20
UNDER
40
Honoring those whose commitment to the community is helping set the pace for the years ahead
Special supplement of the Journal-Courier December 2020
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efine leadership. It’s harder than it seems. But we know it when we see it. From small clubs to large groups, it’s found in the people who drive others in the community toward reaching a common goal. Whether it’s for a one-time issue or to make a long-term push for improving our small portion of the world for generations to come, leadership is a vital part of the fiber of this town. The Journal-Courier wanted to recognize this passion and commitment. It started gathering nominations from readers in February for those who represent a new era of community leadership. The dozens and dozens of nominations were compiled and many of the names were seen time and time again. Those became the 2020 selections for 20 Under 40. True to this anything-but-normal year, though, it was not that easy. Our plan was to recognize individuals during the summer, but the pandemic pushed that aside. As a result, some of those chosen may have turned 40 years old in the meantime; we decided they deserved to remain given the circumstances. Also, you will notice 19 people are recognized. This was deliberate. The 20th spot is reserved for those who have been caring for the community as we navigate an unprecedented pandemic: from doctors and nurses to teachers to emergency workers and grocers. Thank you.
Congratulations to our very own Wesley White & Lindsay McQueen We are very proud of your commitment to the ag industry and local community. You exemplify wonderful traits for the youth in our area. Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau is proud of the job you’ve done to help future generations. 1152 Tendick, Jacksonville • 217-245-6833
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 3
LUKE POORE
‘I’ve tried to devote myself to being a lifelong learner’ Rochelle Eiselt | Journal-Courier
Tell us about yourself and your family: I come from a small rural piece of paradise where hard work pays off and your word means everything. I’m lucky enough to have a small close-knit family. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I’m working as a detective for the Jacksonville Police Department. As far as roles, I’m not sure if I can give it a title or anything — I just try to be there for everyone and help in any way necessary. What made you get involved with your field? Honestly, I had no life long desires to get into law enforcement. I went to school to be a teacher and in the process I met a few people who guided me toward law enforcement. Describe what drives you to get involved: Law enforcement, sadly, is sometimes portrayed in a negative light. I’m very fortunate that our agency lets me participate in as many community activities as I do. I love talking to people about law enforcement and trying to show the kids the positive side to law enforcement. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? That’s easy, it’s without a doubt all the hugs, smiles, highfives and fist-bumps from the kids.
What’s your personal philosophy on life? I’ve tried to devote myself to being a lifelong learner. I learn something from everyone. Aside from that, my personal philosophy is simple: work your tail off. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: There’s too many to list. I can honestly say that I work with some great people. They’re not just really good at their jobs, they’re just simply great people. I’ve had to lean on or rely on each one of them at some point over the past 10 years and they’ve never let me down. I have to give special credit to a couple of close friends/family members of mine, Pat Staples and Dick Coon. They’re absolutely top-notch men and have been there for me anytime I’ve needed them. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I’d like to see more businesses come to town. I’d love to see the old Jacksonville Development Center or MacMurray College turn into a FLETC — Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. There isn’t one anywhere in the central part of the USA to my knowledge and a business/organization like that would really benefit our economy, at least I think so anyway. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing instead?
I wouldn’t mind bow-hunting or playing sand volleyball for a living on some tropical beach. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? I’m not exactly sure, but I’d hope they would say that I’m respectful. What do you do when you aren’t working? I’m usually working out, hunting or building something for my girl. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? I think we have a good community overall. I think our major challenge right now is a lack of new or larger businesses in the area that would provide revenue and jobs. Tell us about your biggest strength: I was pretty good at “Halo” back in college … If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? I’d like to be able to throw 95 mph-plus and pitch for the Yankees. What are your goals for yourself? I’d like to be a deputy chief, chief or sheriff in this area one day. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I love to read.
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DAVID ALBERS
‘We have to find ways to lift up the people in our community’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I grew up in Jacksonville and graduated from Jacksonville High School in 2013. I moved to the Metro East for a few years to attend college
before moving to Springfield, where I met my wife. We both moved to Jacksonville last year to put down roots and make our home here. Describe what you do professionally, as well as
Congratulations to all those chosen COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP EMPOWERMENT VOLUNTEERING | DEVELOPENT DECISION MAKING Village of Franklin 112 Main St., Franklin 217-675-2322
Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier
your roles within the community: I am the coordinator of youth ministry at First Presbyterian Church as well as an active leader at Ken Bradbury’s Performing Arts Camp at Green Pastures Campground. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? Being a part of First Presbyterian’s youth group under Tim Chipman when I was in middle and high school made me realize very quickly that I wanted to be the kind of leader and servant that he modeled to us every day. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I have always felt a calling to serve others and there’s no better place to do that than in your own community. Jacksonville is my home and I want to see it be the
best it can. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The relationships I’ve made with the people I serve and with whom I serve are priceless. They are lifelong friends and partners. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Kindness is the easiest thing you can give to others — it costs nothing and means everything. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My dad is the hardestworking person I know. He’s always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needs it. Watching him as I grew up shaped the way I see things. Before I do something, I ask myself, “Would my dad do this?” It hasn’t led me wrong yet.
What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I would love to see a major investment by the community in providing easy access to free and low-cost housing to people experiencing homelessness. A public/private partnership that provides an investment in both people and infrastructure would be crucial in helping the people in our community that are living through adversity. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing instead? I’d love to be a high school English teacher. That’s what I’m working toward. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe
See ALBERS, Page 18
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 5
OLIVIA JORDAN
‘We are created to serve others and I want to respond to that call’ Illinois College
Tell us about yourself and your family: My name is Olivia, but just about everyone calls me Liv. I was raised in Moweaqua with my mom, Kay, and dad, Wayne. I have two sisters, Mallory and Taylor, as well as a large close-knit extended family. I attended Central A&M High School and was involved in athletics and music. Spare time growing up was spent riding horses and being involved in a youth group. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: I am a senior at Illinois College with a double-major in secondary education and English literature. I just completed my last set of classes and will begin student teaching in the spring. For the last three years, I have served as the student director for the Center for Student Involvement, planning orientation programming as well as all-campus events. I am involved in several honor societies at IC as well as the IC varsity softball team. I also serve as the president of Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC), which is a non-denominational Christian youth group that serves the campus and Jacksonville community through service and discipleship. I also sing with the Illinois College Chamber Singers.
