EDWARDSVILLE,, IL —SIUE Athletics proudly recognizes Megan and Liz Claussen, new and dedicated supporters of the Cougars Champions Fund (CCF). Megan and Liz have always held athletics close to their hearts and their philanthropy has been extremely impactful across all 16 varsity programs.
As a proud 2011 alumna, Megan is a current realtor at RE/MAX Alliance and is heavily involved with the women's basketball program. She is among a group of women that helped establish the Her Legacy, the official NIL for SIUE women's basketball. The purpose of the collective is to empower the next generation of student-athletes and equip the current generation with the tools they need to succeed after their playing career. Her partner, Liz, is the Finance Managing Director for Cigna, and the couple reside in Edwardsville with their children.
They are entering their first year as basketball season ticket holders and are excited to be a part of the SIUE community.
Hear from the Claussens:
Q: Why did you decide to start supporting SIUE Athletics?
"As an SIUE alum, this university shaped so much of who I am. Athletics has always been close to my heart because sports build discipline, teamwork, and confidence that carry through every stage of life. Supporting SIUE Athletics is my way of giving back and helping the next generation of Cougars have those same life-changing experiences. It's also incredibly special for Liz and me, raising our family here in Edwardsville, to have our kids see these athletes compete and to look up to them as positive role models right in their own hometown."
Q: In your eyes, what makes SIUE athletics different than other departments in the area?
"The SIUE athletics department truly feels like a family. The coaches, staff, and student-athletes are deeply committed to building relationships and to developing athletes as people first. Their vision, passion, and commitment are driving the momentum we're seeing right now, and it's exciting to watch them build something special."
Q: What is your most memorable moment as supporters?
"For us, it has been watching the growth and positive direction of the women's basketball program. Seeing the energy around the team, the way they compete, and the excitement building for the future has been incredibly rewarding. As alumni and community members, it's inspiring to see how far they've come and to know they're on a path toward something really special."
Q: What excites you most about the future of the department?
"There's so much momentum right now. It's exciting to see the pride in SIUE Athletics continue to grow and the programs gaining traction at the Division I level. We can't wait to see the impact continue to build both on campus and in the community."
Q: What impact do you hope your gift will have on the student-athlete experience?
"We hope our support helps give student-athletes the resources and opportunities to thrive—not only in competition, but in the classroom and in life. Sports are such a powerful teacher, and our goal is for them to leave SIUE with confidence, character, and lifelong skills. If our gift can help enhance their experience and prepare them for success beyond the court, then it's been well worth it."
Join Megan and Liz 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).
