WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026
DOUBLETREE HOTEL | BLOOMINGTON ILLINOIS STUDENT
THE DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING
STUDENT AWARDS CEREMONY
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026
doubletree hotel | bloomington, illinois
• AGENDA
6:00pm Social Time
6:30pm
Welcoming Comments Dinner 7:30pm
Remarks by the Dean Awards Presentation
BUSINESS EDUCATION AWARDS
PRESENTERS:
Dr. Nesrin Bakir & Dr. Kathy Mountjoy
OUTSTANDING SENIOR IN BUSINESS EDUCATION
Flavio Morales
BUSINESS EDUCATION
FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
Jacob Ryan
57 ALUM SCHOLARSHIP
Grace Asien
BAILEY ENDOWMENT FOR BUSINESS AND EDUCATION
Keegan Ege
DR. DORIS HOWELL CRANK AND FLOYD L. CRANK SCHOLARSHIP
Grace Asien
Linsey Benson
Flavio Morales
Katelin Orstrom
Kassandra Sandoval
GREENEBAUM MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Linsey Benson
JEAN KEMPEL GREVER ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
Kacper Wujda
KAREN CREWS-KUSEK ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FOR BUSINESS EDUCATION
Jacob Ryan
LEWIS R. TOLL SCHOLARSHIP
Flavio Morales
RALPH D. WRAY SCHOLARSHIP
Marlie Orlandi
WARREN S. PERRY AND BARBARA J. PERRY
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
Kacper Wujda
MARKETING PROGRAM AWARDS
PRESENTERS:
Dr. Della Clark and Dr. Sphurti Sewak
MARKETING ADVISORY STUDENT SUPPORT FUND
Lucas Read
MARKETING DEGREE
PROGRAM SCHOLAR
Olivia Lowder
OUTSTANDING JUNIOR IN MARKETING
Kennadie Ruot
MARKETING MERIT AWARD - FRESHMAN
Jason Dorn
EXEMPLARY MARKETING STUDENT
Julia Cox
Akanji Solomon
Madison Spirling
DELTA NU ALPHA
JAMES KATSCHKE SCHOLARSHIP
Camilla Blacha
EMBOLDEN ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FOR WOMEN IN MARKETING
Bonnie Hall
JAMES E. COX, JR. AMA SCHOLARSHIP
Grace Unverzagt
JIM DOYLE AND SUSAN ANFIN SCHOLARSHIP
Kailey Johnson
PARAGON MARKETING GROUP
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION SCHOLARSHIP
Patricia Andrade
SELF-SUCCESS PARTNERS I.C.E. AWARD (FOR INTEGRITY-COMMITMENT-EFFORT)
Blake Ewing
VERN MCGINNIS AMERICAN MARKETING ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP
Alviana Crosley
WILLIAM AND NANCY YARGER STUDENT
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD
Justin Biestek
Christopher Schwuchow
ADVANCED MARKETING ANALYTICS PROGRAM
PRESENTERS:
Dr. Aditya Gupta and Mr. Aaron Hurley
•
COUNTRY FINANCIAL COHORT AWARD
Steven Conforti
ADVANCED MARKETING ANALYTICS FACULTY CHOICE AWARD
Isabel Gaskin
OUTSTANDING SENIOR IN ADVANCED MARKETING ANALYTICS
Blake Ewing
OUTSTANDING JUNIOR IN ADVANCED MARKETING ANALYTICS
Camryn Ostermeier
INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION PROGRAM
PRESENTERS:
Dr. Aditya Gupta and Mr. Aaron Hurley
•
INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION FACULTY CHOICE AWARD
Macie Julian
OUTSTANDING SENIOR IN INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION
Jocelyn Toben
OUTSTANDING JUNIOR IN INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION
Natalie Yeoman
PROFESSIONAL SALES INSTITUTE
PRESENTERS:
Mr. Mike Boehm, Dr. Duleep Delpechitre & Dr. Amit Mahimkar
2026 UNIVERSITY SALES CENTER ALLIANCE
CERTIFIED SALES STUDENT DESIGNATION
Austin King
Jacob Morlock
Christopher Schwuchow
Sherillyn Silvestre
Ankanji Solomon
PROFESSIONAL SALES INSTITUTE
FRESHMAN SALES LEADER IN TRAINING
Mikhaela Aguirre
Katie Dziekan
PROFESSIONAL SALES INSTITUTE
SOPHOMORE SALES LEADER IN TRAINING
Maria Contreras
PROFESSIONAL SALES INSTITUTE ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP
Maria Contreras
ADM OUTSTANDING CLASS INVOLVEMENT AWARD - JUNIOR
James Jenkins
ARTHUR J. GALLAGHER OUTSTANDING SALES STUDENT JUNIOR YEAR
Jonathan Snelgrove
CINTAS
OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR SENIOR SALES STUDENT
Zachary Kibler
COUNTRY FINANCIAL COHORT AWARD
Christopher Schwuchow