What first made you get involved with your chosen field? Becoming a teacher was always something I thought I would enjoy. I have always liked school and enjoyed learning. But since coming to IC and spending time in classrooms as a teacher, I have come to realize that I am much more passionate about education and the power it has to change people’s lives. My hope as a future educator is to be a person in my students’ lives that they know cares about and believes in them. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: Growing up in a small town, community has always held a special place in my heart. There were many times when someone was struggling and people from all over town would pitch into help. I truly believe that we are created to serve others and I want to continually respond to that call. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? I have had some amazing opportunities in the short time that I have been at IC. But one of the more memorable experiences was a mission trip to Port Aransas, Texas, my freshman year. Through IC, our
group was able to fund a trip to assist in the rebuilding of a church after Hurricane Harvey. This trip and all of the others have taught me that it is your choice how you react to hardships in your life and you can always choose to look forward. That lesson is the best thing to happen to me because of my experiences. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Don’t be afraid to fail. This is something that I am constantly trying to work on. I have never been known as a risk-taker. I am always trying to play it safe and only do things I know I can succeed at. I always have to remind myself that even if I fail — especially when I fail — I am learning. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My grandmothers are two of the most amazing women in my life. My maternal grandmother, Rosanne, is the strongest, most independent and devoted woman I have ever met. She has instilled that family is the most important thing in life and to never let your values falter. My paternal grandmother, Jean, is the toughest, most selfless and most loving person in my life. No matter what is going on, she is always
thinking of other people and spreading the most love. They are both incredibly humble as well and would never admit how amazing they are. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? I would like to think that they would describe me as kind, willing to help, and a little smart. What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering? I absolutely love to read. My favorite genre of books is high fantasy (magic, supernatural, etc.). I always have a list of books a mile long on my list. I also really enjoy going to the movies. I’m not too picky when it comes to movies, as long as it isn’t horror. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? Big businesses undercutting the prices of local businesses. Tell us about your biggest strength: I think my biggest strength is my willingness to work hard. I learned very early on that if you want something you have to work for it. No matter the situation, I try to give it my all.
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JENNA TUCKER
‘My philosophy (is) to take responsibility for your world’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I attended Havana High School (Go Ducks!). After high school, I attended Bradley University in Peoria. While at Bradley, I earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. I earned my juris doctor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. My college sweetheart, Kaylob Tang, and I moved to Jack-
sonville with our cat, Colby. We have since added two more cats to our family. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I am an attorney with Rammelkamp Bradney. I primarily focus in the areas of estate planning (wills, trusts, powers of attorney and related documents), probate and
trust administration, formation of business entities and other business transactions (buying, selling, dissolutions, buy-sell agreements, stock transfer agreements, etc.) and real estate transactions. I am currently on the Jacksonville Noon Rotary Club board as well as on the our Valentine’s Event Committee and Ferris Wheel Committee. When circumstances allow, I
Congratulations to Jenna Tucker, one of our rising stars!
Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier
will also be coordinating our Youth Exchange Program. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: While growing up, my family was always involved in various community activities, so that stayed with me into college and now here in Jacksonville. While in college at Bradney, I was elected as my sorority’s philanthropy chair. After law school, I really wanted to get back into making an impact within a community and Jacksonville certainly welcomes that desire with open arms. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? In both my community and career service, I have been able to meet so many different people with different values, perspectives and goals. Each time I meet
a new person, I am able to learn more about the community and more about myself. It certainly opens my eyes to volunteer opportunities as well as the impact others are making. What’s your personal philosophy on life? My personal philosophy on life would be to take responsibility for your world. By having this philosophy in life, it reminds me that I can do my best to take actions that impact my world — whether big or small, personally or professionally. This allows me to remember that even the smallest effort can have a lasting impact. How do you think someone meeting you would describe you? She is the one with a friendly smile who is willing to lend a hand. What do you do when you aren’t working or vol-
unteering? When I am not working or volunteering, you can now find me either brainstorming DIY home projects, researching my ancestry, watching a TV show/movie, or looking for an outdoor concert. Ideally, I would be enjoying those things with my friends or family. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? The biggest challenge facing our community is attracting and retaining quality people to keep this community moving forward. I believe this challenge is being addressed in many ways, but it will remain a challenge. Tell us about your biggest strength: My biggest strength is my enthusiasm and compassion. Those two characteristics drive me to be my best self for myself and for others.
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 7
STEPHANIE SIEVING
‘Try to elicit change ... but make it for the better’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I am lucky enough to live very close to my family. I have two wonderful parents, who encourage me to better myself and take a stand. I have two sisters, one older and younger, who support me in the decisions I make in life, but also are willing to give me swift kick when I need a little more motivation. My maternal grandmother also lives nearby and is still one of my biggest fans in whatever I am doing. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I am a LPN for the Orthopedic Center of Illinois, and going back to school to get my RN. In previous years, I have been on the event planning committee for Jacksonville Main Street. I brought the idea of the Pumpkin Festival to Jacksonville Main Street and have enjoyed watching it grow into the fun event it has become. Describe what drives you to get involved within
the community: One of the many things that my parents have taught me was that if you didn’t like the way something was done, get involved and make a change. I love Jacksonville. I think this town is a wonderful place to live and raise a family. One of the things I remember growing up was hearing my friends say there is nothing to do in this town. I always thought there was stuff to do, you just had to know where to look. I decided to get involved in the community to help bring more things for everyone to do and enjoy. What’s your personal philosophy on life? I would say my philosophy on life is to try to elicit change. It can be change in anything, but make a change and make it for the better. You don’t like your job, change it; you don’t like your weight, change it; if you don’t like the way something is being done, then get up, get involved and help make a change to make it better. Tell us about someone
Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier
or something that has influenced you: My parents. My parents are the two most extraordinary people I know. They have taught me more than I could ever really give them credit for without a doubt. They have always encouraged me to go after the things that I want. My parents have taught me that most everything can be achieved with hard work. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I would love to see Jacksonville embrace more outdoor activities. Nichols Park would be a great area to have a canoe, kayak and paddleboat rental area. I would also, as I’m sure many people would agree, love to see the old Jacksonville Developmental Center buildings
that have become a blight on Community Park be demolished. With these buildings gone, the park could be enhanced. Tell us about your biggest strength: I would say that I am very good at seeing multiple sides of every situation. I will listen to what you have to say and take everything. I never try a jump to conclusions. What are your goals for yourself? My goals are to complete my nurse practitioner degree and be able to afford to take my family on a nice trip. I want to be able to repay my parents in some way for the wonderful life that the have given me. I want to be able to show them how much that they have helped me and how grateful I am to be their daughter.
