20 Under 40

20 PEOPLE UNDER 40 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS

2 | May 2020 | 20 UNDER 40

Decatur Herald & Review

TO THE 20 UNDER 40 SPECIAL SECTION FOR 2020

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he Herald & Review and its partner, the Community Foundation of Macon County, are proud to renew its special annual publication to honor members of our community who make a difference in many ways.

We realize it takes a special combination of individuals to make a difference in any community, but we wanted to take this opportunity to honor those under the age of 40 who do.

The process wasn’t easy. We asked for nominations from the community and received an overwhelming response.

Each nominee was very impressive, and our selection committee had the daunting task of narrowing the field to 20.

These selected individuals represent some of the best our community has to offer. From business owners, educators, coaches, volunteers and more, our selections are from diverse backgrounds and offer many talents.

Each 20 Under 40 honoree has a unique story and offers his or her wisdom and advice for coping with this ever-changing world, information about who inspires them and what can be done to make the community a better place to live. We’re also confident you will be surprised by some of their responses to the question: What are three things most people don’t know about you?

We hope you enjoy reading about these special individuals. Their profiles also can be found online at herald-review.com.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Community Foundation of Macon County for its support of this project and Sarah ‘Jane’ Shorthose, owner of Sarah Jane Photography, who just so happens to be a past 20 under 40 honoree, for providing most of the photos of this year’s 20 under 40 class.

For those of you who wish to nominate someone next year, look for our call for nominations early next year.

INDEX ‌ Daniel Bennick .........................................17 Jared Bohland ........................................... 6 Abby Corzine ............................................22 Dan Diskey ................................................ 3 Nikki L. Garry ............................................ 4 Evan Hall ..................................................12 Mikayla Lehman ........................................ 5 BJ Leonard ............................................... 11 Anthony Mansur ..................................... 20 Travis Mansur ...........................................21

Kimberly McGregor ..................................14 Zane Peterson ..........................................23 Damien T. Schlitt ......................................18 Lindsey Shelton .......................................10 Chris Stonecipher ....................................13 Rachel Strode ...........................................15 Alyssa (Aly) Swengel ................................. 7 Krystle Tempel .........................................19 Tara Ulis ...................................................16 Lucas Williams .......................................... 9

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DAN DISKEY Age: 35

ple may not know that I was in a critical, near paralysis causing accident in 2016, suffering a severely broken spine. After reconstructive surgery, three months of intense re-learning and physical therapy, I was able to return to normal life. Unfortunately, the damage was enough to again fracture my vertebrate in 2018 resulting in a second reconstructive surgery. Today, I am proud to share that with the support of friends and family, and the amazing medical professionals at HSHS of Decatur, I have twice recovered from reconstructive back surgery and associated complications. I have pushed through some significant mental and physical challenges along the way. Over these past few years I’ve come to understand the importance and value of grit, or mental toughness. I share this in hopes that those with similar challenges will know there is hope and they can push through.

2. I have developed a renewed passion for cooking in our home! My first job, while in high school, was a line cook at the then-named All Star Diner in Mount Zion. I worked this line throughout high school, and was very fortunate to have a great mentor and kitchen leader who developed all the basic skills I learned from my mother into a successful cook at a very young age. It’s now that I am cooking for my family that I look back fondly at those very early morning lessons.

3. As many of my fellow mid-30’s friends, I absolutely loved the toys, movies, and general pop culture of the 80’s and 90’s. Most people do not know, I am an avid collector of “vintage” action figures and toys from my youth! My family has added collecting adventures to our trips and I am very excited to share these great memories and stories of my childhood with my sons.

Occupation: Operations manager, Global Business Services, Archer Daniels Midland Co. Family: Celebrating nine years of marriage in May, wife Danielle Diskey and twin sons born on 5/24/19, Dalin and Cole Diskey.

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: My career with ADM as an Operations Manager in our Global Business Services offices is very well defined by the impacts I’ve had on both people and business processes. I am so proud of the different programs and mentorships I have had the privilege of providing over the years. Seeing the accomplishments of those great people in and out of the organization is a continuous reward. ADM provides me a platform to be a passionate coach and leader with many different individuals and teams throughout our GBS organization. Reflecting on career accomplishments, I am very proud to have provided various trainings to many leaders and colleagues in our company, creating and implementing standard ways of working in our transactional processes, and improving the overall efficiencies of the organization. In 2020 I am celebrating five years with ADM, and I am incredibly grateful for the many opportunities I’ve had, and for the colleagues I’ve worked with along the way. Prior to ADM and throughout my career, I have been able to create, build, and manage teams throughout the Midwest. It has been a career full of great moments and amazing relationships.

Community involvement: Our community has always meant so much to me and my family. Having spent most of my life in Macon County, I’ve taken a focus on advocating for and giving back to the community that helped define me. As an ambassador to the Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce, I have had the opportunity to participate in welcoming new businesses to our community and the privilege of working with our community leaders to promote Decatur and the surrounding area. I am proud to be part of a team focused on positive growth and defined by all the efforts put forth by our business community and volunteers. As a passionate coach across multiple pro-

fessional platforms, I also have dedicated time over the past few years to the youth in the community, most recently by participating in the Mount Zion JFL program as a volunteer coach. I have been able to work with great kids, coaches, and parents and am so proud to be part of that program.

see is a consolidated effort of the general public and local businesses coming together to support each other. Especially in recent times where we have had to come to terms with new ways of operating within our lifestyles and in the face of adversity, we continue to find ways overcome challenges and lift each other up. We have to stay innovative and celebrate our passions What should the community do to attract and victories in the times to come. more young people to the area: The people of our community mean everything to What are three things most people don’t recruiting, not just youth, but all people to know about you?

1. As something not often shared, peothe area. What we have to offer and often

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received? The best advice I have received has come in different forms along the way but goes back to the same basic principle. “Control what you can control.” Life gives us many challenges, and sometimes the most difficult part is navigating them. We can dedicate time every day to trying to solve everything everywhere, and we may miss the opportunity to solve something in our own lives. The small things, the impactful things. This mentally Please see DISKEY, Page 4

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DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

NIKKI L. GARRY Age: 39

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Diskey From 3

helps keep life positive! The worst advice, “Fake it until you make it.” I have heard this from peers to managers, and it stings more each time I hear it. If you have to fake it, why are you doing it? If faking it is the answer, what is the definition of making it? Life is short- find what’s real to you, embrace it and enjoy it!

What are your three favorite movies? 1. My stand out favorite movie is “Rocky 4.” As a fan of the entire franchise, “Rocky 4” fol-

their attention, such as our highly anticipated Splash Cover Water Park.

Occupation: Financial coach and educator, founder and owner of Your Money Matters, What is the best and worst piece of advice LLC. you have ever received? Some of the most impactful life-changing advice I have reFamily: Parents, Willie A. Garry and Verna ceived came from a career coach that I hired out of Louisiana. She helped me to realize L. LaGarde that my passion, alone, for Your Money Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Matters was enough. It may seem simplisA few of my notable academic accomplish- tic but she challenged me to not wait for ments have been being a first generation the validation of someone else to pursue college graduate, obtaining both my bache- my passion and my dreams. Within three lor and master degrees in accounting. months of working with her I submitted my Professionally, after working in Corpo- corporate resignation and haven’t looked rate America for approximately 15 years I back since! took a leap of faith into full-time entrepreneurship as of 1/11/2019. This is by far If you were a fictional character, who my greatest professional accomplishment would you be and why? I’m truly a child at to date! heart and Scooby Doo, hands down, is my favorite cartoon! Of the main characters Community involvement: I am an advo- I would be “Daphne Blake.” She is funny, cate of giving back to the community and fashion forward, inquisitive, and enjoys find great fulfillment in serving others. shopping!

Throughout the community I serve as vice-chairman of the city of Decatur’s What are your three favorite movies? I Human Relations Commission and trustee love action and comedy movies; however, for the Decatur Public Schools Foundation. I don’t have a specific favorite. Though I’m Additionally, I am an active volunteer at very active throughout the community, I local non-profit organizations, such as am a homebody at heart and love watching Reasonable Service, Kingdom Come Min- television. Right now my new favorite show istries, and my alma mater, Millikin Uni- is “Chrisley Knows Best.” Their family is versity. hilarious!

lows the continuation of the great underdog story through many of life’s changes.

