Sajal Lahiri, a professor in the College of Business and Analytics, holds the prestigious Vandeveer Endowed Chair in Economics and is a globally renowned scholar.

Considered a preeminent scholar in global public relations practice and intercultural communication, Nilanjana Bardhan, a professor in the communication studies program, is co-author of an upcoming book that focuses on leadership in building inclusive diversity in public relations. She has presented about three dozen papers at conferences, authored, co-authored and co-edited three books and published almost 30 papers and chapters in academic journals and books.

When considering the impact that Kenneth Stikkers, a professor of philosophy and affiliated faculty in Africana and Multicultural Studies has on former students, understanding Stikkers’ selection for a prestigious mentorship award from the Caribbean Philosophical Association is easy.

Rita Medina has had various roles since arriving on campus seven years ago, and her ability to “connect with students and dedication to being there through every step in their college journey is impressive,” notes Taylor Bennett, assistant director of communications with undergraduate admissions. Medina, an academic adviser in the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology and Mathematics since September 2021, said she “enjoys the opportunity to interact more with students one-on-one and hear about their personal experiences at SIU.”

As a three-degree SIU Carbondale alumna who is working on a fourth degree, Rachel Frazier, interim director, Office of the Registrar, strives to relay those same positive experiences in working with undergraduate students and university staff.

“Lisa is a ray of sunshine who is always willing to help others,” said Tena Bennett, director of the Student Center. “She is so helpful and glad to answer any questions people may have. She does whatever she can to ensure that everyone who comes in to get an ID card starts off on the right foot at SIU.”

Much of the work Sarah VanVooren does as associate director of Conference and Scheduling Services is behind the scenes, but colleagues say she is one of the most organized, hard-working people on campus and the results of her efforts are obvious.

As an academic adviser for four majors and 16 specializations within the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, Kathy Elson takes on many roles. She is a “life coach, mentor, and great listener” for the students, said Susan Graham, senior business manager within the college.

Students at Southern Illinois University Carbondale have the opportunity to learn — and interact daily — with internationally recognized faculty who not only are gifted instructors but also talented artists such as Pirooz Kalayeh.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale students and community members have an opportunity this June to learn about ancient history in interdisciplinary, team-taught, hands-on excursions to Greece and Turkey or Egypt and explore life’s great questions such as democracy and the afterlife.