CARBONDALE, Ill — Southern Illinois Airport (KMDH) has a new manager: Alyssa S. Connell, a third-generation aviator with more than two decades of experience in aviation.
Connell has served the Southern Illinois Airport Authority in a variety of leadership roles since 2014, most recently as assistant airport manager.
She replaces Gary Shafer, who retired March 31, 2025, after a 46-year tenure of service at Southern Illinois Airport.
“Taking the helm at Southern Illinois Airport is the honor of a lifetime,” said Connell. “I am deeply grateful to Gary Shafer for his mentorship and for setting a gold standard in airport leadership. His vision helped shape this airport into a nationally recognized operation. I look forward to building on that foundation with a forward-thinking, service-driven approach.”
Connell is a doctoral student in Aviation Business Administration at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and holds a master’s degree in aviation management from Southern Illinois University. She also serves as an instructor of aviation management at SIU.
Founded 80 years ago, Southern Illinois Airport serves as the headquarters for Southern Illinois University’s aviation degree programs.
Congratulations Gary on a long career. I worked with you when I was State Director of Aeronautics. I remember you would bring the Division a bushel of peaches from time to time. Enjoy your retirement.
Congrats and “Go DAWGS”……!!!
I remember Gary as airport manager WAY back when I graduated from SIU’s Aviation Management program in 1984. I’ve held a professional career in airport management (MSY, MGW, SBY, now GED) ever since. Congratulations to Gary and Alyssa.