With one of the best 80’s rock, motivational, and emotional soundtracks in the background, Rocky is back to self-reflection in advance of the fight of his life.

Now challenged with themes of age, family, death, and a volatile political climate, he is pushing the limits of his mental and physical toughness. In the end, everyone seems to learn a valuable lesson about life.

2. A not so mainstream favorite, “Eddie and the Cruisers.” Another outstanding soundtrack, an intriguing story, and the idea that sometimes all we need is “words and music”.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? As with any city, Decatur will only be as great as we, the citizens, make it. Young people are full of life and vibrant so they must have something healthy and constructive to catch

Who inspires you to be better? My primary reason for working as hard as I do is to build a legacy for my unborn children. This is of the upmost importance to me and I consistently endeavor to pave the way for them.

It’s truly all about the next generation.

3. For my final favorite I would list these three movies my family loves, and promise that anyone of them will make your day better: “A Goofy Movie,” “Cool Runnings” and Surf’s Up!

today, and inspires me to be a great father.

My best friend, Tory Williams, inspires me every day to keep driving goals and to never settle. My sons. For almost a year they have shown me new things every day and given me a renewed sense of purpose. The joy cannot be measured. Most importantly, my inspiration comes from my wife, Danielle.

For almost 15 years she has pushed me to be the best me. She has provided unwavering support, been the voice of reason, walked with me down every path, and has become an amazing mother. In the fortunate life I have had, there are too many friends, coaches, mentors to mention them all, but I hope they know.

Who inspires you to become better? I am humbled and grateful for the many people in life that have and continue to inspire me. My parents, who each have given me so much. My mother taught me about compassion, empathy, and leading with your heart, while to this day being the absolute example of mental toughness. My father, who gave me the knowledge and wisdom that is the backbone of the person I am

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MIKAYLA LEHMAN Age: 25

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Occupation: Marketing coordinator and customer service at Trump Direct, athletic director at Decatur Christian School, head girls varsity basketball coach at Decatur Christian School and youth referee at Decatur Family YMCA.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? Personally, I hold the mindset that starting from scratch isn’t always the best option. Instead, focus on what already exists. From there, build and progress. Love the young people that currently reside within the community. Showing them that you care and are open to hearing their beliefs, ideas, and opinions can go a long way. By implementing things that are of value to them, you begin to gain their trust and loyalty.

Trust me, there are plenty of young people in our area that could provide positive things in various facets of life. Sometimes, them knowing that they’re heard is just the extra push they need to get involved. Start getting those people active within the community and you’ll begin attracting others to stay or come to the same city and surrounding areas I love and support.

Family: Parents, Joe and Roberta Lehman; siblings Heather Cline (husband, Jared) and Amber Edwards (husband, Josh and daughters, Esther Rose and Emiley Grace); paternal grandma Helen Lehman and maternal grandma Betty Warren.

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: I graduated from college in May 2016 with a BBA in digital media marketing. I assumed finding a job within a reasonable amount of time would be fairly easy. Lesson learned – never assume! With a lot of patience and faith in God, I waited over two years before I landed a full-time position in the business field. Once 2018 rolled around, everything fell into place. Within a 12 month span, I started reffing at the Y, founded my summer basketball camp, began working at Trump Direct, and was hired as DCS’s girls basketball coach. (God’s timing is perfect, can I get an amen?!) It takes some people years to snag that “dream job,” but I can honestly say I’m living out my dream job(s) right now. Handling marketing at my Monday-Friday job, coaching, and working with the youth?! It can’t get much better than that. When your work is your passion and your passion is your work, you can’t go wrong.

Community involvement: At Trump Direct, whether it be designing projects, providing customer service, or handling product fulfillment, I have the pleasure of working with area leaders, companies, and local businesses.

In February, I finished my second season as head coach at DCS. In August 2019, I accepted the position of athletic director at DCS. Both roles have allowed me to interact with and work alongside students, parents, and staff at the school, as well as athletes, coaches, athletic directors, and referees in the area.

In addition to refereeing youth basketball and soccer, I also provide basketball training. These both provide the opportunity to teach the sports I grew up playing while building life lessons along the way. Forming

ning and teaching weekly lessons, playing games, and helping the kids memorize Bible passages are just a few things I enjoy doing.

What are three things most people don’t know about you?

1. In high school, I shattered my elbow and wore a “robot arm” cast for over a month.

2. I went to an NBA game and played on an NBA court all in the same day.

3. My dad’s side of the family is made up of 120 people. I’m grandkid 24/25, but there are also 50 great-grandkids and 11 greatgreat grandkids!

friendships with YMCA staff, coaches, and families is an added bonus!

In June 2018, I started and hosted “Never Too Small To Ball,” a community-wide basketball camp that gives youth a fun week in the gym where basic skills and fundamentals are covered while teamwork,

sportsmanship, and confident mentalities are promoted. This summer will mark the camp’s third annual appearance (depending on COVID-19).

Since graduating from college in 2016, I’ve been a leader in the kids’ club at my home church, East Park Baptist. Plan-

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Best: At age 16, I started my first-ever job as an assistant at DR Roberts Photography. At some point during that first summer working there, my bosses (DR and Ann Roberts) were out of town and more or less trusted me to handle things while they were gone. Because I was fairly new and still “learning the ropes,” Ann left me a to-do list of things I should strive to accomplish by the end of the week. I won’t lie, as I read down the paper, I was a bit overwhelmed.

At the very bottom, though, Ann had written, “How do you eat an elephant, Mikayla?

One bite at a time!” When Ann returned to the office, she explained that that was her way of saying, “No matter how big and Please see LEHMAN, Page 6

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JARED BOHLAND Age: 33

more young people to the area? I think young people truly looking to lay down Occupation: Client services coordinator roots need both sustainable career opfor the Dove, Inc. Domestic Violence Pro- portunities on one hand, coupled with family-friendly entertainment options gram and strong school systems.

Family: Wife, Katie; sons, Judah (2), Micah (1), Malachi (1) What are three things most people don’t know about you?

Career highlights and/or accomplish1. Started my professional life in the muments: Working in the domestic violence sic industry in Nashville. movement as a certified domestic violence 2. I have self-published several poetry professional and domestic violence trainer and ministry books and love playing bass has been a highlight in and of itself, but guitar in bands. probably my greatest accomplishments 3. I love playing recreational sports of all were being selected and graduating in kinds including years of playing kickball the first cohort of the Illinois Coalition in Nashville.

Against Domestic Violence Leadership Academy, and subsequently currently What is the best and worst piece of advice serving as co-chair of the ICADV Lead- you have ever received? Best advice, hands ership Development Committee. Being down, was to always live life above board, involved locally and on the state level has doing what’s right even when nobody is been incredible. looking.

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Community involvement: Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Macon County Continuum of Care Homeless Advisory Council, Set Free Movement Macon County (anti-human trafficking), Central Illinois Human Trafficking Task Force and victim services subcommittee, Family Violence Coordinating Council, founder of Man Up Men’s Ministry.

Who inspires you to be better? Sincerely, my faith in Jesus Christ is at the core of my inspiration to be the best version of myself. I would argue that most of the people I admired in life were also trying to live up to that same person. Jesus wasn’t just a dude on a cross or the figurehead of a religion to me, but rather a real human being that spent years under a microscope modeling how to be the best version of yourself What should the community do to attract possible.

Lehman daunting a task may look or seem, do your best and just tackle it one step at a time.”

Almost 10 years later, I still have that yellow piece of paper and that same quote has helped me get through many hectic times.

Worst: When anyone in general tells me I can’t do something because of my age, gender, or size. If people underestimate your abilities or say that your dreams are crazy and can never be reached, those aren’t your people and you probably shouldn’t listen to them.

What would your perfect Saturday be like?

It’d be exactly what I’d normally be doing on Saturdays, if it weren’t for Corona. I would ref a full day’s worth of youth basketball or soccer at the Y. While there, I would spend time with some of my favorite kids and their families and Abby Lowe, the sports program director at the Y, who’s become one of my closest pals. At the conclusion of the games, I’d head straight to Taco Bell to grab a Baja Blast Freeze (anyone who knows me knows that’s my go-to drink). It may sound like a simple or boring day to some, but not to me! I usually find the most enjoyment and happiness in the simple things of life.

