2023 JJC 20 UNDER 40

2040 under

Honoring those whose commitment to the community is helping set the pace for the years ahead

2023

Special supplement of the

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

LACEY WALKER

it’s like to be selfless and to have unwavering love and compassion for others. Without them, I would not be who I am today.

“I love my community and serving them through my occupations has been rewarding, but also challenging. I have been pushed out of my comfort zone on many occasions which has led to me meeting new individuals and forming new bonds that I would otherwise not have. The relationships and bonds that I have built within the community are also what drives my involvement.”

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

What drives my involvement in the community is my eagerness for success, my drive to do what is right, and passion to make a difference in someone’s life. It is easy to see through my career choices that I enjoy serving others, and not just during the goods times. As a 911 dispatcher, a funeral director, and a deputy coroner, I sometimes see the worst of the worst. Because of this, I know how difficult these situations can be and I know that I have the ability to make those situations better; even in just a small way.

Funeral director apprentice/911 telecommunicator/ deputy coroner Tell us about yourself and your family I’m from Meredosia and that is where I grew up. I have always had a desire to serve others and a drive to do something that

would make a difference in my community. That is why I was drawn to 911 dispatching, and I absolutely fell in love with this occupation. Through 911 dispatching, I found that I had another passion that I was not expecting. This passion was the funeral service and working as a deputy coroner. I always knew

Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier that I had interest in this field since I did my college internship with the Morgan County Coroner’s Office, but I did not expect this interest to turn into a passion that would become my career.

Because of my passion, I feel like I have been able to fulfill

my goal serving others and doing something that makes a difference in my community. I get to help people on their worst days and during their most difficult times and to me, that makes this hard line of work extremely rewarding.

I come from a very large and

very crazy family. I have three sisters and five brothers, and I am number six out of nine. All throughout my life, my entire family has had such a strong bond. We have gone through numerous hardships but also have been blessed to celebrate so many phases of life together.

My family has taught me what

Congratulations

Lacey Walker alker

The staff at Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home are so proud oud of you.

The names you have trusted for over 120 years.

I love my community and serving them through my occupations has been rewarding, but also challenging. I have been pushed out of my comfort zone on many occasions which has led to me meeting new individuals and forming new bonds that I would otherwise

WALKER Continued on Page 3

Saturday, December 30, 2023

WALKER

Continued from Page 5

not have. The relationships and , bonds that I have built within the community are also what drives my involvement.

I value these relationships and enjoy being able to reach out through them and get involved in the community even more.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced a you, and why.

My mom has been one of the biggest influences in my life.

My mother has been through a lot in her life but despite all this, she still chose to be strong for her kids and always did the right thing. I get my work ethic and my passion to do what is right from my mom. She is my hero.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I think that someone meeting me for the first time would describe me as kind of shy, but also welcoming. It takes me a little to come out of my shell, but once I do, I am very outgoing and love to talk. Getting involved with the community has helped me open up more and feel more comfortable meeting new people and being in large groups/crowds.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I think Jacksonville is a great community and has so many interesting and amazing aspects that make it unique.

One thing that I would like to see change is for the community to have more accessible knowledge about the death care industry. The death care industry is often seen as “taboo” or “scary” and is not something people want to think about. It is viewed this way even though it is such a significant part of life, and everyone must deal with it at some point. I would like to use career fairs, community events/outreach, and even free classes about the death care industry to combat this aversion to the industry and shine a new light on the topic.

I think that this would help relieve a lot of stress that comes when people lose someone and would help them feel more informed and educated about the difficult decisions they have to make when that time does come.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

I see the biggest challenge in my community as being its lack of resources when it comes to emergency medical services.

As a 911 dispatcher, I have first-hand experience seeing the impact that insufficient EMS services has on the community. This not only impacts the community members who call for EMS services and are patients, but also impacts the community members who chose this line of work as their career path. The EMS industry is such a significant aspect of the community, and many lives would be impacted if we did not have this service. I firmly believe that first responders are the backbone of the community and what they do impacts how the community functions.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

My mom and my older sister have had the greatest influences on me. I truly look up to both of them and admire how selfless and passionate they are about life and their kids. My sister is a very independent single mother, and she has shown that is it possible to be successful on your own. She also showed me how to push myself to be the best I can be and not to take no for an answer. My sister has a fire inside her that I aspire to ignite within myself. She is headstrong and knows what she wants and always pushes me to go for things that scare me and are out of my comfort zone. My mother has shown how to stay strong and to always keep fighting no matter how hard things get. She has shown me that although things may be hard now, they will get better if I keep pushing forward and working hard. She has shown me that showing up for the ones you love is what matters and that no matter where life takes me, she will always be my biggest cheerleader.

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the career that I have built for myself and the amazing friend group I have established. My career truly brings me so much joy and makes me feel like I am making a difference in my community.

My friends are always supportive of me and push me to do things that make me a better person and make me happy.

Without my friends, I do not think I would be where I am today.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about the death care industry.

This industry is something that people often do not want to think about as it comes with hard times and difficult emotions. Despite this, the death care industry can be good, and can truly make a difference in someone’s life. When I am taking care of someone’s loved one at the funeral home, I make sure to do so with the utmost care and respect because that is what I would want someone do for me and my family. We death care industry workers have the capacity to make a tremendous difference in a family’s funeral experience and how they say goodbye to their loved ones.

We have the ability to make the family feel safe, secure, well-educated in their decision making, reassured, and like their loved one is being taken care of properly. Because of this, I am so passionate about this line of work. Although this industry is not often thought about, it is so very important when the time does come.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve learned in your life?

One of the most challenging lessons I learned in life is that not everyone is going to always support you and agree with what you are doing. Despite this, you have to be true to yourself and keep doing what is right and what you are passionate about. I think that finding my inner strength and using that to push forward despite all the negativity was one of the most challenging things I learned in.

How did you get involved with what you do now, whether career or volunteer work?

I got involved in my current career through my college internship at MacMurray College.

My college adviser, Dr. Nadine Szczepanski, encouraged that I do an internship with the Morgan County Coroner’s Office and that is where I started making connections and found that I had a passion for the death care industry. One thing led to another, and I was encouraged to apply for West Central Dispatch, where I found my other passion, 911 dispatching.

Through the amazing relationships and friendships that I built at both the coroner’s office and West Central, I was able to get involved with the community more. I found that being involved with in the community really pushed me out of my comfort zone and I really liked the new challenge of trying new things and stepping out my established comfort zone. I am truly grateful for everything that helped lead me to where I am today and for all the people who pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and get involved in this amazing community.

What’s something about you few people know?

One thing that a lot of people don’t know about me is that I actually started college and was majoring in nursing. That quickly changed when I realized that nursing wasn’t the career path I was passionate about. I took a CNA course the summer before my sophomore year of college and while I loved working in the nursing home and spending time with the residents, I realized that it wasn’t quite what I pictured myself doing for the rest of my life and changed my major to biology, which had led me to a career that I love and couldn’t see myself doing anything else.

If you could have dinner with two famous people from history, living or dead, who would they be and why?

A famous person I would like to have dinner with is Caitlin Doughty. She is an American mortician, author, blogger and YouTube personality. She is a big advocate for death acceptance and even owns her own funeral home and cremation

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business. I think I would be able to gain so much valuable insight from her and hear firsthand how she accomplished what she has; especially as being a woman in the death care industry. I really look up to her and admire her accomplishments. Another famous person I would like to meet would be Dr. Frederick Ruysch. He is considered to be the father of embalming due to his discovery of the first successful way of arterial embalming. I think meeting him would be really interesting because I would want to understand how his mind worked and how he figured out how to successfully embalm someone.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

If I could do anything else, I would either want to work with the elderly or with young children/babies. For me, those are the two age groups that instantly bring a smile to my face when you greet them. The knowledge and an advice an older person can provide is easily the best you can get and its heartfelt and warm. They truly just enjoy having company and bring such joy to the ones around them. If I could have one wish, It would be to spend another evening with my grandmother. And with children/babies, they are so carefree, so energized, and just themselves. They don’t worry about what others think of them. They don’t have to stress about adult things and are just able to make memories and have fun. Watching my nieces and nephews play all together and hearing them giggle is so pure and can brighten any bad day.

What are your goals for yourself?

My goal for myself is to be happy in the life that I created and keep making memories with the people that I love. I want to live a successful and fulfilling life that leaves no room for “I wish I would have” or “I should have done.” I want to live my life to the fullest and enjoy every aspect of it, even the small parts. We only get one life to live, and my goal is to make sure that I have no regrets when my time comes.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteer-

ing?

