of English Language and Literature at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, will celebrate nearly 50 years of continuous publication Oct. 25 with several visiting writers, including published authors Steve Davenport, an SIUE alumnus, and Kyle Minor.

The event will take place at 7 p.m. in the Maple-Dogwood Room, on the second floor of SIUE's Morris Center. It's part of SIUE's 50th Anniversary Celebration activities. Sou'wester primarily has published poetry and prose since it began in 1960. "It is a literary journal that has published writers from across the county," says Allison Funk, professor of poetry at SIUE and current co-editor of the journal.

"We are now publishing writers beyond our national borders, too," Funk said. "Recent issues have included work from Europe and an upcoming issue includes two Bengali poets."

Funk, author of three books of poetry and a member of the creative writing faculty in the department, explained that various department faculty members have served as editors through the years, including her current co-editor, Valerie Vogrin, also a member of the creative writing faculty and author of a novel.

Davenport served as a former Sou'wester student editor as other students have throughout the years. "In recent years, we've published Steve's poetry and we're hoping to highlight his work at the Oct. 25 event," Funk said. Davenport is associate director of creative writing at the University of Illinois-Urbana and creative non-fiction editor of the Ninth Letter, a literary journal published by the U of I.

Recipient of an Illinois Arts Council prose award, Davenport's work has appeared in The Iowa Review, Fiction International, CutBank and many other journals. His book of poems, Uncontainable Noise (Pavement Saw Books, 2007), will be available for purchase at the event.

Minor, whose fiction also has appeared in Sou'wester, is a visiting writer at the University of Toledo. His fiction also has appeared in The Gettysburg Review, The Southern Review and the Random House Anthology of Twentysomething Essays by Twentysomething Writers.

"Many people ask us about the significance of the title, Sou'wester," Funk pointed out. "It simply indicates that the journal is published in Southwestern Illinois."

Refreshments will be served at the Oct 25 event and copies of the Sou'wester, published in the fall and spring, will be available for purchase. For more information about the Sou'wester celebration, call the SIUE Department of English Language and Literature, (618) 650-2060.

SIUE is proud to celebrate its 50th Anniversary and first half century of excellence. The University has grown from 1,776 students in 1957 to nearly 13,500 students today. SIUE is a catalyst for the cultural and intellectual vitality and economic development of Southwestern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region.

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10/19/07

SIUE Associate Professor Appears On Extreme Makover Home Edition

(PINON, Ariz.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Associate Professor Bill Retzlaff, a faculty member and chair of the biological sciences department, prepared environmentally friendly features for a home on Extreme Makeover Home Edition. The segment will air at 8 p.m./7 p.m. central time Sunday, Oct. 28, on ABC TV.

Retzlaff, who also is the coordinator of SIUE's Green Roof Environmental Evaluation Network (G.R.E.E.N.), worked with local green roof consultants and research colleagues Kelly Luckett, president of Green Roof Blocks, a division of St. Louis Metalworks, Mike Crowell, vice president of St. Louis Metalworks and Vic Jost of Jost Greenhouses, Des Peres, Mo.

"My research collaborators, Green Roof Blocks, were asked by ABC to put a green roof on this home that they were trying to turn into a "green" home, or, an environmentally friendly home," Retzlaff said. "I joined our installation team from St. Louis in Arizona to place a modular green roof system on the project home in a seven-hour period on a Sunday afternoon.

"We also placed a green roof on a storage shed, which contains all the water tanks for the home's solar hot water heater."

Retzlaff continued: "Green roof installation involves arranging specially engineered roofing systems, containing growing medium and plants as components to new or existing roof projects. The use of a green roof in place of traditional roofing has the potential to cut electric costs, reduce storm water runoff, and promote a healthier environment."

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10/18/07

SIUE Emeritus Professor Inducted Into Illinois Senior Hall Of Fame

(SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) Eugene Redmond, emeritus professor of English language and literature at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, recently was inducted into the 2007 Illinois Senior Hall of Fame at the Governor's Mansion in Springfield. The Illinois General Assembly established the state senior hall of fame in 1994 as a way to recognize people who selflessly give their time and talents and serve as role models to younger generations.

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10/18/07

Fourth SIUE School of Nursing Alumni Heritage Walk A Success

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) More than 180 alumni, health care representatives, students, friends, faculty and staff turned out recently for the Fourth Annual Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing Alumni Heritage Walk for Nursing Scholarships. The event, organized as part of the School of Nursing's Alumni Weekend, raised more than $5,800 for student scholarships. For information, or to register for next year's walk, contact Kris Heather in the School of Nursing, (618) 650-2551, or kheathe@siue.edu. Also as part of the weekend of activities, the school held a Dedication to the Profession Ceremony and the First Annual School of Nursing Faculty Banquet and Awards.

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10/17/07

Acting Now for the Next 50 Years!-Chancellor's Report To University

Click here for the complete text of the Chancellor's address

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is acting now for the next 50 years, said Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift today in his annual Report to the University.

Vandegrift addressed the University community, neighboring community leaders, legislators and guests, during his annual report in SIUE's Meridian Ballroom.

"We are here, at this place, at this time, because of the passion, vision, and action of SIUE's founders and the many contributions of faculty, staff, students and friends over 50 years," he said. "And the actions of our leaders of 50 years ago have transformed our region.

