Whether in person, virtually, or behind-the-scenes, Richard Smith plays an important role in keeping the university community safe from cyber threats. Smith’s extensive knowledge and commitment to delivering outstanding service…

A recent Leading, Empowering, Advocating and Developing (L.E.A.D.) selection, Cara Doerr has been with the university in a variety of roles over her 11 years on campus, allowing her to…

As double alumna of SIU, Stacye Saunders has an affinity for the university and the community.

The SIU Board of Trustees recently honored Khalid Meksem with the inaugural SIU System Inventor of the Year award. Meksem, a professor of genomics and genetics at SIU Carbondale, is an internationally recognized expert in the field of seed traits and nematodes resistance.

Jan Thompson, director and professor of the School of Journalism and a professor in the College of Arts and Media, was recently nominated for a Chicago/Midwest Emmy in the Outstanding Achievement for Special Event category for her directing of “La Hija de Rappaccini,” a livestream Chicago Opera Theater production performed April 24 at the Chicago Field Museum.

Whether planning events, helping to mold future lawyers or identifying issues and seeing they are addressed before they become problematic, Kristy White makes sure the SIU School of Law puts “their best foot forward” whether it is something for faculty, students or guests. Judi Ray, the law school’s assistant dean for administration, notes law school students often go to White for assistance because of her institutional knowledge about the law school. “We know that she will take care of making sure everything is completed in a timely manner but that she will take the time to ask for clarification if she needs it,” Ray said.

Karen Baertsch came to SIU Carbondale nearly two decades ago after first attending a conference on campus. That Baertsch enjoys working with faculty and students is evident, according to Shannon McCrocklin, an assistant professor in the linguistics department. In Baertsch’s year as department chair, McCrocklin notes Baertsch’s supportive demeanor and a change in the environment with a goal of “working toward productive solutions to problems.”

At 19, Dylan Chambers has already devoted more time and energy to serving the public than many people who are decades older have. The Southern Illinois University Carbondale sophomore can’t imagine living any other way.