Son of Southern Illinois: Glenn Poshard’s Life in Politics and Education

A life of principles, service, and faith

This first biography of Glenn Poshard traces the life of a young man who rose from rural poverty in Southern Illinois to become a United States congressman and president of the Southern Illinois
University system. This profound portrait unveils a life and career dedicated to making higher education affordable and improving the quality of life for the community of Southern Illinois.

Beginning with his childhood in a two-room home near Herald, Illinois and the early, tragic loss of his sister, this biography navigates Poshard’s service in the military, his time as a state senator  and United States congressman, his run for governor, his years at Southern Illinois University, and the establishment of the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children. Intimacies of his personal life are disclosed, such as his struggles with and treatment for depression, his passion for education, and the lasting bonds he formed with his teachers. His unpopular decision to refuse PAC donations is also highlighted, along with the work that went into sponsoring the Illinois Wilderness Act, and his relationship with civil rights activist John Lewis. Glenn Poshard’s efforts for the Wilderness Act designated Southern Illinois’s famous Garden of the Gods as a National Wilderness Preservation System, which continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Poshard’s path from poverty was riddled with hardship, but his perseverance and family values ultimately allowed for longstanding personal and civic growth. From an admirable work ethic to a steadfast commitment to problem-solving, this biography illuminates the life and accomplishments of an impressive and generous leader.

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“Very few, if any, biographies of prominent politicians are this candid, resulting in a unique and important political biography.”
—John S. Jackson, editor of Southern Illinois University at 150 Years

Glenn Poshard has lived a remarkable life … His is an American story worth reading. —Governor Jim Edgar

It is difficult to estimate the influence of Glenn’s life on vulnerable and ‘faceless’ children whose lives have been dignified and enriched through his vision, love, and service … His life is truly a testament that those who grow through service are magnified, and humble hearts combined with genuine love can lead to great accomplishments.
—Jini Roby, professor emeritus of social work, Brigham Young University

“More than any person I know, Glenn Poshard has given a life of commitment to the families of Southern Illinois. … The voters, even when they disagreed with him, knew he was an honest, caring man in a world desperately searching for public servants to believe in.” —Senator Dick Durbin