"Fifty years ago, we were a branch campus of SIU. Today, SIUE is Illinois' highest-ranked public Master's level university and ranks as a top-10 public Midwest Master's level university according to the 2008 edition of "America's Best Colleges" published by U.S. News & World Report."

The Chancellor also remarked with pride that SIUE has been ranked for three consecutive years by U.S. News among America's 13 Best Institutions, along with Harvard University and MIT, for its Senior Assignment Program, which is an integrative learning experience required for all seniors prior to graduation.

The University's Senior Assignment Program additionally was ranked as a national model for learning assessment in 2007 by the Association of American Colleges & Universities.

Vandegrift touted the East St. Louis Higher Education Campus "as a model for university citizenship to its region," taking in more than $12 million in state, federal and private grants for programs annually, and the SIU School of Dental Medicine in Alton as "one of the nation's premier dental schools," leading to the graduation of more than 1,400 dentists in its 32-year history.

The Chancellor acknowledged the announcement last month that in 2009 the American Red Cross will open a new Blood Processing Center and National Testing Laboratory facility, bringing more than 500 new jobs to SIUE's University Park, which speaks to the University's vitality and strong economic impact on the region.

Again, the University's partnerships with area community colleges-Lewis and Clark Community College and Southwestern Illinois College-were highlighted. Earlier this fall, the University received more than 7,000 applications from prospective freshmen from 104 Illinois counties, 37 states, and 16 countries for 1829 freshman seats, "securing SIUE's status as a first-tier, first-choice university," Vandegrift said.

The University's average ACT score for the fall 2007 freshman class was 22.5, up from 21.9 in 2003-two points higher than the Illinois average and a point higher than the national average.

Because the University has turned 50, the Chancellor said a special focus needs to be placed on maintaining resources, updating and improving existing spaces and classrooms, following the progress on the proposed $70 million Science Building and expansion this fall, moving forward with plans to take the University's athletics teams to NCAA Division I competition, forging ahead with the leadership stage of the University's first-ever capital campaign and using an equity formula established by the Faculty Senate to address faculty salaries.

Vandegrift challenged the University to improve the six-year graduation rate; focus on student success; improve educational outreach and provide more opportunities for lifelong learning.

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10/17/07

Hundreds Of Students Expected To Attend Regional College Fair At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Representatives from approximately 100 colleges, universities and branches of the military, and as many as 2,000 high school students and their families are expected to converge at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23, for the annual Illinois College Exposition (ICE) Regional College Fair.

The ICE Fair, sponsored by the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC), will be conducted in SIUE's Morris University Center. Registration is not required and there is no cost to attend. Free parking is available in campus lots P4-P9. Additional information is available in local high school guidance offices and in community college counseling centers.

Historically, college fairs were held several times a year at various area high schools. The ICE Fair is a consolidated opportunity to explore a wide variety of higher education options. Karen Bollinger, ICE On-Site chairperson, said: "the regional college fair concept continues to support its ultimate goal to help students learn more about post secondary education options.

"Designed for high school juniors, seniors and community college transfer students, the ICE Fair gives students and parents an opportunity to speak with more than 100 private and public educational institutions in a well-structured setting." Bollinger said.

Judy Verseman, director of guidance at Edwardsville High School, likes the regional concept. "This fair gives prospective students and their parents access to a variety of colleges and universities at one site. It is exciting to see our students have this opportunity."

The ICE Fair is a result of a collaborative effort among area high school counselors and college admission professionals to best serve area students who are in the process of choosing a college or university.

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10/17/07

FOTAD Presents Its Tenth Annual Mystery Dinner Theater At SIUE

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Stan Spade , the less capable brother of the famous hard-boiled detective, Sam, knew the blonde was trouble the moment she walked into his office. But she was blonde. What could he do?

For the answer to that question, come to the 10th Annual Friends of Theater and Dance (FOTAD) Mystery Dinner Theater and Silent Auction on Sunday, Nov. 4. FOTAD is the support organization for the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Theater and Dance. Proceeds from the Nov. 4 event will benefit FOTAD's scholarship fund for SIUE theater and dance majors. Reservations must be made by Nov. 1.

Written by S.J. Morrison, a member of the FOTAD board, and acted by several community supporters seen locally on stage, the Maltese Cougar promises to be a hilarious "whodunit." The event will take place in the University Restaurant, on the second floor of SIUE's Morris Center.

Have you been waiting for an evening of dinner, shopping, and detective work? The FOTAD Mystery Dinner Theater and Silent Auction is a perfect opportunity to accomplish all three. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.; guests may view silent auction items until approximately 7 p.m. when the play will begin and dinner will be served. Tickets are $35 per person and include dinner as well as several chances to win attendance prizes.

For reservation information, call the SIUE Fine Arts box office, (618) 650-2774, or, from St. Louis toll-free, (888) 328-5168, Ext. 2774.

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10/11/07

Retired Four-Star Gen. McCaffrey To Speak Oct. 27 For Arts & Issues

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Retired Four-Star Gen. Barry R. McCaffrey, a commander during Desert Storm in Iraq and one of the most decorated generals in the U.S. Army at the time of his retirement, will speak about the "War on Terrorism" on Saturday, Oct. 27, as part of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Arts & Issues series.

McCaffrey will make his appearance at 8 p.m. in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of SIUE's Delyte W. Morris University Center. McCaffrey's appearance is co-sponsored by Commerce Bank.