I like to spend my leisurely time hanging out at home with my animals or doing things with my family and especially my nieces and nephews. My nieces and nephews are such a big part of my life and I enjoy being able to take them out and do fun experiences with them.

They each bring me so much joy and happiness and seeing the smiles on their faces when they see Aunt “LayLay” makes everything worth it. If I am not with the nieces and nephews, I am curled up on the couch with my three cats and one massive dog. I love being able to relax with my animals.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

My personal philosophy on life is “you get what you give.” I think how much effort you put into your life and how hard you work correlates with what you received in life. If you work hard and pour your heart into your life and what you are passionate about, you will benefit greatly from it. Whether it be financially, with new experiences, new learning opportunities, or new relationships/friendships.

What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service?

The best thing to happen to me because of my community and my career are the relationships/friendships that I have been able to make. This my career has allowed me to meet a vast amount of new people and I have formed lifelong friendships with some of the people I met. Without my career choice, I would not have formed some of the most valuable friendships in my life.

My community involvement has allowed me to step outside of my friend group and offered me new opportunities to meet people I never thought I would have. Because of this, I have been able to form bonds with people that I normally would not have.

These relationships/friendships are ones that I cherish and value more than anything.

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

MEGAN ZIMNY “My dream in the next 10 years would be that our community would continue to grow and that the downtown area is filled with thriving businesses.

I also hope that the events we have continue to grow to be bigger and better. We also need our young graduates to want to come back to our community to work and raise their families here.”

Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier Designer/owner of the Kitchen & Bath Shoppe Tell us about yourself and your family I graduated from Beardstown High School in 2003 and then attended college at the Illinois Institute of Art in Schaumburg. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in interior design and worked in the Chicago area, specializing in kitchen and bath design. When I moved back to Beardstown, I worked under John Schnepper for a few years at The Kitchen & Bath Shoppe before ultimately purchasing the business from him in 2012. In 2018, we opened The Shoppe next door to our current business, where we sell home decor and gift items.

My husband, Chris, and I got married in 2012 and live on our family farm in Schuyler County. In our spare time, we love to spend time traveling together.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I never really saw myself moving back to Beardstown when I left for college. However, when I did move back from the city-living mentality of Chicago, I had a much bigger appreciation for our community and the small town pride that we have.

Beardstown really does step up for each other if there is someone in need.

I was immediately drawn to our local Main Street organization, which is now CONNECT. I loved the aspect of restoring and preserving the history in the buildings we have in our downtown area as well as the community events that we put on. I have served on this board since 2008 and have seen it evolve so much in the past 15 years.

What really drives me to be

involved in our community is that I always want Beardstown to be continually better. When we travel we see all of these other towns and things that they are doing and I want to bring that to my hometown and make it a place that younger families want to move back to.

Professionally, I would love to see our downtown thriving and know that takes our community getting involved to make that happen.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

This is really hard to pick just one person, but my family would have to be at the top of the list.

They have always supported me in everything that I have done and are always my biggest cheerleaders. John Schnepper was also a huge influence on me when I moved back to the community. He took a chance on me and trusted me with his business

and I will forever be thankful to him for that.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would say driven and creative.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

My dream in the next 10 years would be that our community would continue to grow and that the downtown area is filled with thriving businesses. I also hope that the events we have continue to grow to be bigger and better. We also need our young graduates to want to come back to our community to work and raise their families here.

None of these things can happy without the support of our community members. We always need volunteers and for our community

to be involved.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

Being a business owner in a small rural community can be challenging.

There isn’t always everything you need available in our small town and I think that makes people drive to bigger cities like Springfield.

Sometimes I think we forget to shop local first. It is a whole mindset change. Once we overcome this, I think we will begin to see more and more businesses thriving in our community.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the businesses we have built. I really do love coming to work everyday and I am proud of where we started and where we are now.

What is something you’re passionate about?

Outside of my work, I am most passionate about traveling to new places and seeing new things. We love to go on trips to get away and just to experience everything this world has to offer!

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

If I could be anything else, I would be a travel agent. I love planning vacations and taking trips and some of the best parts of that for me is doing the research to see everything that area has to offer.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back. This is easier said than done, but I choose to believe that what I am doing is what I am meant to do.

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

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FORTY 2O

Dave Dawson | Journal-Courier

FRANKIE LEE GRIESBACH III “My father has always had a big impact in my life.

He showed me what hard work really was, and encouraged me to be my best self.”

General Manager of Love’s Truck Stop Tell us about yourself and your family My wife, Jessica, and I moved to Jacksonville in May this year. We have three dogs and a kitten. No children yet. We are originally from Missouri. We are avid Chiefs, Blues, and Cardinals fans. I like to golf whenever I get the chance.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My father has always had a big impact in my life. He showed me what hard work really was, and encouraged me to be my best self.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

UNDER

Patient, outgoing and hard-working.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of how far I have come, being so young.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

Golfing, spending time with my family, yard working and reading up on the latest sports statistics.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 20 UNDER 40 WINNERS FOR 2023!

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

THADDEUS BERGSCHNEIDER “ My goal for FFA chapters and members, whether at Franklin, Jacksonville or across the state, always remains the same. I want to see students taking the opportunities available to them within agriculture and FFA and striving to create a greater future for agriculture.”

Ben Singson | Journal-Courier Illinois Association FFA state president Tell us about yourself and your family My parents are Paul and Janie Bergschneider, and I am one of their seven children. I was raised on a family farm in Franklin and participated in sports, Poetry Out Loud, and FFA during my time at Franklin High School.

My career in FFA led to me being elected as the Illinois Association FFA state president on June 15. In that role, I have been traveling across Illinois to meet FFA chapters and members and speak on the opportunities available through agriculture.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

My goal for FFA chapters and members, whether at Franklin, Jacksonville or across the state, always remains the same. I want to see students taking the opportunities available to them within agriculture and FFA and striving to create a greater future for agriculture.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

Watching my grandpa, Joe, and my dad, Paul, run the family farm has shaped what I believe hard work is. Additionally, having a first-hand look at what farmers do daily has formed my foundational views

on agriculture and made me grateful for where I live.

Feeding, fueling and clothing the world starts right here in our communities and I believe that’s an amazing place to call home.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would hope they would describe me as a good listener and willing to start new conversations. I would also hope to be perceived as a passionate individual for whatever I do, although that characteristic might not show up in quick passing.

What changes would you like to see in your communi-

ty in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

There are many people with more experience and years in our community than me. But the changes I would like to see are having increasingly engaged high school leaders willing to dream big outside of their high schools. How do we do that? I think it’s important to motivate students to build connections and gain career traction early.

High school is an great opportunity to discover and dream before cost and limitations take away options.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

I believe maintaining a growing, vibrant population is the

biggest challenge for our rural communities. Having generations of young people who intend to move back to rural communities and raise families there is essential, and it falls on us to create an environment people want to live in.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I love reading and learning, especially about agriculture and business. There is always another book, another news article, or another podcast that I’m hungry to learn from.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve learned in your life?

Words are incredibly powerful, so always take a second before you send a message or

speak up in front of groups of people. Having a quick tongue may get you noticed, but it will not get you respected.

If you could have dinner with two famous people from history, living or dead, who would they be and why?

I would have dinner with Abraham Lincoln and Alexander Hamilton. Lincoln, more than anyone, is the example of making tough, courageous decisions when they weren’t always popular. Hamilton is more of a personal interest for me, having read the Ron Chernow biography a couple of times now, but he is another example of what persistence and determination can accomplish.

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

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BAILEY MARIE BRAMMEIER “ I would say that the biggest challenge for this process is the fact that our community has so many diverse learning communities. Although this makes our community unique and wonderful, it can be challenging for local businesses to support all of these amazing people and offer equal experiences to the different learning communities.”

Ben Singson | Journal-Courier Special education teacher, Transitional Adult Program Tell us about yourself and your family I am a Jacksonville girl, born and raised. My parents are Bill and Beth Conklin. I married my high school sweetheart, Robert Brammeier, and we have four amazing kids: Emerson, Elliott, Emmett and James. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher and decided to go into special education right out of high school. I got my bachelor’s degree in special education at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and then went on to get my master’s degree in special education from Grand Canyon University. I recently earned my transition specialist certification through ISU.This is my 17th year teaching and 16 of those have been with the Jacksonville School District.

Eleven of those were at Jacksonville High School and the last five have been at the district’s Transitional Adult Program.