DWOINEN FAMILY
SALES LEADERSHIP AWARD
Jonathan Snelgrove
FASTENAL EXEMPLARY SALES STUDENT SCHOLAR
Jacob Morlock
ENTERPRISE MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIP ALL-AROUND SALES POTENTIAL
SENIOR STUDENT AWARD
Sarah Baldwin
ENTERPRISE MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIP PROFESSIONAL SALES LEADERSHIP FRESHMAN
Hailey Neill
ENTERPRISE MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIP
DIVERSITY IN SALES AWARD
Maria Contreras
ENTERPRISE MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIP PROFESSIONAL SALES
STUDENT SCHOLAR 2025-2026
Sarah Baldwin
Alyssa Holwerda
Jacob Morlock
Jaina Rattary
ENTERPRISE MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIP PROFESSIONAL SALES
STUDENT SCHOLAR 2026-2027
Brock Ellis
James Jenkins
Christopher Schwuchow
Jonathan Snelgrove
Kylie Soudan
Addison Weyrauch
HNI
RISING SALES STUDENT AWARD
Mira Terranova
IGS ENERGY
SALES AMBASSADOR AWARD
Ryan Russell
INFRA-METALS
RISING STAR AWARD
Ryane Harris
JOE AND JEANNE GALVIN “32” SCHOLARSHIP
Ryan Schaefer
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL (CHICAGOLAND GROUP & B/N GROUP) ALL-AROUND SALES POTENTIAL JUNIOR STUDENT AWARD
Brock Ellis
PERK - OUTSTANDING CLASS INVOLVEMENT AWARD - JUNIOR
Addison Weyrauch
PLR INSURANCE SERVICES SALES SCHOLAR AWARD
James Jenkins
RYAN AND JENNIFER KRAMER SCHOLARSHIP
Brock Ellis
SAINT GOBAIN ABRASIVES OUTSTANDING SALES STUDENT AWARD
Jaina Rattary
SHERWIN WILLIAMS OUTSTANDING SALES INTERN AWARD
Kylie Soudan
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Ajay Samant - Dean, College of Business
Bulent Menguc - Chair, Department of Marketing
SPECIAL GUESTS & PRESENTERS
Erica Brumleve and Jon Matousek .....................................EMBolden
Jared England ...................................................................... Fastenal
Megan Harrison Enterprise Mobility
Simon Hunter and Ben Webster .............................................. Cintas
Jim Lagger ........................................................... Self-Success Partners
Kris Lutt ADM
Colleen Martin .......................................................................... HNI
Mitch McHale .............................................................. Saint-Gobain
DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING
ADVISORY
BOARD MEMBERS
Liz Adams Illinois State University
Erica Brumleve ..................................... BioPharma Services - Cencora
Roseann Grutzius ................................. Grimstad Comerford Del Valle
Megan Harrison Enterprise Holdings/Chicago Group
Trudy Jones ................................................. Department of Marketing
Martha Kamp ............................................................. CEFCU/Peoria
Ryan Kramer Northwestern Mutual - Chicagoland
Jim Lagger ........................................................... Self-Success Partners
Al Lewis..................................... Performance Coatings Groups, Retired
Joseph Mazurkiewicz ........................................................... US Foods
Bulent Menguc Department of Marketing
Jason Parkinson ..................................................................... OneFire
Jessica Rau .................................................................... PepsiCo Foods
Andrea Rdzak Rise Up Marketing
Steven Savaglio ............................................. SADA, Insight Company
Brock Selkow .................................................. Illinois State University
Anthony Suggs ............................................. KeHE Distributors, LLC
Kay Swank-Herzog Swank Enterprises
Keith Wakeman ................................................................ SuperBetter
Ron Whitton .................................... Butch’s Pizza/Rise-Up Marketing
This evening’s event is sponsored by the Professonal Sales Institute