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KAYLA WEST
‘I wouldn’t be where I am today without this community’ Darren Iozia | Journal-Courier
Tell us about yourself and your family: I am married to my high school sweetheart, Blake West, and we have a 2-year-old daughter, Kaulynn. Born and raised and Murrayville, where we still reside. My parents are Steve and Debi Anders and I have one sister, Tanell Meado. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I have been working for 7½ years as a parole case manager with TASC. I work with men on parole out of the Illinois Department of Corrections, getting them engaged in their substance abuse board order and any needs or assistance upon their release from prison. I am a certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor. I am also the owner and operator of Blondie’s Boutique. I have been running my boutique since November 2011. I started my business out of my childhood bedroom while I was a senior in college and still living with my parents. I enjoy getting involved with the community — helping any way I can. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I wouldn’t be where I am today without
this community and the surrounding communities. They support my business, my ideas and literally any request I throw at them. I said since the beginning that if and when I am in a position to give back, I will. I have kept that promise and will continue to do so as long as I can. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The people I’ve met and friendships I’ve formed. I have met so many amazing people that I probably wouldn’t have known if it wasn’t for my business and the customers that support me. They truly feel like extended family to me. I see many of them weekly/ biweekly. Many of them know my personal life and I know theirs. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Kill them with kindness. Never take life too seriously and when and if you have the chance, travel. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My parents and how they raised me is probably my biggest influence on life. I would have considered my upbringing as
“middle class” — all of my needs were met, as well as some wants. But if there was something I really wanted, you had to work for it. They instilled a work ethic into my sister and me that has lasted long into adulthood. Never stop chasing goals; once you’ve hit a comfort zone, keep going. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I think our community has came together so much in the past couple of years. Seeing the square come together, the gatherings, events and music up there has been amazing. I want to see that continue. I want the small businesses to continue to be the heart of the square and our surrounding towns. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing instead? I’m exactly where I want to be and always hoped to be. I love both of my jobs and get such joy and fulfillment from both of them. My next goal is retirement (LOL). How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? Organized. I hear that all the time. That’s the key to my success, I suppose.
What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering? Being a mom! Spending time with my little girl. Spending time with my family and friends. They bring me so much happiness. I am the “planner” of my group of friends, so I am usually planing something for us to do. COVID has really slowed down my planning, unfortunately. I enjoy traveling, I would be gone visiting new places if time and money allowed. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? There is nothing that comes to mind. Tell us about your biggest strength: Hard-working. I’m not one to sit around. I have to be constantly doing something If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? I would change my inability to just relax. Take time to relax a little more and not have to be so busy and jampacking my schedule and life. What are your goals for yourself? Continue working both jobs for my family. Keep growing my business. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I’m a super-picky eater.
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 9
JOHNATHAN WARREN
‘I learned … that helping others is a part of how I should live’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I was born in the Chicago suburbs, attended Monmouth College and lived in several other states before I moved back to Illinois in 2016. I met my wife, the Rev. Siobhan Warren, in graduate school. We have two daughters, Hannah, 12, and Lydia, 9. Our family enjoys playing board games and exploring new places. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I am pastor of First Presbyterian Church. In this role, I preach, visit the sick and, with the church elders, oversee the operation of the church. My favorite parts of being a pastor include praying with people, and being invited into families’ lives during their most special moments — weddings,
Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier
births, graduations and funerals. I am looking forward to the 200th anniversary of First Presbyterian Church, which will be in 2027. It is an honor to be part of a church that has been a part of our community for so long. I am proud to be part of a church that donates $100,000 each year to local and global projects, one of them being the Presbyterian Day Care, which operates in our church building. I volunteer for the Presbyterian Church at the regional and state levels, serving on the leadership team for the Presbytery. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? My grandfather was a United Methodist pastor and he was an inspiration to me. My high school years were difficult and church was the place where I felt accepted. I wanted to share that accep-
tance with other people and have known I wanted to be a pastor since then. After college, I served as a missionary in Kenya, Africa, for a year, where I worked on web design for the All Africa Conference of Churches. In spite of the poverty of the area, many people in Kenya had a deep joy that some Americans are missing. Their sense of community showed me a new model for my own life. All of these experiences encouraged me to do church work. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I am inspired by Micah 6:8, which says, “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” I have always been involved in any community where I lived. I learned from my parents, my
church growing up, and as an Eagle Scout, that helping others is a part of how I should live. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The best part of being a pastor is being invited into peoples’ special moments. Two stories come to mind. I volunteer at St. John’s Children’s Hospital. But instead of meeting children as a pastor, I dress up as Spider-Man, in a full costume. Once, I visited an 8-year-old boy whose favorite superhero happened to be Spider-Man. He was so excited to meet his hero. The staff cannot tell me why each child is there, so I was surprised when a hospital staff photo of me with the child was published the next day, with the caption explaining that the boy had cancer. My goal is to follow Jesus’
example to bring hope to those who are struggling. What’s your personal philosophy on life? I am guided by Matthew 22:37-39, where Jesus tells us the two greatest commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind … and love your neighbor as yourself.” Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: While my grandfather inspired my profession, my grandmother has always encouraged me. Even though she was “the pastor’s wife,” she had a strong faith of her own and did ministry in her own way. She prayed for many and let them know that she did so. She wrote letters of encouragement. She offered the gift of hospitality by opening her home and cooking wonderful meals, for
her family and members of her community. Sometimes it is the quiet acts of love that have the greatest impact. Love — and good banana bread. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I love living in Jacksonville, and find this to be such a welcoming and supportive place to live. But we could do a better job at being more equitable. Especially, I hope our community provides good education to all children in Jacksonville. I am concerned about the effects that the pandemic has had on children and their families, and how long it will take to get our kids back on track. Especially for the children who rely on school for social support, this has been a difficult time.
10 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
ALLISON GUIDISH
‘I love seeing children learn new things, gain confidence, and grow as people’ Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier
Tell us about yourself and your family: I was raised in Jacksonville. My parents, Reg and Cynthia Benton, met and married here in Jacksonville. I grew up surrounded by multiple grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. My husband, Nick, and I met the first day of college at Illinois State University in 1999. We started dating shortly after and were married in June 2004. Since there is only one school for the deaf in Illinois, we moved to Jacksonville after college. We have three children: Emma, 12, Elizabeth, 9, and Charlie, 6. We love that our children are surrounded by family. I can see my sister’s house from my front porch and my parents live just across the park. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I have been a teacher at the Illinois School for Deaf since August 2003. I’ve taught a variety of different aged students (from 3 to 18) throughout my career. I currently teach early elementary students. I had a great foundation going to public school here in Jacksonville, and then went on to get a bachelor’s degree in deaf education at Illinois State University. After teaching for several years, I went back to get my masters in read-
ing at Western Illinois University. Teaching kids how to read is my favorite thing to do. I love thinking about how the world opens up to a child when they learn how to read. Starting in high school, I was drawn to coaching. Since then, I’ve coached a number of different volleyball and soccer teams over the years. I am also on the board for the Jacksonville Soccer Association and Jacksonville United Soccer Club. I have also helped out with the Beaux Arts Ball and the Passavant Auxiliary Board. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? My love for children. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I love seeing children learn new things, gain confidence, and grow as people. What’s your philosophy on life? As an educator and mother, I think Rita F. Pierson said it best: “Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My family. As I’ve mentioned, I have been
blessed to have grown up surrounded by a supportive extended family. They have always encouraged me to work hard and to further my education. The values that they have instilled in me have shaped both my personal and professional life. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? Being a part of the ISD family. Through ISD, I have been fortunate to find co-workers who feel more like family. I love the small community feel at ISD. I get to develop stronger relationships with my students and their families. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? We have a diverse population in Jacksonville. I would love to see more programs that are designed to provide equal access to the many activities available in Jacksonville. For example, as a member of the Jacksonville Soccer Association board, we keep player fees as low as possible to encourage the highest turn out of young players. I know of some other programs in town that also have a similar mindset. I love this idea and will continue to seek out and help with these
types of programs. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing instead? I love teaching, but maybe someday I can work at Heavenly Delight! How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? Passionate, but it may come off as intense. ;-) What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering? Being a mom and wife. I am Charlie’s bedtime reading partner, Elizabeth’s videographer and cheerleader, Emma’s personal assistant, and Nick’s hairdresser. Tell us about your biggest strength: I’m a mama bear. I will fight for my people and what I think is right. I’m a cheerleader — and I don’t mean someone who used to be a flyer — oh goodness, I don’t have any of those skills. If you need a pep talk, I am your girl. If you need someone to listen, I am there. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? More patient and easy-going. What are your goals for yourself? Be better tomorrow than I am today.
