Distinguished Class of 2023

Janet Muchnik earned her Master’s in Public Administration from GovState in 1981 and built a distinguished career in public service, including roles as City Manager of Country Club Hills (7 years) and Village Manager of Park Forest (10 years). She served on the National Board of the American Planning Association, chaired the Fair Housing Coalition, and led a Federal commission on the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor. A former School District 163 Board President and Park Forest Trustee, she remains active in missionary work, Rotary leadership, and the Tall Grass Arts Association, where she served as president for a decade.

Chief Mitchell R. Davis III, Chief of Police for Hazel Crest, IL, has over 30 years in law enforcement, including 15 years as a police chief. A GovState alumnus, he holds a B.A. from Governors State University, an M.S. in Criminal Justice, and is completing his Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership.

A national leader in criminal justice reform, he has held key roles in NOBLE, IACP, and ILACP, was the first Black president of ILACP, and has advised on state and national policy initiatives. His work in community-police relations has earned him numerous honors, including the NFL Alumni Law Enforcement Man of the Year and the Attorney General Eric Holder Leadership Award.

Beyond law enforcement, Chief Davis is a mentor, speaker, and advocate for youth programs, diversity in policing, and social justice.

Monica Gordon is the Cook County Clerk, having assumed office on December 2, 2024. She oversees suburban elections, vital records, and property tax services. Previously, she served as Cook County Commissioner for the 5th District, focusing on health care and violence prevention. Gordon also chaired the board of Prairie State Community College and was Government Affairs Director at Chicago State University. She holds a BA in Journalism from Northern Illinois University and an MA in Communication & Training from Governors State University.

Dr. Terri L. Winfree serves as President of the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce and is recognized for her impactful leadership, including seven years as President of Prairie State College (PSC). With 25 years in leadership roles at PSC, she has contributed her expertise to various boards and committees throughout the Chicago Southland.

Dr. Judy Mitchell, a GovState alumna (BA ‘01, MBA ‘04), is a respected leader in higher education and former President of Joliet Junior College (JJC). She has also served as Interim President of the Romeoville Chamber of Commerce and Interim VP of Administrative Affairs at Oakton College. Under her leadership, JJC earned the Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and she received the 2021 Gary W. Davis Ethical Leadership Award. A dedicated community leader, she serves on boards including Silver Cross Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, and Workforce Services of Will County.

Rick D. Blasgen is the former President and CEO of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). With a career spanning leadership roles at Nabisco, Kraft, and ConAgra Foods, he has been a key figure in supply chain strategy and logistics. Appointed Chair of the Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness (ACSCC) by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2011, Blasgen continues to advise on national supply chain policy. A GovState alumnus with a degree in business administration and finance, he has also served on Northwestern University’s Transportation Center Business Advisory Committee and led logistics initiatives for the Grocery Manufacturers Association and Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC).

Ron Daly, a Chicago native, became a trailblazer in the print industry, rising from one of the first African Americans at R.R. Donnelley to President of Donnelley Print Solutions by 2002. A first-generation college graduate, he earned degrees from Prairie State College, Governors State University (B.A.), and Loyola University Chicago (M.B.A.). Daly later became President & CEO of Océ-USA Holding, Inc., making history as the first American to lead its North American operations and serve on its Netherlands-based board.

Beyond his career, Daly is dedicated to community service, serving on the Chicago Symphony Orchestra board, as president of the Leadership Group of Chicago, and on the executive council of Metropolis 2020. He and his wife, Delores, have three children.

Kayla Siam, a 2014 Governors State University graduate, is an attorney at Thompson Coburn LLP, specializing in corporate law and higher education governance. A former student trustee, her early experiences in university decision-making shaped her legal career advising colleges and universities.

Committed to giving back, Kayla serves on GovState’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and frequently speaks at university events, including delivering the 2023 Convocation keynote address. A GovState Promise Scholarship recipient, she credits GovState for her educational foundation and was recently inducted into the College of Business’s Hall of Achievement.

Kyle Hastings, MA ’03, is a dedicated leader with a diverse background in education, athletics, and public service. He has served as a Superintendent, Athletic Director, Academy President, teacher, coach, and is currently the Mayor of Orland Hills. As a Pace Bus Service Board Member and Illinois Municipal League Resolutions Committee member, he has led initiatives for affordable, sustainable transit, including 24 rapid transit lines, 11 expressway routes, and modernized rider experiences. He is also the Founder of Friends Help Friends Foundation, providing crisis relief, including aid for Hurricane Harvey victims.

Myron Hester, a 2007 GovState graduate (M.A. in Educational Leadership & Administration), is the Chief of Schools for Network 17, supporting high schools on Chicago’s South Side. A former principal of Julian High School, he has over a decade of leadership experience in Chicago Public Schools, focusing on student success and community partnerships. A Chicago native, he also holds an Education Specialist Degree from Walden University.

Dr. Lenell Navarre, a 1999 M.A. graduate of Governors State University, has served as Superintendent of Bloom Township District 206 since 2012. Under his leadership, graduation rates soared, financial stability was restored, and Early College partnerships flourished. He has secured $40M+ in grants, enhancing academics and infrastructure. A Golden Heart Award recipient, Dr. Navarre continues to inspire students and communities to “Level Up” for success.

Dr. Kim Snow, a proud GovState alumna (M.A. 2000), is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), author, and founder of Beyond Healing Center. With 20+ years of experience, she specializes in trauma recovery, grief, couples counseling, addiction, and life transitions. A certified EMDR therapist and Reiki Master, she blends traditional therapy with mindfulness and empowerment.