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING
The Department of Marketing houses the two disciplines of marketing and business education. The marketing program is rigorous and challenging. Marketing faculty utilize an active learning, or high-student-involvement approach in their classes. The emphasis is on application of concepts and theory through such means as individual and group case analysis, computer-simulation gaming, and clientbased research projects. Students benefit from classroom opportunities to develop their communication, listening, problem-solving, and critical decision-making skills. Students may pursue a general Marketing degree or specialize in one of four sequences: Integrated Marketing Communication, Professional Sales, Advanced Marketing Analytics, or Accelerated Advanced Marketing Analytics (leading to completion of a marketing bachelors and marketing analytics master’s degree in five years.)
The Business Education program prepares students to become certified business educators for kindergarten through 12th Grade, or corporate trainers. Students complete foundation courses in business along with specialized coursework in professional education, teaching methodology, and a student teaching assignment. Additional coursework is completed to meet state certification requirements in three or more endorsement areas: accounting, basic business, information processing, and career and technical education cooperative teacher coordinator to name a few.
The Department of Marketing offers a sequence to Marketing Majors in Advanced Marketing Analytics. This sequence provides students with hands-on opportunities to learn how to use marketing analytics, data mining, and predictive analytics to solve important marketing business problems. These skills are in very high demand by employers across fields. A variety of software packages are employed to give students a well-rounded foundation and enable them to work at a variety of organizations. Extensive use of company-sponsored projects enables students to connect theory with practice, and guest speakers explain current industry practices and provide students with an opportunity to network and gain additional practical experience. The sequence is comprised of three Ph.D. faculty members.
Our Integrated Marketing Communication sequence allows students to focus on the coordination of all aspects of marketing communication such as advertising, social media, sales promotion and digital marketing in an effort to provide a consistent message to consumers. In addition to foundation and capstone IMC courses, the sequence includes courses on creative strategy and design layout using Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
The Department of Marketing also houses the Professional Sales Institute. Illinois State University’s professional sales program is among the seven founding members of a consortium of sales centers established in 2002 – The University Sales Center Alliance (USCA). USCA has grown to 44 members, and it connects university faculty members from around the world with many different backgrounds and areas of expertise. Together, these credible and innovative educators advocate for the continuing advancement of the sales profession through teaching, research, and outreach. A wide range of industry professionals are actively involved in executive instructor opportunities, sitting on panels to address student topics, and being a resource to sales students to develop their business acumen. The Professional Sales Institute is organized with an executive director and three Ph.D. faculty members dedicated to sales education, and an advisory board consisting of practicing sales professionals. The program is consistently listed as one of the top sales programs in the world as surveyed by SalesEducationFoundation.org.
