Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Old National Bank gives $200,000 for Saluki Way
08/31/2006 | 12:00:00 | Football
Aug. 31, 2006
By Tom Weber
www.SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill. - Just a few hours before kicking off the 2006 season, the Saluki football program picked up a major, off-the-field "win."
Listen to Podcast of Press Conference
Old National Bank became the first major corporate sponsor for Saluki Way, earmarking $200,000 for a new football stadium. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and bank officials announced the grant at a press conference outside of the Troutt-Wittman Academic and Training Center.
SIU hopes to break ground on the $42 million stadium project in 2008 and open the new facility in 2010.
"One of the great pleasures of working with the people of Old National has been their evident and powerful commitment to student-athletes," Chancellor Walter V. Wendler said. "That's what intercollegiate athletics is all about, and we're very pleased they share that passion with all of us."
Saluki director of athletics Mario Moccia said it was an exciting day for the program and the University.
"We're going to have a brand-new stadium, and I think folks will remember that the first major corporate gift was given by Old National," he said.
"Old National is proud to provide a lead gift to support Saluki Way," said Bob Jones, President and CEO of Old National Bancorp. "We believe that this vital project will not only change the landscape of the University, but will also serve as a blueprint to stimulate economic growth and vitality for the entire region."
