EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. —SIUE Athletics proudly recognizes Jennifer Hertel, a generous and loyal supporter of the Cougars Champions Fund (CCF). As a proud alumna and passionate fan, Jennifer's generosity has played an instrumental role in shaping the future of all 16 Division 1 programs.
Jennifer obtained her master's degree in healthcare administration from SIUE in 2009, and she currently serves as Program Manager for Clinical Contracted Services for BJC Healthcare. Her family resides in Glen Carbon, and they are very active supporters entering their second year as basketball court side season ticket holders.
Hear from the Hertel Family:
Q: Why do you place SIUE Athletics into your annual donation plan?
"I am passionate about lifelong learning and believe in the mission and vision at SIUE. SIUE has dedicated leaders and faculty that are impacting our community and future workforce every day. Students can receive high quality education with countless opportunities for university and community engagement no matter their passion, age, background, or interest."
Q: What is your most memorable moment as a supporter?
"Sitting next to my daughter at the arena in Evansville when the Men's Basketball team cut down the net after they won the OVC Championship."
Q: What motivated you to make your first gift to the Cougars Champions Fund?
"A few years back, I attended my first SIUE Men's basketball game and sat next to a friend (current season ticket holder and very active SIUE supporter). He shared with me that he had court side seats in the past with his daughter and they created the best memories together while watching the games. I wanted that same experience with my daughter. This will be our third season together, and we continue to support athletics and look forward to every Men's and Women's game! I have extra seats this year in hopes to get my husband, son, and other friends and family to more games with us."
Q: What makes SIUE Athletics special to you?
"SIUE Athletics offers family-friendly and exciting opportunities to watch talented athletes play under the guidance of incredible coaches, support staff and leaders. After basketball games, the players come out to sign autographs and take pictures with fans. Wow! I don't think fans at other universities get to experience anything like that."
Q: What excites you most about the future of the department?
"The enthusiasm and excitement at SIUE games is contagious. We cannot wait to see more and more fans pack the First Community Arena each season! We look forward to celebrating and cheering on the Cougars for years to come!"
Join Jennifer along with many others in shaping the future of SIUE Athletics by considering a gift to the Cougars Champions Fund today. Your gift—no matter the size—makes an immediate and long-lasting impact.
For more information contact Noah Manns (nomanns@siue.edu).
