July 2009

Alumni spotlight: Nancy Elwess '76

President Obama will honor Nancy Elwess '76 with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring for her role in furthering the academic and personal development of minority students in those fields.

An associate professor of biological sciences at SUNY Plattsburgh, Elwess' recent work has included guiding students in studying of the DNA of ancient Mayan skeletons, as well as a newly discovered gene in single-celled organisms that could hold keys to the mysteries of evolution.

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Romo to return to EIU for Homecoming

Football will be an even bigger part of Homecoming this year, as Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo plans to attend as part of his induction to EIU's athletic Hall of Fame.

The former Panther will join four others receiving the Hall of Fame honor: former basketball standout Henry Domercant, baseball standout and current EIU assistant coach Sean Lyons, former NAIA wrestling champion Don Neece, and longtime friend of athletics Ed Corley.

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A sampling of more alumni news ...

• Edinger runs 'world's toughest foot race' (Update: He placed ninth)
• Family members revive Castelli's Moonlight Restaurant in Alton
• McNary retires as regional superintendent
• Teacher's knack for photography becomes unique ministry
• Danville Airport Authority manager Busey retires
• Romo leads hometown football camp

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Alumni and New Student Picnics a success

Our Alumni and New Student Picnics in Belleville, Lombard and Tinley Park were a great success, with more than 200 alumni and incoming students participating.

Thanks to all who attended, as well as those who donated raffle items. We were able to give away gift cards, desktop accessories and even a micro-fridge to help new students move into the residence halls in style.

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News briefs from the EIU Alumni Association ...

• The All-Greek Alumni Reunion is set for Saturday, July 18, at Mickey’s Bar & Patio (owned and operated by Michael Jerit ’99) in Chicago. Proceeds will benefit the new EIU Fraternity and Sorority Programs scholarship endowment.
• The next "Panthers on the Road" event, a Coaches Show, is set for July 29 at Charleston’s Bar and Grill in New Lenox, IL on July 29. Join Athletics Director Barbara Burke, EIU head coaches and Alumni Association representatives as we celebrate EIU spirit.
• Former members of the Panther Marching Band and Pink Panthers dance team, watch your mailbox to learn more about Homecoming events planned in your honor (Oct. 16-17). Activities are to include a reunion dinner, alumni performances during the parade and halftime show, and much more.

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Other EIU news

• VP for external relations announces plans to retire
• EIU board gives the OK for Renewable Energy Center
• University Police Department upgrades bicycle fleet
• Student Success Center moves into new home
• Charleston leaders OK 'Panther Way' designation

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