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 11
JEREMY HOMMOWUN
‘Willingness to help each other succeed is evident’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I am originally from the Chicago suburb of Hoffman Estates. I came to Jacksonville in 2007, when I began studying at Illinois College. I received two degrees from IC (bachelor’s degree in sociology in 2011 and a bachelor’s degree in music in 2014) and met my wife, Elizabeth, on the Hilltop. After moving to Iowa, where we lived for almost four years, we found ourselves drawn back to IC and the Jacksonville area. We currently live in Franklin with our dog, Hazel. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I am working full-time at Illinois College as the faculty support and educational technology specialist in the Office of Information Technology. I also perform with the Jacksonville Symphony Society as the principal timpanist, which I have been involved with since 2007. I served as the executive director for the Jacksonville Symphony Society from June 2019 to August 2020. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? Technology has always been a passion for me. I have taught myself much of the trade that I know and continue to push myself to learn more and continue developing. In my
Rochelle Eiselt | Journal-Courier
time as executive director of the JSS, I even helped design and build their new website as well as trying to move many processes into a more technologically advanced state. When the opportunity came up to take on this role at Illinois College, I was very excited to step up and move into the role, as I knew I would be able to help the faculty create a more engaging and immersing experience for their students by also helping to develop the available technology inside of classrooms. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The amount of connections that can be easily made in this town is the best thing, hands down. Again, I look back on my first year in town, and I remember meeting so many amazing community members simply through service that we were doing as students at IC. These connections continued to grow, and even to this day many of those early connections still exist. The community truly cares about each other and the willingness to help each other succeed is evident all around. I truly believe that these early connections are what has lead me to where I am now. What’s your philosophy on life? My personal philosophy on life is a quote I
heard a long time ago: “Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark, professionals built the Titanic.” I live by this quote every day, and rarely ever back down from trying to learn something new. My grandparents taught me at an early age that I could do anything that I set my heart to, and my parents have always supported me in those ventures. I always feel that my path to get where I am today has followed a very non traditional path, but I would not change a thing about it. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My grandmother has always been a huge influence in my life. The support she showed and the love she gave was always so strong. She always knew how to pick me up when I was down, and could make what seemed like a failure to me, a success in her eyes. This showed me how even if you are falling down, you can still pick yourself up and move forward with a stronger drive. She also showed me that in order to be good at one thing, you don’t have to give up other things. There are ways that everything you do can work together to make each other stronger. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and
how can they be brought to fruition? I personally would love to see more support for a community performance space that could house not only musical opportunities, but also theater shows. I think this could be a huge addition to the community and would help to grow the already strong arts community into more. I would also love to see more young individuals get involved with other organizations in the area. There are many opportunities for younger community members such as myself to reach out and make an impact, and that is how our community can continue to grow. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? I think at first they would see me as shy and quiet. I am not a big talker until you get to know me. Then you would find that I am very passionate about what I do, no matter what it is. Tell us about your biggest strength: My biggest strength I feel has always been adaptability. I am very open minded and willing to explore things that can help, even if they are solutions that I am not familiar with. I am a quick learner, and this helps me to think beyond what I know and consider other solutions for a problem.
12 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
WYATT SMITH
Every day, ‘I want to be a better person, husband and worker than I was yesterday’ Darren Iozia | Journal-Courier
Tell us about yourself and your family: I grew up in Franklin and I am a 2003 graduate of Franklin High School. After high school, I joined the Illinois Air National Guard and served for six years. During that time, I attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and majored in agribusiness economics. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from SIUC in 2008, I started my job at Brandt in Franklin. I married my wife, Julia, on Aug. 10, 2019, and we are expecting a baby girl. We also have two dogs — Berta, a black lab, and Ruby, a golden retriever. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: I am the plant manager at the Brandt retail agriculture plant in Franklin and am a certified crop adviser. As part of my job, I manage day-
to-day operations, assist in sales and applications of crop inputs, and provide agronomic advice and information to help growers make decisions. I am a village board trustee for the town of Franklin and a member of the Catholic church. I also referee junior high and high school basketball in the area. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: Being a referee gives me a chance to stay involved with a sport I love. Being a part of games is exciting and watching student athletes grow is fun to be a part of. There are high school athletes competing now that I started refereeing when they were in fourth and fifth grade, and it is neat to see how much they have grown and improved over the years. I ran for the village board of Franklin to be a part of
keeping the town that I have lived in for the majority of my life a great place to live. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Ask a lot of questions and listen carefully to those who have experiences you can learn from. An old farmer can teach you as much or more than any university professor, and they always have better stories. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My parents. I could not ask for better. My mom has never met someone she didn’t want to get to know. She does the hard stuff, the kinds of things most are too uncomfortable to do. Anyone that knows her knows what I mean. My dad never quits. He is always moving, whether it’s on a tractor, pickup, lawn mower,
See SMITH, Page 21
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 13
ERIKA PROCARIONE
‘Every day is a new day and your life is what you make it’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I am married to my husband, Mark, and we are blessed with two children. Our daughter Gaetana, who is 6 years old, and our son Wesley, who is about to turn 2 years old. We as a family enjoy traveling, going to games, spending quality time and taking our two dogs on walks. I come from a family of six children. I was inspired at a very young age by my father, who has been successful in the medical field throughout his life. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: I am a community health worker at Passavant Area Hospital. A majority of the time, I link individuals to services in the community based off of what I find that they would benefit from and advocate when needed. The goal is to decrease barriers and to make access to care easier. In some cases, some individuals may need assistance with other tasks that are not directly medical
necessarily, but do create stress that can effect someone’s health. For example, this could mean needing emotional support during court, providing contact lists of certain local organizations or helping individuals apply for employment. I also organize group meetings that benefit individuals in the community, such as LEARN and SQUAD. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I enjoy helping people and forming resolutions to issues for individuals. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The best thing I would say is seeing individuals that I work with that complete their goals and that I am able to be a part of that. It makes me very happy to see them say and realize that they can complete anything that they put their mind and heart to. Also, being part of Mini Barr Park when it was being renovated was rewarding when seeing all of the children
Darren Iozia | Journal-Courier
playing on the new toys and being so excited. Moments like that are priceless to me and I am so happy that I am part of Healthy Jacksonville and can contribute to the positive community impacts on the front lines. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Every day is a new day and your life is what you make it to be. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: Abraham Lincoln influences me a lot. As a young adult, I studied Abraham a lot and he was a person who was honest, a storyteller, calm and a lawyer. He knew from right and wrong. He lived his life taking a stand for what he believed in and stood by his morals. He is the kind of person that I try to be like because I feel like this world today needs more
people like Abraham Lincoln. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I would love to see more psychological care for children and adults, including other common specialists to be made available to the community. I would also like to see more after-school programs for the children. How do you think someone meeting you would describe you? I would think that they would describe me as a devoted, positive and a caring person that doesn’t look at patients or client as a case or a number. I take everyone as a unique situation and do not ever compare because every walk of life and situation is unique.
