Saluki Takeover Tour Springfield | SIU Foundation | SIU

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 | 6-8 p.m. - Chancellor’s Reception

LRS Hangar at Springfield Airport Complex
820 S. Airport Road, Springfield, IL 62707

Look out, Springfield! The Salukis are taking over. Chancellor Austin A. Lane invites you to join fellow SIU alumni, friends, and university leaders for the Saluki Takeover Tour Springfield. This is our second visit since 2023, and we’re excited to gather Salukis in the state capital for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration of all that’s shaping SIU’s future.

Hosted at the LRS Hangar at the Springfield Airport Complex (820 S. Airport Road, Springfield, IL 62707), this reception offers a one-of-a-kind setting for Saluki fellowship. During the event, guests will also have the opportunity to view the Levi Vintage Car & Motorcycle Collection, featuring hundreds of cars and motorcycles from a private collection on display.

Parking Information

Parking is available in the following locations:

• Lot 1: Lincoln Land Community College Lot
• Lot 2: Air Combat Museum
• Lot 3: Illinois Extension Office

Once those lots are full, parking will be allowed in Overflow 1 and then Overflow 2, as long as there has been no rain.

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

Monday, March 23, 2026 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. - Saluki Women Connect & Inspire

5th Street Gem
221 South 5th Street, Springfield, IL 62701

The Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) invites you to join us for a Connect and Inspire Networking Event on Monday, March 23, as part of the Saluki Takeover Tour Springfield. Hosted by SIU alumna and Springfield Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase ’11 at her venue, 5th Street Gem, this evening is all about community, connection and purpose.

Campus leaders will step behind the bar as celebrity bartenders, serving your favorite drinks while raising funds for the WLC Activity Fund. All tips directly support student scholarships and faculty and staff micro-grants.

Celebrity Bartenders include:
Dr. Austin Lane, SIU Chancellor
Dr. Daniel Mahony, SIU System President
Matt Kupec, SIU Foundation CEO
Dr. Paul Frazier, Vice Chancellor for Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Wendell Williams, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management

There is no cost to attend. Come ready to connect, celebrate and support a meaningful cause. Complimentary appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available.