Saluki Takeover Tour plants the SIU flag across the country

Saluki Takeover Tour has become a mainstay of the SIU Foundation’s calendar, growing by leaps and bounds each year. In FY24, the Foundation hosted takeover tour events in Chicago, Springfield, Florida, Nashville, St. Louis, Southern Illinois and Hollywood.

Each stop features Chancellor’s Receptions, donor visits, meetings at local high schools and community colleges, corporate engagements, and alumni events. The initiative takes SIU on the road and connects alumni with university leaders. This year, more than 1,500 alumni gathered for 14 Chancellor’s Receptions.

“In its role as an accelerator, the SIU Foundation has led the way on multiple initiatives, increasing engagement with alumni and philanthropic support that is making a major difference,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations.

The Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois included visits to Illinois’ southernmost 17 counties, more than 20 school visits, and six Chancellor’s Receptions. It was capped by a Southern Illinois Celebration on May 4 at Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort, which was attended by more than 400 people.

The Saluki Takeover Tour have brought together thousands of alumni and friends, forged partnerships with high schools and community colleges, engaged dozens of donors, and raised $1.2 million. Fiscal Year 2025 will feature more takeover tour stops than ever before!