Carbondale Reporter

Banterra Bank has entered into a name, image, and likeness (NIL) partnership with four athletes from Southern Illinois University (SIU) Saluki to promote the Banterra brand and the Banterra-SIU Saluki Visa Debit Card. The athletes involved are Kennard Davis and Damien Mayo Jr. from men's basketball, Jackie Lis from women's softball, and Jeniah Thompson from women's basketball. All hail from regions within Banterra's six-state footprint.

Jeff May, President & CEO of Banterra Bank, stated: "We were able to sit down with these athletes for a dinner and conversation and really get to know them, plus share Banterra's story." He emphasized that the athletes' dedication aligns with Banterra's values.

The NIL partnership is part of Banterra's broader commitment to SIU through their naming rights agreement for the Banterra Center. This includes an exclusive affinity debit card, where a portion of transaction revenue supports SIU scholarships and NIL efforts for Saluki athletes.

Tim Leonard, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics for SIU, remarked: "Banterra continues to be a valued and supportive partner for Saluki Athletics."

The bank plans to feature the athletes in various media channels including social media platforms, TV and radio spots, print materials, and possibly outdoor events.

Kennard Davis is a sophomore majoring in Sports Administration from St. Louis, Missouri. Jackie Lis is a junior accounting major from Newburgh, Indiana. Both have notable achievements in their respective sports at SIU.