FACULTY AND STAFF
Trudy Jones, Office Administrator
Bulent Menguc, Chair
FACULTY
Aysen Bakir
Nesrin Bakir
Hulda Black
Michael Boehm
Andrew Bordewick
Della Clark
Duleep Delpechitre
Aditya Gupta
Jay Herrman
Aaron Hurley
Chiharu Ishida-Lambert
Joseph Jelinek
Peter Kaufman
Ciarra Kohn
Juno Lim
Amit Mahimkar
Kari McMullen
Kathy Mountjoy
Elisabeth Reed
Sphurti Sewak
Rodger Singley
Pui Ying Tong
Andrew Uhe
Shane Van Fossan
Donna Wiencek
Michael Wojcik
ADVISEMENT
Katelyn McDougall, Academic Advisor
Ginny Smith, Director of Student Success and Enrollment
Jennifer Whitcomb, Academic Advisor
GRADUATE STUDENTS
Zarin Atia
Vineeth Delikar
Emily Idasek
MD Kamrul Islam
Kate Linden
2026 AWARD WINNER STUDENT BIOGRAPHIES
(in alphabetical order by last name)
MIKHAELA AGUIRRE is a freshman at Illinois State University majoring in Marketing with a sequence in Integrated Marketing Communications, while also pursuing double minors in Economics and Mass Media. She began her college career with a strong foundation in volunteer service, leadership, and a passion for communication and marketing. She is expected to graduate in 2029. As a recipient of the Redbird Scholarship, Mikhaela is dedicated to maximizing her academic and extracurricular experiences. On campus, she serves as Secretary of the Tri-Towers Leadership Association and is a member of the Honors Society. Through these roles, she has strengthened her organizational, communication, and leadership skills while actively contributing to student engagement and campus initiatives. In addition to her campus involvement, Mikhaela works as a Social Media Coordinator Intern for Maria’s Nails, where she assists in managing content and enhancing the business’s online presence. This hands-on experience allows her to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. After graduation, Mikhaela plans to pursue a career in the Chicago area, with a focus on social media coordination, campaign strategy, or digital marketing. She is particularly interested in developing impactful campaigns and leveraging her bilingual background to connect with diverse audiences.
PATTY ANDRADE is a junior Marketing major at Illinois State University with sequences in Integrated Marketing Communications and Advanced Marketing Analytics. Due to strong academic performance, she entered the university with junior standing and has also been accepted into the Marketing 4+1 program, where she plans to complete her master’s degree in 2028. Patty is highly involved in campus organizations and currently holds leadership roles in Women in Business, the American Marketing Association, and the Business Analytics Society. Through these roles, she has helped recognize members’ achievements, relaunch organizational newsletters, and improve communication through social media engagement. Patty hopes to pursue a career in sports marketing, particularly within the Chicago area, where she can combine her passion for analytics, communication, and digital engagement.
GRACE ASIEN is a senior Business Education student at Illinois State University and will graduate in May 2026. She is passionate about helping young people discover their potential, build confidence, and prepare for life beyond the classroom. Grace discovered her passion for teaching during her college journey and quickly realized that Business Education aligned perfectly with her interests and values. She is currently completing her student teaching experience at Maine South High School, where she teaches Entrepreneurship, Digital Marketing, and Financial Literacy.
Through this experience, Grace has developed strong classroom leadership and instructional skills while building meaningful connections with students. She looks forward to beginning her career as a high school business educator, where she hopes to inspire students and help them build strong foundations for their futures.
SARAH BALDWIN is a senior at Illinois State University who has been actively involved in both academic and campus organizations throughout her college career. She is a member of the Honors Program and a recipient of the university’s Presidential Scholarship. During her freshman year, Sarah performed with the Big Red Marching Machine, continuing a long tradition of involvement in marching band. She later joined Improv Mafia, ISU’s student-run improv comedy group, where she currently serves as President and Social Media Chair. In this role, she leads members, coordinates performances and travel opportunities, and manages the group’s digital presence. Sarah’s experiences have strengthened her leadership, communication, and creative skills, which she looks forward to applying in her future professional career.