What are your three favorite movies? I love sports-themed movies, so… “Remember the Titans,” “Radio” and (A tie for 3rd) “Coach Carter” and “Breakthrough.”

Who inspires you to be better? My parents! Without them, I wouldn’t be who or where I am today. They love me no matter what, they show me how to genuinely

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care for people — in big and little ways, and they’ve instilled in me a solid work ethic paired with a feisty and determined spirit. By seeing firsthand how they live, I’ve learned the importance of “Don’t quit. Once you start something, you better finish it,” and the value of prayer, wisdom, and thoughtfulness when making decisions. Their support is unmatched — they’ve cheered for me during great times and held my hand during difficult times. Even at age 25, if a problem (big or small) comes up, I’m getting ahold of dad or mom…and without a doubt, I know they’ll always answer. They’ve sacrificed a lot for my success, and they never fail to make me feel special. They’d never make their deeds the focal point, but it was their prayers, hard work, finances, and excitement of seeing where life would take me that gave me and got me through a K-12

private school education as well as a degree earned from a 4-year university. I’ve inherited many traits, quirks, and sayings from them, but the most special to me are: 1) Keep God No. 1. Stay close to Him in good AND bad times. 2) If you’re going to love people, love them hard (especially your grandparents because they’re a treasure). 3) Life is short. Be passionate, make memories, and laugh a lot (even at yourself). 4) There are times to speak up and there are times to keep quiet. Know the difference. 5) If you want something, go after it…and then work hard to keep it.

6) God made no mistake when He created you the way you are. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. Be unashamedly you. My parents have made me a better person and because of them, I know there’s always room to DO better, BE better, and LIVE better, and they inspire me to do just that.

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ALYSSA (ALY) SWENGEL SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Age: 35

the Center for Entrepreneurship Mentor Program at Millikin University. This year I Occupation: Director of the Decatur Well- mentored in a freshman business creation ness Collective, yoga teacher, clinical class to assist a group of students with massage therapist. their first business plan.

Family: Husband, Mike; children June and What should the community do to attract Franklin; and our dog, Topanga. more young people to the area? I think supporting and attracting small busiCareer highlights and/or accomplish- nesses and continuing to improve the ments: My biggest career accomplish- school district are integral to attracting ment has been becoming self employed more young people to the area. and building an organization that helps empower the wellness of the city and What is the best and worst piece of adthat simultaneously honors the freedom vice you have ever received? I think the and innovation of entrepreneurship in a best advice I have ever been given is: “You supportive community of practitioners. can figure this out”. I had several mentors One of my favorite things about the De- growing up who refused to give me any adcatur Wellness Collective is the freedom vise other than to pressure me into using to experiment with how we provide ser- my own judgment or making my own devices and the creative, collaborative way cision. With that freedom there was (and we do that as a community. We have taken still is) a lot of responsibility and consepractitioners that come out of normally quences.

The worst advice I have ever been given competitive industries and helped them each develop their own business within is to pick a job and stick to that one thing the DWC that helps them work in a way for the rest of your career. I think there is that suits the practitioner and empowers always room for evolution in a persons exthe client. We balance this independence perience with their career, it should evolve with an environment where differences as they do. in education, practice and opinion can be used as collaborative opportunities What are your three favorite movies? for new healing strategies unique to each “Under the Tuscan Sun,” “Dan in Real client.

Life.” It is not a movie but I love the “Mary Tyler Moore Show” and own all the DVDs. Community involvement: During the shelter in place order I have spent a lot of my What would your perfect Saturday be like? time helping other small businesses nav- I would sleep in, go to a 10 a.m. yoga class, igate the SBA loan programs. For many pack a lunch and take my kids to the beach people who are sole proprietors who have or pool. no employees it has been very confusing and challenging to get reliable informa- Who inspires you to be better? My clients tion. I also am a business mentor with and my kids.

My biggest career accomplishment has been becoming self employed and building an organization that helps empower the wellness of the city and that simultaneously honors the freedom and innovation of entrepreneurship in a supportive community of practitioners.

Congratulations Aly! Aly Swengel, Decatur Wellness Collective Director BA, LMT, 200 E-RYT, 500 RYT, YACEP Decatur Wellness Collective is an organization that focuses on the wellness of its clients and the physical, spiritual, mental and financial health of its practitioners.

“Aly is crazy smart, determined and dedicated to seeing the people around her succeed. Her dream with the Collective was to create a space for practitioners to be able to do the things they love and bring their passion to the community. She does this with her unbelievable integrity and determination both as a friend and as a member of the wellness community.”

-Dianne Milligan, Reiki Master, LMT“Aly founded the Decatur Wellness Collective to shake up the way we approach healthcare in our community, shifting care from medicine-focused to holistic, integrative, and whole-person focused.

She has structured our Collective around this approach, allowing private practitioners to come together in a collaborative way. Her passion to bring this to life is to be admired!”

-Libby Pasquariello, MSN/ED, RN, HN-BC, RYT997 W. Southside Drive Decatur, IL 62521 decaturwellnesscollective.com

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Decatur Herald & Review

Simple plan. pOWErful rEsults.

Your CuStomerS Are WAiting... let them KnoW You’re reAdy

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20 UNDER 40 | MAY 2020 |

LUCAS WILLIAMS Age: 36

State Bank.

I originate all types of loans — commerOccupation: Vice president, branch man- cial, agricultural, consumer, residential and ager, loan officer at Scott State Bank in commercial real estate Mount Zion.

Community involvement: Treasurer of MaFamily: My wife, Lindsey, is an accountant con County 4H Foundation and Extension, at ADM. We married in April 2007. Our son, mayor of Mount Zion and member of Mount Knox, is 8 years old and is in second grade at Zion Chamber of Commerce.

Mount Zion.

What should the community do to attract Career highlights and/or accomplishments: more young people to the area? We need to Hired in 2006 as loan officer and assistant continue working with not only the major VP working in our Niantic location. No- employers in Macon County but all employvember of 2009 moved to our Decatur office ers in Macon County to figure out ways to next to Decatur Conference Center and Ho- help locate them to our community, retain tel. September of 2013 promoted to branch them in our communities or help them to manager of Scott State Bank’s new location expand in our communities. The more jobs in Mount Zion. Summer of 2019 promoted we are bringing to Macon County the more to vice president of Scott State Bank. younger people we can attract.

We also need to continue giving people a I sit on the bank’s ALCO Committee, Compliance Committee and Loan Com- reason to stay in the community once they mittee. I am the CRA officer for Scott move here. During the last few years it has State Bank. I also handle the submission of the home mortgage disclosure for Scott Please see WILLIAMS, Page 11

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

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LINDSEY SHELTON SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Age: 37 Occupation: Assistant state’s attorney at the Macon County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Family: My husband Andrew, who works at Millikin University, daughter who will be 5 in June and son who will be 2 in June, and two Pug-mix dogs Career highlights and/or accomplishments: I have been a prosecutor for the past 11 ½ years. I have been with the Macon County State’s Attorney’s Office for the past 5 ½ years and before that I worked in the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office for six years. During my career I have handled a large variety of cases and held numerous supervisory positions. In Macon County, I was the Domestic Violence and Elder Abuse Unit supervisor for two years, the Drug and Gang Prosecution Unit supervisor for two years, and am the current supervisor for the Sexual Crimes and Child Abuse Unit. My current caseload includes not only sexual assaults and severe child abuse cases, but also homicides. I have tried over 50 jury trials and 20 bench trials during the course of my career.

Community involvement: I am the current treasurer for the Junior Welfare Association Board. I have been volunteering with JWA for about three years now. I am the secretary for the Macon County CASA Board, which I have been involved with for a year now. I am a member of the board of directors for the Decatur Bar Association and have been involved with the Decatur Bar Association for the past few years. I serve on the Child First Center Friends board and am the chairperson for the East Central Illinois Fatality Review Team. I am also actively involved with my church, Holy Cross Lutheran. I am currently the Education Committee chairperson and help teach Sunday School.

more young people to the area? I think the community has already done a great job of attracting young people to our area with downtown’s local restaurants and shops; children’s activities by the Park District like the Scovill Zoo, Children’s Museum, Overlook Adventure Park, and the new Splash Cove Aquatic Complex; and the gorgeous waterfront of Lake Decatur as well as the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater. I think something we could build on would be adding more young professionals organizations.

