In this episode of Office Hours, SIU System President Dan Mahony explores how leadership, service and involvement outside the classroom help students develop the skills employers value most — including communication, teamwork, problem-solving and leadership. Joining the conversation are student affairs leaders from SIU Edwardsville and SIU Carbondale, along with student trustees from both campuses. Together, they share powerful stories about experiential learning, stepping outside comfort zones and turning student involvement into lifelong skills.

In this episode of Office Hours, SIU System President Dan Mahony explores the deep and evolving connection between agriculture and higher education and why it matters to every Illinoisan.

From economic impact to cutting-edge science, this episode reveals how agriculture fuels innovation, resilience and opportunities across the SIU System and beyond. You’ll hear from:

• Illinois Department of Agriculture Director and SIU alum Jerry Costello on why agriculture is Illinois’ #1 industry • SIU researchers engineering microbes that convert plastic into edible protein and caffeine into affordable medicine • Leaders supporting the mental health of farm families through the Farm Family Resource Initiative • Students and faculty shaping the next generation of agricultural leadership

This conversation goes far beyond traditional farming and into global sustainability, workforce development and the future of food and biomanufacturing.

Listen and learn how SIU is leading in fields both expected and unexpected.

International students are a vital part of the SIU System — enriching our classrooms, driving research and innovation, and strengthening our regional workforce and communities. In this episode, President Dan Mahony sits down with SIU faculty who once began their journeys in the U.S. as international students themselves.

Hear firsthand stories from:

· Dr. Elza Ibroscheva (SIUE) — Associate Provost for Accreditation, Assessment and Academic Planning at SIUE who came to the U.S. from Bulgaria and discovered a passion for research, teaching, and academic leadership.

· Dr. Jeb Asirvatham (SIUC) — Associate Professor in Agribusiness Economics at SIUC whose journey from India to SIU shaped his career, research, and family life.

· Cheryl Borowiak (SIUE) — Director of International Affairs, sharing insights on admissions, visas, student support and creating welcoming spaces for global learners.

Subscribe and listen for more conversations from across the SIU System!