At TAP, we focus on vocational and life skills to optimize post-secondary independence.

I love being a part of a student’s journey to independence and getting to teach real life skills that will benefit them for years to come.

When I’m not at TAP, you can find me watching my boys in all of their activities,

spending time with my family, or worshiping at 1C. I have such an amazing support system of friends, family and co-workers that help me through this crazy thing called life, and I couldn’t do it without them.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

Working with people with special needs is my passion.

They have so much to offer the world and are often overlooked as integral members of society.

You could say it’s a personal mission of mine to change the world’s view of working with all people and to empower people, specifically those with special needs, to realize their worth and available contributions to our world.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

I know this sounds cliche, but each one of my students has helped form me into the teacher I am. They each bring their own unique strengths and differences to the table. I would arguably say that I learn as much from them as they do from me ... maybe more.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

Probably overly positive and bubbly ... I hope friendly.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

We are in the early stages of building community partnerships with local businesses to provide our students with real-life work experience. It is so important that this takes place while they are still in school to reinforce the skills learned on the worksite. I hope to continually grow the number of community partnerships available to my students in order for them to gain a wide variety of work experiences.

The most important part of this process is having local businesses willing to work with my students and me. I am sure they will find it to be a positive and rewarding experience.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

I would say that the biggest challenge for this process is the fact that our community has so many diverse learning communities. Although this makes our community unique and wonderful, it can be challenging for local businesses to support all of these amazing people and offer equal experiences to the different learning communities. of?

What are you most proud

I am the most proud of my family. My husband and my kids amaze me on a daily basis.

They are great.

What’s something about you few people know?

I am an extroverted introvert.

I come across as very outgoing and self-confident, but in fact, social situations make me pretty nervous and I can be quite awkward.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

I love waitressing. I waitressed all the way through college and had the best time. I liked developing relationships with the regulars and the fun conversations.

Congratulations Congratulations

Barbie Davidsmeyer!

Bailey Brammeier, Emily Bumgarner We&appreciate all you do Drew Comstock! for our district our community!

We appreciate all you do and for our district and our community!

Also, congratulations to Grace Newman & Rachel Lay as well as all of the other JSD #117 alumni.

”Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader... they set out to make a difference.”

-Author Unknown

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

RACHEL ANN LAY “My involvement in my community is driven by my desire to help others. I believe it’s important to contribute to my community and school, to make it a better place.“

Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier Student Tell us about yourself and your family My name is Rachel Lay and I grew up in Jacksonville. I graduated from Jacksonville High School in 2023 and I am now a student at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

My parents, Patrick and Cathy Lay, both work at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital. My older sister, Erica, is also a graduate of JHS. Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

My involvement in my community is driven by my desire to help others. I believe it’s important to contribute to my community and school, to make it a better place.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My family and teachers have always inspired me to work hard and do my best.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I think someone would describe me as a friendly person with a positive attitude.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

Jacksonville has been a great community to grow up in. I hope to see it continue to grow, with new businesses and opportunities.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

The biggest challenge is for

CONGRATULATIONS

Jacksonville to continue to grow and to attract people to live in our community.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

My parents have had the greatest influence on me because they taught me the value of hard work and success.

What are you most proud of?

I am very proud of winning the GIS National Competition with my friend, Grace Newman, in our senior year of high school. It was great to see our hard work pay off with a national win.

What are your goals for yourself?

My goal is to graduate from SIUE with a degree in accounting and to further my education to become a certified public accountant.

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier

TIM FLINN “I just want to do my part to make this community a better place. I feel Jacksonville has made so much progress in recent years, and it has so much potential.“ Co-owner, Flinn’s Mercantile; senior investment officer, The Farmers State Bank and Trust Co. Tell us about yourself and your family I have worked at The Farmers State Bank and Trust Co. for seven years, but our family just decided to move to Jacksonville in 2022.

My wife, Colleen, and I have three children: Cashin, 10; Robyn, 7; and Leo, 5.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I just want to do my part to make this community a better place. I feel Jacksonville has made so much progress in recent years, and it has so much potential.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you,

and why.

I wouldn’t have accomplished anything without the support and drive of my wife. Colleen, no more buildings!

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

“This guy is definitely under 40.” **Fingers crossed** What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

The continued focus on our downtown redevelopment.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

Change never comes easy, but I feel that we are fortunate to have a great group of community leaders and support people that have a

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similar goal.

What are you most proud of?

Being a small-business owner.

I love the fact that we get to share that with our children as well.

Congratulations Tim Flinn & All 20 Under 40 Recipients!

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

“Coach, I’m me. Why would I want to be anything else?” — Jamie Tart, “Ted Lasso” Season 1 Episode 2 What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

Spending time with family, there’s few better things than being a dad. I also love running and playing pickleball. I swear, I’m really under 40.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

Laissez les bon temps rouler. (“Let the good times roll.”)

200 West State St. 1718 West Morton Ave. Jacksonville, IL 62650

www.fsbtco.com Phone 217-479-4000

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

COURTNEY GARFIELD “I am passionate about helping those who are in need. I have little, financially, but have so much more than many. If I had to choose what I am the most passionate about, it is to discourage abortion. I am a single mom and love to tell others how they can make it with hard work and determination. Jesus gives me strength.”

Store owner Tell us about yourself and your family I started my retail career immediately after high school, while I attended college. I realized quickly that I could use my position as a retail manager to make a difference in the community. I spent eight years as the manager of Maurices in Jacksonville, and in 2021 I resigned to take care of my terminally ill father.

After moving him into my home, I decided that I wanted to continue to work, but with my father’s illness I needed to be closer to home. So I opened my own store.

Every store that I have run or owned, I have implemented a Christmas gift drive for 11-14 year olds. This is passion of mine as this age has outgrown “toys” but are still young enough to need a special gift at Christmas time. All toy drives seem to focus on the younger ages and ask for toys. With my donation drive, I like to ask for items that the pre-teens would find more suitable, like perfume, makeup, fashionable/fun socks, gloves etc. From the day that I started this, it has been a huge success and has always been a team effort.

I needed my teams to get on board and become passionate every year as they needed to ask for the donations during the shopping experience with every customer. Many stores asks for donations, but we needed to talk the program up and really explain to every customer that our drive was different and why we were doing it for the age group that would otherwise get left out.

In 2018, my son and I started a snow cone business and for two

years donated all the proceeds to local people in need.

I have also been have been a single mother since I had my only son (Noah) in 2011. After having my son, I educated myself in all aspects of single mothers and what the challenges that I was going to encounter and those other single mothers encounter every day. I because a volunteer counselor at the local Christian pregnancy resource center. I felt it was extremely important to work with other women, as a woman that had made mistakes, and share my story to let them know they weren’t alone and that we are all learning together.

Now that I have my own store, I have been able to control my own drives and focus on giving back to the community the way that I want to. I am still collecting donations for gift baskets for 11-14 year old girls for my Christmas gift drive.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I believe that as a small community, we all have to do what we can to work together to advance our community. I strive to encourage other businesses to work together and come up with ideas to encourage people from other towns to come here to our beautiful Hallmark-like town to do their business.

Having a gift store of my own, and hoping for success, drives me to build up our town. Mount Sterling has many wonderful people who welcome visitors.

I grew up in this county, where we have very low crime, and I hope that this is the community that my son chooses as his home when he is

Ben Singson | Journal-Courier an adult.

cial help given to these businesses.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

I have probably been influenced the most because of my Christian upbringing. I strive to live my life by asking myself, “What would Jesus do?” He wants each of us to love our neighbors as ourselves. He wants us to “go the extra mile for others, and always do more than what is expected.” I believe if we live by these rules, that Jesus will take care of us.

What are you most proud of?

I am the most proud of my son, naturally. I do my best to take care of my disabled father, work full time and try to be mom and dad to my son. My son has to share my time and attention with me being on the county board, striving to work hard, and volunteering for things that I am passionate about. My son doesn’t complain, and is one of my biggest encouragers.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I believe when people first meet me, they find me friendly and ambitious. Anyone who spends any length of time with me, and gets to know me, they know that I am a giving person who works hard and strives to go the extra mile, not only for my success, but also for others as well.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

This is a beautiful town, with many businesses, but it seems that they choose to push the uptown businesses, but don’t do enough to encourage the businesses who are not part of the three blocks up town. I believe the people who push the uptown businesses have to be willing to communicate more with businesses in the entire county.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

The challenge is lack of encouragement to drive business, outside of the stores uptown, with no finan-

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am passionate about helping those who are in need. I have little, financially, but have so much more than many. If I had to choose what I am the most passionate about, it is to discourage abortion. I am a single mom and love to tell others how they can make it with hard work and determination. Jesus gives me strength.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve learned in your life?

