Southern Illinois University board approves new programs and contract agreements

In a meeting marked by significant decisions, the Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees convened on July 9, 2025, to discuss a range of academic and financial matters that will shape the future of both the Carbondale and Edwardsville campuses.

As the meeting commenced, the board approved the submission of new academic programs and extensions to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. This approval covers a crucial period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, allowing the university to adapt and expand its offerings in response to evolving educational needs.

Transitioning to financial matters, the board welcomed Dr. Yvonne Thompson as the new Executive Director of Audit. Dr. Thompson, who brings over 20 years of experience from prestigious institutions and firms, was selected following a national search. Her appointment is expected to enhance the university's compliance and risk management efforts.

The board also approved a significant contract with Pepsi Mid America for vending services, set to begin in August 2025. This ten-year agreement, valued at approximately $2.6 million, will provide beverages and snacks across campus, supporting various departments and events. The funding for this contract will come from product sales and student dining plans, ensuring a sustainable financial model.

Further discussions included the approval of two major contracts through the Southern Illinois Education Corporation (SIEC). The first contract, valued at up to $26 million over ten years, will provide technical services for the Illinois WorkNet portal, crucial for workforce development initiatives. The second contract, not exceeding $2 million, will implement CourseDog, a software solution aimed at enhancing curriculum and catalog management across the SIU system. This investment reflects the university's commitment to modernizing its operations and improving academic efficiency.

As the meeting concluded, the board's decisions underscored a proactive approach to both academic growth and financial stewardship, setting a promising course for Southern Illinois University in the coming years.