Congratulations The team at Passavant Area Hospital is excited and proud of Erika Procarione for her recognition as a Twenty Under 40 recipient. She works tirelessly for our community through Passavant’s Healthy Jacksonville program. Erika truly embodies the hospital’s mission to improve the health of the people and communities we serve.
Erika Procarione Community Health Worker Passavant Area Hospital
14 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
LINDSAY MCQUEEN
‘If we know our community, we know the needs and what makes it tick’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I’m originally from Franklin. After graduating from Western Illinois University, I started my career with the Illinois Farm Bureau. I moved around the state with work until landing back in Jacksonville in 2014. My family has deep roots in Morgan County and I’m glad to be close to everyone once again. My parents are David and Robyn McQueen of rural Franklin. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: As manager of Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau, I work to promote the many facets of agriculture in our community and help our members as needed. I’m in charge of daily operations at the office, retain and grow membership, plan meetings of interest for our members, raise funds for our foundation, and work under the guidance of a board of 16 directors for the betterment of our organization. I like to be engaged locally. I’m on the board of directors for Jacksonville Kiwanis and Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce. I serve on the 4-H expansion review committee and Morgan County Extension building committee. I also try to volunteer
monthly at Cass Food Pantry and work as an election judge on those dates. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? I grew up on a grain farm and always had a passion for agriculture. I was in 4-H and FFA and that only solidified my drive to work in the industry. While in college, I applied for the Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau Foundation scholarship and that was truly my first encounter with the organization. When thinking about future jobs, I then proceeded to find out about the manager position and thought it would be a good fit. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: Getting involved in the community introduces me to people outside my line of work. Also, if we know our community, we know the needs and what makes it tick. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service?: A place is only as good as the people you know in it. The best thing about working in the Jacksonville area is knowing there are a ton of great people to lean on for support. What’s your philosophy on life? “Work hard in silence, let success make the
Rochelle Eiselt | Journal-Courier
noise.” I’m so very humbled to receive this distinction. I’m not one to enjoy or search out the limelight so to be selected is just an incredible honor. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My parents instilled a strong work ethic in all their children. They are always the people that can be called on for being there in the time of need and putting in the hours to get a job done. They inspire me to do my best. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I would love to see more businesses, specifically agriculture businesses, pop up in our area. We are in an area full of potential and a boost in our local economy would be great. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing instead? Easy — farming. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? I would hope someone would say I’m professional, kind and seemingly dependable. What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering? I like to be with family and friends when possible. I also like to bake and travel, but
these days, my 18-month-old nephew, Jaxson, has been our source for entertainment. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? I’ve been the new person in town multiple times in my career. I think it’s always tricky to navigate how to become involved in any community and find your fit. Tell us about your biggest strength: I try to pay attention to details. I do a lot of prep and behind the scenes activities for my job. Details are important and make a difference. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? I wish I liked gizmos and gadgets so I could stay up with technology. What are your goals for yourself? I just want to keep improving myself and our organization. Goals are ever-changing, but I always strive to educate more people about the importance of agriculture in their lives. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I am a certified Kansas City Barbeque Society BBQ judge. I love “Jeopardy.” I don’t put up a Christmas tree.
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 15 friend. If I can follow each of these rules on any given day, I can go to sleep pretty darn happy. Tell us about your biggest strength: Seeing the absolute best in people. Unfortunately this has, at times, left me feeling naive and let down, but for the most part I feel this has opened my world to new friends, new opportunities, and chances for me to grow both personally and professionally. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? My hope is that they would describe me as warm-hearted, hardworking, and kind. Probably pretty easy going, as well.
COLLEEN DOYLE
‘Go to bed knowing I’ve done all I can to be the best version of myself’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I’m the fourth of six kids, which means growing up our house was always hectic and loud, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Our parents (Tom and Eileen Doyle) sacrificed so much for us. They did everything they could to make sure we knew that anything was possible as long as we were prepared to work hard. More than that, they were live-in examples of how to be kind and decent people, teaching us the values of faith, love, honesty, friendship, loyalty and so much more. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: Routt was founded in 1902 because of the foresight, generosity and the extraordinary efforts made by the Routt family to provide Catholic education in Jacksonville. Since then, we have been very fortunate to have received financial help from
generous donors, foundations and organizations that allow us to continue to provide what we believe is the best high school experience for a student in west-central Illinois. My job is to essentially feed off that passion the Routt family had and develop ways for us to continue to thrive for decades to come. I’m a board member for the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce, I sit on the allocation panels for Prairieland United Way, I’m a member of Catholic Daughters of America, and I volunteer at Church of Our Saviour. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I love what I see going on here in Jacksonville. I love seeing the effort being put forth by so many people to help make this town such a special place. If I can do even just a little bit to help move that effort forward, I’m going to do it. What’s the best thing to
Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier
happen to you because of your community or career service? Through coaching and what is now my full-time job, I’ve had the opportunity to work with high school- and junior high-aged students for the past 10 years, and getting to know these young people is without a doubt the best thing to have happened to me. Although I served as the coach or development director at their school, it is each of them who was able to bring such a bright light to me every day and teach me you’re never too young to make a difference in someone’s life. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Growing up, my Dad had three rules that he asked my siblings and me to follow every day: have a good day, learn something new, and be nice to someone who needs a
See DOYLE, PAGE 21
16 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
ADAM DEAN
‘To know you’ve helped ... navigate a difficult time is rewarding’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I grew up on a farm in rural White Hall, where my dad, Steve, worked as a farmer and my mom, Lisa,
worked as a receptionist at the local doctor’s office. I have an older brother, Casey, and a younger sister, Sarah. I met my wife, Meredith, at Illinois College in 2004. We
Congratulations, Mr. Adam Dean! The Triopia School District & Community are so proud of you.