Through Beyond Healing Center, Dr. Snow offers in-person and virtual counseling, known for her compassionate, client-centered approach.

Latesha Newson, MSW '15, BA '07, is a passionate advocate for social justice and policy reform. As President of the NASW Illinois Chapter, she leads efforts in DEI, racial justice, and transformative change. A founding member of Generating Hope, she remains engaged with GovState’s Social Justice Initiative and collaborates with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson on "Treatment Not Trauma." Latesha also serves as a commissioner on Park Forest’s Human Relations Committee, reinforcing her commitment to community advocacy and systemic change.

A 2012 GovState MHA graduate, Akhilesh Duratkar has over a decade of experience in healthcare data analysis, revenue cycle management, and process automation. He manages revenue cycle operations, Biomedical Services, and Provider Credentialing at the Illinois College of Optometry. Previously, he enhanced performance measurement and compliance at East Chicago Community Health Center. Passionate about efficiency and innovation, he continues to drive improvements in healthcare operations.

Dr. Leslie Engstrand-Guca, a GovState alumna (M.H.S. ’06) and Senior Lecturer in Communication Disorders at Governors State University, is a dual-certified audiologist and speech-language pathologist, a distinction held by only 26 professionals in Illinois. Recognized for her excellence in clinical practice and education, she received the 2024 ISHA Exemplary Practice Award. Dr. Guca is dedicated to student success, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community outreach, advocating for hearing loss prevention and inspiring future professionals in the field.

Dr. Patricia A. Martin has over 35 years of experience in nursing, healthcare leadership, and education. A proud GovState alumna, she earned her BSN, MSN, and DNP at Governors State University.

She served as President & CEO of Advocate South Suburban Hospital for 15 years and Campus President of Chamberlain College of Nursing, Tinley Park. At GovState, she was an Assistant Professor and RN to BSN Program Coordinator and now serves as an Adjunct Professor.

Dr. Martin is a board member of Sigma Theta Tau’s Lambda Lambda chapter and contributes to its International Nurse Leader Review Committee. Dedicated to nursing education and leadership, she continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Jerry Davis-El, a 2016 BSW and 2018 MSW graduate of Governors State University, is the Executive Director of GRO Community Illinois and a founding member of Generating Hope, part of GovState’s Social Justice Initiative. A 2015 Lincoln Laureate and 2018 Commencement Speaker, he has 12+ years of experience advocating for marginalized communities, trauma survivors, and at-risk youth. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, he has worked with programs like Becoming a Man and served as an Adolescent Youth Counselor at WestCare Foundation. His expertise has led him to present at national and local conferences, including the Council of Social Work Education Annual Program Meeting and re-integrative justice forums at Kennedy King College and Columbia University.

Jarrell Harris, Founder & Executive Director of Empowering YOUNG Lives, is a 2021 GovState graduate dedicated to mentoring and educating youth. Passionate about early childhood education, he launched a tutoring and mentoring business for children ages 3 to 13. A Male Success Initiative scholar and Kappa Delta Pi member, Jarrell strives to inspire young minds and break generational barriers through education.

Jeanine Latrice Koger, a U.S. Army veteran, earned her B.A. in Psychology (2021) and M.S.W. (2023) from Governors State University to pursue her dream of counseling veterans. Awarded the Dual Degree Honors Scholarship, she excelled in student leadership, activism, and civic engagement, helping GSU earn national recognition as the “2022 Most Engaged Campus for College Student Voting.” Passionate about social justice and veteran support, she credits GovState faculty and mentors for shaping her success.

Dr. Kathleen T. O’Loughlin

• • GovState employee of Physical Therapy
• • Adjunct faculty

Dr. Larry McClellan, a founding faculty member of Governors State University and Emeritus professor, dedicated 31 years to sociology and community studies. A nationally recognized expert on the Underground Railroad, his research has led to multiple National Park Service Network to Freedom site listings. He has authored numerous works on Illinois history, including Onward to Chicago, which won the 2023 Memorial Prize for the Advancement of Knowledge. In 2022, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the field.

Christine Cochrane, a 1974 GovState MBA graduate, served 14 years as Director of the Small Business Development Center, supporting local entrepreneurs. She later led development efforts as Project Manager for the South Suburban Airport and served as Monee Township Supervisor. A licensed pilot, Cochrane’s expertise spans economic growth, education, and public service, leaving a lasting impact on GovState and the Southland community.

Dr. Susan Gaffney, retired Associate Professor of Public Administration at Governors State University, served as Program Coordinator for Political Science and Public Administration. She holds degrees from Northern Illinois University, Governors State University, Chicago State University, and a Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Public Policy. Dr. Gaffney has taught various courses, including Public Planning and Ethics for Public Administrators, inspiring future public service leaders.

Dr. Dianna Galante, GovState Emerita, has dedicated 40+ years to advancing math education, transforming Governors State University’s Mathematics Program into a nationally recognized destination for aspiring teachers. A Faculty Excellence Award recipient, she pioneered the Mathematics Student Teaching Scholarship and an MS in Mathematics to help professionals transition into teaching. As she retires, her legacy continues through the students and educators she has inspired.

Dr. Von Mansfield is a Retired NFL Player who found his way through the levels of educational administration from teaching in the classroom to leading as the Superintendent of Homewood-Flossmoor High School.

He completed an MA in Education Administration in 1993 at Governors State University and continued to serve the Chicago Southland as an educator his entire career.