Arts & Issues, which has a long-standing tradition of bringing world-class performers and noted speakers to Southwestern Illinois, is presenting its 23rd terrific season. Grant Andree, coordinator of the series, said McCaffrey had an exemplary military career and has been much in demand as a consultant on military matters and currently serves as a national security and terrorism analyst for NBC News. He also writes a column about national security for the Armed Forces Journal.

Andree said McCaffrey is a perfect example of the kind of provocative speaker Arts & Issues has attracted for the past 22 years. "Gen. McCaffrey's distinguished military career and the knowledge he has amassed in observing what goes on in Washington and at the Pentagon brings a keen focus on the current troubles in the Middle East," Andree pointed out.

In addition to operating his own consultant firm, McCaffrey also is an adjunct professor of International Affairs for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. From 2002 to 2005, McCaffrey served at West Point as the Bradley Distinguished Professor of International Security Studies.

A graduate of Phillips Academy in Andover, Mass., McCaffrey earned a master's in civil government at the American University. He attended the Harvard National Security Program as well as that university's Business School Executive Education Program. He has been elected to and currently serves on boards of directors at several firms including membership in the CSIS U.S.-Mexico Bi-national Council and the board of advisors of the National Infantry Foundation.

After unanimous confirmation by the U.S. Senate in 1996, McCaffrey served as director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) until he stepped down in 2001. As ONDCP director, McCaffrey coordinated the $19 billion federal drug control budget and developed the U.S. National Drug Control Strategy.

Active in national security affairs, McCaffrey has co-chaired the Atlantic Council of the United States NATO Counterterrorism Working Group, leading a delegation to Moscow, Mons, Brussels and Warsaw. In 2004, he addressed the Security of the Americas Conference in Mexico City and met with senior officials of the Mexican government. In February, McCaffrey traveled to Cuba where he met with Fidel Castro and his brother, Raul, to discuss U.S.-Cuba policies.

McCaffrey has been awarded numerous honors and in 2004 was recognized as one of the 500 Most Influential People in American Foreign Policy by the World Affairs Councils of America.

During his military career, McCaffrey served as commander-in-chief of the U.S. Armed Forces Southern Command, coordinating national security operations in Latin America. He served overseas for 13 years and completed four combat tours including the 400-kilometer left hook attack into Iraq, commanding the 24th Infantry Division (Mech.). He twice received the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation's second highest medal for valor. He also was awarded two Silver Stars and received three Purple Hearts for wounds sustained in combat.

He also served as assistant to then-Gen. Colin Powell and supported the chairman as the JCS advisor to the Secretary of State and the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

Remaining Arts & Issues speakers during the 2007-08 season include Anna Deavere Smith, playwright, professor and performance artist, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27, in Meridian; and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and best-selling author Anna Quindlen, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24, in Meridian, sponsored by National City Bank.

To obtain a season brochure and purchase tickets, call (618) 650-2774 or visit the Web site: artsandissues.com. For additional information about the Arts & Issues series, call Grant Andree, (618) 650-2626.

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10/11/07

FOTAD's A Season For The Child Subscription Tickets On Sale Now

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Subscription tickets are on sale now for the 19th year of A Season for the Child (SfC), the family-oriented live theater season sponsored by the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Friends of Theater and Dance (FOTAD) and TheBANK of Edwardsville.

SfC features professional theater troupes from St. Louis staging adaptations of various children's stories, using interactive techniques that not only delight children and parents, but also provide a learning experience.

The 2007-08 season kicks off with a delightful play, The Wisdom of Fools, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, in the theater at SIUE's Katherine Dunham Hall. Wisdom is based on Chelm folktales, a tradition of Jewish humor about the Ukrainian people of Chelm. Supposedly inhabited by fools, the Chelm folktales display what might be called "foolish wisdom."

Piwacket Theatre Company of St. Louis will present this charming play about adventures of three fools as they discover the meaning of common sense. It promises to be hilarious. Piwacket is in its 16th season of captivating young audiences with cleverly adapted tales, filled with catchy songs, dance, colorful costumes and magical props.

FOTAD, a support group for the SIUE Department of Theater and Dance, uses the proceeds to help fund merit awards for talented SIUE theater and dance students. Each year, the organization awards some $5,000 in merit scholarships to qualified students. FOTAD also funds scholarships for new freshmen entering the theater and dance program.

Subscription tickets are $16 per person for all four shows-a $4 savings-while individual tickets are $5 per person. Tickets are available through the SIUE Fine Arts box office, (618) 650-2774. Other productions during the 2007-08 season include The Ant and the Grasshopper (2 and 7 p.m.) Dec. 1; Goldilocks and the Three Bears, at 7 p.m. Jan. 26; and A Midsummer Night's Dream … In the Wink of an Eye at 7 on March 29.

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10/10/07

Prime Real Estate Available In SIUE's University Park

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The building site on the corner of Illinois 157 and University Park Drive is now available for lease due to the expiration of the Spring Green Lodge Conference Center ground lease.

"We regret that the Conference Center project didn't work out," said Jim Pennekamp, executive director of University Park SIUE Inc. "At the same time we believe that the property offers excellent development potential including high visibility and access to university amenities."

University Park officials are now preparing a request for proposal offering the site in its current condition to developers for adaptive reuse. If no acceptable reuse is identified the site will be cleared and restored to its original condition.

University Park's mission is to mobilize the vast intellectual, applied research and business capabilities of SIUE and to facilitate interaction with leading-edge research and technology based businesses. University Park offers emerging industries and businesses the resources to gain a competitive edge; it benefits the economic development of the region by attracting new business and investment dollars to the area; and offers students and faculty the opportunity to conduct applied research.

