Southern Illinois leaders, decision makers, and community changers will gather around the breakfast table this summer as one of the region’s most recognized networking and leadership events makes its return.

After years of packed rooms, powerful conversations, and regional collaboration, the Southern Illinois Leaders Breakfast is officially back. Reimagined for today while honoring the tradition that made it successful, the event aims to reconnect leaders from across Southern Illinois to share ideas, strengthen partnerships, and inspire forward momentum throughout the region.

Presented by SI Now and hosted at the new SIU Tedrick Welcome Center by the SIU Foundation, the relaunch event will feature Colonel (Ret.) Scot Heathman, a nationally recognized speaker, leadership expert, and CEO of the Wedge Innovation Center in Alton, Illinois.

Heathman’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and perseverance under extraordinary circumstances. During a distinguished 25-year career in the United States Air Force, Heathman commanded major military installations, including Scott Air Force Base, led organizations of up to 36,000 people, and flew combat missions around the world. His career placed him in some of the most demanding leadership environments imaginable. But his greatest battle came off the battlefield.

Following his military career, Heathman was diagnosed with a devastating brain tumor that dramatically changed his life. The illness left him relearning how to walk, talk, see, and lead. What followed was a long and grueling recovery process that tested every lesson in courage and determination he had ever learned, but through perseverance and resilience, he fought his way back.

Today, through his organization Command with Courage, Heathman works with businesses, organizations, and communities to help leaders navigate adversity, embrace accountability, and lead with integrity and innovation. His message resonates far beyond military leadership, speaking directly to companies, communities, and organizations facing uncertainty, change, and growth.

For Southern Illinois leaders looking to reconnect, collaborate, and be inspired, the breakfast promises to once again become a signature regional gathering where ideas turn into action and relationships help shape the future of the region.

REGISTER: HERE

Tuesday, June 2, 2026

7:30 to 9:00 a.m.

SIU Tedrick Welcome Center

1264 Lincoln Drive

Carbondale, Illinois 62901

Registration is $25 per person

*Advance registration is required.