The organizations I have been involved with in the community have been a great way to meet people who are interested and passionate about the same interests as myself. I have met some of my best friends volunteering with Junior Welfare Association. Also, the Decatur Bar Association has hosted social outings and is launching a lawyer-to-lawyer mentor program that I am leading this fall which I hope will be not only an invaluable learning experience but also foster a stronger connection to the Decatur area.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? Starting at a very young age, my parents (my dad especially) always emphasized that I should do what I love because enjoying what I did was the key to success and happiness. As I got older this same advice translated into doing work that I love so that it didn’t feel like work. I have followed this great advice and truly enjoy practicing law and being able to help people in very impactful ways on such a large scale.

I hope to continue to follow my parents’ advice and support our community on an even greater scale by aspiring to be a judge in Macon County.

Who inspires you to be better? My husband, Andrew. He is extremely supportive, the kindest person I’ve ever met, and a true optimist. He sees the best in everyone, cares deeply for others, and would literally give a stranger the shirt off his back. He always pushes me to do my best and we make What should the community do to attract a great team navigating life together.

Starting at a very young age, my parents (my dad especially) always emphasized that I should do what I love because enjoying what I did was the key to success and happiness.

As I got older this same advice translated into doing work that I love so that it didn’t feel like work. I have followed this great advice and truly enjoy practicing law and being able to help people in very impactful ways on such a large scale.

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BJ LEONARD Age: 36

Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Occupation: Missions pastor at First Chris- Community involvement: I lead aspects of the Annual WSOY Community Food tian Church Drive, am co-director of Night to Shine, Family: Married to my wife, Mary, of 13 lead the Jumpstart Back-to-School Clinic, years. We are the parents of Hannah (8), oversee chaplaincy partnerships at DMH twins Lydia and Mia (6), and Dominic (3). and Crossing Healthcare, provide pastoral leadership at Parsons Elementary School Career highlights and/or accomplishments: and the Club 305 after school program Since moving to Decatur in 2010, I began in partnership with DPS 61 and the One expanding the Club 305 after-school pro- School One Church Initiative, and live with gram for Parsons Elementary School stu- my family on North Church Street in the dents, created the free Jumpstart Back-to- GM Square Neighborhood.

School Clinic that now provides hundreds of free physicals each year, established a What should the community do to attract system for taking medical mission teams to more young people to the area: Decatur Kenya, created a community development is a great community that is able to come initiative in the GM Square neighborhood, together in powerful ways. While there are helped launch the Arts Academy which challenges, such as all communities have, provides free instruction in the arts, and there are also opportunities for each of us to helped to establish Night to Shine, a prom invest in the lives of others and make a real experience for individuals in our commu- difference. Decatur can attract and retain nity with special needs. Along with being more young people by prioritizing investa pastor and afterschool program director, ment in the next generation.

I also have been an adjunct professor, published several magazine articles, and served What would your perfect Saturday be like? on a number of community boards.

A perfect Saturday would be spent outI received bachelors and masters degrees doors with family and friends. from Lincoln Christian University and Fuller Theological Seminary and is cur- Who inspires you to be better? Other pracrently pursuing a doctoral degree at The titioners, friends, mentors, and my wife.

Decatur is a great community that is able to come together in powerful ways.

Williams

What are three things most people don’t know about you?

1. I enjoy reading.

From 9 2. I enjoy grilling. been wonderful to see the revitalization of 3. I do not eat breakfast or snack very often. the Decatur downtown area which helps to attract people to shop and eat. The Devon What would your perfect Saturday be like?

Amphitheater is a great attraction for people A hot Saturday in September starting with in the immediate, but it brings people from watching Knox play a flag football game. Afother areas to Macon County to spend their terwards, come home and grill some burgers money in our communities. and play pool volleyball.

End the afternoon by grilling a big steak Continue to promote outdoor activities at the local parks and walking paths. Mount and watch a Notre Dame football game in Zion has Fletcher Park and Spitler Woods, the evening and play a game of Sorry with which offer a great place to enjoy a nice day my wife and son. outside and exercise.

The village of Mount Zion will be adding Who inspires you to be better? When you a splash pad at Fletcher Park for families to have a child or children, you want to set an take advantage of. example for them to learn by.

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EVAN HALL Age: 26 Occupation: Agent, First Mid Insurance Group, co-owner Mike Hall Auction Co.

1. I worked my way through college.

Throughout most of my time at Millikin, I held three jobs — drove a truck for Home City Ice, worked as the intern for JL Hubbard, and still worked at the auction.

2. When I was a kid, I sold sweet corn out of the field to make extra money. There is no better ear than Maddox Sweet Corn in Warrensburg.

3. I’m the superintendent of the Standardbred Horse Races at the Macon County Fair and myself own part of a show horse (cutting horse-NCHA). I love horses and livestock, LOVE THEM.

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Began my career for JL Hubbard while still a senior at Millikin University in December 2014. I would go to class in the morning, and hop in the car and go meet with business owners in the afternoon. Chosen as a top 50 agent for Berkley Insurance Group 2017. Westfield Open Invitee (Westfield Insurance Co.) 2016. Write Commercial Insurance in Illinois and Indiana. Becoming a partner in my family business at age 26. What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Community involvement: Former presiBEST: Don’t leave the gate open…EVER. dent of Macon County 4-H and Extension We raise livestock, and I just purchased my Foundation; secretary, Macon County Fair own farm. I have, in fact, learned this the Board; member of Macon County Farm Bu- hard way. reau Young Farmer’s Committee; member Worst: Buy a rental house. It’s an easy Illinois Auctioneers Association; active in investment.

Illinois Grain & Feed Association, Southern IL Builders Association. Recently joined If you were a fictional character, who would Decatur Country Club. you be and why? Rip Wheeler, from the TV show “Yellowstone.” I just want to work What should the community do to attract cattle all day on horseback. That’s my idea more young people to the area? Being a of fun. local (our family roots here trace back to 1832), I have seen most of my friends grow- What are your three favorite movies? “Giing up, leave for big cities. I understand ant” (with James Dean and Elizabeth Taythe attraction, more opportunity. But, at lor), “Pure Country” (George Strait) and the end of the day, some are coming back any Humphrey Bogart movie. The old black home. This is a great place to raise a fam- and white movies are the best. ily, and young people can see that. In my opinion, attracting more white-collar jobs What would your perfect Saturday be like? to this community is the only way to do it. Without question, sale day. Any Saturday There will never be a service sector boom I can conduct an auction is already a good for entertainment without the demand. day in my book.

Technology- and financial-service based businesses could have a great home here in Who inspires you to be better? Easy quesDecatur, due to the low cost of real estate, tion. My father, Mike Hall. He’s been my and local colleges like Millikin and RCC role model my whole life. I learned how to looking to place graduates. But they have conduct business from him, how to build to set up shop first. relationships, and the value of ethics and integrity. Working side by side with him in What are three things most people don’t our family business is a dream come true know about you? for me.

Being a local (our family roots here trace back to 1832), I have seen most of my friends growing up, leave for big cities. I understand the attraction, more opportunity. But, at the end of the day, some are coming back home. This is a great place to raise a family, and young people can see that. In my opinion, attracting more white-collar jobs to this community is the only way to do it. There will never be a service sector boom for entertainment without the demand.

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CHRIS STONECIPHER Age: 39

eager people ready to step up.

Occupation: Tatooer, Oakwood Tattoo.

What are three things most people don’t know about you? Hopefully not much. I tend to stay pretty quiet.

1. I did three combat tours to Iraq with the Marine Corps.

2. I learned to tattoo from a 70-year-old biker dude who wore a top hat with sharks teeth and a long duster jacket everyday in San Diego, Ca. (He could have his own Netflix Doc) 3. Drawing doesn’t come easy to me, it’s just been the only consistent thing in my life since childhood. Well that and pro wrestling.

