Current Location/Hometown: Jacksonville, IL

Current Position: Regional Specialist, BAT (Behavior Assessment Training) Project @ SIUC STEM Education Research Center 

What was your overall UIS experience like?

I was in the master's program for Educational Leadership and it was hybrid. I learned so much from the professors and enjoyed the virtual and in-person components. The support I received during my internship for the administrative certificate was paramount in my success. I was continually encouraged to think outside the box and follow my instincts.

Do you have any fond memories of your time at UIS you'd like to share?

I ended up knowing Dr. Len Bogle from my junior high school days in Jacksonville when he was the principal of one of the two junior highs. To have him as one of my professors in this program was such a wonderful experience! He had seen me grow--literally! From the moment I applied at UIS, it felt like family. It felt like coming home. I felt I had support behind me and a cheering section pushing me to the finish line. As a non-traditional student, this meant the world.

I was chosen as the academic program student marshal for graduation and also received the Outstanding Capstone in Educational Leadership. Having my husband, four grown children, and my son-in-law see me honored at graduation was an experience I will never forget.

UIS made it clear it offers educational opportunities to all and it's never too late to follow your dream to explore higher education!

Why did you choose UIS?

The close location to home was important in the selection of UIS. I was a special education teacher at the time and needed to be able to travel to and from class in a timely manner. UIS provided exactly what I needed in terms of proximity. It fit my working lifestyle.

What has your career path been like? How did you end up where you are?

When I received my Masters and Administrative certification, I thought I would look for a Principal or Assistant Principal position in my local area. This position became available at the end of the summer of 2024, and I jumped at the opportunity. I never knew such a job existed and the chance to affect change on a wider scope greatly appealed to me. While I enjoyed every minute in the classroom, the time to branch out and provide training for school districts in our state who request Positive Interventions and Behavior Support led me to take a leap of faith that this was my next chapter. Leaving the classroom was a tough decision but I know it was the right choice for me. This is the leadership position I was meant to have.

How did your UIS education prepare you for your career?

Having earned a master's degree made me marketable for this Independent Contractor position with the BAT Project. The experiences I have gained in a short few months--as well as the connections I am making--solidify that this was the right choice. Being an Educational Leader comes in many forms. What I learned during my time at UIS more than prepared me for this position. How lucky I am that I had the education needed to become a Regional Specialist.

Do you have any cool hobbies/side projects you'd like to tell us about?

I have been a Village Trustee in my town of South Jacksonville and enjoy working with our Tourism fund to bring events to the area. During my internship at UIS, I created a Carnival as part of our annual South Jacksonville Celebration. I created a school day which allows for only students to experience the Carnival (including free rides, games, and food) before opening the event for two days to the general public. Thousands visited our Village and enjoyed the Carnival. I'm so proud that I was able to create such a fun and sustainable event for students (including special education Co-op students at Garrison School) within my capacity as a community leader.

What are some life lessons you'd like to share with current students?

Be kind-always. You never know what someone is going through, and an encouraging word can make all the difference.

Life is short. Don't sweat the small stuff.

Never miss a chance to say 'I love you' to those who need to hear it. Make sure they know how you feel--leave no doubt.