Susan Graham, senior director of development with the SIU Foundation for the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences, is the 2025 winner of the Administrative/Professional Staff Excellence Award.
A staff member at Southern Illinois University Carbondale since March 31, 1993, Graham routinely goes far beyond in developing relationships with donors, families and students, John Groninger, professor of forestry and associate dean for academic programs and student affairs at CALPS, said in his nomination letter.
“(She) has directly fostered student success and inclusive excellence, especially in her work with the Agricultural Student Council and the Collegiate FFA, to highlight just two,” Groninger wrote. “What is truly remarkable about Susan is how she has woven a genuinely caring spirit for students into relationships through the continuum of students, their organizations on campus, connections with state and national student organizations, the Illinois agricultural community and the individual families that constitute this community.”
Get to know SUSAN GRAHAM
Name: Susan Graham
Department/title: Senior director of development with the SIU Foundation for the College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
Years at SIU Carbondale: 32
Why did you choose SIU?
I chose SIU because of the benefits and growth opportunities. I was a student employee at Shawnee Community College, and for one semester at Southeast Missouri State, better known as SEMO, and knew I loved working in academia. It also provided the opportunity to complete my bachelor’s and pursue a master’s. I’m now close to completion of a doctoral degree.
What is the favorite part of your job?
The people, from our alumni and supporters to recruiting students and connecting with their families. I love connecting with Salukis.
I’m happiest when I am …
Traveling and especially with my family
At the top of my “bucket list’ is to …
Travel the world and play on as many golf courses as possible. I do not play well but enjoy being outside.
What are three things you cannot live without?
My family – my husband of 35 years and children (quadruplet sons, one daughter-in-law and the second joining in October) — my church and faith, and music. I took 14 years of classical piano lessons and serve as music minister at my church. Instead of having another child, we purchased a baby grand piano several years ago.
