State Senator Bill Haine with SIU Edwardsville Chancellor Randy Pembrook

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Haine (D-Alton) was honored with the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Distinguished Service Award at their 2018 Spring Commencement for his commitment to the university and the state of Illinois.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

“Senator Haine has been an enthusiastic advocate for both SIUE and the SIU School of Dental Medicine in Alton,” SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook said.

Article continues after sponsor message

In the Senate, Haine has played a vital role in supporting the university by securing funding for various school buildings, including the science building, residence halls and construction of the new lab at the SIU School of Dental School Medicine.

During the two-year budget impasse, Haine fought against cuts to the university and supported crucial MAP grant funding to ensure students from middle-and low-income families would be able to continue their education. He also serves on the Dean’s Advisory Board for the SIU School of Medicine.

“I greatly appreciate receiving this great honor from such a prestigious institution,” Haine said. “The impact of the university in our area and in our entire state cannot be overstated. I’m committed to continuing to support the university and its mission for the rest of my tenure in the Illinois Senate.”

Haine was first elected to the Illinois Senate in 2002 and currently serves as the assistant majority leader. He represents portions of Madison, Jersey and St. Clair counties. He has announced this will be his last term in the Illinois Senate.

More like this:

Today - Edwardsville, Roxana, Collinsville, Belleville, Granite and O'Fallon Students Part Of SIU Medical Students' Residence Match

Mar 19, 2025 - Early-Career Prosecutors Secure Jury Trial conviction In Aggravated Assault Case

Feb 19, 2025 - Former Edwardsville Superintendent Dr. Ed Hightower Receives Outstanding Commitment To Education Honor

Mar 16, 2025 - Gov. Pritzker Announces Three Appointments To Boards And Commissions

Dec 2, 2024 - Former Alton Residents' Legacy Gift Fuels Growth Of The UW-Stevens Point Sentry School