Commencement Spotlight: Honors Graduate and Ireland Undergraduate Student Brandi Spann

Commencement Spotlight: Honors Graduate and Ireland Undergraduate Student Brandi Spann

December 12, 2024, 4:00 PM

Brandi Spann, a graduating senior at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, will receive her Bachelor of Arts in English with a double minor in Creative Writing and Women's Studies on Saturday, Dec. 14.

Spann's time at SIUE took her across an ocean, which helped shape the English major she will be earning on Saturday. Her journey is so extraordinary, that it caught the attention of faculty member Charles Berger, professor of English language and literature.

"Brandi is one of the very best English students I've taught at SIUE over the last 23 years," said Berger. "She is a brilliant student, a highly accomplished writer, and a sophisticated literary interpreter. But what truly sets her apart is her extraordinary engagement on campus and her ability to seize opportunities, both at SIUE and abroad."

Spann's academic accolades include being an Honors student and maintaining a 3.856 GPA. She began SIUE's accelerated graduate program during her junior year. Beyond academics, her involvement on campus highlights leadership and passion. She serves as vice president of Sigma Tau Delta, the international English honor society, and will assume the presidency in the spring. Her efforts include everything from organizing open mic nights to fostering a creative and supportive community.

"These events bring creative students together and uplift each other," Spann said. "They showcase the importance of the humanities and the university as a creative space."

Spann has also made significant contributions to University publications. She has been an editor for the student newspaper, The Alestle, for the past year and a half. Perhaps more remarkable is her work as an editor for the "River Bluff Review," SIUE's esteemed literary student anthology, where her pieces have been published multiple times.

Reporting has also connected Spann to the SIUE and Edwardsville communities.

"My time at the newspaper specifically has gotten me involved," said Spann. "I reported on the revival of the Mississippi River Festival that happened this past summer, local vintage baseball teams, our Louis Sullivan collection in the library, the beginning of SIUE's Freedom School, student bands and the Black Girls Rock Fashion Show."

It was her sophomore study abroad experience in Dublin City University that was a pivotal moment for Spann.
"Being an on-campus resident, all four years, gave me a strong sense of belonging. The contrast between living in Ireland and returning to SIUE highlighted the supportive environment we have here," said Spann.

Berger described Spann's story as the epitome of what makes SIUE a place for students to thrive.

"I can't think of a single student I've come to know over the years who took better advantage of everything SIUE has to offer," said Berger. "Brandi's accomplishments are remarkable."

As Spann prepares to graduate, she reflects with gratitude on her time at SIUE. Her achievements, leadership, and passion for growth make her an inspiration to fellow and future Cougars.

"I'm grateful to call SIUE home and to share this campus with so many creative and intelligent peers. My years here have taught me to value thought, art, storytelling and community."

PHOTO: Brandi Spann