University Park currently has 23 tenants representing a number of business sectors including agricultural biotechnology, health sciences, design professionals and Information Technology.

The most recent addition to the Park, announced on Sept. 12, is the American Red Cross Blood Processing Center and National Testing Laboratory. The American Red Cross will locate on a 15-acre site at the corner of University Park Drive and South Research Drive bringing over 500 highly-skilled jobs to the park.

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10/5/07

SIUE Friends Of Religious Center Awards Dinner Set For Oct. 20

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) A St. Louis architect whose firm has more than 20 years experience in religious architecture, will be honored Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Fifth Annual Spiritual Awards Dinner, sponsored by the Friends of the Religious Center (FRC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Dinner reservation deadline is Oct. 16.

Architect Gary Karasek of Belleville, a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), will receive the FRC's 2007 Spiritual Leadership Award at the Oct. 20 event scheduled at 6:30 p.m. in the SIUE Religious Center, the geodesic dome just east of the SIUE Art and Design Building. The dinner's theme this year is "A Fuller Future: Historic Preservation for the Religious Center Dome." The evening's theme also honors internationally known visionary innovator R. Buckminster Fuller, the late SIUE faculty member and designer of the Religious Center geodesic dome. Fuller's work emphasized environmentally sound practices to sustain the well-being of human life and the planet. The FRC is dedicated to Fuller's vision of ecological innovation and stewardship.

Karasek, president of his own firm-Karasek-is an architect, landscape designer, illustrator, painter and creator of public art. A LEED-certified architect, Karasek's current work is considered on the leading edge of "green architecture." LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. "Gary has contributed a master plan and vision for spiritual gardens to surround the Religious Center, providing walkways, a reflective pool and gardens for dialogue and contemplation," says Tom Kinsella, who is FRC president and a local home contractor.

Tickets are $25 per person, which includes dinner and free parking. Reservations may be made by calling the Religious Center, (618) 650-3246, or by e-mailing jjacobso@siue.edu. Revenue from the event as well as donations will help to support the FRC's new historic preservation project to nominate the Religious Center for local and national historic recognition.

The FRC established the Spiritual Leadership Awards (originally the Interfaith Leadership Awards) in 2003 to recognize religious leadership and interfaith cooperation in the region. "Gary has volunteered his time and expertise as a Friend of the Religious Center for many years," Kinsella said.

Kinsella explained that the FRC, formed more than six years ago, sponsors two main events each year to raise money to refurbish parts of the 36-year-old Religious Center that are in need of repair. "We offer this Spiritual Awards Dinner in the fall and also the Celebration of World Faiths in the spring to encourage interfaith dialogue.

"The FRC is a support group dedicated to preserving the SIUE Religious Center as a significant contribution to architecture," Kinsella said, "as a place for the spiritual growth of SIUE students as the next generation of leaders, and for religious learning and fellowship within the community."

Past recipients of the Spiritual Leadership Award include Narbeth Emmanuel, vice chancellor for Students Affairs at SIUE; the late Nasir Ahmed and Mrs. Ahmed of the Islamic Information Center of St. Louis; Edwardsville Mayor Gary Niebur, executive director of the Edwardsville YMCA; Tina Huck and Judy Williamson, administrators of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Annual Festival of Faiths and Cultures; Rowena McClinton, SIUE professor of Historical Studies and director of Native American Studies in that department; Rev. Douglas Cripe, leader of the Metro-East Interfaith Partnership; Bonnie Dineen, member of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Parish in St. Louis, who made a peace pilgrimage to Bosnia; and Ashok Malhotra,a professor at the State University of New York at Oneonta and founder of the Ninash Foundation, which constructs schools in impoverished communities of India.

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10/5/07

SIUE Director To Receive NCURA Distinguished Service Award

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Josephine Barnes, director of the Office of Research and Projects (ORP) in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Graduate School, recently was named as recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA).

Barnes will receive the award Nov. 5 during a recognition luncheon at NCURA's 49th Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. Among five recipients, Barnes is being recognized for "sustained and distinctive contributions to the organization." She has served as a presenter at numerous NCURA meetings and conferences, including as chair of the National NCURA Minority Participation task Force and serving as faculty on the special traveling NCURA/UNCF Fundamentals Workshop.

Barnes also is a Region IV past Executive Committee member and award winner for her willingness to offer time and talent to the region. She also was a member of the Finance and Budget Committee and in 2000 she served on the Program Committee for the inaugural Financial Research Administration Conference.

Before entering her current post in 2001, Barnes had been assistant director of ORP for seven years. Before coming to SIUE in 1994, Barnes was a senior accountant/project coordinator with Fidia Research Foundation in Washington, D.C., where she was responsible for fiscal management of major grants awarded to Georgetown from Fidia.

Her career includes more than 26 years in administrative and accounting experience with an emphasis in the nonprofit sector for agencies with budgets ranging from $1 million to $40 million. At SIUE she directs, manages and coordinates post award financial and nonfinancial activities for the University.

From 1998 to 2002, Barnes served on the faculty of the NCURA United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Fundamentals in Sponsored Projects Administration sponsored in part by the U.S. Department of Defense. As part of the faculty, she provided workshops to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) minority institutions, which included Hispanic and Indian Tribal Institutions throughout the United States.