I haven’t had anything handed to me. I’ve worked since I was 15. My parents taught me that in order to have anything, including self-respect, that I was going to have to work to attain it. My most challenging time was in 2011, when I found out that I was going to be a single mom. I was managing a store in Springfield and was barely making ends meet. I had no clue how to take be a mom, much less be a mom and dad. I had no idea how I was going to make it financially, either.

I chose life for my baby, though. I chose to be mom and dad. I chose to do without so many things, so that I could give my son what he deserved, life.

I do my best to teach my son that, like me, he is going to always have to work hard to attain self-respect, and material things, and that Jesus will always be beside him to help him.

How did you get involved with what you do now, whether career or volunteer work?

Like I said before, my parents always raised to to know that I need to be as much like Jesus, as I can. I learned that from a very young age.

The volunteer work that I am most proud of isn’t serving my county board or donating to everyone who comes by my business asking for donations. I am most proud of how I got involved with raising over $11,000 during the summer of 2018, when I bought my son a snow cone machine. He had plans to sell snow cones to make money. The health department said he wasn’t allowed to sell them. So much for my idea of him learning to work, and make his own money.

My son, Noah, came up with an idea, and I couldn’t have been prouder of him for it. He always saw members of our family (me, his grandparents, and great-grandparents) choosing to donate and give to those in need and when he was told that he couldn’t sell snow cones, he wanted to know if he could give away snow cones, but take donations from people for various people in need and organizations. That summer, we used a $40 used snow cone machine, a pop-up tent, and made lots of syrups for snow cones.

He and I received over $11,000 worth of donations and gave away a ton of snow cones to help several families, Garrison School in Jacksonville, disabled veterans and a pet rescue in Taylorville. We had several

friends who helped sometimes, but it was always Noah and myself, along with others, when needed. My son started his lesson in how blessed it is to go the extra mile for others.

What’s something about you few people know?

Sometimes, not very often, but sometimes, I’m only pretending to be strong. Sometimes I wonder if I can go another day. Taking care of my disabled dad, working full time (often 16 hours or more a day), being mom and dad to my son, and doing my best to help others, can be difficult, very difficult!

If you could have dinner with two famous people from history, living or dead, who would they be and why?

Well, one would be Jesus, and the other would probably be Princess Diana.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

Not sure, but I know that it would have to do with underprivileged children. I would love to be able to give a used or neglected kids, a better life.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

Sleeping, cleaning my house, playing something with my son or spending time with other family members.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

Go the extra mile for others, even though life is hard. Do what is more than is expected.

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RACHEL KESLER “I believe once they get here, a lot of people make an effort to come back. But I believe our biggest goal should be drawing new visitors to Jacksonville to show them all the wonderful things we have to offer.”

Subrogation claims supervisor and co-owner of Don’s Place Tell us about yourself and your family I am married to Chris Kesler, who works for the Jacksonville Fire Department. We have one son, Charlie, who is in kindergarten.

My parents are Dan and Carol Ann Kindred.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I grew up in Jacksonville, but spent a few years living in Chicago after college. I moved back to Jacksonville in 2013 and I have seen so much growth in our community ever since moving back. Jacksonville has always been a place where you can get involved and see results immediately.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My parents have influenced me the most. They owned Don’s Place for 40 years before Jimmy Ash and I became owners, and giving back to the community was always their No.

Dave Dawson | Journal-Courier

1 goal. I have seen the value of that and wanted to keep that mission alive in our business.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would hope they would say I am outgoing. I give it my best effort to make everyone I know feel welcome here. It’s truly the best place to live or visit.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I love watching our downtown square come back to life. I have always heard my parents and their friends talk about the days when our downtown square was thriving, and I have loved watching it come back to life.

I look forward to more businesses joining us and all the efforts our local community is putting into making our square a beautiful place to shop, dine, drink and enjoy entertainment.

What do you consider the

biggest challenge about your community?

Drawing new people to Jacksonville. I believe once they get here, a lot of people make an effort to come back. But I believe our biggest goal should be drawing new visitors to Jacksonville to show them all the wonderful things we have to offer.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

Chris and I love to travel and spend time on Lake Jacksonville.

Although we don’t get out there as much as we used to, it is still the most special place to our family.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

Nothing is more important than the personal connections you make with the people you meet in life.

What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service?

I couldn’t be happier to be back home raising a family in my hometown with my parents, relatives and friends close by. I am so lucky to have convinced Chris to make Jacksonville our home.

Congratulations 20 Under 40 Winners!

You help make our community “go round”.

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KRISTEN REED “I am most proud of my family – my husband, Brandon, who goes above and beyond day in and day out; and our two daughters, Cora and Collins. There is nothing that brings me more joy than watching them grow and do what they love to do – dance, tumbling and softball.”

Dave Dawson | Journal-Courier Project manager, Illinois College Office of Admission Tell us about yourself and your

family I was born and raised in Beardstown. I graduated from Illinois College in 2007 with a Bachelor of

Science degree, double-majoring in sociology and psychology. I have spent my entire career in the Office of Admission at Illinois College,

Congratulations!

We are so proud of you and the positive example you set!

LoveBrandon, Cora & Collins

currently serving as project manager. I live in Jacksonville with my husband, Brandon, and our two daughters, Cora, 10, and Collins, 7. In my spare time, I enjoy any opportunity to spend time with my family and friends.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I have always had a passion for helping others and serving my community. My drive now is that I want my children to grow up in a thriving community and for them to see how important it is to be actively engaged in shaping the kind of community in which they want to live. It is important to me that they know they have the power to make a difference – in their school, in the community, and in the world.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My parents have had a huge influence on my life. I grew up watching them volunteer and serve the Beardstown community. My mom served on various boards and participated in all of the events at school for my brother and me.

My dad was very active in the Elks Club and Lions Club, and also served on the school board. They didn’t necessarily tell me that I

needed to volunteer – but because they did these things, I just learned that it mattered. Showing up matters, and they always did.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

Caring, easy to talk to, and approachable.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

Downtown Jacksonville has really developed in recent years and I would like to see other areas in Jacksonville develop as well.

We have so many creative and committed people who want to see this town, and its people, succeed. I think continuing to encourage economic development, industry and good jobs to move into Jacksonville, while also supporting existing businesses, will promote growth.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

While Jacksonville is developing in many areas, there is still a significant amount of need in our community. I’m currently serving as co-chair of this year’s Prairieland United Way campaign, and while it has been a rewarding experience, it has also been very eye-opening to me. There are real needs in our

community – basic needs, for food and shelter – and this work has helped me become more aware of that.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

I would say my mom has had the greatest influence on me. She taught me to always find the good in every situation, even when it is difficult to find good. She had a huge heart and a great sense of humor and lived her life with an incredible amount of joy.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my family – my husband, Brandon, who goes above and beyond day in and day out; and our two daughters, Cora and Collins. There is nothing that brings me more joy than watching them grow and do what they love to do – dance, tumbling and softball.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

I would probably be a cosmetologist. I have always loved doing hair.

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GRACE E. NEWMAN

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Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier

“I would like to see improvements with community involvement such as plays/ musicals, more foundations for people in need, and more advertising for small businesses. Advertising seems to be a big issue in the community, so word does not get around easily. Taking advantage of social media will help spread word of events and opportunities.”

Student Tell us about yourself and your family I am a student at University of Illinois Springfield majoring in premed biology. Being proactive in my community and helping people is what influenced me to go on the medical track.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or profession-

ally.

In my senior year of high school, my friend Rachel and I saw an opportunity to bring attention to traffic accidents in Jacksonville and find a solution.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

I have seen many people advocate for improvement throughout the community and throughout the rest of the world and it has

influenced me to do the same thing in as many ways as possible.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I think they would describe me as quiet, but kind.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I would like to see improve-

ments with community involvement such as plays/musicals, more foundations for people in need, and more advertising for small businesses. Advertising seems to be a big issue in the community, so word does not get around easily.

Taking advantage of social media will help spread word of events and opportunities.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

I feel like the community does a decent job of supporting small businesses, but it does have room for improvement.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am passionate about equal opportunity for everyone.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve learned in your life?

That you won’t always be perfect

in life and mistakes will happen, but you just have to keep going and not dwell on those mistakes.

What are your goals for yourself?

My goal is to go to medical school and work in a well-known hospital.

