SIU Athletics and Community Engagement: A Vision for Growth In 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.