Saluki Takeover Tour plants the SIU flag across the country

The Saluki Takeover Tour continued to be a cornerstone of the SIU Foundation's engagement strategy in FY25, expanding its reach and impact across key alumni and recruitment markets. During the fiscal year, the Foundation hosted takeover tour stops in Chicago, Memphis, Dallas, Houston, Florida, St. Louis and throughout Southern Illinois.

Each stop featured Chancellor’s Receptions, donor visits, meetings with high schools and community colleges, corporate engagement opportunities and alumni gatherings. The initiative takes Southern Illinois University on the road, connecting alumni and friends with university leadership while strengthening recruitment pipelines and philanthropic partnerships.

More than 1,600 alumni and friends participated in 14 Chancellor’s Receptions during FY25, marking another year of strong growth in attendance and engagement.

“In its role as an accelerator, the SIU Foundation continues to lead efforts that deepen alumni connections and drive philanthropic support for the university,” said Matt Kupec, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations.

The Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois included visits to all 17 southernmost Illinois counties, engagement with 50 high schools, and six Chancellor’s Receptions, underscoring SIU’s commitment to regional access, affordability and workforce development.

Together, the Saluki Takeover Tours brought alumni and friends together, strengthened partnerships with schools and communities, engaged dozens of donors, and generated meaningful momentum for enrollment growth and fundraising as the Foundation looks ahead to an even broader slate of takeover tour stops in FY26.