Hannah Connolly, a dedicated student at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU), has been elected by her peers to serve on the SIU System’s Board of Trustees for a one-year term starting July 1, 2024. A recipient of SIU’s prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarship, Connolly has excelled both academically and in extracurricular activities since arriving at SIU in 2022.
Before attending SIU, Connolly was homeschooled, which she credits for fostering her independent learning and leadership skills. At SIU, she has been actively involved in various facets of campus life, including serving as a member of the women’s swim team, participating in the Pre-Law Association, and contributing as one of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Ambassadors. Her commitment extends to governance as well, having served on the Undergraduate Student Government, where she advocated for student interests.
Connolly's primary goal on the Board of Trustees is to represent and amplify student voices, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed at the highest levels of university governance. She emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in her role, promising to keep students informed about her decisions and actions on the board.
Looking ahead, Connolly plans to pursue her passion for law by attending law school after completing her undergraduate studies at SIU in May 2026. Her election to the Board of Trustees marks a significant achievement in her journey of leadership and service within the SIU community.