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STEVE SCHWEER “I consider myself very lucky to have found a profession that correlates directly with one of my biggest passions — competition in athletics.”

Dave Dawson | Journal-Courier Illinois College associate director of athletics, head men’s basketball coach Tell us about yourself and your family I feel very fortunate to have been given an opportunity to come to Jacksonville and work at Illinois College almost six years ago. My wife, Tabitha, and I moved here together and she was able to continue her career in education in the Jacksonville school district. We have since been blessed by the birth of two children — Samantha Blair, 4, and Camden Arthur, 1 month.

I have worked in higher education as a basketball coach, golf coach, athletic administrator, and in the office of student success over the course of my 16 years working at the college level, and am thankful to have found a home at Illinois College that has allowed me to continue to pursue my passion of helping to mentor young men through opportunities in higher ed and through the game of basketball.

Tabitha has also earned opportunities to continue to grow in her profession and works to continue to make a positive impact on the teachers and young people in the Jacksonville community.

We are very grateful to be a part of a community that cares for its own, and are hopeful to continue to be agents of change in Jacksonville and in our

professional communities.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I consider myself very lucky to have found a profession that correlates directly with one of my biggest passions — competition in athletics.

My work at Illinois College allows me direct access to young people in a very important stage of their life journey, and I am hopeful that I can be a positive influence on them during their time at IC. Many of these students and student-athletes will graduate and stay in or around the Jacksonville area, but probably more importantly, can serve as role models and mentors for the young people in Jacksonville during their time as students at the College.

We continue to work to find ways to interact with the community, and are always open to new ideas.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

I have had the opportunity to work for and with some pretty incredible coaches and administrators during my time as a coach — Kyle Brumett current head coach at Wabash College; Paul Brenegan, former head coach at North Park University;

Todd Skrivseth, current head coach at Monmouth College; Roger Haynes, current athletic director at Monmouth College; Todd Raridon, current head coach at Hastings College; Mike Snyder, current athletic director at Pacific Lutheran; and Meghan Roman, athletic director at Illinois College, to name a few. They all contributed significantly to my development as a coach and as a man.

However, my most impactful mentor is and always has been my father. He has had a long and storied career in coaching swimming and as an athletic administrator, and has always been a sounding board for me, but also an example of what this profession can bring you. Having an opportunity to see first-hand the positive impact that he has had on so many people — and seeing the relationships that are formed and sustained spanning across decades — has reassured me that there is no better way to spend a professional life than as a coach and mentor to young people.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would hope to be described as a willing worker who pursues all his endeavors with passion and cares deeply for other people.

What changes would you

like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I would like to see Jacksonville continue to develop youth programs and opportunities for our young people to get involved in activities to positively direct their time and energy. We have a lot of very dedicated people in Jacksonville who work hard to provide these programs, and I believe that with more help and funding, there is an opportunity to strengthen the existing programs and create some new ones.

As a father of two young children, I am always looking for ways to provide the best experiences for the young people in our community.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

I believe our community, like many communities, has a tendency to operate in silos.

We have a lot of outstanding people in Jacksonville who are working hard in pursuit of their endeavors. Unfortunately, there are many times that other members of our community are not aware of some of the great things that are happening.

With a little more effort put into collaboration and communication, I think there is a real opportunity to pool efforts and talents to get more

people pulling in the same direction for a lot of our local initiatives.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my family. My wife Tabitha is an absolute rock star, and I lean on her frequently with issues as small as what I should be wearing on the sideline, to what I should be saying pre-game, to how to effectively push our team dynamics in a positive direction. I am so lucky to have a partner who is equally passionate about her profession as I am mine, but that is also a dedicated mother and wife.

I am proud of my role as a father and will never take it for granted.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve learned in your life?

You can’t please everyone.

When you are in a position of leadership, you have to make difficult decisions that can oftentimes have negative consequences for people that you care about. As a person who really cares about others, this was a significant challenge that I had to work through.

The burden of leadership is significant, but it is worth it to see continued growth and progress within a team, family or organization.

What are your goals for

yourself?

Professionally, I am hopeful that when my time is done, people will say that I left it better than I found it — no matter what “it” is.

Our aim at IC with the men’s basketball program is to continuously develop men of character, and build something that our young men are proud to be a part of. College athletics is a relationship business.

I am hopeful that we run a program that promotes the development of strong relationships, and helps to provide the skills to continue to build new relationships in the time following the collegiate tenure of our student-athletes.

I hope that our guys feel a sense of ownership and pride in what we do, and that we will continue to see them come back and support the next groups of young men who make the commitment to put on a Blueboy uniform.

I believe that we have and will continue to have young men who can and will serve as role models and mentors in the Jacksonville community and beyond, and will represent the college and our community in a positive and professional manner, wherever they might end up.

If we can win a bunch of games along the way, I think that will help us, too!

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MARK ZIMMER “I would like to see more business in a large scale, factories or anything that could increase the potential of this town to grow larger as well, as it would help many others businesses in town. As far as fruition, I am not sure what we can do to make this happen.“ Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier President of Zimmer Electric Tell us about yourself and your family I was born and raised in Jacksonville and graduated from Jacksonville High School.

My wife, Paige, and I married in 2013, and we have four boys: Kane, 11; Ace, 9; Blade, 6; and Dak, 4.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

So my boys will be able to enjoy all this community has to offer in the future.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My old boss, JJ Richardson.

I was always amazed at how intelligent he was in not only electrical, but all aspects of business and life. I saw it as something to work forward to — something I am still doing to this day, to try and be better.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would think someone that’s a genuine; an honest guy.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to

fruition?

I would like to see more business in a large scale, factories or anything that could increase the potential of this town to grow larger as well, as it would help many others businesses in town. As far as fruition, I am not sure what we can do to make this happen.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

This town needs more extracurricular activities for all kids that don’t cost a fortune and wouldn’t involve traveling.

Just activities for kids to do that will allow them all to learn as well as interact with others in person.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

Honestly, my parents. From teaching me right from wrong, to how to be a man and provide for family.

What are you most proud of?

By far, being a dad to four amazing boys.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I take great pride and passion in my work.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve

learned in your life?

Trusting others, and thinking you deserve something. You have to earn everything.

How did you get involved with what you do now, whether career or volunteer work?

Got involved in electrical right out of high school and have been doing ever since 2003.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

Spending time with family and watching my boys play sports.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.

What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service?

Working with and meeting many great people.

Mark,

We are so proud of you and thankfu l for not only what you do for our family but for this community as we ll.

What’s something about you few people know?

All before the age of 18, I had a wild ride with accidents and injuries that I could write a book on and somehow lived to tell about it by the grace of God.

Love, Paige, Kane, Ace, Blade & Dak

If you could have dinner with two famous people from history, living or dead, who would they be and why?

Troy Aikman. I idolized him as a child. And Dale Earnhardt Sr. If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

If I wasn’t doing this I would farm.

What are your goals for yourself?

Just to keep growing and be a better person every year.

Find us on

2193 Old State Rd., Jacksonville, IL 62650 P: 217-243-1657 | C: 217-370-9888

Mark Zimmer, Owner | mark.zimmerelectric@gmail.com

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MANDY LEIB “People are the drivers behind our success. Solving hunger is one of humanity’s greatest challenges, and it takes a collective effort in every community to help people get the nourishment they need.”

Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier Regional customer service leader, Cargill Tell us about yourself and your family.

I was born and raised in Jacksonville and graduated from Routt Catholic High School. I attended Millikin University for my bachelor’s degree and then the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for my master’s degree. My husband, Billy, and I married in 2012 and reside here in Jacksonville with our son, Will who’s in kindergarten.

My parents also live in Jacksonville and we are grateful for all the support they provide to our family. I am also thankful to raise our family with so many of my close childhood friends who only live a few blocks away.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

I have worked at Cargill since 2013 in various customer service, origination and regional leadership roles. Cargill’s Agriculture Supply Chain connects farmers to food, feed and industrial customers.

We help local farmers compete in the global market and efficiently deliver products from origins to destinations around the world via originating, storing, trading and marketing of grain.

Cargill is an organization with strong values in how we conduct our business but also a company that encourages us as employees to volunteer our time and expertise to benefit our local communities. I became involved in several of these local charitable and civic organizations through food relief agencies, school and youth programs and environmental improvement projects through my work at Cargill.

