Cole Steward | SIU Foundation | SIU

Cole Steward joined Saluki Athletics as the Assistant Director of Development on April 1, 2026. In this role, he works to expand and enhance the donor experience, focusing on relationship-building and long-term support of Saluki Athletics.

A native of Salem, Illinois, Steward is a graduate of Southern Illinois University and a former Saluki Football student-athlete, having played under head coach Nick Hill from 2017–2021. Prior to returning to SIU, he spent four years at Western Kentucky University as the Athletic Advising Coordinator, where he supported student-athletes through academic planning, eligibility oversight, and leadership and character development.

Steward earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sport Administration and a Master of Education in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport Studies from Southern Illinois University. He resides in Southern Illinois with his wife, Alli.