Barnes also has conducted grant management workshops for NASA and was a National Science Foundation Computer, Science, Engineering, Math and Science Proposal Reviewer from 2002-04.

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10/5/07

SIUE Emeritus Gerontology Professor Receives Pioneering Award

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Anthony Traxler, emeritus professor of gerontology in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Psychology, recently was presented the Pioneering and Leadership Award by the Local Area Network on Mental Health and Aging for his lifelong service to the elderly and to those with mental disabilities.

Traxler-who received the award at the 12th Annual and 2nd Regional Behavioral Health, Aging and Wellness Conference in Fairview Heights-was cited for his "lifelong dedication and exemplary performance in the development and enhancement of national and state programs in the field of education and services for mental health and aging."

Earlier this year, Traxler received the Mental Health Hero Award from the Community Counseling Center in Alton for his role as an adviser with the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill and the Psi Chi Honor Society, as well as his work with the Madison County Mental Health Board and other work as a leader in education, training, research and services dedicated to mental health and aging issues.

During 38 years with SIUE, Traxler won several awards including the Kimmel Community Service Award, 12 academic honors and awards, and numerous grants to support gerontological services and training. He developed the gerontology certificate program at SIUE and has written more than 190 research papers and presentations.

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10/4/07

Student Art Therapy Assoc. To Present Puppetry, Storytelling Lecturer

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Lani Gerity, an art therapist who integrates puppetry and storytelling in her therapeutic work, will speak at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12, in Room 2401 of Alumni Hall at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. The event is sponsored by the SIUE Student Art Therapy Association.

Gerity will speak about "Fourteen Secrets for a Happy Artist's Life: Creating Resilience with Puppets and Storytelling," sharing her work in art making, community building, and resilience with Hurricane Katrina survivors.

Gerity earned a master's and a doctorate at New York University and also is an author and a world traveler. She says her passions have led her to seek therapeutic value in non-traditional art forms. Doll making, puppet making and creating "eZines full of encouragement and alternative arts" are where Gerity, who lives in a sea cottage in Nova Scotia, says she is currently focusing her creative skills.

The Oct. 12 event is funded through student activity fees, the SIUE Friends of Art, Student Art Therapy Association and the art therapy area of the SIUE Department of Art and Design. Admission is $5; SIUE students are free.

For more information, contact Linda Brady, (618) 593-0455 or lindabrady@charter.net, or Rosemary Barnes, rbarnes@siue.edu, to schedule an interview.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is proud to celebrate its 50th Anniversary and first half century of excellence. The University has grown from 1,776 students in 1957 to nearly 13,500 students today. SIUE is a catalyst for the cultural and intellectual vitality and economic development of Southwestern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region.

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10/4/07

SIUE, SLU, Washington University and SIU Med School Collaborate

Focus on Child Health: Landmark National Research Initiative to Examine Development of St. Louis Kids

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The National Institutes of Health has selected the city of St. Louis and Macoupin County, Ill., as sites for the National Children's Study, the largest study of child and human health ever conducted in the United States. The extensive population-based study looks at the health and development of children by following them from before birth to adulthood.

"The National Children's Study is an investment in the future," says Terry Leet, Ph.D., lead investigator of the St. Louis and Macoupin County study sites and chairman of the department of community health at Saint Louis University School of Public Health.

"Examining the kinds of questions that influence the health and well-being of children is critically important to the entire community, whether you are a parent, grandparent or researcher. What we find could be a potential gold mine of data for scientists who are studying what causes diseases in children."

Saint Louis University School of Public Health is partnering on the project with Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and St. Louis Battelle Memorial Institute.

As the lead institution, Saint Louis University School of Public Health has received a $26 million, five-year grant from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and a consortium of federal agencies including the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Saint Louis University is one of 22 new study centers added to the National Children's Study, which will follow a representative sample of 100,000 children from before birth to age 21. The study seeks information to prevent and treat some of the nation's most pressing health problems, including autism, birth defects, diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

Saint Louis University expects to enroll 250 participants from the city of St. Louis and 250 participants from Macoupin County, a rural county, for each of four years starting in 2009.

SIU School of Medicine in Springfield will provide expertise and liaison to various health care providers as SIU physicians offer both obstetrical and primary care services in central Illinois, including Macoupin County. SIU graduates also are in practice in the region.

"This project offers the chance to put the St. Louis area and Macoupin County on the forefront of research into maternal and child health," Leet says. "It also fosters collaboration between the region's key research institutions."

The study examines health patterns of a large population and is similar in scope to the Framingham Heart Study and the Women's Health Initiative, which also investigated risk factors for major chronic diseases. Data will be collected at home and in health clinics.

The study begins either prior to conception or in the first trimester of pregnancy.

"There are a lot of things that happen prior to birth that set the thermostat on how vulnerable you are to risk factors for diseases," says Louise Flick, Dr.PH, co-principal investigator and professor of nursing from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing. "We are studying children to age 21 because some of the exposures we suspect are important have consequences that take a lot time to develop."

Researchers will gather data on a child's genetic makeup and a number of biological, chemical, environmental, physical and psychosocial factors. Most of the money from the grant will be spent hiring data collectors for both sites.

Researchers will collect environmental samples from the air and water where children spend more than 30 hours a week to learn about potential exposures. They will analyze blood, urine, hair and fingernail samples from children. In addition, children will be screened for asthma, birth defects, diabetes, injury susceptibility, obesity and physical and mental development disorders. The outcomes of pregnancies, such as preterm delivery, also will be evaluated.

From that repository of information, scientists can look at how certain factors alone or in combination with others affect pregnancy outcomes, child development and health and an adult's likelihood of developing certain diseases.

"The National Children's Study is an important step in setting the foundation for understanding the environmental and genetic determinants of pediatric and adult diseases," says Michael DeBaun, M.D., MPH, co-principal investigator and associate professor of pediatrics and biostatistics at Washington University.

"We now have a unique opportunity coupled with a high level of responsibility to fulfill the mission of this important award for the next generation."

The cost of the research is estimated at $3 billion over the next 25 years. Congress appropriated $69 million in fiscal year 2007 for the National Children's Study.

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10/4/07

SIUE Nursing Announces Winners of National Scholarships

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Nicholas Till, of Springfield, a graduate student in the SIUE School of Nursing, is a Nurses Educational Funds Inc. (NEF) scholarship recipient.

The national organization advances the profession of nursing through the promotion of graduate education. Till will receive a $2,000 scholarship and joins an elite group of 11 master's candidates from across the United States who also received the award.

Ann Popkess, an instructor of primary care-health systems nursing in the School, is recipient of a $4,000 national scholarship recognizing her academic achievements and leadership potential. She is among 15 doctoral degree candidates across the country receiving this prestigious award. Popkess is a doctoral candidate at the Indiana University School of Nursing.

NEF has awarded more than $1.5 million to nurses who have gone on to become deans, directors, administrators and researchers in the nursing profession.

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10/4/07

SIUE Nursing Assistant Professor Nationally Recognized

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Richard Yakimo, assistant professor of primary care-health systems nursing in the SIUE School of Nursing, recently was elected a Distinguished Practitioner in the National Academies of Practice in Nursing. He will receive a National Academies of Practice Medallion during a banquet in Arlington, Va., on Nov. 3.

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10/4/07

SIUE Nursing Associate Professor Honored With Awards

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Cynthia Schmidt, associate professor of family health-community health nursing in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing, recently won awards for her scholarly research in pediatric nursing.

Schmidt was awarded an American Nurses Foundation Grant designating her a 2007 Midwest Nursing Research Grant Society Scholar. She also was awarded the inaugural Annette and Henry Baich Research Award through the SIUE Graduate School.

The Baich honor is bestowed on a faculty member whose research proposal submitted for internal funding is judged the best of all proposals submitted for a given year. These awards total more than $11,000.

In addition, MCN: The American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing named a collaborative work by Schmidt and Associate Professor Laura Bernaix as the MCN Paper of the Year in the research category. Bernaix also is a faculty member in family health-community health nursing.

The paper, Children's Perceptions of Nurses and Nurse Behaviors, is based on Bernaix and Schmidt's research at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. The journal chooses articles for two national awards annually-one for research and the other for practice.

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10/3/07

SIUE Renews Its Love Affair With The Cougar Mascot

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Ever since a construction worker claimed he saw a cougar on the new campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville during the early-1960s, the big cat was destined to become the University mascot.

Just in time for its 50th Anniversary, SIUE today unveiled a new University Cougar logo during a special ceremony led by SIUE Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift in the University's Goshen Lounge. A banner was unfurled to reveal a new sleek look for the Cougar.

University officials were quick to point out the new Cougar logo will not take the place of the SIUE word mark or the marketing logo-SIUe-but will be used primarily to support the athletics teams.

The new logo represents a sharper, edgier cougar image reflective of highly competitive sports teams, says Barbara O'Malley, executive director of Marketing and Communications for the University. "SIUE is at a point in its history when we are excelling at all levels," O'Malley said. "We're moving up in U.S. News & World Report rankings, our Senior Assignment program is recognized nationally and we were just ranked No. 1 in 9 out of 10 categories when compared with our competition.

"Now, with the transition to NCAA Division I Athletics, it seemed like a fitting time to update the Cougar."

However, there was a time when the mascot could have become a Titan, a piece of Greek mythology. The SIUE Titans-doesn't seem right, does it. During fall registration 1967, students were asked to vote; the cougar won by nearly 4-to-1, according to The Alestle, and the SIU Board of Trustees approved the mascot in late September.

Fast forward 40 years and the new cougar is quite fashionable. "There are close to 30 university cougar mascots in the country," said Jim Harper, a 1993 graduate of SIUE and director of Marketing at 4 Alarm Studio in St. Louis, creators of the new look. "We wanted this cougar to be distinctive and capture the competitive spirit of SIUE."

The St. Louis-based studio, made up mostly of SIUE alumni, worked with the campus community on the logo project last spring. Focus groups were conducted with faculty, staff, and students to determine the new Cougar approach.

"It was also nice that SIUE let us explore both traditional and very modern concepts," Harper said. "It was during the modern exploration that one of our designers developed the chosen concept."

The logo will be used primarily by SIUE Intercollegiate Athletics. Everyone will be able to wear SIUE Cougar apparel, which is available in the SIUE Bookstore. Student groups and academic groups may use the Cougar logo to represent their SIUE Cougar spirit and to support SIUE Athletics.

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10/3/07

New Bronze Statue Commemorates SIUE Cougar Mascots

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Chimega and Kyna live!

Well, actually, the two former Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Cougar mascots have been honored with a life-size bronze statue unveiled today at the entrance to SIUE's Morris University Center.

