Shop SIU First: Strengthening the Saluki Spirit Through the Saluki Market

Part of the SIU Alumni Association’s mission has always been to foster connections—those between alumni, students, and friends of Southern Illinois University. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce the Saluki Market, a new initiative that embodies this spirit of connection and support. As an e-commerce platform that exclusively showcases products by SIU alumni, students, and friends, the Saluki Market was designed to celebrate our community's talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

What Does It Mean to Shop SIU First?

"Shop SIU First" was first uttered during a meeting of the minds on the Saluki Market project. The more we thought about it, it became something more than a slogan; it’s a philosophy that reinforces a time-honored tradition of Salukis helping Salukis. Whether you’re an alum living thousands of miles away, a current student, or a friend who loves and appreciates the impact our university has on the region and state, shopping SIU first means choosing to support businesses and products that are rooted in our shared Saluki experience. It’s about investing in the success of our own, fostering pride in our community, and strengthening the legacy of SIU in a free market.

The Saluki Market is an opportunity to easily support SIU while doing something we all do every day: Shopping online. You’re helping alumni entrepreneurs grow their businesses, supporting student artisans showcasing their creativity, and ensuring that the values and traditions of SIU remain vibrant and strong.

How does the Saluki Market fit in?

The Saluki Market is the heartbeat of the "Shop SIU First" philosophy. It’s an online marketplace exclusively dedicated to products and services created by the SIU community. From handcrafted goods and unique artwork to tasty treats and maroon apparel, Saluki Market is all about discovering the creativity and innovation in the SIU family.

The platform is not just about buying and selling—it’s about creating opportunities. Alumni entrepreneurs can reach a network of loyal Saluki supporters, students can gain real-world experience in showcasing and marketing their talents, and shoppers can discover high-quality, meaningful products developed by some of their former classmates.

How You Can Get Involved

Shopping on Saluki Market is just the beginning. Here’s how you can embrace the "Shop SIU First" philosophy:

• Spread the Word: Share the Saluki Market with friends, family, and colleagues. The more people who know about this platform, the greater the impact we can make.
• Contribute Your Creations: If you’re an alum or student with a product or service to offer, consider becoming a vendor on Saluki Market. This is your chance to showcase your work to a supportive audience.
• Engage with the Community: Leave reviews, share your purchases on social media, and let others know why you’re proud to shop SIU first.