My history with CEO goes back a long time. Craig Lindvaul was my teacher and mentor and his approach to education has made me into the person that I am today. Currently, I am the Director at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and a Faculty member at SIUC.
Kimberly Babington Treasurer Organization: SIU Credit Union Title: VP of Community Outreach
Michael Jessup Secretary Organization: Illinois Small Business Development Center, SIUC Title: Small Business Advisor
Michael works for the SBDC at SIU Carbondale helping small businesses get started and getting on the path for success. He currently owns Family Martial Arts Academy in Carbondale and is a partner in HRT1 International, an international fuel additive business.
Michael has spent 23 years in sales and is active in his community. When he isn't working you will often find him at his church, picking at his guitar, or sharpening his woodworking skills.
Roni Croxell Board Member Organization: Egyptian Electric Cooperative Title: Communications Coordinator
Roni LeForge is the Communications Coordinator for the Egyptian Electric Cooperative. As a native of Jackson County, she is a dedicated and cheerful supporter of Carbondale and her alma mater, Southern Illinois University.
Her deep-rooted love for the region, and interest in helping others, motivated her to pursue a career in journalism. Before joining Egyptian Electric, she worked in public relations for the City of Carbondale and as an anchor and reporter at a local television station. Her work helped connect businesses and individuals with practical resources and raised awareness of the needs of our rural area. Before leaving the television industry, Roni earned awards for "Best TV Reporter" and "Best Spot News" from the Illinois Broadcasters Association as well as the Young Professional of the Year with the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce.
Roni's knowledge of the area and expertise in communications helps her promote and advocate for Carbondale and southern Illinois. Outside of work, she loves listening to audiobooks, cooking, and enjoying the outdoors with her husband and dog.
Andrew Dillman Board Member Organization: Elverado High School Title: Principal
Matt Duffy Board Member Organization: County Financial Title: Financial Representative
Nicole Gray is the Program Assistant for Hospitality at SIU’s Touch of Nature. She is a 3rd generation Saluki alum and greatly appreciates all that Jackson County and its surrounding areas has to offer. Nicole has a long-standing history with the CEO program, starting back in 2017 when she was a student of Lawrence County CEO. After moving to Carbondale, she got involved with Jackson CEO, serving as a guest speaker and a mentor to the program for the past two years. She loves getting to work with young entrepreneurs and share the advice that she wishes she had as she launched her own small business. Besides her involvement with Jackson CEO, Nicole serves on the SIU Alumni Association’s Young Alumni Committee and is currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale.
Katie Hickam Board Member Organization: Murphysboro High School Title: Counselor
Emily Spann is the Deputy Directo at the SIUC Student Cetner. She’s involved in the Southern Illinois region in a variety of ways, including being a member of the Rotary Club of Carbondale – Breakfast. Emily received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with her family and cheering on the Salukis at sporting events.
Ken Stoner Board Member Organization: John A. Logan College Title: Manager of Workforce Education
Jennifer Wilson Board Member Organization: Trico High School Title: Principal
Byram Fager Administrative Agent Representative Organization: Southern Illinois Community Foundaiton Title: CEO
Byram Fager has been the CEO of The Southern Illinois Community foundation since 2018, having previously served on the foundation board in different capacities since 2009. Byram brings experience having served on other boards and fundraising committees both in Illinois and while living in Ohio for 12 years. Byram was born in Murphysboro, IL, and currently resides in Metropolis, IL.