It is very rewarding to not

only meet new people through these efforts but also to give back those who are in need here in my hometown.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My family. I have had numerous great role models growing up who have showed me how hard work pays off. The values I was raised with have helped shape me both professionally and personally. My grandparents, Chuck and Harriett Lockman, were among the first graduates of Routt Catholic High School. They were founding members of the Routt Alumni Association, involved in the Routt Foundation and avid fans of Routt athletics. Many of my family members and I have continued this legacy my grandparents started years ago and volunteer as teachers, coaches, board members, DREAMS

chairs and more today.

these purposes someday.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

Probably opinionated and competitive. But I hope once they get to know me they would also say I am dependable, fun and caring, too.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

I think our community faces many of the same major challenges we see across the globe, especially labor shortages and hunger relief. The labor shortages we have felt for the last several years have been significant and continue to affect many of our local businesses.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

Everyone has done such an amazing job bringing new life to our square and we can take a lot of pride in our humble small town. I hope we can continue this great momentum and continue to see growth in businesses and job opportunities come to Jacksonville.

Children’s entertainment and recreational opportunities are still areas I hope we can grow in and potentially look to revitalize the Jacksonville Developmental Center campus for

Working in the agriculture industry is no different; people are the drivers behind our success. Solving hunger is one of humanity’s greatest challenges, and it takes a collective effort in every community to help people get the nourishment they need.

From Cargill’s perspective at the heart of the food supply chain, we can help bring new possibilities for food and ag by helping farmers

make food production more sustainable and in turn help our community become more resilient. We continue to see a greater need for assistance from local food pantries in the Jacksonville and surrounding communities.

What’s something about you few people know?

Originally I went to school to be a broadcast journalist.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

I enjoy weekend excursions with friends, traveling, and attending my son’s sporting events.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

Always do your best. No matter what you do, do it as well as you can. Lastly, work hard and play hard.

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ANDREW J. “DREW” COMSTOCK “It wasn’t until I began a counselor position at Western Illinois Youth Camp that I figured out helping children was something that truly made me happy. ” Jacksonville District 117 teacher Tell us about yourself and your family My name is Drew Comstock. I am married to Nicole Comstock and have a 1-year-old daughter named Tate. I was born in Jacksonville and went to Jacksonville High School. I continued my education at Illinois College here in town, where I go my degree in education. I have been at a couple of schools, but finally found a place that I cherish as my home away from home, Lincoln Elementary. I have been at Lincoln for six years in second grade. The families and my co-workers have made Lincoln a wonderful place to work.

Along with teaching, I coach soccer at JHS for the girls program.

This will be my fourth season as the head coach of that program. Before taking over the girls program, I was the assistant coach of the JHS boys soccer team for seven years.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

From an early age, I knew I wanted to be in a position where people looked to me for help. I never really knew what my future would look like but knew it was directed at service for people around me.

It wasn’t until I began a counselor position at Western Illinois Youth Camp that I figured out helping children was something that truly made me happy. Fast-forward a few years, to where I am and I have the opportunity to help kids every day.

Of course from an academic standpoint I help my kids, but what really makes me happy is getting the chance to help kids work through their difficulties socially or emotionally. School should always be a safe place to make mistakes and my goal is to help them work through those mistakes. The kids that I get to work with are wonderful people from wonderful families.

At the end of day, I just want to

make sure I left someone better than I found them.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

When I was in high school, I made my fair share of mistakes. No matter the mistake, there was always one teacher that took the time to talk me through that mistake. I am not sure I have ever told him before, but my high school art teacher, Dale Homolka, from JHS was a big influence in my life. Mr. Homolka was always willing to help me through those awkward days in high school.

I felt like Mr. Homolka saw me, and saw everyone.

It is a good feeling to be seen, he made me feel important and that made me want to be better. It is that exact feeling I hope my kids feel, they want to do better because they feel seen. They feel important.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I had a friend tell me, “Drew is the person you want to sit by if you are going to a wedding and don’t know anyone at your table.” So from that, I would say I’m talkative, energetic, and good for a dad joke or two.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I believe the Jacksonville community has made a lot of strides forward. I love that Jacksonville is providing opportunities for families to be out and about downtown in a family friendly environment. The downtown concerts, festivals, and other activities give Jacksonville that “city feel” while also maintaining its small town “everybody knows everybody” vibe.

I am a huge fan of opportunities for kids. This is one reason I started a scholarship fund to support local kids in playing soccer for the Jack-

sonville Soccer Association. I would love to see scholarship programs readily accessible for families that are struggling financially. With programs becoming more expensive and a dollar not getting you as far as it used to, it can be hard to come up with money for extracurriculars or other programs. It would be fantastic if families could apply to one location for an opportunity to enroll their child in an assortment of activities going on in our community.

How would this come to fruition?

The first step would be for a group of invested people to research current grants available and applying for grants that would fund this community initiative. I have searched for grants for soccer scholarships and there is an abundance of grant money out there to fund recreational activities for children.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

Being a smaller town can be difficult when trying to look appealing to younger generations that are preparing to join the workforce. I know when I was on my way out of college, I had the idea in my brain that I would move. However, before I graduated I had a job lined up with co-workers I enjoyed and kids I loved. From there, I dug my roots in a but deeper. In social media, I feel the “city life” is flaunted more often than the small town style of living that you find in Jacksonville.

Money often drives people away from Jacksonville, but with all the businesses big and small joining our community, I hope to see a shift in this ongoing problem.

What’s something about you few people know?

Something that I don’t think many people know about me is I like to get my nerd on. I like to watch and talk about “Star Wars” or “Lord of the Rings.” “LotR” being my preference. I also enjoy playing board games like Catan or Risk.

Ben Singson | Journal-Courier If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

If I could be anything else, I think I would like to be a giant squid. It would be really cool to see what the bottom of the ocean looks like. And from a person who does not know how to tread water to an animal that

owns the water, that would be a nice change of pace.

Or in some sort of carpentry work. I like to build things.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

When I am not working, I am usually at home with my family. My daughter, Tate, brings me so much joy. She is at the stage where every day she learns something new. I like to be home so I can make those memories with her and my wife.

Congratulations Coach Drew Comstock

for his dedication to the

Jacksonville community on & off the soccer fields.

We are proud of you!

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

JOSHUA T. SORRELLS

“Our community is one of the most diverse communities in the area. The biggest challenge around Beardstown would be communication due to the many different languages in our community.“

Principal, Beardstown Junior/ Senior High School Tell us about yourself and your family I have been happily married for 14 years (together for 19 years) to my wife, Larissa, and we have two boys, Tucker, 12, and Barker, 10.

Larissa and I met at Illinois College and have been together almost since the day we met.

Larissa is a physical therapist and recently started her own business with the Beardstown Therapy Clinic and has been practicing physical therapy for almost 12 years. In addition, Larissa is a certified travel agent and really enjoys planning Disney vacations. She is also a member of the Beardstown Tiger Athletic Club and the Beardstown Ladies Investment Club. Larissa hobbies are playing volleyball, softball, and being a boy mom. Tucker is involved in football, basketball and baseball. His favorite hobbies are hunting, video games and music. Barker is also involved in any sport he can play and enjoys drawing and

Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier playing video games.

We live in Beardstown and attend Life Family Church.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

Our community is the most unique, but rewarding community in my opinion. The community of Beardstown continues to educate me day in and day out with the many different cultures that make up Beardstown. I admire the hard-working families in our community and the older students who have a large amount of responsibility at home.

I am often motivated by what I see in our students.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

I have had many positive influences in my life, both personally and professionally.

However, none compare to the impact my parents, Tom Sorrells and Monica Sorrells, have had on me. They were both

great educators and even better parents. They have taught me how to love, persevere, and work hard regardless of the situation among many other things throughout my life.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would hope they think I am a positive individual, who is genuine and reliable.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I would like to see an afterschool-type organization where kids can go and have a positive place to hang out and fed nutritional snacks. The need for this stems from a large amount of our parents not being home after school due to the different shifts they work.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

Our community is one of the

SORRELLS continued on page 20

s n o i t a l u t a r Cong JOSH SORRELLS!

BEARDSTOWN IS PROUD OF YOU & LUCKY TO HAVE YOU!

From

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

19

KATIE CARLS “My role is a mix of public relations, marketing, event planning, fundraising, community engagement and business development. Every day is different and I am very lucky to have such a talented team of people to work alongside.“

Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier Executive director of advancement and alumni engagement, Illinois College Tell us about yourself and your family I am originally from Arenzville and grew up on a farm with my two siblings, Chrissy (Carls) Vortman and Jeff Carls.

I am a graduate of Triopia High School and earned my bachelor’s degree from MacMurray College and a master’s degree from Western Illinois University.

