On Feb. 7, SIU established the  Melvin C. Terrell Special Collection and renamed the Faner Hall central atrium in his honor. Terrell graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 1978 with a Ph.D in Higher Education Administration and Black Studies and a passion for student development. 

According to Jamal Watson, guest speaker and faculty colleague, and Walter Ray, political papers archivist, the purpose was to ensure future generations will know his name and learn from his leadership and commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Terrell, vice president emeritus of Northeastern Illinois University, said the recognition was meaningful, nearly 50 years after he completed his degree.

“This is the place where I got my Ph.D. when I was 28 years old,” Terrell said. “It is a dream come true. I feel very humbled and excited.”

The collection includes manuscripts, photographs and artifacts documenting Terrell’s career, including his 20-year tenure as vice president for student affairs at Northeastern Illinois University. Terrell is one of the first African American administrators to hold that position at a predominantly white institution for that length of time.

Ray, who curated the exhibit, said the dedication aligns with the university’s initiative, started in 2017, to document African American contributions to southern Illinois.

Ray emphasized that the collection serves a purpose beyond academic research.

“The message to minorities is one of leadership and inspiration,” Ray said.

Terrell said he hopes students who visit the collection in future decades will learn specific values.

“Mentoring, togetherness and diplomacy,” Terrell said. “I want them to see the importance of education and how it can influence one’s life.”

A quote displayed in the exhibit, which encapsulates Terrell’s philosophy, reads: “It is my hope that when this chapter of my life is written, the most salient passages will be those that speak of my legacy of leadership… Of all the roles that I have played, the role of mentoring has been my most important.”

Terrell said during his remarks that leadership requires creating conditions for others to succeed.

“Leadership is not about visibility. It is about responsibility,” Terrell said. “It’s about creating the conditions in which others can grow.”

Family and friends in attendance painted a different picture of Terrell.

Cassandra Taylor Bridges, Terrell’s niece, said her uncle maintains high standards for family members, including daily check-ins.

“What did you eat?” and “Did you exercise?” Cassandra said her uncle often asks.

Lemuel Watson served as master of ceremonies. Watson, a longtime colleague, called him “The Chief” and described Terrell’s influence as authentic intelligence — a wisdom that creates space for others to grow.

“He is that wise counsel,” Watson said during the program. “Dr. Terrell’s life is a framework… a model.”

Terrell addressed the current debate over DEI programs in higher education during his closing remarks.

“DEI programs are relevant and important in our society,” Terrell said. “We may have differences, but we are all human beings, and we want to look for the betterment of our society.”

Terrell said his mentor at SIUC, Donald J. Tolle, influenced his career in student affairs, leading him to where he is now.

The dedication is one among several significant Black History Month events in Carbondale. The Faner Hall Atrium is a central location on campus.

Staff Reporter, Trevor John, can be reached @[email protected]

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