Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumna and Democratic nominee for Illinois’ 8th District State Representative, Shantel Franklin, will return to campus Sept. 16 for an evening focused on leadership, public service and her journey from SIU student to public servant.
Franklin will speak from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Tedrick Welcome Center, following a reception from 5 to 6 p.m. The event will provide students, faculty, staff and community members an opportunity to hear from an SIU alumna whose career in public service began during her time at the University.
Franklin made history as the first woman and youngest Democratic nominee for State Representative in Illinois’ 8th District. Raised on Chicago’s West Side, Franklin experienced homelessness as a child and attended eight different schools. Those experiences helped shape her commitment to public service and her dedication to creating greater opportunities for families and communities.
A proud Saluki, Franklin earned her bachelor’s degree in political science in 2016. During her time at SIU, she discovered her passion for leadership and public service. She served as chief of staff for Undergraduate Student Government, was crowned the University’s 2014 Homecoming Queen and was a member of the Zeta Chi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Her connection to the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute played a pivotal role in launching her political career. In 2016, Franklin became the Alexander Lane Intern in the Illinois Senate President’s Office, gaining firsthand experience in state government and the legislative process.
Franklin, who is running unopposed, will assume office in January 2027, continuing a career dedicated to strengthening communities and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Her Sept. 16 visit to SIU represents a full-circle moment for an alumna whose own journey into public service began on the Carbondale campus.