Michael Champion began his employment at SIU during the 2007-2008 academic year as an Academic Advisor for Saluki Athletics.

He is responsible for providing academic assistance to the men's and women's track & field and cross country teams. Originally from Cincinnati, OH, Champion holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Management from Florida A&M University where he served as the FAMU Health Care Management Association Public Relations Co-Chair, and participated in the FAMU Junior Mentors Program. Michael earned a Masters of Education in Sports Administration from Xavier University in 2004.

Prior to SIU, Champion worked as an intern in sales, marketing, and promotions for the Cincinnati Blaze. Most recently, he served as an Academic Coach for the National Football Foundation's Play It Smart Program at Harlan Community Academy and South Shore High Schools in Chicago, IL. Champion is a member of the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics (N4A)