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.  

Nicole Gray is an Account Manager at Arthur Agency. She is a 3rd generation Saluki alum, where she just completed her Master of Business Administration, 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 as the Secretary on the SIU Alumni Association’s Young Alumni Committee.

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.

Married with 3 beautiful children.  Lives in Murphysboro for 16 years.  Graduated from SIUC in 2000 with a B.S. in Marketing.  

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.

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.

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.