SIU dedicates renovated Jim Hayes Stadium Club after $1 million gift

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — Southern Illinois University has dedicated the newly renovated Jim Hayes Stadium Club at Saluki Stadium following a $1 million gift from Jamie and Netta Hayes.

Family and friends gathered Thursday for the dedication of the stadium club, which is named in honor of longtime Saluki supporter and former SIU football player Jim Hayes.

The renovation was made possible by Jim Hayes’ son, Jamie Hayes, a 1994 SIU graduate, and his wife, Netta. The SIU Foundation said the gift was made to honor Jim Hayes’ longtime connection to the university while improving the game-day experience for Saluki fans, student-athletes and recruits.

“I wanted to do something special for my dad,” Jamie Hayes said. “I think it’s every kid’s dream to be able to honor his father in some way. I’m proud to be part of the SIU team.”

Saluki Athletics described the renovated stadium club as a premier space designed to provide an elevated game-day experience.

The dedication was held Thursday, Aug. 13, at Saluki Stadium.