As double alumna of SIU, Stacye Saunders has an affinity for the university and the community. More than that, she is “well-versed in course and curriculum development, supplemental instruction and student outreach and engagement” and works “diligently to serve underrepresented students across campus,” according to Victoria Taylor, Trio Student Support Services assistant director.
Saunders is a “selfless mentor and advocate for our beloved SIU students” as she assists them in overcoming “any academic, social or career obstacle that potentially separates them from their goals.”
Get to know STACYE SAUNDERS
Name: Stacye Saunders
Department/title: TRIO Student Support Services / academic support specialist
Years at SIU Carbondale: 10 years
Give us the elevator pitch for your job.
I serve an amazing group of students by providing a conglomerate of support services to help them accomplish their academic goals while at SIU and be prepared for the next step after graduation. Those services include, but are not limited to: pre-academic advising, personal/academic/social/career counseling, cultural and social activities, workshops, financial aid application assistance and so much more!
What is your favorite part of your job?
Seeing students persevere and graduate.
Why did you choose SIU? I came to SIU because the top 10 students at my high school made a pact to attend the same college. They decided on SIU after a weekend visit that I was unable to attend, so I came to SIU without ever visiting the campus. I earned a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s degree in educational psychology, and I am currently pursuing my doctorate in educational administration and higher education. I am grateful SIU is a big, beautiful campus and I have absolutely no regrets.
Winter, Summer, Spring or Fall … which one and why: I love fall. I was born in the fall and to me it is the most beautiful season. The leaves are colorful, the weather is cold but fresh and enlivening, and you can wear warm and fuzzy socks every day if you wish.
When I was growing up, my favorite toy or item was?
My favorite toy was the Cornsilk Cabbage Patch doll. I loved combing my doll’s hair. I received a Cabbage Patch doll every year for Christmas as a child.
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