CARBONDALE, Ill. (WSIL) -- Southern Illinois University's Simmons Law School received a significant $250,000 donation from Judge Phil Gilbert. This contribution established the Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund in honor of Gilbert's father.
In honor of the gift, the SIU Simmons Law School unveiled the new name of a suite, naming it the Sen. John G. Gilbert Administrative Suite on April 17.
Angela Upchurch, acting dean of the SIU Simmons Law School, expressed the significance of the gift.
"This name is more than just a sign on a wall, it reflects our vision, our mission, and the values that guide us every day," Upchurch said. "SIU and the law school are thriving today because of pioneers like Senator Gilbert."
The Sen. John G. Gilbert Impact Fund will support initiatives for law students, including scholarships and research opportunities.
John Simmons, SIU Board of Trustees member, praised Judge Gilbert's dedication.
"With distinction and honor, Judge Phil Gilbert has carried forward his father’s commitment to justice and public service," Simmons said. “Following in his father’s footsteps, Judge Gilbert has built an exemplary career. His thoughtful jurisprudence, unwavering integrity, and dedication to the rule of law have earned him the respect of the legal community and the citizens he serves.�
John G. Gilbert, a Carbondale native, played a key role in developing of the SIU Edwardsville and the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield. He also played a was instrumental in establishing the law school at SIU Carbondale.
Judge Gilbert reflected on his father's influence on education in the region.
"Seeing the impact this law school has had on Southern Illinois, my father would be very proud," said Judge Gilbert. “My father was labeled as the ‘education senator,� and that was not just because of what he did at SIU. He was a strong supporter of education at all levels.�
SIU System President Dan Mahony highlighted Judge Gilbert's impact on the university community.
“Judge Gilbert really is Mr. SIU,� Dr. Mahony said. “He cares about this place, he is passionate about this place, he puts this place first. While I never met Sen. Gilbert, I feel like I have because I know a lot of what Phil does was impacted by his father.�
Judge Gilbert's career includes serving as a U.S. district judge for the Southern District of Illinois. He continues to serve as a senior judge after assuming Senior Status in 2014.
Chancellor Austin Lane expressed gratitude for the donation as well.
“Judge Gilbert, thanks to you and thanks to your family,� Lane said. “This is an incredible gift, and your legacy will live on.�
