SIU Athletics and Community Engagement: A Vision for GrowthIn this episode of Small Town Big Business, we sit down with Tim Leonard, Athletic Director, and Kat Martin, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development, at Southern Illinois University (SIU). They discuss their roles and initiatives within SIU's athletic department, focusing on building infrastructure, fundraising, and community engagement to elevate the programs. The conversation covers the importance of investments in both men's and women's sports, the challenges and opportunities brought by changes in collegiate athletics, such as NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) agreements, and how SIU aims to model itself as a competitive, community-centric athletic department. They also share personal anecdotes and insights into their approach to development and outreach, including significant contributions from alumni and local businesses. The episode underscores the critical role that athletics play in community development and the economic impact on the Southern Illinois region.00:00 Welcome to Small Town Big Business00:50 Meet Our Guests: Tim Leonard and Kat Martin01:38 SIU Athletics: Building Infrastructure and Generating Revenue03:51 Tim Leonard's Journey: From Idaho to SIU06:27 Kat Martin's Return to Southern Illinois14:32 The Vision for SIU Athletics20:35 Engaging Local Businesses and NIL Opportunities22:31 Navigating Conference Alignment and Transfer Portals23:30 Strategic Investment in Sports Programs24:28 Football's Potential and Economic Impact27:00 Engaging Alumni and Building Relationships32:14 Community Support and Economic Benefits34:23 Women's Sports and Major Donations36:48 Message to Future Athletes and Coaches39:11 Financial Literacy for Student Athletes41:05 Passion for Coaching and Athletics43:01 Fun and Unique Traditions44:13 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://siusalukis.com/