SIU Foundation Raises $39 Million, Supports More Than 2,000 Students in Second-Best Year Ever
Supporters of Southern Illinois University Carbondale donated $39 million in Fiscal Year 2025, marking the second-highest fundraising total in SIU Foundation history. This incredible support advances scholarships, research, and capital projects across campus.
The Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.6 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 students, representing over 17 percent of the student body.
"Our donors are the heart of everything we do,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations and CEO of the SIU Foundation. “Their support provides real momentum, opening doors for students, investing in groundbreaking research and ensuring SIU continues to thrive for generations to come.”
The Foundation has increased scholarship support for five consecutive years. The FY25 total reflects a nearly 135 percent increase compared to FY19.
“I am extremely thankful,” said SIU junior and scholarship recipient Ema Dutcher. “Thanks to my scholarship, I was able to study abroad in Costa Rica. That experience shaped me both academically and personally. I will never forget it.”
The numbers speak for themselves, each representing a new record:
More than $400 million has been raised through FY25.
Total scholarship dollars awarded in FY25.
A record number of scholarships awarded.
More than 17 percent of all SIU students received an SIU Foundation scholarship in FY25.
Campaign Progress
The Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign continues to gain momentum with more than $400 million in commitments toward its historic $500 million goal. It is the fifth-largest fundraising campaign in Illinois public university history.
Major Gifts and Milestones
The most recent fiscal year featured several high-impact gifts and building dedications:
- Dr. Bob and Beth Gower made a $2.5 million gift to support research, and the McLafferty Annex was renamed the Gower Translational Research Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
- A $250,000 gift from Judge Phil Gilbert established the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of his father. The Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite at Simmons Law School was unveiled on April 17.
- Oyd and Annette Craddock made a $25,000 gift to the College of Business and Analytics Dean’s Club Endowment Fund. In their honor, the Oyd Craddock Dean’s Conference Room was dedicated in Rehn Hall.
- SIU also marked the Simmons Law School ribbon cutting on August 16 and broke ground on the Tedrick Welcome Center on October 11.
A Nationally Distinctive Institution
This year, SIU Carbondale was named one of only 21 universities nationwide to earn dual recognition from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as both a Research 1 (R1) and an Opportunity College and University (OCU).
“Many institutions can say they conduct top-level research, and many schools can say they offer affordability and a great return on investment,” said Chancellor Austin A. Lane. “These designations from Carnegie show very few – less than 1 percent in fact – can say both. At Southern, we can.”
These designations reflect SIU’s commitment to excellence and access. The university serves a diverse student body, with nearly 40 percent receiving Pell Grants and two in five identifying as first-generation college students.
“Salukis have always known SIU Carbondale is exceptional,” Lane said. “These national recognitions affirm our commitment to both excellence and opportunity.”
Showcasing the Saluki Spirit
In June, the SIU Foundation launched the inaugural episode of The Impact Report, a new television series highlighting extraordinary stories of innovation, opportunity, and transformation at SIU and throughout the region. Airing on WSIU, the 10-episode series will spotlight groundbreaking research, student success, and the power of philanthropy. From personal triumphs to community impact, The Impact Report brings Saluki pride to the screen in a whole new way.
Looking Ahead
With continued momentum in the Imagine SIU 2030 fundraising campaign and strong engagement from alumni and donors across the country, the SIU Foundation is poised for another successful year.
To learn more or make a gift, visit siuf.org.