Saluki Takeover Tour Southern Illinois | SIU Foundation | SIU

Look out Southern Illinois, the Salukis are taking over!

Chancellor Austin A. Lane invites you to join your fellow SIU alumni, students, friends, and university representatives for the 2nd Annual Saluki Takeover Tour Southern Illinois. This is your chance to reconnect, network, and celebrate all things SIU at some of the best spots across the region.

Whether you’re a proud alum, a current student, or simply a fan of the Salukis, don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the excitement! Mark your calendar and register for one—or all—of these unforgettable stops.

Thursday, April 3: Carbondale

Apple Creek Country Club
503 Stone Creek Drive, Makanda, IL 62958
Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m.

The Saluki Takeover Tour begins at Apple Creek Country Club, just outside Carbondale. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, this venue offers the perfect setting for alumni, students, and friends to gather and celebrate SIU. Enjoy a reception featuring conversations with university leadership and fellow Salukis.

Tuesday, April 8: Marion

Mt. Dew Park Stadium Club
1000 Miners Drive, Marion, IL 62959
Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m.

Once home to the Southern Illinois Miners, Mt. Dew Park has been transformed into a premier baseball venue, now hosting the Thrillville Thrillbillies of the Prospect League. The Stadium Club provides an exciting atmosphere for an evening of networking and Saluki pride.

Thursday, April 10: Benton

Café Bloom Benton Square
1104 Public Square, Benton, IL 62812
Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m.

Café Bloom, located in the heart of Benton Square, is a welcoming space known for its locally crafted coffee, teas, and signature drinks. With a charming floral shop inside, the venue offers a warm and inviting environment for reconnecting with SIU alumni and friends.

Tuesday, April 15: Chester

St. Nicholas Brewery
111 Ferry Street, Chester, IL 62233
Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m.

Set along the Mississippi River, the St. Nicholas Landmark is a historic site that has been part of the region’s story since the 1830s. Now home to St. Nicholas Brewery, it features locally brewed craft beers, unique pub fare, and a setting rich in history. Guests will enjoy an evening of conversation, shared memories, and updates on SIU’s future.

Thursday, April 17: Anna/Jonesboro

Pizza Villa
169 E Vienna Street, Anna, IL 62906
Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m.

A longtime favorite in the Anna-Jonesboro community, Pizza Villa has maintained its reputation for serving exceptional pizzas, calzones, and sandwiches. Originally owned and operated by John and Charlotte Rooney, the restaurant continues to honor its legacy with the same great recipes that made it a local staple. The updated dining space offers a relaxed atmosphere for guests to gather, connect, and celebrate SIU.

Tuesday, April 22: Murphysboro

Faye
1616 Walnut Street, Murphysboro, IL 62966
Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m.

A destination in Murphysboro, Faye blends the charm of a coffee shop with a restaurant and gourmet gift store. Created by the team behind 17th Street BBQ, Faye’s offers a welcoming environment for alumni and friends to close out the Saluki Takeover Tour in a setting that embodies the hospitality and tradition of Southern Illinois.

Each stop on the Saluki Takeover Tour in Southern Illinois offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local community, meet fellow Salukis, and share in the excitement of SIU. Whether you’re attending a school visit or joining us for a reception, we can’t wait to see you there. Don’t forget to register for the events to secure your spot. Let’s make this tour a memorable one for the entire local Saluki family!

For more information, email siuf@foundation.siu.edu or call 618-453-4900.