Family: Married to the beautiful Amanda Stonecipher. We have two children, Kobi, 16, and Cali, 6, with one naked cat named Hogan

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Feels weird to rattle off awards and what not. I guess my life’s goal is to be able to provide a comfortable life for my family doing something I enjoy. I want to set a example for my kids. They don’t have to have your typical 9-5 in this world. I want them to go to work everyday and enjoy it like I do. I go to work everyday and legit get to draw and What is the best and worst piece of advice hang out with my best friends. Life is rad if you have ever received? you want it to be!

Frank Whittington- “You can’t sell taste.”

Frank Whittington- “Smoking will make Community involvement: I get to tattoo your babies born naked.” our beautiful community five days a week Frank Whittington- “What you lack at Oakwood Tattoo. That’s pretty cool. We in talent, make up for in extremely high also host Toys for Tats the first Thursday of prices.”

December every year. If you bring in a new, All the best pieces of advice BTW! unwrapped toy, we will give you a fee tattoo.

That is always our favorite day of the year. What are your three favorite movies? “HalIt’s almost a party. It’s a blast. loween,” “Platoon,” and “Akira.”

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? If you want to attract younger people to the area then you have to have input from the younger generation. No disrespect to the generation before me, but if your goal is attract younger people, get younger people into our community leadership roles. Most of those positions are all held by people much older than me. There are plenty of young, smart,

What would your perfect Saturday be like?

Slammed at the tat shack listening to some tunes with chill customers that tip really well and get cool tattoos!!!!

Who inspires you to be better? My daughter! She is at that age where she is watching my every move like a hawk and often imitating those moves. So I have to show my daughter the best version of me.

Which is why we are pledging up to $250,000 in marketing grants.

As the foremost leader in local news and advertising we have worked with local businesses during the best of times.

Now, we are honored to support local businesses through these difficult times by matching marketing spend through June 2020.* *Cannot be used retroactively. Applicable only to current or future months.

Apply or learn more at herald-review.com/grant

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

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DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

KIMBERLY MCGREGOR Age: 38 Occupation: Registered nurse, Emergency Department at Decatur Memorial Hospital, volleyball coach at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and St. Teresa High School.

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Family: I live in Decatur with my husband, Brian; our two children, Alex and Aidan; our three dogs, Bubba J, Callie, and Little Dog; and our fancy bearded dragon, Cortez. Our daughter, Alex, is 19 years old and attends Millikin University. Our son, Aidan, is 14 years old and will attend st.

Teresa High School in the fall.

Career highlights and / or accomplishments: I did not attend nursing school until I was 30 years old, so my career is relatively new. I have been a registered nurse for the past seven years, both at Decatur Memorial Hospital and St. John’s Hospital.

Most of that time has been spent caring for women and children on Pediatrics and Labor and Delivery at DMH and the Neonatal ICU at St. John’s. I made the move to the ER at DMH this past March. I love to be challenged in the workplace and the ER provides that for me. Thanks to some of my wonderful patients, I have been nominated for “Exceptional Service” awards several times. Each and every nomination has been extremely special to me. ln addition to nursing, I am also a volleyball coach at both Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and St. Teresa High School.

Coaching volleyball is one of my passions.

It was a huge honor to coach at the State Finals last fall! And if you hadn’t heard, we won the state championship!

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Best: The best advice comes from the Bible: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything” (Philippians 4:6) Worst: “Just do what everyone else does.” That’s incredibly boring!

If you were a fictional character, who would you be and why? I am not a fan of fiction.

What are your three favorite movies?

I can never resist “Dirty Dancing,” “Pretty Woman or “Sweet Home Alabama.” I could probably recite each of those movies word for word.

What would your perfect Saturday be like?

I love to be outside, so my perfect Saturday would include mowing or cleaning up the yard, sitting on the deck grilling and drinking wine, or being at the dog park with my dogs. My son Aidan and I also love hiking and kayaking, so a trip to Starved Rock or Turkey Run would also be perfect.

Community involvement: Between working as a nurse and coaching volleyball I don’t have as much time to volunteer in the community as I would like, but I love helping wherever I can at the kids’ schools.

I have also been a court appointed special advocate with CASA in the past.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? I feel like Decatur is on the right track. Young people want good jobs and fun entertainment. We have several quality places of employment in our community and great entertainment venues, such as The Devon Amphitheater, Decatur Brew Works, and Door 4 Brewery.

As long as Decatur continues that trend,

almost every day since then. Our 15th anniversary is this year. I am a lucky woman!

2. Second, I love music. I would have music playing all of the time if I could. I often have music playing at home, at work, and in my car. I like various kinds of genres too, it just depends on my mood. I love going to concerts. A Matt Nathanson concert is top of my list to go see with my husband and a good outdoor summer country concert with my daughter can’t be beat!

3. Finally, another thing that most people don’t know about me is that I love home projects. I am no Joanna Gaines, but I love remodeling and changing things around. I don’t think my family would be surprised if they came home and I had taken down a wall or something. I never stop.

we should have no problem continuing to 1. For starters, most people don’t know recruit young people to our community. that I met my husband at a bar and it was pretty much love at first sight. We spent What are three things that most people the evening dancing and went on our first don’t know about you? date the next night. We have been together

Who inspires you to be better? My family is my rock and my source of inspiration.

I was raised by a single mom and she was the hardest working person I have ever known. I remind myself of the sacrifices that she made to provide for my sister and me. My husband and children also inspire me. My husband has always supported my crazy work and volleyball schedules and has been there for our kids when I have been away working nights, weekends, and holidays. Everything I do is for our family.

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RACHEL STRODE fundamental values of Decatur and how the community will benefit those it serves Occupation: Vice president, regional pri- — no matter their age. vate client manager at Busey Bank.

What are three things most people don’t Family: I’ve been married to my husband, know about you?

Steven Strode, for 13 years. Steven is a 1. I am a huge animal lover. We have three performance improvement specialist at dogs, a cat and a bearded dragon— and I Exelon in Clinton. We have a son, Kayson, would consider adding to this menagerie.

2. I married my middle and high school 10, and a daughter, Raelyn, 6. sweetheart 13 years ago. This year, we will Career highlights and/or accomplish- have been together for 20 years.

3. After high school graduation, my plan ments: I entered the banking industry in 2012 as a branch manager and, in 2018, I had been to become a marine biologist and made the move to Busey Bank to become move away from Decatur. Luckily, plans a private client manager. A little over a changed for the better. year later I was honored to receive my vice president title and promotion to re- What is the best and worst piece of advice gional private client manager. Currently, I you have ever received? The best advice lead a team of highly talented individuals is something my grandmother used to in our Decatur market where we deliver tell me: “Be the good you want to see in our private clients an integrated means the world and always lead with love.” Her of addressing both personal and business heartfelt advice has stayed with me since financial needs. Prior to Busey, I was in I was a little girl. human resources and retail management The worst is not necessarily advice but for almost 14 years. I was very proud at words of caution. I’ve found by letting othage 19 to be named store manager for the ers control how you feel about yourself, you women’s clothing store, The Limited, and can become your own worst enemy. On the manage it for six years before moving into flip side, you can change that way of thinkhuman resources. ing and become your own biggest fan. Always choose to bet on yourself even when Community involvement: As a lifelong De- you are the underdog. catur resident, I am so proud to be a member of this wonderful community. Currently, If you were a fictional character, who I’m a United Way board member and vol- would you be and why? I love Captain unteer, as well as the UW campaign leader Marvel. She advocates for others in need, in the Decatur market. In addition, I’m a stands up for what is right, believes in herboard member for the Symphony Orchestra self and continues to rise up after being Guild of Decatur and the Children’s Mu- knocked down. seum of Illinois. I recently joined PawPrint Ministries’ newly founded advisory board What are your three favorite movies? and assist with fiduciary responsibilities. “Grease,” “Top Gun” and “Dirty Dancing.”

My active participation also includes organizing Busey’s book drive — and receiving What would your perfect Saturday be like?