After working for the PGA Tour, NCAA and Lucas Oil Stadium, I returned to the area in 2014 and have lived in Jacksonville ever since.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

Being involved in the community is important to me because I want Jacksonville and Illinois College to thrive for a long time. I am inspired by our rich history and the work being done here today, especially at Illinois College.

I want to grow opportunities for young people in our area to learn and grow. There are so many great organizations in Jacksonville — restaurants, retail businesses, non-profits — and my hope within my role at IC is to increase collaboration and create more partnerships and relationships to benefit our community.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My family continues to influence me every day. They taught me to be positive and generous.

They set an example of being a good neighbor and working hard to meet your goals. I am grateful for their support in my life.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I hope to be seen as kind, personable and helpful. I strive to be someone who is open minded, treats everyone fairly and cares about the impact I have on others.

What changes would you

like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I would love to see the seeds we are planting today continue to grow over the next decade.

I am excited about the positive things I see happening right now in Jacksonville. Our downtown is vibrant, new businesses are coming to the area, we have excellent schools and a community that values art, music and theater.

A lot of people are interested in collaborating to continue to make the community better. At the college, I am blown away by the level of research and hands-on learning students and faculty are engaging in. They are traveling around the world, partnering with other experts and being recognized internationally. I am also encouraged by how alumni are investing in campus, illustrated in the newly renovated Crispin Hall. I hope the momentum of what is happening now continues.

CARLS continued on page23

Congratulations, Mrs. Jamie Hobrock!

Congratulations Also, congratulations to Josh Sorrells &CollinKatie Carls!

Devron Ohrn, Blake Richardson, Andrews & Gracie Holt!

The Triopia School District & Community are so proud of you.

Through Education, We Achieve

Triopia CUSD #27

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

SHANNON ENGMANN “As I am a college student in Jacksonville, I believe that the connection between the community and the college could always be stronger.”

Illinois College student, state Student Laureate Tell us about yourself and your family I am a senior at Illinois College, majoring in biology and Spanish, just finished my last season with the women’s soccer team, and am involved in the honors program, Student Senate and Residential Life, and work as a student ambassador on campus. I plan on pursuing my master’s degree after graduation for studies in zoology/zoo management. I live with in Mount Zion with my parents, Scott and Trish, and have two older siblings, Morgan and Shane.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

Being part of the Student Senate has allowed me to get more involved around campus and the community.

Seeing how small projects affect our campus has led me to push outside my comfort zone and work in the community to create larger change.

Seeing how small changes can make a huge difference and turn into larger changes drives me to continue working with the resources I have to help others.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

Overall, my family has been a huge influence and supporter of my goals. Specifically, I often look at my sister as a huge role model and someone that has pushed me to want to do more. From a young age, I was always interested in the activities my sister was a part of.

I have seen her success in many things throughout high school and college and see how she has an impact on people. Seeing this makes me want to do everything I can to make my experiences richer. She has influenced me to take risks and go outside of my comfort zone to experience new things that could lead to great successes later on in life.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I always think I come off as a quiet person, but I have learned this is not true. It seems that people believe I am an outgoing and easy person to talk to. People seem to count on me when something needs to done, because they believe I am punctual and dependable. Once you get to know me, I feel that my louder and more outgoing personality comes out.

SORRELLS Continued from page 18

most diverse communities in the area. The biggest challenge around Beardstown would be communication due to the many different languages in our community.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am passionate about helping students who lack a supportive

environment and positive influences in their lives.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

I always wanted to be in education, as my parents were both educators.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

I help coach and run the

Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

Jacksonville is a town that is still growing and constantly changing.

In my four years on IC’s campus, I have been able to watch as many new stores, restaurants, coffee shops and more have come into town.

The increase in places to go on the weekends and stores to shop is definitely helpful in a college town. This is something that would great to see keep happening over the years.

Getting new stores and new places to do things gets people out into the community more.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

As I am a college student in Jacksonville, I believe that the connection between the community and the college could always be stronger. I would say that people in the community are friendly and accept the “campus” feel of the town, but I believe there needs to be more business to college relationships.

I think that creating relationships with outside organizations could benefit both parties and would help the community grow

Beardstown Gnats Baseball and Softball Organization. I help coach the 11U and 13U Beardstown Gnats Baseball teams. We started the organization back in 2019 and currently have six total teams in the organization.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

Don’t be afraid to fail.

quicker. We have a small number of Greek-letter organizations on our campus that work with some programs, but I believe this should be expanded further.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am passionate about sustainability and the protection of the environment. As someone who is planning on going into a zoological field, conservation and preservation are important to me. This is something I try to implement in my everyday life and encourage the people close to me to take part in.

As much as I can, I shop sus-

tainably and am conscious of many of the choices I make when buying single-use items. I would like to be able to emphasize this more and work with this topic more in my career as well.

What are your goals for yourself?

My ultimate goal is to be able to work as a curator in a zoo or other preserve or sanctuary and work hands-on with animals. In general, my goal is to have a family of my own one day and be able to explore more of the world, as I have gotten a small taste of traveling in college.

I want to be able to see the animals I work with in their natural habitats

and learn more about other cultures.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

With the free time I do get, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and getting outside when the weather is nice. I also have been sewing since I have been in high school and enjoy getting to make different projects for myself and the people close to me.

I enjoy reading in the summer months and watching movies when it is cold outside. I take every chance I get to be around the people I love as my family and friends are important to me.

u t a r Cong

s! n o i lat

.

t

d

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

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EMILY SCOBBIE BUMGARNER “Personally and professionally, I am driven by the needs of my students. Their growth, development, and success are at the forefront of my priorities. I believe that a positive school community is essential for the overall development and well-being of children.”

r

e

Dave Dawson | Journal-Courier Elementary English Learner teacher Tell us about yourself and your family I was born and raised in Jacksonville and attended Jacksonville Public Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. I am a 2004 graduate of Jacksonville High School and a 2008 graduate of Millikin University. At Millikin, I received a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education.

I also graduated with a Masters of Science in Reading with an ESL endorsement from Western Illinois University in 2013.

This is my 16th year teaching in the Jacksonville school district. Over the years, I have taught pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and Title I reading.

I’m currently an elementary English Language Learner teacher for the district.

My husband, Cliff, and I were married in 2009. Cliff is a Partner at KEB in Springfield.

We have two happy and active children, Ty, 10, and Elly 8.

They both attend Eisenhower Elementary.

I am very thankful to have learned from so many wonderful educators over the years and to currently work with so many dedicated teachers in the district. Jacksonville is a won-

derful place to live and work.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

Personally and professionally, I am driven by the needs of my students. Their growth, development, and success are at the forefront of my priorities.

I believe that a positive school community is essential for the overall development and well-being of children.

It allows me to not only build a strong relationship with my students but also with their families, teachers, and administrators. This creates a collaborative network that enables me to support my students’ needs and ensure their success. My motivation for community involvement stems from my belief in the power of community which helps me make a positive difference in the lives of my students.

I strive to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that prepares my students to become responsible and engaged individuals who can contribute positively to our society.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

I’ve worked and learned from

many dedicated educators over the years. I also come from a family of educators. My mother has recently retired as an educator and my two sisters, Sarah and Hannah, are educators in the Jacksonville school district.

I will forever be grateful for the wisdom I gained from working with Jennifer Bible. She always taught me that building a positive rapport with students at their families is crucial to building connections. Children learn best when they feel safe, loved, and valued. She also taught us all to “Keep shining.”

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

When people first meet me, they may describe me as quiet, friendly and kind. As people get to know me further, I think they will discover that I’m a good listener, a dependable friend, and someone to rely on for support and guidance. I may not always be the loudest voice in the room, but I hope others can see my kindness, compassion and empathy for others.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

Jacksonville has so much to offer. We have many new businesses, restaurants and

beautiful new schools. I am so proud of my hometown and all the growth I have witnessed over the years. I would love to see more young families move to our community and call Jack-

sonville home.

nity continue to flourish and do great things for all people. I also wish to see more cultural awareness in our community. This

In the next 10 years, I would like to continue to see support for all of our small businesses. I would love to see our commu- BUMGARNER continued on page 23

Congratulations,Emily!

Your dedication to the education of our community’s youth is invaluable.

We are so proud to call you ours!

Love, Cliff, Ty and Elly

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

BOBBY VAN BEBBER “I am passionate about health care and access to health care.

Working as a bedside nurse grew this passion.

I was able to see how access is not distributed equally across all people and how this impacts health and outcomes.”