Through Education, We Achieve
Triopia CUSD #27
Rochelle Eiselt | Journal-Courier
married in 2009 and now have three children: Lydia is 7, Deacon is 5, and Foster is 2. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I serve as superintendent of Triopia CUSD 27. I have served in this role for two years. Prior to that, I was the seventh through 12th grade principal in the same district for six years. Other than that, I have served as a volunteer coach for athletics and have also served as a children’s church volunteer at First Christian Church in South Jacksonville. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? I always loved “school.” White Hall Elementary was an incredible grade school with an amazing staff. In
junior high, I fell in love with history, mainly due to lectures by Bill Wrenn. In high school, I was influenced by David McGraw, Jim Roesch and Kathy Newingham. I knew pretty early on I wanted to teach and coach mainly due to the influence of those who taught and coached me. After seven years in the classroom, I began considering a role in administration. I felt that I had the work ethic, drive and people skills to lead a school or even a district. Luckily I’ve been in two good schools that have nurtured me and allowed me to learn from my mistakes. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: Having worked with kids for nearly 17 years now, I can’t begin to stress the importance of role models modeling positive character
traits and being there to lend a helping hand. I’ve worked with so many kids who have had difficult upbringings, and what it boils down to is they just need someone there for them. To know you’ve helped a younger person navigate a particularly difficult time in their life is rewarding. I feel like I’ve done that as a teacher, coach, principal and superintendent. I feel like I’ve also done that in my volunteer roles as well. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The relationships and respect you build with kids, co-workers and community members is something I will always cherish. Even students that I taught 17 years ago still call me “Mr. Dean.”
See DEAN, Page 21
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 17 has been my great pleasure to see Big Eli 17 become free to the public and enjoy long lines on Sunday summer afternoons. Our beloved wheel is a treasure and icon for Jacksonville. Each season, we are finding more ways for Big Eli to have a positive impact on our community and bring people together. What’s your personal philosophy on life? I believe the phrase talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. I don’t know who first said it or even where I first read it, but it has always stuck with me. As an individual, we must try to make the best of whatever hand we have been dealt, but as a people, as a community, we should be working to increase access
GINA HAYES
‘No opportunity given to another human being is a wasted venture’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I grew up in a large family as one of six kids. But now I enjoy a quiet household with just one 13-year-old son named Drew, a chihuahua named Batman, a Sphynx cat named Zephyr, and my mom lives with me, too. Drew’s dad still visits us often and we enjoy spending time in the kitchen cooking and eating as a family. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: I am the general manager and vice president of a home care franchise, Home Instead. We provide home care assistance to over 100 aging adults and employment to roughly 120 caregivers across 15 counties. In my role, I oversee the various departments: Caregiver development, service coordination, client care and community outreach. My goal is to cultivate our culture, recognize the unlimited potential of my staff and support their development
so they can fulfill our mission to “Change the Face of Aging” through their daily actions. Outside of work I am a Rotarian, a Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer, serve on the board for the Jacksonville Promise and am an alumnus for the Jacksonville Police Academy’s Citizen’s Police Academy, as well as the FBI Citizen’s Police Academy. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? I was living in Chicago during my early 20s and my grandmother, whom I was very close to, went on hospice for pancreatic cancer. The experience gave me an eye-opening view into our health care system, the vulnerabilities of seniors, the toll of care giving and death on family dynamics and overall changed my worldview. I moved back to central Illinois afterwards and eventually found my way to Home Instead, where I have been at home for the last 11 years.
Angela Bauer | Journal-Courier
Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I am an introvert by nature, so it initially took some professional pressure to get me to join a service club but once I did, I fell in love with it. I look for opportunities or projects that will either enrich me and make me a better citizen or I look for ways that I can make a difference in my community. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? I’ve been able to instill in my son a sense of civic pride and responsibility. He is frequently by my side for volunteer opportunities and loves it as much as I do. He is especially proud of my role with the Jacksonville Rotary Club because I am the chairperson for the Community Park Ferris Wheel. It
See HAYES, Page 21
Congratulations & Thank You
Gina Hayes for your dedication and commitment to Home Instead & the community we serve.
If your loved one is vulnerable and needs in-home care, we’re here to help. Call us today. 217.245.9192 HomeInstead.com/545 PERSONAL CARE | MEMORY CARE | HOSPICE SUPPORT | MEALS AND NUTRITION Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise is independently owned and operated © 2020 Home Instead, Inc.
18 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
CRAIG MILLER
‘Each of us has been given different gifts’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I currently live in Jacksonville with my beautiful wife, Elisha Miller. My parents and sister live in Morton. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I am the Cass County
state’s attorney. I was an assistant state’s attorney for Morgan County for six years and nine months. I am a member of the Morgan County Bar Association and am the council president for Faith Lutheran Church in Jacksonville. What first made you get involved with your chosen
Congratulations To All Of the 2020 20 Under 40 Recipients! Thank You For Making A Difference!
found being kind, helping others and volunteering my time enjoyable. That’s really what has driven me to become involved in local communities. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? I was elected Cass County state’s attorney and can now use my God-given talents to help more communities. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Above all else, love one another deeply. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My family. Each family member (wife, dad, mom, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws) has helped me grow and make me the person I am Photo provided today. What changes would field? you like to see in your Initially, I wanted to be community in the next 10 an environmental lawyer, years, and how can they be but while attending law brought to fruition? school, I fell in love with the I would like to see my courtroom and criminal law. community continue to be I clerked for an appellate safe, but I would also like judge in the 5th District and to see our community grow. interned for a public defendI think the hard work and er in Pekin, Tazewell County dedication of the city workand knew criminal law was ers, government employees what I wanted to practice. and local law enforcement Describe what drives can make that happen. you to get involved within If you weren’t doing the community: what you do now, what Each of us has been given would you be doing different gifts. I have always instead?
David ALBERS Continued from Page 4 you? I hope that they would say I’m genuine and kind. What they might actually say is that I talk a lot. What do you consider
the biggest challenge about your community? We have to continue to find ways to lift up the people in our community who need help by providing opportunities for growth. We can invest in new technology and new ideas to push our community forward and
I would like to learn a couple of languages, travel the world, and maybe dabble in the stock market. How do you think someone meeting you for the first time would describe you? He doesn’t say much, but listens very intently. What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering? Cook and watch Netflix with my wife. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? Bringing in new businesses and members to the community. Tell us about your biggest strength: Why don’t I tell you what my greatest weaknesses are? I work too hard. I care too much. And sometimes I can be too invested in my job. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? I tend to shy away from awkwardness; I would like to embrace it. What are your goals for yourself? Continue in my capacity as state’s attorney and keep the community safe. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I lived in England for seven months and backpacked across Europe for two weeks.
help folks thrive. Jacksonville is a town with incredible strengths. The people who live here are the best I’ve ever known. Tell us about your biggest strength: My ability to talk to people has helped me in all parts of my life.
