Mike and Linda Yates are longtime members of the Metro East community and proud supporters of SIUE Athletics. Mike, a 1975 graduate of SIUE, has built a successful career and currently serves as Vice Chairman of Truck Centers, Inc. Together, Mike and Linda have deep roots in the region and a strong connection to the university. 

As recent members of the Cougar Champions Fund (CCF), they have reconnected with SIUE in a meaningful way—driven by their experiences back on campus and a desire to support today's student-athletes. Their involvement reflects both their pride in Mike's alma mater and their commitment to giving back to a community that has played an important role in their lives. 

Hear from Mike and Linda: 

Q: What initially drew you to support SIUE Student-Athletes through the CCF? 

What truly drew us back to supporting SIUE Student-Athletes through the Cougar Champions Fund was the Golden Anniversary celebration. Being on campus for that milestone event brought back so many great memories and reminded us of the strong sense of community that makes SIUE so special. The energy, the people, and the pride we felt during that time really stayed with us. It wasn't just about celebrating the past; it was about seeing the impact SIUE continues to have on current student-athletes. Experiencing that firsthand inspired us to get involved again and find meaningful ways to give back, support these athletes, and help ensure future Cougars have the same opportunities and experiences. 

Q: What would your message be to a prospective CCF Member? 

We would tell them it's something you really have to experience for yourself to fully understand. There's a unique enjoyment that comes from being part of it, seeing familiar faces, meeting new people, and feeling that sense of community around SIUE Athletics. It's more than just attending a game; it's about the entire experience. We've even run into people at games that we didn't realize were part of the CCF, which shows how broad and connected the network really is. One of our favorite traditions is making a full day out of it, starting with the women's basketball game, grabbing dinner, and then coming back for the men's game. That time in between feels like a built-in intermission to relax, connect, and take it all in at the Vadalabene Center. It's not just about supporting student-athletes, it's about being part of something bigger, building relationships, and creating traditions you look forward to every time you come back. 

Q: What has been your favorite part of being involved with the CCF so far? 

One of our favorite parts has been the overall game day experience and the connections that come with it. It's not just about watching a game, it's about the full atmosphere, from seeing familiar faces to meeting new people who share the same passion for SIUE Athletics. We've especially enjoyed turning it into a full outing during basketball season, supporting both the women's and men's teams in one day. That time between games gives us a chance to relax, grab a bite to eat, and connect with others, which has made the experience even more enjoyable and something we genuinely look forward to. 

Q: How has your perspective on SIUE Athletics evolved since becoming more involved? 

Being more involved has given us a deeper appreciation for everything that goes into SIUE Athletics. It's easy to focus on what happens during the games, but through the CCF, we've been able to see the bigger picture—the effort, the community, and the impact it has on student-athletes. It also shows us how many people are invested in supporting these programs, even if you don't always realize it at first. That has made our experience more meaningful and strengthened our connection to the university and its mission. 

Q: How has it been to see your contributions to the CCF make an impact? 

It's been incredibly rewarding to see our contributions come to life and make a difference. When you're at games, interacting with others, and experiencing everything firsthand, you begin to understand how your support plays a role in creating opportunities for student-athletes. Whether it's the atmosphere at events, the ability to support multiple programs, or simply being part of a strong and growing community, you can truly see the impact. That connection reinforces why being involved with the CCF is so meaningful to us.  

Join Mike & Linda and many others in helping shape the future of SIUE Athletics by making a gift to the Cougars Champions Fund today. No matter the amount, your support creates an immediate and lasting impact on our student-athletes and programs.   

Do you have any questions or want to learn more? Contact Jaren Alnutt for more info! jalnutt@siue.edu