The University of Illinois Springfield has released the names of the inaugural class of the Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program. This program, established by the Young Alumni Committee, honors outstanding graduates under the age of 40 or those who have graduated within the previous five years. The honorees are selected for their emerging and unique innovation, creativity and success in their chosen career or life's work.

“This program serves as an inspiration to our alumni and future graduates,” said Krystal Geist, associate director of alumni and donor engagement. “By honoring these exceptional alumni, UIS highlights the lasting impact of its graduates and their continued role in shaping leadership and innovation within the community.”

Inaugural class of honorees:

• Ashley Beaton Simpson – bachelor's degree in psychology, 2017, assistant athletic director for student-athlete success, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
• Beatrice Bonner – bachelor's degree in communication, 2018, master's degree in communication, 2020, community voices editor, NPR Illinois
• Katie Brethorst – bachelor's degree in history, 2020, master's degree in public history, 2022, deputy director, Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum
• Jessalyn Brugnoni – bachelor's degree in chemistry, 2013, senior staff physician in emergency and critical care medicine, Henry Ford Hospital Detroit
• Robert Fair – bachelor's degree in political science, 2012, master's degree in political science, 2021, executive director, Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County
• Vanessa Ferguson – bachelor's degree in communication, 2011, master's degree in business administration, 2024, community voices production coordinator, NPR Illinois
• Emmons King – bachelor's degree in business administration, 2020, master's degree in communication, 2022, head cross country and track coach, UIS
• Caroline Kubzansky – master's degree in public affairs reporting, 2022, reporter The Chicago Tribune
• Hayley Payne – bachelor's degree in communication, 2022, social media manager, OOT Box Media
• Taryn Servaes – bachelor's degree in political science, 2022, J.D. candidate, University of California, Berkeley School of Law
• Arman Sidhu – master's degree in political science, 2021, education policy resident & microschool founder, ExcelinEd & iCubed Learning Inc.
• Jessica Simmons – bachelor's degree in accounting, 2020, master's degree in accounting, 2022, associate tax accountant, KSM CPAs & Advisors
• Kyle Stauder – bachelor's degree in political science, 2023, associate, Big Dog Strategies
• Onyeka Ukpoju-Ebonyi – master's degree in public health, 2024, clinical research coordinator, Decatur Memorial Hospital Cancer Care Institute
• Summer Warner – bachelor's degree in psychology, 2023, education coordinator, Child Watch Children's Advocacy Center
• Mallory Westcott – bachelor's degree in biology, 2014, nurse practitioner, SIU School of Medicine
• Nicole White – master's degree in public administration, 2021, director of advancement operations, UIS
• Alanna Wood – master's degree in public administration, 2015, sexual assault prevention response officer, Illinois National Guard

The Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program highlights the achievements of young UIS alumni. For more information or to learn more about the honorees, visit the UIS Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program website.