Ben Singson | Journal-Courier Division chief of emergency medical services and highway safety, Illinois Department of Public Health Tell us about yourself and your family I was born and raised in rural Murrayville. I am the son of Bob and Sharon VanBebber of Murrayville. In 2016, I graduated from Methodist College in Peoria with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and from Grand Cannon University in 2022 with a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in public health.

I returned to Murrayville in 2016, where I live with my two German shepherds, Kota and Tikka. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at the family farm and with my family and friends.

Describe what drives your involvement in the community, either personally or professionally.

My involvement in the community is driven by the desire to see all people thrive. I know we can all work together to ensure

the safety and well-being of all people who live in this community and beyond. Growing up, a culture of service to others was instilled in me by my family and this remains a passion of mine today.

Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you, and why.

My father, Bob VanBebber, has influenced me the most.

He was a volunteer EMT in the community and would always do the best he could to make the lives of others better. I remember him sacrificing his time with family to take care of others in our community. This influenced me to think and care about the needs of others and the need to be devoted to others.

How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you?

I would like to think they would describe me as warm, open-minded and motivated.

I am happy I get to meet and work with so many people. My goal is to always leave the best impression possible.

What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition?

I would like to see Morgan County become more equitable. Access to essential needs and services improved across the board. This includes health care, food, shelter and safety.

These issues are only addressed though hard work and targeted interventions with all stakeholders at the table.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

One of the biggest challenges of my community is people only see the world through their individual view. We must consider the community as a whole and not just what is seen in one place or through a few sets of eyes.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

My father, Bob VanBebber, has had the biggest influence on me. Dad has always worked so

VAN BEBBER continued on page 23

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2023

Saturday, December 30, 2023

CARLS

Continued from page 19

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

With any community, there will be challenges. The pandemic was difficult for a lot of people, personally and professionally, and many are still recovering. That’s a reality that has to be acknowledged. I think for Jacksonville there is also the challenge of not having as many resources as you may find in larger communities. I believe that is why you will find a lot of creative, resourceful people in our community who really value

personal connections.

At Illinois College and in Jacksonville, you will find a lot of people who are focused on giving back generously.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

Beyond my family, I have been lucky to have some great professional mentors in my life.

Bill had such a generous spirit; he was always ready to share a story to make you laugh or lend a helping hand whenever he could. When we held his memorial on campus in October, so many people spoke about how kind he was to everyone and how much he loved Illinois College. I can’t think of a better kind of legacy to leave.

Coach Bill Merris, who passed this year, was a dear friend and an inspiration over the past 10 years. He graduated from Illinois College in the 1950s and then spent more than 40 years at the college as a coach and professor.

Amy Wilson, another IC alum who is the NCAA’s managing director of inclusion, has also greatly influenced my career. She was my college basketball coach, college professor and eventually a colleague during our time

BUMGARNER

Continued from page 21

would create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community?

One of the greatest challenges we face as educators is effectively meeting the diverse needs of all of our students. In today’s classrooms, we encounter students with varying abilities, learning styles, backgrounds, language proficiencies, and experiences. We are constantly learning, growing, and imple-

menting best practices as needs change. While this can be a challenge, our strength is in our diversity. Teachers embrace the challenge by working together to develop goals to move our students forward. We are learning that what we focus on will grow.

Who has had the greatest influence on you, and how?

I am in a unique situation where I get to work alongside my colleagues who are also educating my children. I get to see firsthand the dedication and passion our teachers, school staff and administrators have

VAN BEBBER

Continued from page 22

hard and committed to the community in so many ways. He has always encouraged me to reach high and be kind to others. I can recall many times when he has told me, “Don’t give up” or “give it your all.” I know many parents may say these things to their children, but he knows the right time to say these things, and he is such a great listener.

What are you most proud of?

I am the proudest of relationships I have built over the years.

Those that know me personally or professionally know I am going to do what I say I am going to do. Coming from a small town, giving someone my word is promise I intend to keep. I op-

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

erate like this intentionally and also take others at their word.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am passionate about health care and access to health care.

Working as a bedside nurse grew this passion. I was able to see how access is not distributed equally across all people and how this impacts health and outcomes.

What’s one of the most challenging lessons you’ve learned in your life?

One the most challenging lessons I have learned is look at defeat as an opportunity for growth or improvement. It is easy to be down about failing, but these things need to be

for all students. They have influenced me to continue to find new ways to meet the needs of our school community. I have also had the opportunity to work in many of our schools at Jacksonville School District 117 and I am always inspired by our teachers and their expertise.

They give their time and energy to foster growth and greatness.

I am forever grateful to be a part of the JSD 117 teaching community because together we can positively influence the next generation.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteer-

reflected on and the growth that comes from defeat or even failure is priceless.

How did you get involved with what you do now, whether career or volunteer work?

I came to my current position after working as an Emergency Department nurse and volunteering as an EMT myself.

Through education and training, I was able to become familiar with public health and emergency medical services. In addition, growing up, I was always playing the role of patient for EMT trainings, and have always been around ambulances. My interest in policy, equity, and process improvement have also fueled my involvement.

working together at Illinois College. Her work is an inspiration and I value her friendship and guidance.

How did you get involved with what you do now, whether career or volunteer work?

I began working at Illinois College almost 10 years ago as the director of campus events. At the time, it was a new role at the college and I enjoyed the opportunity to develop new events and collaborate with area businesses, schools and organizations. The pandemic was a challenging time to work in events, so I left the college to gain more

ing?

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my wonderful family and friends.

My husband and I are so fortunate to live within a 15-mile radius of all of our grandparents, parents, and siblings. Our kids are involved in many sports and activities so we spend a lot of time in the car traveling to tumbling meets, dance competitions, soccer, basketball, and baseball games. We wouldn’t trade it for the world and it makes us happy to watch them do what they love.

I also enjoy trying new

What’s something about you few people know?

Few people know that I love raising poultry. I have peafowl at the family farm and have raised countless breeds of chickens, waterfowl and game birds over the years. If you think about it, it makes sense. Birds are so fragile, and it all comes down to science and I love science.

If you could have dinner with two famous people from history, living or dead, who would they be and why?

I would love to have dinner with Lillian Wald. Lillian is seen as the “mother of public health.”

I would love to hear her reaction to what we are able to do today and her thoughts on the future

23

experience in marketing and leadership. I returned to IC in 2022 as the executive director of the Office of Advancement and Alumni Engagement.

My role is a mix of public relations, marketing, event planning, fundraising, community engagement and business development. Every day is different and I am very lucky to have such a talented team of people to work alongside.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

I would probably be working in athletics in some capacity. I

was a student-athlete playing basketball at Triopia and MacMurray and I have spent a lot of my career working on large sporting events, like the NCAA men’s and women’s Final Fours.

I have some great stories about meeting some of my sports idols such as Pat Summitt and Charles Barkley.

I am a huge sports fan and love the work I get to do with Illinois College athletics. It’s especially exciting with all the success our teams have had recently.

restaurants, traveling, reading, and listening to Taylor Swift’s music.

or the moment they grasp a

What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service?

I try to live by one of my favorite Taylor Swift quotes, “ No matter what happens in life, be good to people. Being good to people is a wonderful legacy to leave behind.”

is fulfilling. I also love seeing

The best thing that has happened to me because of my career is the lasting relationships I have made with my students. Witnessing their growth

acy as an educator who inspires

of public health practice. My second choice would be Michelle Obama. I would love to hear what is on her mind and her views so many things.

gardening.

If you could be or do anything else, what would it be?

I always think I would have loved being a veterinarian.

What are your goals for yourself?

In general, my biggest goal is to never stop learning.

What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering?

I love spending time with my family. I have to say, I am so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful nieces and nephews. I also really like

new concept and watching their language development progress them in the community as they grow and I am so proud of all of their accomplishments as they continue their academic and social journey.

I hope to leave a lasting legstudents to believe in themselves and pursue their passions fearlessly.

What’s your personal philosophy on life?

My strongest guiding principal is the desire to change attitudes.

What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service?

I think the best thing to happen, again, is just the relationship-building that happens when you are accountable. I would not be successful without so many great people to work with and count on.

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Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Congratulations Steve Schweer, Head Men's Basketball Coach

CURRENT STAFF

ILLINOIS COLLEGE GRADUATES

Katie Carls

Shannon Engmann ’24

Executive Director of Advancement & Alumni Engagement

Kristen Reed ’07 Project Manager

Drew Comstock ’15 Josh Sorrells ’07