UIS Names Inaugural Promising Prairie Stars
- Sangamon County News
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) has unveiled the inaugural class of the Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program, an initiative established by the Young Alumni Committee to honor outstanding graduates under the age of 40 or those who have completed their degrees within the past five years.
The program recognizes alumni for their innovation, creativity, and success in their careers or life’s work.
"This program serves as an inspiration to our alumni and future graduates,” said Krystal Geist, associate director of alumni and donor engagement. "By honoring these exceptional alumni, UIS highlights the lasting impact of its graduates and their continued role in shaping leadership and innovation within the community."
Inaugural Honorees:
Ashley Beaton Simpson (B.A. Psychology, 2017) – Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Success, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Beatrice Bonner (B.A. Communication, 2018; M.A. Communication, 2020) – Community Voices Editor, NPR Illinois
Katie Brethorst (B.A. History, 2020; M.A. Public History, 2022) – Deputy Director, Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum
Jessalyn Brugnoni (B.A. Chemistry, 2013) – Senior Staff Physician, Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital Detroit
Robert Fair (B.A. Political Science, 2012; M.A. Political Science, 2021) – Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County
Vanessa Ferguson (B.A. Communication, 2011; M.B.A., 2024) – Community Voices Production Coordinator, NPR Illinois
Emmons King (B.A. Business Administration, 2020; M.A. Communication, 2022) – Head Cross Country and Track Coach, UIS
Caroline Kubzansky (M.A. Public Affairs Reporting, 2022) – Reporter, The Chicago Tribune
Hayley Payne (B.A. Communication, 2022) – Social Media Manager, OOT Box Media
Taryn Servaes (B.A. Political Science, 2022) – J.D. Candidate, University of California, Berkeley School of Law
Arman Sidhu (M.A. Political Science, 2021) – Education Policy Resident & Microschool Founder, ExcelinEd & iCubed Learning Inc.
Jessica Simmons (B.A. Accounting, 2020; M.A. Accounting, 2022) – Associate Tax Accountant, KSM CPAs & Advisors
Kyle Stauder (B.A. Political Science, 2023) – Associate, Big Dog Strategies
Onyeka Ukpoju-Ebonyi (M.P.H., 2024) – Clinical Research Coordinator, Decatur Memorial Hospital Cancer Care Institute
Summer Warner (B.A. Psychology, 2023) – Education Coordinator, Child Watch Children's Advocacy Center
Mallory Westcott (B.A. Biology, 2014) – Nurse Practitioner, SIU School of Medicine
Nicole White (M.P.A., 2021) – Director of Advancement Operations, UIS
Alanna Wood (M.P.A., 2015) – Sexual Assault Prevention Response Officer, Illinois National Guard
The Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program celebrates the accomplishments of young UIS alumni across various industries and disciplines. To learn more about the honorees, visit the UIS Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program website.