Distinguished Class of 2024

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. Jane Cleland-Huang is the Frank M. Freimann Professor and Chair of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. Her research specializes in Requirements Engineering, Software and Systems Traceability, and Safety Assurance for Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). She leads the DroneResponse project, initially focused on multi-agent CPS research, which has now become a crucial platform for deploying small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) in emergency response.

Ken Rapier is an F.A.A. Certificated Flight Instructor and former Aviation Safety Counselor with over 5,000 flight hours and an Airline Transport Pilot rating. He holds a world speed record set in 1993 and serves as Chief Pilot for the Tuskegee Airmen's Young Eagles Program, where he inspires youth through his custom "Flying Billboard" aircraft. A native of Chicago’s south side, Ken’s passion for aviation has made a lasting impact on future generations.

Jeffrey Buford is a forensic science expert with over 30 years in Illinois's criminal justice system. He earned a Bachelor’s in Chemistry from Chicago State University and a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry from Governors State University. Since January 2023, Jeffrey has served as the Northern Region Bureau Chief for the Illinois State Police Forensic Sciences Command, where he oversees multiple forensic labs.

John Schabes, Director at Forvis Mazars, brings over 20 years of accounting experience and expertise as a Certified Public Accountant. A proud Governors State University alumnus, he holds a B.A. in Business (1994) and an Accounting degree (2004). John is active in community service, leading charitable initiatives at Forvis Mazars and supporting various local causes.

Jeremy Joyce ('15), a proud Governors State University alumnus, transitioned from the corporate world to become the owner of Black People Eats, LLC, a successful digital marketing and advertising company. His passion for showcasing cuisine, especially from Black-owned restaurants, has gained him over 200,000 Instagram followers, making him a well-known advocate for the Black economy.

Martina Matthews is a seasoned customer success leader with a foundation in tech and entrepreneurship. As a founding member of Chegg.com, she played a pivotal role in shaping it into a leading online textbook platform. Her experience spans companies like Life360 and Sittercity, where she honed her skills in customer satisfaction and team-building.

Cheryl is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over 25 years of experience in strategic HR, employee management, and payroll administration. She holds an MBA in Human Resources and a BA from Governors State University (2009, 2006), as well as an Associate of Science from South Suburban College. Currently, she is the Director of Human Resources – Services at Youth Guidance, where she leads initiatives in health and wellness benefits, payroll management, and HRIS support.

Dr. Nicole Randick is the Vice President of Academic Affairs at Adler Graduate School, where she leads academic policies, program assessments, and accreditation efforts. With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Randick has a strong background in education and program development, ensuring high standards across Adler’s academic offerings.

Sierra Dockery, a proud alumna of Governors State University, has made a substantial impact in education both locally and internationally. With a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision from GovState, Sierra is a dedicated leader in her field.

Dr. Donna Leak serves as the Superintendent of Community Consolidated Schools District 168 in Sauk Village, IL. Known for her transformative leadership, Dr. Leak has driven significant improvements in District 168’s facilities, technology, and academics. Her dedication to enhancing educational resources has positively impacted the community and fostered stronger student foundations.

Faye E. Terrell-Perkins, a proud GovState alumna, has had a distinguished career in education, specializing in school turnarounds within Chicago Public Schools. A nationally certified professional development specialist, Faye has developed leadership programs and mentored leaders across various sectors. She previously served as Executive Director for LAUNCH, Chicago’s aspiring principal preparation program, and contributed her expertise on the Illinois Supreme Court's MCLE Board.

Dr. Lauren Mansell, a GovState Doctor of Physical Therapy alumna, is certified in lymphedema therapy, pelvic rehabilitation, and dry needling. With a background as a counselor for at-risk youth, she has advocated for over 130 survivors of sexual violence. An equestrian, she introduced hippotherapy into her practice and pioneered dry needling for horses in the Chicagoland area.

Dr. Carol Lisa Alexander, co-founder and President of the CAAN Academy of Nursing, brings over 47 years of experience in nursing academia and clinical practice. She is a dedicated advocate for minority representation in healthcare and a Lifetime Member of the National Black Nurses Association, as well as a co-founder of its Illinois South Suburban chapter.

Kyla Williams Tate, the inaugural Director of Digital Equity for Cook County, leads impactful initiatives to expand digital access and inclusivity. She launched the county’s first Digital Equity Action Plan, a strategic step toward bridging the digital divide for underserved communities.

Dr. Kashica Webber-Ritchey is a public health nursing scientist dedicated to addressing obesity disparities among Black youth. With over nine years of research experience and a decade in clinical practice, she currently serves as an Associate Professor at DePaul University’s School of Nursing.

Melany Villagomez, a proud Governors State alumna, immigrated from Mexico at age five—a journey that inspired her lifelong passion for helping others. Excelling academically, she earned scholarships to both Kankakee Community College and GovState, where she graduated Cum Laude in 2021.

Dr. Brie Coleman, a Governors State alumna and Physical Therapist, specializes in Pelvic Health and is the founder of The Pelvic Gem in Flossmoor, IL. With a passion for supporting pre/postnatal moms, Dr. Brie is dedicated to enhancing care representation for Black and Brown communities, helping women reclaim control over their wellness.

Ruben M. Lopez, a third-year Clinical Psychology Master’s student at Governors State University, has dedicated himself to supporting survivors of sexual trauma since 2019, blending creativity into his therapeutic approach. A first-generation student of Puerto Rican and Mexican descent, he completed his associate’s degree at Prairie State College before joining GovState. His work emphasizes providing compassionate, inclusive support for those affected by trauma.

Dr. Imelda Macías is the Assistant Vice President of Inclusive Excellence and HSI Initiatives at Saint Xavier University, bringing over 8 years of leadership experience. Previously, she has served as director of Graduate Admission and executive director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, championing efforts to create a welcoming campus for all.

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. Maristela Zell, Ph.D., LMSW, is Professor Emerita of Social Work at Governors State University, where she pioneered holistic social work practices and co-created the Mindfulness and the Helping Professions certificate. Retiring in 2022, Dr. Zell left a legacy of integrating mindfulness into social work education and practice, positively impacting students and the field.

Dr. Rachel Berg, Professor Emerita at Governors State University, was a pioneering presence as one of the university's first female faculty members. Her career is marked by her passionate advocacy for women’s rights, including equal pay and expanded opportunities in academia, creating a legacy rooted in equality and progress for future generations.

Dr. James Riordan, a graduate of Mendel Catholic High School and Loras College, began his career as a teacher and coach before joining Bremen High School District 228. Over three decades, from 1970 to 2000, he held various roles in the district, including Superintendent, where he led the successful 1995 tax referendum to secure financial stability for the schools.

Kristi DeLaurentis is the Executive Director of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association, representing 45 communities and nearly 750,000 residents in the Chicago Metro area. With extensive experience in regional equity and community development, she has led initiatives in public safety, infrastructure, and economic revitalization. A GovState alumna and former Board of Trustees member, Kristi remains active in regional planning through various advisory roles.