The School Spirit and Pride Committee of SIUE's Student Government began a fund-raising campaign in 2005 to erect a bronze sculpture of a cougar, the University's mascot, on campus. The committee said the sculpture would be "a monument" to the live cougars that lived on campus between 1968 and 1987.

Chimega, whose name is the Apache word for "cougar," was the University's first live cougar mascot who came to campus in early 1968 and who "retired" in 1982. Chimega, who for many years was featured at Intercollegiate Athletics events and in Homecoming parades, continued to live in a designated area next to the student center until her death in March 1985. She is buried next to the pond behind Founders Hall.

In 1982, the campus acquired a second cougar, Kyna, who reigned as mascot until the program was discontinued in 1987 because of safety concerns. She was given to a wildlife preserve near Cairo in Southern Illinois.

The committee raised some $39,000 for the statue that was created by artist Dawn Weimer, of Loveland, Colo. The entire piece is nine feet tall while the cougar itself measures 11-feet from its paw to the tip of its tail, all resting on a four-foot base. Titled "Taking Stalk," the sculpture depicts a stalking cougar on a rock.

Revenue for the statue came from several student fundraisers, including the sale of $2 commemorative rubber bracelets and commemorative bricks at $50 each that are intended for a patio surrounding the proposed statue. The committee also raised money from two trivia nights, various food booth concessions, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and other sources.

Several University officials and SIUE alumni were scheduled to help unveil the piece including SIUE Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift, Vice Chancellor Narbeth Emmanuel, SIUE Student Body President Laurie Estilette; former Student Body presidents; and members of the Cougar Guard, students who cared for Chimega and Kyna.

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10/3/07

SIUE Alcohol Awareness Week Set For Oct. 8-12 On Campus

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students will be able to learn more about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption during Alcohol Awareness Week from Oct. 8-12 when several activities will be available, courtesy of SIUE Counseling Services, University Housing and the University's Alcohol and Drug Task Force.

Activities range from a game using "Fatal Vision" goggles to a multi-media drunk driving simulator.

"National studies have shown that a student's GPA is affected by excessive alcohol consumption," said Andy King, director of SIUE Counseling Services. "As alcohol consumption goes up, a student's GPA goes down. That correlation has been proven," he said. "We're trying to help students become more aware of the impact alcohol can have on their lives and the damage excessive alcohol consumption can do." King said SIUE doesn't have "a big problem" but that the danger exists.

Jennifer Ladd, a graduate student and one of the coordinators of events during the week, said Alcohol Awareness Week is "a functional outreach" to the University community. "This is about people learning the effects of alcohol on themselves, their loved ones and their community," she said. "We don't see a huge problem here at SIUE, but national statistics show us that there's potential for alcohol abuse among college students."

Alcohol Awareness Week activities include:

Monday, Oct. 8:

• 10 a.m.-3 p.m.-Stratton Quadrangle-DUI Simulator-Sponsored by PEERS, a national organization dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of drunk driving, the multimedia simulator takes participants through what can happen if an inebriated person drives.
• 8:08 p.m.-"Alpha Dog" film-Bluff Hall Multifunction Room; refreshments provided.

Tuesday, Oct. 9:

• 8 p.m.-"Wheel of Misfortune": golf cart obstacle course-Bluff Hall lobby and service parking lot.
• 8:08 p.m.-"Alpha Dog" film-Woodland Hall Multifunction Room; refreshments provided

Wednesday, Oct. 10:

• 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.-Goshen Lounge-"A Fatal Spin on the Classic Obstacle Course" using the "Fatal Vision" goggles.
• 8:08 p.m.-"Alpha Dog" film-Evergreen Hall Multifunction Room; refreshments provided

Thursday, Oct. 11:

• 7:30 p.m-Open Mic Night-10 a.m.-2 p.m., Multipurpose Room of Evergreen Hall -benefitting Mothers Against Drunk Driving

All events are free. For information about Alcohol Awareness Week, call Ladd, (618) 650-2197.

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10/3/07

SIUE Mechanical Engineering Professor Named ASME Fellow

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Albert C.J. Luo, an associate professor of mechanical engineering at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, has been named a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). He will be honored in November at ASME's annual banquet in Seattle.

Founded in 1880, ASME currently is a 120,000-member professional organization focused on technical, educational, and research issues of the engineering and technology community. The ASME Foundation, through its initiatives in education, advocacy and public policy, has an impact on all aspects of the mechanical engineering community.

Luo is one of two researchers elected as Fellow for 2007 by the Technical Committee of Vibration and Sound. The Fellow Grade recognizes significant engineering achievement and contributions to the engineering profession.

According to Professor Keqin Gu, Luo is the first faculty member in the SIUE School of Engineering to achieve an ASME fellowship. "Professor Luo's outstanding research and his broad contribution to the field is well recognized in this cutting edge research community," said Gu, a professor of mechanical and industrial engineering and chair of that department.

"He also has served on an unusual number of editorial boards of technical journals and book series, and has organized conference symposiums. There is no doubt that Professor Luo is among the most prominent scholars currently active in the field of nonlinear dynamics and vibration in the world," Gu said.

"His recent election to the ASME Fellowship is a well deserved but not surprising recognition to this status." Luo has been doing research and study of the theory and application of nonlinear dynamics and mechanics for more than 20 years. Luo's research in vibration could help manufacturers discover ways to make production more efficient and thus more profitable.

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10/1/07

SIUE Celebrates Homecoming Weekend; Club Sports Logo Launch

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) The excitement of homecoming activities is the perfect backdrop for a big unveiling for the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Club Sports program Saturday, Oct. 6.