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 19
MARY BETH HARRIS
‘Approach each day with a positive attitude and find the good’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I was born and raised on a farm in central Illinois. I went to Illinois State and graduated with my agriculture business degree and went on to the University of Illinois and completed my master’s degree in business administration. I am married to Jay Harris and we have two wonderful kids — AJ, 12, and Claire, 9. We live on a grain and livestock farm outside of Jacksonville. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: I work alongside Jay at J.O. Harris Sales in Alexander. We are a farm equipment business that sells new and used equipment. I do a little bit of everything around there, depending on what the day hands me. My primary job is accounting/bookkeeping, but I also work a lot with parts and selling equipment. With the community, I volunteer a lot with the Morgan County Fair and help to put on the fair gala and I am one of the
leaders of the Berea Ag 4-H Club. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: It is so important for people to understand the importance of agriculture and to encourage our youth to continue to be involved in the industry. If we provide a positive example to our youth and show them how giving back to their community and educating others on agriculture is beneficial, we help to instill those values within them. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? The best thing that has happened to me with working in the community or working at my job is the people I have met and the relationships you gain. I did not grow up in this community, I came in from the outside. I am so amazed at the support I have seen from this community for different causes. Speaking from the agriculture side of it, there
Rochelle Eiselt | Journal-Courier
are so many good people that are willing to give their time and their resources and I am proud to be a part of it. What’s your personal philosophy on life? Approach each day with a positive attitude and find the good to be thankful for. I believe we choose our attitude every day. So many things especially this year have been a challenge, but it is up to each one of us to determine how it affects us. If you stay positive and find something good in every day, it’s a little easier to handle the challenges thrown at you. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? A big focus of mine is the importance of the youth in our community. Agriculture is such an important industry in not only our
community, but the state as well. I would like to see better access to agriculture programs for all school-aged children. If we teach agriculture and help them learn what the industry is about and how it benefits them each and every day, it will open up a lot of opportunities for them in the future. What are your goals for yourself? Every day, I want to start the day being a better person than I was the day before. What might someone be surprised to know about you? When I was in high school, I was a youth ambassador to the National Safety Council. I attended three national youth safety conferences in Florida, California and Chicago. My focus was on farm safety.
Congratulations Mary Beth Harris!
We Are Very Proud Of You! New and Used J.O. Farm Harris Equipment sales Alexander, IL • (217) 478-4341
20 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
ERIN WESTERMEYER
‘If we can ... support one another, we can become unstoppable’ Tell us about yourself and your family: I’ve been married to my best friend, Chris, for almost four years and we just bought our first home. I am not exaggerating when I say we are absolutely obsessed with our house. We are currently updating it before we move in and we can hardly wait — you can follow our progress on Instagram. I’ve always loved travel but the concept of home is really powerful to me. So becoming a homeowner in Jacksonville was such a cool moment. I am also a writer, love a good adventure, and have never said no to tacos or brunch. I’m an Enneagram 4 and an INFP, if that means anything to you. Describe what you do professionally, as well as your roles within the community: I’ve been a photographer for years and found I loved working specifically with
women in small business. Women oftentimes play countless roles and tend to put themselves and their dreams on the back burner. I kept meeting women who had no idea how amazing they were. I wanted to do whatever I could to help them showcase who they were and the amazing gifts they bring into the world. The main way I do that is through brand photography and web design. The most life-changing experiences I’ve had have been when gathered with other like-minded women pursuing similar dreams and goals. I wanted to facilitate that so Wake Up Your Wild was born and I began hosting events for women. Wake Up Your Wild was created out of a desire to create a space for women to get creative, to be inspired and to connect with other women in central Illinois. I hosted several events, includ-
Photo provided
ing a Flower Crown Workshop (with A Bloom Bar) and Sunset Yoga (with Jax Yoga), where women could gather and hear from other women who are pursuing their dream. It’s been magical! I can’t wait to plan more once the pandemic is over! What first made you get involved with your chosen field? I began to pursue entrepreneurship right out of college when I began my photography business. Being a creative smallbusiness owner led me to conferences and retreats all over the country so I could learn and grow.
Those trips changed the everything for me. I always learned a lot, but it was the community that really made a difference. Incredible things can happen when women empower women. I believe that we all have a wild thing inside of us, a crazy dream that beats wildly in our heart. There are so many voices, internal and external, that give us reasons why we shouldn’t or can’t chase our dream. But I believe that being in community with like-minded women is powerful and can call us back to ourselves. I realized I shouldn’t have to fly across
the country to have these experiences. I didn’t see very many opportunities for this kind of connection in my area, so I thought, why not create it? My goal became to create spaces that allow women to unfold as themselves and wake up to that wild thing. When we gather together, no matter where we are on the journey, we empower each other and gain courage to live our wild dream out loud. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: I’ve spent many years thinking I was alone — in my struggles, in my dreams
— and it kept me isolated. It’s really hard to grow in isolation. I’m not sure it’s actually possible. I want to create the thing I wished I’d had — a space to know and understand that I’m not alone and a soulful, life-giving community that makes someone’s heart flutter with belonging. What’s your personal philosophy on life? “Instructions for living a life. Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.” — Mary Oliver Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My parents always told me I could do anything I could set my mind to. Over and over and over. They’ve both been entrepreneurs in some capacity since I was born and still are. I’ve had a front-row seat (well, more like a supporting role) in all of their pursuits. They have an insane amount of drive to see a project through, all for the greater good. I’m so thankful that I got to be their daughter and I hope I’ve inherited an ounce of their drive. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? Unrecognized potential. I think so many people have talents and skills but don’t believe that they’re good enough to share or have what it takes to put it into the world. Hey, we need you. Tell us about your biggest strength: Vision. Call me an eternal optimist, but I really believe anything is possible. I can see all the possibilities in an instant and wholeheartedly believe that vision can be turned into reality.
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 21
Wyatt SMITH Adam DEAN Continued from Page 12
Continued from Page 16
motorcycle or ATV, he is always headed somewhere and doing some kind of work. I hope to be as great of an influence on my children as my parents have been on me. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I would like to see more of the next generation growing an interest in agriculture. With fewer and fewer small farms, interest declines every year. Keeping programs like the FFA active in high schools and promoting the positive things agriculture brings to the world is important in keeping youth involved and interested. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? I think the biggest challenge in our community is being able to support the businesses that are locally owned. In rural areas, these businesses seem to struggle to make it more times than not, but we all want to see them succeed and in a lot of ways need them to succeed. Tell us about your biggest strength: Flexibility. Being willing and able to adapt to accomplish whatever task I am given. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I drove a car through the side of a building in Waverly when I was 2 years old. I have the newspaper clipping to prove it.
I’ve always taken that as a compliment. I feel it’s a sign of respect and I hope that means I had a positive influence on their life. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I would like to see a change in education, especially a growth in vocational programs. Let’s face it, some students going down the traditional path of “school” isn’t necessarily prudent. Some can begin learning trades in high school and be prepared to enter the workforce in fields needing these professionals. It is my hope that other local rural districts can begin discussions on pooling resources so our students have access to programs that may not be doable within just one district. What are your goals for yourself? I love leading a district that has a good reputation and send out productive and well-rounded students. My goal is to continue that reputation while also continuing to build relationships with our students, staff and community. I want to continue to lead Triopia as a district that people such as the staff and community are proud of, gets results, and that those outside of the district have positive views of. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I actually enjoy cleaning the house.