LINSEY BENSON is a senior Business Education major at Illinois State University who plans to pursue a career teaching business at the high school level. Originally from Schaumburg, Illinois, Linsey has been actively involved in campus life during her time at the university. She participates in the Illinois State Club Tennis Team and is a member of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, where she has developed strong leadership and communication skills while building meaningful connections within the campus community. Through these experiences, Linsey has strengthened her ability to collaborate with diverse groups and support others in their personal growth. Outside of academics, she enjoys playing tennis, spending time outdoors, listening to music, and connecting with friends and family.
JUSTIN BIESTEK is a senior Marketing student at Illinois State University with a strong passion for sports marketing and leadership. During his time in the College of Business, Justin became deeply involved in the Sports Marketing Student Association, where his dedication led him to serve as Director of Operations before eventually becoming President of the organization. In this leadership role, he helped lead a rebranding effort and organized professional development events, including networking opportunities and sports industry experiences in Chicago. Justin also gained valuable professional experience working with the Chicago Cubs during the summer of 2025, where he developed operational and communication skills within a professional sports environment. He hopes to continue building a career in the sports industry through leadership and community engagement.
CAMILLA BLACHA is a junior Marketing major with a sequence in Integrated Marketing Communications at Illinois State University and is expected to graduate in May 2027. A first-generation Polish American student, Camilla is actively involved in several campus organizations and holds multiple leadership positions. She currently serves as President of Redbird Gaming and Social Media and Marketing Coordinator for Redbird Esports, where she helps build engagement and community through digital content and events. Camilla also works as a social media intern for the College of Business and previously served as Director of Social Media for Women in Business. She is a member of the Honors Program and has participated in Business Week as both a mentee and mentor. Camilla hopes to pursue a career in digital marketing and brand strategy.
STEVEN CONFORTI is a junior recognized for his strong academic performance and commitment to personal and professional growth. He has earned placement on the Dean’s List every semester and maintains a cumulative GPA of 3.9, reflecting his discipline, work ethic, and dedication to academic excellence. Steven has also demonstrated leadership through his involvement in campus organizations. He recently ran for Vice President of Academics in his fraternity, where he sought to support members’ academic success and encourage a culture of accountability and achievement within the organization. With a growing interest in marketing analytics, Steven hopes to apply data-driven insights to solve real-world business challenges and help organizations make informed strategic decisions. He is honored to be considered for this scholarship and grateful for the opportunity to be recognized alongside peers who share a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and professional development.
MARIA CONTRERAS is a junior Marketing student at Illinois State University who transferred after completing her associate degree at the College of DuPage. She is passionate about leadership, professional development, and making a positive impact through marketing. Maria is an active member of Alpha Kappa Psi, where she participates in leadership development programs and professional workshops. She is also involved in the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA), where she engages in networking and career development opportunities that support Latino students and professionals. Maria previously gained experience managing social media and content creation for a student organization at the College of DuPage, helping increase engagement and promote campus initiatives. She hopes to use marketing to create meaningful impact and support diverse communities.
JULIA COX is a senior Marketing major at Illinois State University with a strong interest in leadership, communication, and relationship building. She has gained professional experience through her Property and Casualty Claims Internship at State Farm, where she collaborated closely with policyholders and team members to resolve claims and support customer needs. Julia also serves as a Campus Manager for Fresh Prints, collaborating with student organizations and Greek life to create custom apparel while managing client relationships and driving sales. On campus, she previously served as Vice President of Philanthropy for Zeta Tau Alpha, where she led fundraising initiatives supporting Breast Cancer Education and Awareness. Julia also owns a small business creating custom products, allowing her to combine creativity, entrepreneurship, and marketing.
