Paul Simon Public Policy Institute

Senator Paul Simon founded the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University a quarter-century ago to promote constructive public policies, foster civil discourse, and encourage students to consider careers in public service.

On SIU Day, your gift to the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute helps fund programs such as:

Public Affairs Internships – Help Salukis gain professional experience in state government and public affairs. Institute interns work closely with their placement offices to assist with research, office support, and programming. Internships are paid and offer college course credit.

Internship Endowments

Alexander Lane Internship Endowment
Supports a scholarship awarded each spring to at least one student who works with a minority member of the Illinois General Assembly, providing challenging and rewarding assignments.

Gene Callahan Governmental Internship Endowment
Provides students with an internship opportunity in Springfield, Illinois, to gain experience working with members of the state legislature, statewide offices, or state executive agencies.

Latino Heritage Internship Fund
Provides funding for a paid student internship for an SIU Carbondale student of Latinx heritage. The intern works in the field of public policy, public service, or government. Internship placement is determined by the student’s interests and career goals.

Scholarship Endowments

Barbara Brown Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established by family and donors to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Barbara L. Brown, Ph.D., who taught at SIU Carbondale for more than 30 years. The fund provides scholarships to SIU Carbondale students who articulate or demonstrate an interest in public service or the public good. Preference is given to female students with a diploma from a southern Illinois high school.

David Yepsen Director’s Award Endowment
This award formalizes one of the first initiatives David enacted during his tenure. Donations support students while commemorating David’s contributions to Paul Simon’s living legacy.

Edwin D. Phillips Scholarship
Awarded to undergraduate seniors or graduate students affiliated with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute who plan to pursue a career in public service.

Jeanne Hurley Simon Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Honors Jeanne’s life and legacy and assists young women dedicated to public service interests anywhere in Illinois.

Matt Baughman Scholarship Endowment
Supports an annual scholarship awarded to a student at SIU who is engaged with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.

Mike Lawrence Scholarship Endowment
Supports an annual scholarship for a student involved with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute. Preference is given to recipients who are members of the Student Ambassador Program, African American, and highly involved in the SIU community.

General Support Funds

Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Endowment
The Institute’s primary source of revenue for operational and programmatic needs.

Friends of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Fund
Assists with expenses for operations, programs, and special initiatives as needed.

Metro-East Youth Leadership Weekend Fund
Supports an annual leadership weekend on campus. This program focuses on leadership development and community service while motivating and encouraging youth to contribute to their communities and make positive choices.