SIUE Undergraduate Admissions and Campus Partners Treat Admitted Students to Dinner, Golf and a Night at the Museum

SIUE Undergraduate Admissions and Campus Partners Treat Admitted Students to Dinner, Golf and a Night at the Museum

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville admissions staff and multiple campus partners hosted admitted students for the academic year 2026-27 along with their families. During two weeks in March, the SIUE delegation, which included alumni, greeted more than 100 students in venues across Chicago and St. Louis, Mo. as well as high school counselors from nearly 40 suburban Chicago high schools.

"What stood out in Chicago was the energy across all the events. At the student receptions, students weren't there just to learn more and inform their decision, most showed up already confident in SIUE. That excitement carried through the room with families and our staff," said Kevin Wathen, EdD, Interim Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management.

In Naperville, SIUE also hosted a luncheon for Hope Chicago staff and 51 high school counselors and staff from 37 high schools throughout the Chicago and northwestern suburban area. Wathen was impressed with the engagement of community partners, saying, "At the counselor event, they came in just as engaged, asking thoughtful questions and really wanting to understand how we support their students."

A total of 131 admitted students and guests enjoyed dinner at Dave & Busters in the Chicagoland area, a tour of the St. Louis City Museum alongside Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, and practice swings at the driving ranges at Top Golf in both regions.

"Our number one goal each year is to host admitted students and their families and to provide timely and accurate information to allow students to make their final decision for fall," said Kelley Brooks, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions. "This year we were excited to welcome SIUE Alumni from the Chicago and St. Louis area as well as campus partners such as Summer Success, University Housing, Financial Aid, and New Student Families and Programs. Admitted students and their families had a great time attending the receptions!"

Wathen agreed, adding, "Across all events, you could feel the momentum around SIUE and the level of care and commitment across the institution, from the Chancellor joining us, to the staff who showed up and did what they do best- connect with students and families."

Photos by Howard Ash