300 donations — for children in need at De- A perfect Saturday would be sleeping in catur Macon County Opportunities Cor- and waking up to family cuddles, followed poration (DMCOC); leading Busey’s efforts by time outdoors with the entire family, for the 2019 WSOY Food Drive in Decatur and winding down with a great dinner and that raised over $1,000; and volunteering discussing what is important to our family at area Special Olympics events. right now. I’ll also take a family day at the beach anytime.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? I think the Who inspires you to be better? My huscommunity needs to be more transparent band and my children are my primary inwith its opportunities to volunteer and spirations. I believe it’s important to never help area youth. Social media is a large part become complacent. You always have to of life for the younger generation and can push to be the best possible version of be used to the community’s advantage. It’s yourself; if not for yourself, then do it as a powerful tool that can demonstrate the an example for those around you.

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Age: 33

ACHIEVE. At Busey, we’re proud to have associates who are positive, determined, thoughtful, resilient and humble.

Congratulations, Rachel Strode, on being recognized among The Herald & Review’s 20 Under 40, sponsored by The Community Foundation of Macon County.

Rachel Strode

Vice President Regional Private Client Manager

busey.com Member FDIC

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TARA ULIS Age: 38

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Occupation: Owner of Ulis Crisis Intervention & Consulting Services, LLC. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Decatur Police Department and Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Family: I am blessed with a family who supports and gives me fulfillment every day. My loving husband and I have 4 kiddos—Jack, 10, Emma, 10, Hunter, 7 and Henry, 3. We also have Lucky, a golden retriever who is being trained as a service dog for my son with autism; Sam, a bearded dragon; Kit Kat and Gizmo, guinea pigs. My mom is a very integral part of my family’s daily life, even moving here from Southern California. The development of my professional life would not be possible without my husband and moter. Thank you.

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Graduated with a Masters in social work from California State University, Los Angeles. I started out working in hospice and end of life care at Connecticut Hospice. Studied and attained my License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW) and transitioned into trauma social work through the emergency department at Yale.

We have lived in Decatur for nearly nine years and I have began developing a similar social work trauma program at DMH. This serves to provide support to patients and families involved in trauma, but also mental and emotional support to hospital staff and first responders that are often secondarily affected. Through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), my goal is to decrease secondary trauma as well as provide an outlet for medical staff and other first responders to process and learn to cope with past trauma as well as recent traumatic incidents.

I am the coordinator of Decatur Area Critical Incident Stress Management—an all-volunteer team comprised of EMS, firefighters, police officers, medical staff, chaplains and mental health professionals who provide psychological triage to peers who have experienced a critical incident.

Our team also responds to the community at large, including schools and hospitals who have experienced a crisis or trauma.

This time allows both first responders and civilians to process the events that have occurred in order to return to baseline.

Additionally, I have initiated a point-of-

service wellness liaison role for the Decatur Police Department with the help of a grant my husband and I wrote to the Macon County Mental Health Board. I have been actively involved with law enforcement, doing ride alongs in order to build relationship and trust with these heroes. Through this program, I am able to assist law enforcement with both counseling and education on techniques in order to minimize risk for PTSD in a high-risk population.

Lastly, this April, I created Ulis Crisis In-

ership at First Christian Church. We help bring the women of Decatur together with multi-generational fellowship and worship through events.

I also play the fiddle as a part of Broken Brogue, a local Celtic band, as well as both trumpet and violin in my church band. I have played music since the age of 10 and was blessed to meet my husband (who also plays trumpet) while playing as a member of the UCLA marching, jazz band and orchestra through my college years. Music has always brought a sense of both calm and adventure to my life, allowing me peace during chaos and traveling the world through high school and college.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area: Continue to build and grow quality schools and small businesses, so that they can provide more activities and opportunities for raising a family in Decatur. Ideally, all Macon County residents would have the opportunity to attend magnet schools throughout the county, this way there is more of a unified school district idea than a divisive DPS, M-F, MTZ, A-O, CG or Warrensburg — the community will have a larger investment in all schools in the community, not just in the town they live in. We love “hole in the wall” and local restaurants so that we can have a multitude of cultural experiences as a family. These cultural experiences include art, music, theater and food.

In terms of raising a family, we need more activities for children, especially during the winter (indoor activities). Utilize a large space to create a “family entertainment center,” like Overlook Adventure for the winter. We are looking forward to the water park opening and would love to have more unique playground options and more lake activities. We have a beautiful lake here in Decatur but are unable to utilize it without owning a boat. We need to commercialize the lake for family use. Increased bike path tervention & Consulting Services, LLC. The availability, including around the of the services I provide include crisis planning, lake. counseling and therapy after a traumatic event for both individuals and the general What are three things most people don’t community. know about you?

1. I spent 100 days on a ship learning Community involvement: Member of the about culture abroad through Semester at CASA (court-appointed special advocate) Sea in Spring 2003. board. Founded a mothers of multiples 2. I lived in Guatemala on my own for two group providing support, advice and fel- months in order to immerse myself in the lowship to new mothers of twins and triplets. Part of the women’s ministry leadPlease see ULIS, Page 17

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DANIEL BENNICK Age: 30 Occupation: Owner of Interchem Polymers, Inc. and Procoat Painting Plus, LLC.

ing, they might want to be a part of it. There seems to be a cycle occurring where we need the jobs, but we need all the local glam to attract those companies who provide the jobs.

Its harder to become more attractive to those entities without investing in the community first. Decatur just needs to become a place where everyone will thrive and then things will fall in to place. If you build it, they will come!

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Career Highlights/Accomplishments: I haven’t worked for anyone but myself for going on three years. Started a business in something with little to no experience and have made it a success. Took the reigns of the family business that my grandfather started 40 years ago. I finally won an award for some- What are three things most people don’t thing (20 Under 40). know about you?

1. I enjoy studying history.

2. I competed in mixed martial arts.

Community Involvement: I have donated materials and labor for local revitalization 3. I have over 200 St. Louis Cardinals and beautification efforts. I also have had T-shirts. opportunities to get involved with development and historic preservation.

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Best: “Never say you can’t do something.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? The first step Never say you cannot win. Anyone can win. is inspiring and cultivating talent we already If you count yourself out, you’ve already lost.” have in the community. Everybody needs to Worst: “Don’t start a business. It’s too hard know that they can be somebody and make and very risky.” a difference. We have plenty of resources for those wanting to make an impact, but those What are your three favorite movies? “The resources need to be made known and readily Patriot,” “300” and “Fury.” available. However, I do believe that we still need more avenues for creativity and col- Who inspires you to become better? My famlaboration. Now it is time to start working ily, my friends. Those who have come before together, getting outside our comfort zone, me, and those who will come after. The ones and making things happen. There are plenty who told me I could and even the ones who of things moving in the right direction. Once told me I couldn’t. I love being able to say that others on the outside see what we are do- I find inspiration in so many people.

Everybody needs to know that they can be somebody and make a difference.

Ulis

Best advice: How to raise newborn twins with a husband who works 100 From 16 hours a week, no family in the state, no friends with children, and no money for culture and language. a babysitter WITHOUT going insane.

3. I am an honorary ENT doctor by pas- Thankful for my friends with multiples sive experience and many sleepless nights. in Connecticut.

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Worst advice: A high school guidance counselor told me I shouldn’t even bother applying to UCLA (where I went to college, met my husband and formed the entire trajectory of my life).

What would your perfect Saturday be like?

For me, a perfect Saturday would be very well-rounded: definitely family time with all the kids, preferably involving some outdoor activity like hiking. A little bit of accomplishing projects around the house with my husband (need to feel productive).

A delicious meal prepared by my husband, with the family peacefully sitting around the table sharing all their thoughts and hopes and fears (never a raised voice or fight between the children — ha, only in my dreams). And relaxing with a movie at night, or a board game, after the kids are in bed (with homemade popcorn).

Who inspires you to be better? My mother.

She raised me as a single mother who worked tremendously hard, sometimes three jobs at a time, in order to make ends meet. And through that, instilling empathy, integrity, a love for our God, creativity and

determination in me. Watching her make sacrifices throughout her life for the betterment of others, including many children I brought home who needed love and support from an adult. She always supports my crazy ideas (maybe not the first time she hears them), all the while giving me time to rejuvenate while she watches my kids.

The next generation, my kids. Not only do I want to give my children life experiences and perspective as I was given, I also want to help make our community one where we can work together, in cultural understanding, in order make our community a great place to serve our God.