"This year's homecoming events have an extra sense of excitement surrounding them with the 50th Anniversary tie-in," said Keith Becherer, assistant director of Campus Recreation. "The design and unveiling of a new SIUE Club Sports logo mark an exciting time for the Club Sports program.

"This new logo will allow for consistent recognition of the whole range of active and diverse clubs within the program."

Club Sports has between 20 and 30 organizations under its umbrella at any given time, with nearly 460 student participants this academic year. For more than 30 years, Club Sports participants have engaged in activities as diverse as skydiving, rock climbing, football, soccer, basketball, fencing, ice hockey, underwater hockey, cricket and rugby, to name a few.

Saturday's activities will begin with a Campus Recreation 5K Poker Run at 8:30 a.m. starting at the SIUE Student Fitness Center. Big Red Read with Clifford the Big Red Dog will follow at 10 a.m. in the Goshen Lounge, on the first floor of SIUE's Morris Center, and Family Weekend at the Rock Climbing Wall, on the first floor of the Student Fitness Center, will take place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Third Annual Homecoming Classic and Custom Car Show is scheduled from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. in Parking Lot B, with an SIUE Alumni Picnic, Sh-Boom concert and Kids Corner Inflatables throughout the afternoon in the field west of the Morris Center.

Festivities will continue Saturday with A Family, Friends and Fun Bowling Tournament from noon-5 p.m. at Cougar Lanes, on the lower level of the center. Nursing Simulated Lab Tours are scheduled from 1-3 p.m. on the second floor of Alumni Hall.

A Student Affairs Alumni and Friends Homecoming Hospitality Tent will be open from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Recreational Sports Complex (Rec-Plex), with pom-poms and popcorn offered from 2-3 p.m., sponsored by the Cougar Parent and Family Association. SIUE Club Football will tackle Marquette University during a 3 p.m. game at the complex.

Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship Alumni, Friends & Family Ice Cream Social will take place from 2-4 p.m. at the Religious Center, while a University Housing Trivia Contest will kick off in Conference Center, on the second floor of the Morris Center, from 3-6 p.m.

Festivities will come to a close Saturday with the Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet at 6:30 p.m. in the Vadalabene Center as well as a Club Showcase featuring hypnotist Frederick Winters and INPULSE, an a capella group, at 8 p.m. in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of the Morris Center.

The Chancellor's Literary Society Closing Ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, in the Mississippi-Illinois Room, on the second floor of the Morris Center, followed by a Sunday brunch from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the University Restaurant, on the second floor of the center.

SIUE Women's and Men's Soccer teams will take on University Missouri-Rolla at noon and 2:30 p.m., respectively, at Korte Stadium.

For more information, contact the Kimmel Leadership Center, (618) 650-2686.

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10/1/07

SIUE To Host Two Previews For College-Bound Students And Parents

(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill) Each year more and more students have been considering Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and that means a growing number of them have been attending PREVIEW SIUE each fall. Last year, the University added an additional day because the number of PREVIEW participants has nearly doubled in the past six years. The additional day was very successful.

PREVIEW SIUE is an opportunity for prospective students and their families to see the beauty of the campus, visit with faculty and staff and obtain answers to their questions in one visit to campus. This year, SIUE will conduct its annual open house events on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 8, and Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 12.

"Last year, we added the second day and made the event much more manageable than trying to accommodate everyone on one day," said Karen Bollinger, assistant director of SIUE Admissions and Academic Marketing. "We believe we can do a much better job in personalizing PREVIEW by offering the event on two separate days," she said.

"We like to get to know the students and their parents, while at the same time offering them the information they'll need to make sound decisions about a college choice. Our program is one of the few campus-visit programs that include participation from virtually all academic and student services units in one setting," Bollinger said.

"At PREVIEW SIUE, our faculty and staff take an active role in talking with prospective students and introducing them to the academic opportunities available at SIUE."

At both events, Scott Belobrajdic, assistant vice chancellor for Enrollment Management, will present opening remarks at 8:30 a.m. in Meridian Ballroom, on the first floor of SIUE's Delyte W. Morris University Center. Students may speak one-on-one to department representatives at each event during the information fairs in the Goshen Lounge, also on the first floor of the Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

At both PREVIEW opportunities, the opening session, SIUEssentials, will cover information on admission requirements, financing an education, and University Housing options. Students then will have opportunities to tour the central campus, meet with faculty and staff at the information fair, or attend an informational session of their choice. All academic units will play host to the informational sessions for students interested in their respective program.

Also, prospective students may attend a panel session made up of current SIUE students. Similarly, prospective parents also may attend a panel of parents of current SIUE students.

Informational session topics include Tailor-Made Careers, A 'Major' Decision, Transferring to SIUE and Extreme Financial Aid as well as academic sessions presented by the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences and the schools of Business, Education, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine.

Check-in and on-site registration begins at 8 a.m. in the Morris University Center. It is recommended that interested students pre-register online at the Web site: www.siue.edu/prospectivestudents/visit, or by telephone: (800) 447-SIUE.

Tours of the campus and residence halls will be offered until 2 p.m., while campus offices will remain open until 4:30 p.m. PREVIEW parking will be available at Korte Stadium, on Stadium Road, just west of the main campus at the bottom of the bluff. Shuttles will bring guests to SIUE's Morris Center. There is no charge for either event.

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