Gina HAYES
Colleen DOYLE
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to opportunity and not discount the potential of those who have become invisible to us. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years? I would like to see a greater emphasis placed on community service, especially for kids. It’s a tougher lesson to pick up as an adult, but if you can teach kids to appreciate their community and to be a part of making it better at a young age, they became the adults we need to continue to make real progress. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing? I would want to work for a non-profit that supports the needs of struggling families. It goes back to my philosophy of life; leaders are everywhere if we can see past our own biases. I want to help people who have been marginalized defy both the unfairly low expectations for their achievement and the equally unfair expectations of resilience to their life circumstances. Our American Dream needs a rewrite. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? We need to instill a sense of civics at a much earlier age and provide more opportunities for people of all walks to get involved, that don’t require you to be a part of a congregation or a member of a club that requires dues. What might someone be surprised to know about you? I still love climbing trees. I treated myself to a two-day tree climbing course last year.
What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? I’d love to see the Routt community continue to grow. It’s hard to put into words the passion I have for the school, but I believe that we’ve got a great thing going here and we’re on the cusp of something exceptional. The question of “how do we do that” is exactly what keeps me motivated every day. Lucky for me, our students and teachers continue to do great things that I get to share with Jacksonville and the surrounding communities.
If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing? Quite honestly I’m 32 years old and I’m still not quite sure “what I want to be when I grow up.” I guess if it were a dream world, I’d be doing something with professional videography. Or perhaps co-own a beach bar (the Cross-Eyed Cricket Watering Hole) down in the Caribbean with my sister, Katie. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? I would probably make it so I was a little more confident in social situations. Although I may not always show it, a lot of social situations make me nervous. I guess you can say I’m a bit of an extroverted introvert. I love meeting new people,
but those beginning stages of meeting new people, or being introduced to new things, can be pretty intimidating. What are your goals for yourself? Continue to put myself in situations that allow me to grow (personally and professionally), even if they are out of my comfort zone. A daily goal of mine is to always go to bed knowing I’ve done all I can to be the best version of myself on that particular day. And on a lighter note, I was gifted a piano last year and I would love to be able to play it well. What might someone be surprised to know about you? No matter what time of the year it is, if I’m alone in my car and the windows are up, it is quite likely that I’m listening to Christmas music.
Congratulations To All Of the 2020 20 Under 40 Recipients! Thank You For Making A Difference!
22 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 20 Under 40
BARBIE DAVIDSMEYER
‘Every child is just one caring adult away from being successful’ Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree | Journal-Courier
Congratulations
Barbie Davidsmeyer!
We appreciate all you do for our district and our community!
”Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader... they set out to make a difference.” -Author Unknown
Tell us about yourself and your family: I reside in the country just north of Jacksonville with my husband, Ryan, our two boys, Colton and Emrick, and our dog, Ellie. I grew up in Franklin. I received my bachelor’s degree in special education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and my master’s degree in educational administration from Lindenwood University. I then went on to receive an advanced certification for the director of special education from the University of St. Francis. Describe what you do professionally, as well as within the community: Professionally, I am the director of special education and student services for the Jacksonville School District. I help to facilitate all of the special education services throughout the district and
oversee the psychologists, speech language therapists, and social workers. I work closely with the superintendent and the school administrators to ensure that all of the special education programs run smoothly each day. I love my career. Within the community, I am part of the Jacksonville Area At-Risk Youth Collaborative. We meet to discuss how to make the youth throughout Jacksonville more connected to the school and to the community as a whole. I also have the opportunity to be a Camp Courage board member. Camp Courage is a week-long summer camp for individuals with physical disabilities that range in age from 6-60, that runs solely on community donations. As a board, we meet monthly throughout the year to plan, organize and fund raise for
the following years’ camps. It is said that once you attend camp, you’ll never leave … you often become “family.” I believe this to be true, as the upcoming year will be my 21st year of being involved with Camp Courage. What first made you get involved with your chosen field? When I attended East Grade School in first grade, Charlotte Cave (my first grade teacher) made a huge impact on my life. She was so compassionate, caring and loving to every child, no matter what their home life was. I wanted to be a teacher from the time I was in first grade. That then progressed into being a special education teacher once I was allowed to job shadow a special education teacher in
See DAVIDSMEYER, Page 23
20 Under 40 • Sunday, December 27, 2020 • 23
Barbie DAVIDSMEYER Continued from Page 22 junior high. Describe what drives you to get involved within the community: Every child is just one caring adult away from being a successful person when they grow up. As adults, we have an opportunity to be that one person. That is exactly what drives me to be involved. You never know when your actions set in motion something else, whether it be big or small. What’s the best thing to happen to you because of your community or career service? I have had the opportunity to meet some of the most wonderful and caring people by becoming involved with nonprofit organizations over the years. When you give of yourself without expecting any-
thing, amazing things happen. What’s your personal philosophy on life? One of the most amazing things my mother has ever said that has always stuck with me is “problems are only unsolved opportunities.” I feel like if you look at life through this lens, you tend to have an optimistic outlook on most everything. You are only here for a finite amount of time, so do with it as you wish. But as you are doing as you wish, do good to others. Tell us about someone or something that has influenced you: My greatest influence in life would have to be my mom, Kathy Turner. She has taught me many life lessons and is not someone who only talks the talk, she also walks the walk (even when the times get tough). She is the person who taught me to give it all you’ve got, to be caring, to love others even when they aren’t being loving toward you, to give someone the
shirt off your back, to never give up, and to always have faith. What changes would you like to see in your community in the next 10 years, and how can they be brought to fruition? We all must take it upon ourselves to create change and become a part of it. Unfortunately, as a society, we are becoming very selfinvolved and don’t really focus on the needs of others. I think more community partnerships need to be formed to create new opportunities for our youth as they grow and transition into young adults within the Jacksonville community. I would also like to see some continuity of care for our youth, specifically for their emotional well-being, within the various medical systems within our area. I believe establishing a more solid system of care for these individuals will produce better long term results for them, resulting in positive outcomes for everyone involved. If you weren’t doing what you
do now, what would you be doing instead? I would more than likely be a counselor of some sort. I love forming relationships, relating to people, listening to others and tackling problems. How do you think someone meeting you would describe you? Shy, but confident. What do you do when you aren’t working or volunteering? I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. We like to work outside on our farm, go duck hunting, go fishing, ride our four-wheelers or go on side-by-side rides. I also like cooking, baking and reading. What do you consider the biggest challenge about your community? I truly feel like Jacksonville is a wonderful community to live in and raise a family in. I do feel like we could benefit from a few more kidfriendly activities throughout the year, but they are definitely growing
each and every year. Tell us about your biggest strength: I believe my biggest strength is determination. I can do anything that I put my mind to, whether it be obtaining a certain degree, plumbing a house, learning to hunt, etc. If I put my mind to it, I will figure it out. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be, and why? I wish I would not interrupt people while they were talking. It is a skill that I have been working on for a while, but I definitely need to improve upon it. What are your goals for yourself? My next goal would be an education goal for myself. I would like to obtain my doctorate once both of my sons graduate from high school. What might someone be surprised to know about you I have been a vegetarian for almost my entire life.
CONGRATULATIONS BARBIE DAVDISMEYER!
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