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DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

DAMIEN T. SCHLITT Age: 36

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Occupation: Licensed architect and associate director of Education Design Studio, BLDD Architects Family: Wife, Carly Schlitt; son, Austin (13); daughter, Addison (8).

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Graduated from University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign with Master of Architecture 2007. Joined BLDD Architects as an intern architect with a passion for K-12 educational design. Licensed architect in 2013. Promoted to associate in January of 2019. Projects recognized at the Joint Annual Conference for Excellence in Educational Environments: 2012 Award of Distinction (top honor) or Washington Community High School Addition and Renovation.

2019 Award of Distinction for Okaw Valley Agricultural Complex and Award of Merit for Waltham CUSD 185 New Elementary School.

If you were a fictional character, who would you be and why? Jim Halpert, “The Office.”

Fun loving, successful, witty, and has a relaxed demeanor. I try to enjoy the simple things and keep an even demeanor as much as possible. Who wouldn’t want to be Jim Halpert?

Community involvement: Vice president of Mahomet Mavericks baseball organization board, and head coach of current 13u team.

Fifth year coaching this team.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? I strongly believe, that the continuation of the revitalization of the downtown area is a vital component of attracting young people, particularly young professionals, to the area.

The development of the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, and the continuous efforts to support small business are vital to this effort. These types of efforts are critical in the creation of a local, walking community, provides for an environment that supports a sustainable, socially conscience community to which, young people will be drawn.

These communities will then also become the hubs for creativity and engagement, leading to re-investment of time and future earnings. Young people are flocking to urban centers where services, and culture are available at every turn. The next step to supporting those values and that group of 2. I collect sneakers future leaders, is to provide opportunities 3. I was a drummer when I was a child. for residents close to the action where this walking, sustainable, and locally sustained environment can flourish.

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

What are three things most people don’t Best Advice: Manage expectations. This know about you? is a piece of information that gave me the 1. I am an only child. clearest understanding of what being an ar-

I think this management of expectations is something that can also move into one’s personal life. Saying yes to everyone is easy, until the proverbial “bill” comes due. Those people closest and most important to you will understand when you have to say no.

They will understand that if something is important enough for you to prioritize, then it is important enough for them to support.

Worst Advice: Always look out for yourself. The advice itself wasn’t terrible, it just misses the second part… ”as long as looking out for yourself doesn’t put someone else in harm’s way.” When told to look out for yourself, you are never too young to understand the implications of what that might mean.

Looking out for yourself is often possible while also looking out for those that cannot look out for themselves.

What are your three favorite movies? This is really an impossible question to answer, as the variables are far too great to pick JUST three, however, here goes: “Big Lebowski” – it’s a classic, and reminds me of some of my best most formative years at the U of I. “The Goonies” – it reminds me of being a kid, and still helps me to drift back to those much simpler times. And lastly, “Star Wars” (The Saga). The story, the universe, the timeline, the fact that they made that first one in the 1970s with not much more than a lamp, pre-release plastic toys, and cotton balls… unless you are a “Harry Potter” person, or “Lord of the Rings” fan, these have to be on your list!

chitect, in full service to my client, means.

Being open and honest about what is possible, and as importantly, not possible is critical to supporting the success of your client and their project. This type of honesty, the cold hard truth at times, leads to a stronger more enduring relationship with that person than simply being a yes person.

What would your perfect Saturday be like?

We would wake up and watch my daughter play soccer, starting at goalie. That would be followed by my son and my baseball team, playing an afternoon home double header, including field preparation. Dragging and lining a baseball field is something everyone should get to enjoy. Day would end with most of the team, and their families coming to the house for a fire, s’mores and time to connect outside of the game. Connecting around the greatest game in the world, with Please see SCHLITT, Page 21

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KRYSTLE TEMPEL Age: 33 Occupation: Owner of Board Knight and a health educator at the Macon County Health Department

more young people to the area? I moved to this area to attend college and had the pleasure to see all the opportunities that existed.

After college, I found a job that provided important experience and a community that helped me grow. I hope that others who spend time in Macon County can see all the greatness it has to offer.

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Family: Husband (Andrew), kids (Konnor, Karson, Kylah and Baby K due in September), feline children (Twiggy, Lilly, Lupin and Sirius), Goldendoodle (Bellatrix) What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received? The best advice I Career highlights and/or accomplishments: have received was from my grandfather. He Small business owner for seven years, com- told us to never stop learning. Learn somemunity educator for six years in adult edu- thing each day, that’s the key to a long and happy life. The worst advice? Let’s just say cation and health education.

I’ve tried to ignore the negative advice.

Community involvement: I’m a member of the executive board of Games For Troops, If you were a fictional character, who would which organizes a gaming convention called you be and why? Leslie Knope from “Parks Heroicon (scheduled for November 2020) and Recreation.” Her commitment to her and helps provides games to our soldiers. I community and loyalty to her friends, is am also a color guard coach for the Mount what I strive for. She is cheerful, ambitious, Zion Marching Braves. hard-working and has strong beliefs.

a tough one, I guess my favorite three would ban,” “The Little Mermaid” and “The MupWhat should the community do to attract What are your three favorite movies? That’s be “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azka- pets Christmas Carol.”

CONGRATULATIONS

DAMIEN SCHLITT

AIA LEED AP®

FOR BEING NAMED TO THE 2020

20 UNDER 40!

Your creativity, passion and enthusiasm are an inspiration to all of us in the BLDD family!

BLDD.com

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| MAY 2020 | 20 UNDER 40

DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

ANTHONY MANSUR SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Age: 33 Occupation: Principal of Stevenson Elementary School Family: Wife, Sherry; daughters, Madison (4) and Peyton (2 months); parents, Cathy and Blake; and brother, Travis.

Career highlights and/or accomplishments: Over the last 10 years as an educator, I have worked as a fifth-grade teacher at Parsons Elementary, instructional specialist at Enterprise Montessori, principal intern at Durfee Magnet School, the assessment administrator for DPS 61, and now the principal of Stevenson Elementary School. Becoming a principal has been a lifelong goal of mine. I am proud to have had the opportunity to work in Decatur for my entire educational career.

Community involvement: I have been a member of Next Gen since last year and have helped at different community events in Decatur. I’ve volunteered for the Decatur Celebration in years past as well.

What should the community do to attract more young people to the area? I think it’s important for our area to try to continue to expand the opportunities for local, small business owners. These added job opportunities, as well as more diverse night life activities are going to be the key to attracting more young people to the Decatur area. The Devon Amphitheater is a wonderful example of offering an opportunity to bring people to the area, as well.

What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Best: “Never stop learning as a principal.” To become an efficient principal, you have to watch and learn from the best and the worst. See how they handle situations and learn from all of their mistakes. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes from time to time.

Worst: “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” My job is full of difficult days and stressful challenges.

Instead of hoping for a work life that is nothing but fun and ease, I embrace the challenges that come my way.

If you were a fictional character, who would you be and why? As much as I’d like to imagine I’d be the chosen one like Harry Potter, I think I’d most likely relate to Tony Stark. I am confident in my choices and ability to work effective and efficiently. I do not have an Iron Man suit hidden anywhere, but I do feel like my role as principal does require quite a bit of education, know-how, and the ability to adapt to always changing situations.

What are your three favorite movies?

“Tommy Boy,” “Dumb and Dumber” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.”

What would your perfect Saturday be like?

My wife and children would go to Scovill Zoo and the Children’s Museum on a sunny fall day. Then, one of our parents would take the girls so that my wife and I could go out on an early date to Taproot and get the calamari and their wonderful Drunken Pork Chop. Then we would head to the Devon Amphitheater to catch What are three things most people don’t a concert. know about you?

1. I used to be a professional cheerlead- Who inspires you to be better? My wife ing instructor for UCA. has consistently been my driving force 2. My wife and I love to go on sponta- through the good, bad, and the ugly of edneous vacations that we make up as we’re ucation and parenting. She has supported driving. We pick an end destination and me in getting my masters, helped raise two make the rest up along the way. wonderful girls, and is my rock when times 3. I still have my original NES and Nin- are tough. I would not be where I am totendo 64 from 25-plus years ago that my day if it weren’t for her. I am so happy to family plays for fun sometimes. be called her husband! I love you, Sherry!

