2020 Emerging Saluki Leader Awards

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Last Updated: Jun 23, 2026, 08:41 AM

The Emerging Saluki Leader Award (ESLA) recognizes recent graduates of the college for their outstanding accomplishments and service. Alumni of the SIU College of Business and Analytics who have graduated within the previous 15 years and are deserving of recognition for their outstanding achievements in business, academia, government, nonprofit organizations or service to their community are eligible for the award.

The members of the 2020 class of ESLA awardees were announced and honored at the annual College of Business and Analytics Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony. The awardees were chosen by the college’s executive leadership for their outstanding achievements at the early stages in their careers.

2020 Winners

 Chad Brandon

Chad Brandon

Finance ’03

Chad Brandon has built a successful career in risk management and insurance, serving as President of The Tedrick Group, a regional, independently owned firm known for its strong client relationships and sustained growth. After joining the firm in 2010, Chad quickly emerged as a leader and was named president in 2018, guiding the organization through a period of record growth while maintaining its independent, service‑driven culture.

Chad’s leadership is grounded in strategic thinking, analytical rigor, and a deep commitment to helping organizations manage risk with precision and confidence. Under his direction, The Tedrick Group has expanded its impact across the region, supporting businesses, nonprofits, and individuals with tailored risk management solutions.

A proud Southern Illinois University graduate, Chad also holds an MBA from DePaul University. His professional journey reflects the next generation of business leadership—values‑based, forward‑thinking, and community‑focused. Through his work and continued connection to SIU, Chad exemplifies the promise, leadership, and impact recognized by the Emerging Saluki Leader Award.

Jené Pulliam Jené Pulliam

Finance ’07, Accounting ’19

Jené Pulliam serves as Vice President of Internal Audit at State Farm, where she leads teams responsible for strengthening the organization’s risk management, internal controls, and governance processes. In this role, she provides strategic oversight and leadership within one of the nation’s largest financial services organizations, supporting accountability, operational excellence, and long‑term organizational integrity.

A proud double alumna of Southern Illinois University, Jené built a strong foundation in business through her degrees in finance and accounting before continuing her education with an Executive MBA from The Ohio State University. Her commitment to academic and professional excellence has been recognized nationally, including being named among Poets & Quants’ Best and Brightest MBAs of 2024.

Jené remains deeply connected to SIU and the College of Business and Analytics through service on the School of Management and Marketing Advisory Board, where she supports student development, leadership preparation, and career readiness. Her engagement reflects a strong commitment to giving back to the institution that shaped her professional journey.

Before her corporate leadership career, Jené was a four‑time Saluki Scholar‑Athlete in volleyball, exemplifying discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. From the volleyball courts at SIU to executive leadership at State Farm, her journey reflects focus, resilience, and a lifelong dedication to learning and service—qualities that define the Emerging Saluki Leader Award.