In The News: With Student Highlights, Alumni Profiles, National Rankings and Innovation Leadership, SIUE Makes Headlines
June 24, 2025, 3:20 PM
Here are some of the recently published stories featuring Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students, alumni, and initiatives:
- WGEL: Clinton County 4-H Foundation Awards Scholarships to SIUE Students
WGEL Radio highlighted the Clinton County 4-H Foundation’s 2025 scholarship recipients, including two SIUE students recognized for academic achievement and community service. The Foundation's support helps rural students access higher education, reinforcing SIUE’s strong ties with regional partners in youth development.
Read the story on WGEL.
Photo: Abigail Voss and Christopher Richter - RiverBender: The Wedge Innovation Center Hires SIUE Alum as Community Manager
RiverBender featured the appointment of SIUE graduate Stephanie Schrage as the new Community Manager at The Wedge Innovation Center. The story emphasized the alumna’s journey from student entrepreneur to ecosystem builder in downtown Alton, helping bridge innovation, mentorship, and small business support in the region.
Read the article on RiverBender
Photo: Stephanie Schrage - Ithaca Journal: Kathleen Madigan Live Performance
Comedian and SIUE alumna Kathleen Madigan continues to draw national audiences. The Ithaca Journal promoted her latest comedy tour stop, spotlighting her signature Midwestern wit and decades-long career. Madigan’s ongoing success highlights SIUE’s impact on arts and entertainment.
Event details via the Ithaca Journal
PHOTO : Kathleen Madigan -
RiverBender: Local Veteran and SIUE Student Jared Jess Shares His Story
Army veteran Jared Jess was profiled by RiverBender for his inspiring path from military service to academic success. As a first-generation college student, Jess discussed the supportive environment at SIUE and how the university helped him transition into civilian and student life.
Read the full feature on RiverBender
PHOTO : Jared Jess
- GoBankingRates: SIUE's Hometown Among Cheapest and Safest Places to Live in the U.S.
In a recent feature by GoBankingRates.com, Edwardsville, home to SIUE, was ranked among the “cheapest and safest” places to live in the United States. The article praised the area’s cost of living, low crime rates, and quality of life, making it a favorable environment for students and families alike.
Read the GoBankingRates article
PHOTO: Engineering Building -
Research.com: Edwardsville Ranks #2 Safest College Town in America
According to Research.com’s 2025 rankings, Edwardsville is the #2 Safest College Town in America, bolstering SIUE’s reputation for offering a secure and welcoming academic community. The analysis was based on crime statistics, safety resources, and university initiatives that prioritize student well-being.
Explore the full rankings on Research.com
PHOTO: Patrol Officers Ferrari and Sellers
The Intelligencer: Performance Chiropractic + Wellness Opens in Edwardsville
The Intelligencer featured the recent expansion of Performance Chiropractic + Wellness, led by Pablo Orozco, PhD, a Southern Illinois University Edwardsville alumnus. A Granite City High School graduate, Orozco earned his bachelor’s degree in exercise science from SIUE before completing his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Logan University. His new facility offers expanded services and space to support holistic, performance-based wellness for the growing Edwardsville community. An official grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, July 12.
Read the full article on The Intelligencer
PHOTO: Pablo Orozco