I think it’s important for our area to try to continue to expand the opportunities for local, small business owners.

DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

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TRAVIS MANSUR Age: 27

and a 21-year-old cat (Maggie aka Mom).

3. I enjoy hunting, but not for the sport.

Occupation: Associate veterinarian at I enjoy it more for the reason of knowing Northgate Pet Clinic where my food comes from and how it was processed.

Family: Brother (Anthony Mansur), mother (Cathy Mansur), father (Blake Mansur) and What is the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received? girlfriend (Chelsea Mohn) Best: If you want to be a veterinarian you Career highlights and/or accomplishments: have to want it more than anything because Remodeling a house while in vet school and what there is to go through is harder than starting my second house soon after grad- anything you could imagine and to make uating. Asked to take an advanced course it through you have to want it more than in a specialized (TPLO) surgery in Boston anything you could imagine.

Worst: Just one more. and was the youngest member in the class.

Out of all the reviews that I have received at Northgate I have yet to have one be any If you were a fictional character, who would less than 5/5. I was also nominated for best you be and why? After reading this question vet in the Herald and Review. and giving it some thought before, there is no person I would want to be other than Community involvement: Help local shel- myself. ters with any vet care they may need at a substantial discount.

What are your three favorite movies?

“Dazed and Confused,” “Jurassic World” What should the community do to attract and “Lawless.” more young people to the area? Keep as much local business as we can and continue What would your perfect Saturday be like? to improve our community and surround- Wake up before my girlfriend to make some ing areas. coffee and breakfast to have breakfast in bed. Head to the gym after the food setWhat are three things most people don’t tles. Then either go fishing or walk through know about you? the woods.

1. Could have had a career in home remodeling but chose to pursue further ed- Who inspires you to be better? My father, ucation instead in veterinarian medicine. mother, and brother. My self drive and the 2. Have a wonderful girlfriend whom I desire to see how much I can really do. My share two Great Danes (Zeva and Harlow) girlfriend.

Schlitt From 18

my family and the amazing families that have carried our team for the past five years is my perfect Saturday.

Who inspires you to be better? Family. My mother inspires me to be great for me, not for someone else. My father inspires me to be caring and be proud of my feelings. My grandfather, Don Souza, gifted me the opportunity to get my degrees, and I always strive to make him proud. My grandfather Ferd Schlitt, could build anything, and inspires me to be a maker. My uncles, Drew and Roger, for opening my eyes to the world, and all the people in it, and providing me

the spark to want to be an architect (and back-up plan of graphic design). And then there is my family. My son, born during my final year of graduate school, inspired me to pursue educational design, to support what I saw/see as the greatest need of our time, educating our children, my children.

My daughter, who when born, I thought I knew how this parenting thing worked, has inspired me to love differently, and say “yes” a lot. And last, but certainly not least, my wife, who makes everything I do possible. She has inspired me to be focused, confident, and determined. Dedicated to making her proud, making her want for nothing, and making her laugh (she has a great smile/laugh). And possibly most importantly, to never make the mistake of taking myself too seriously.

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Congratulations!

Anthony Mansur Decatur Public Schools Principal

Dr. Travis Mansur Northgate Pet Clinic Doctor

We are SO Proud of you!

Love,

PawPaw & Granny

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| MAY 2020 | 20 UNDER 40

DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

ABBY CORZINE SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Age: 35 Occupation: Cashier and BSA Officer at First National Bank of Assumption Family: Parents, Mike and Vanessa Corzine of Assumption; brother, Andrew (Stacey) of Moweaqua, three nephews; partner, Todd Toberman and son, Grady (7) Career highlights and/or accomplishments: After graduating with a degree in ag business from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, I started working for Illinois Farm Bureau where I worked as manager of the Crawford County Farm Bureau for two years. When the opportunity opened for me to come back to my hometown, I jumped at the chance.

I became the fifth generation of Corzines to work at the First National Bank of Assumption. Each day I look forward to continuing the tradition set before me and serving the community of Assumption for years to come.

the community. I often have grand ideas, that once brought down in scale (thanks to help from friends), turn out to be great events. We need to be open to anyone and everyone. Remember, the people who we are trying to get invested in our communities must have an entry point; not everyone wants to be a leader, some want to participate. In every group I am in we have leaders, planners, and people who just want to help somehow. Know your volunteers and be open to help at any level.

What would your perfect Saturday be like? I love to go. Anywhere. I enjoy finding new places to visit and unique treasures. I love hole-in-the wall restaurants, independent bookstores, locally-owned shops with homemade items. I enjoy calling up a friend or my mom Friday night and saying “let’s go to Carbondale or Fair Oaks tomorrow.” I enjoy traveling the country and learning about different agriculture. Another favorite of mine is to stop in other small towns to see what they offer that Assumption could adopt and benefit from. Never go on a trip with Community involvement: Since coming me if you have a schedule because I want back to Assumption, my goal has been to stop at every exit along the way. to try and make a difference. That goal has kept me busy. I have actively been Who inspires you to be better? My son ininvolved in the Assumption Community spires me to do better. We have one shot Pride Association for the last five years. at this life and I want to leave him a town After serving as treasurer of the ACPA and world that is better than we found it. board, I gave up my position so that I Nothing makes all the crazy hours of volcould focus on the ACPA committee ac- unteering more worth it than when I am tivities. I serve as an EMT on the Assump- walking through town and someone says tion Ambulance, am a member of the “hey that is Grady’s mom,” or walking Assumption Women’s Club and Friends through the school halls and knowing all of the Assumption Public Library, board his friends because I have coached them member of the Central A&M Youth Bas- or led them in 4-H club. We are shaping ketball League, coach soccer and T-ball, our communities for not only right now, and most recently became the leader of but for the future. I try to teach him that one person can make a difference. Every Rural Feeders 4-H Club. day when I drop him off at school, I tell What should the community do to attract him to “be nice, talk to someone new, and more young people to the area? I believe sit by someone different at lunch today.” I the best thing a community can do to at- hope one day he will remember these lestract more young people is listen to ideas. sons and make sure no one feels like they Not every idea is going to be great, but don’t matter because we are all needed to some can be tweaked to fit the needs of make this world a better place.

I believe the best thing a community can do to attract more young people is listen to ideas. Not every idea is going to be great, but some can be tweaked to fit the needs of the community. I often have grand ideas, that once brought down in scale (thanks to help from friends), turn out to be great events. We need to be open to anyone and everyone.

DECATUR HERALD & REVIEW

20 UNDER 40 | MAY 2020 |

23

ZANE PETERSON SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Age: 31

We need to push more more lakeside development.

Occupation: Real estate professional, Main Place Real Estate.

What are three things most people don’t know about you: Family: I live in Decatur with my wife, Taylor, 1. Avid golfer and I was on the golf team and our English bulldog. at Millikin.

2. I am the co-founder of University Dogs Career Highlights and/or accomplishments: in Decatur.

CCIM, bachelor’s degree in finance from 3. I am recently married to my wife Taylor Millikin University, forming Main Place Real and we both sell real estate together.

Estate, many unique and exciting real estate opportunities.

If you were a fictional character, who would you be and why: A Teenage Mutant Ninja Community Involvement: Rotary Club, Deca- Turtle! According to my mother, I always tur Club board member, Chamber of Com- told people I was going to be one when I merce Small Business Council, Tabor School grew up. of Business board at Millikin University, city of Decatur Zoning Board of Appeals.

What are your three favorite movies: “Caddyshack,” “Forrest Gump” and “Space Jam.” What should the Community do to attract more young people to the area: There are a What would your perfect Saturday be like: lot of great things in the works in Decatur. Showing homes to new clients, playing a You can’t beat the cost of living in our area round of golf, then enjoying a glass of wine and the great amenities, especially the lake. on the patio with my wife.

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Zane Peterson

Managing Broker Main Place Real Estate

24 | May 2020 | 20 UNDER 40

Decatur Herald & Review

Our world may be upside down... but our community always comes together

for the benefit of all.

maconcountygives.org

Photo: Terry Stoa Graphic Design: Wade Ripple, Trump Direct