ALVIANA CROSLEY is a junior Integrated Marketing Communications major with a strong interest in social media marketing and digital content strategy. As a nontraditional student, she brings valuable real-world experience, focus, and determination to her academic journey. Her dedication to academic excellence earned her a place on the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester. Alviana is actively involved in the American Marketing Association, where she serves as Community Service Director and organizes volunteer initiatives for members. She also owns and operates a handmade candle business, Nicole Lajae, where she manages branding, product development, and social media marketing. Through her academic and entrepreneurial experiences, Alviana hopes to build a career helping brands connect with audiences through meaningful digital storytelling.
JASON DORN is a freshman in Marketing and Business Analytics at Illinois State University who thrives on learning, collaboration, and helping others succeed. A Magna Cum Laude high school graduate, he was recently named to the fall semester Dean’s List. Jason approaches challenges with curiosity, positivity, and determination, bringing energy and creativity to every team he joins. Through his marketing internship with Illinois State Athletics, Jason has gained valuable hands-on experience supporting marketing initiatives and observing how collaboration drives successful campaigns. Additionally, his selection as a Business Week mentee has encouraged him to further develop his leadership abilities and think more strategically about his long-term career in marketing and development. Jason’s goal is to continue learning while making a positive impact on others. He aims to use his skills to create meaningful campaigns and experiences that resonate with audiences, combining ambition with a collaborative spirit to drive results through both effort and empathy.
KATIE DZIEKAN is a freshman Marketing major at Illinois State University, specializing in Integrated Marketing Communications with a minor in Spanish. She is a driven and motivated student with a strong interest in developing effective communication strategies and building meaningful connections through marketing. Katie is an active member of Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity, where she serves as Marketing Chair. In this role, she develops and executes marketing strategies across multiple platforms, monitors campaign performance, and works to strengthen the organization’s overall brand presence. Her involvement has enhanced her leadership, creativity, and analytical skills while allowing her to collaborate closely with peers. Katie plans to pursue a career as a social media manager in the Chicagoland area, with a particular interest in the sports industry. She remains committed to continuous learning and professional growth as she works toward achieving her career goals.
KEEGAN EGE is a junior pursuing Business Education at Illinois State University. Raised in a family that values education, he was inspired by both of his parents’ unique academic journeys. His involvement in sports, volunteering, and classroom experiences led him to recognize the importance of practical life skills in education. Exposure to programs like Junior Achievement and Future Business Leaders of America further influenced his career path. Through assisting teachers and observing classrooms, Keegan developed a passion for making a meaningful impact on students’ lives. He is excited to continue growing through mentorship programs and student organizations while preparing for a career in education.
BROCK ELLIS is a junior Marketing major in the Professional Sales sequence at Illinois State University. He is passionate about personal growth, education, and building meaningful relationships. Brock discovered his interest in marketing through his coursework, involvement in student organizations, and work experience as a server, where he developed strong interpersonal and customer service skills. On campus, he has become increasingly involved in leadership and community initiatives, including serving as Mental Health Chair within his fraternity, where he helps organize events that promote awareness and support for student wellbeing. Brock is also a member of the American Marketing Association, where he continues building professional connections. He is committed to developing his leadership abilities and preparing for a successful career in relationship-driven sales and marketing.
BLAKE EWING is a senior Marketing major at Illinois State University with sequences in Advanced Marketing Analytics and Integrated Marketing Communications. A first-generation college student from Ransom, Illinois, Blake has developed a strong work ethic and commitment to leadership through his academic and professional experiences. He currently serves as Vice President of Operations for the American Marketing Association chapter and is a founding executive leader and Vice President of the Business Analytics Society. Blake has also gained professional experience as a Marketing-Analytics Intern with Caterpillar, where he contributed to dashboard development, reporting, and project coordination. He also worked as a Marketing Intern for Sports Boss Golf. After graduation, Blake plans to pursue a career in marketing analytics or business operations, applying his analytical and leadership skills.
ISABEL GASKIN is a senior marketing major with a sequence in Business Analytics. Originally from Chicago, she has been actively involved in the professional business fraternity Pi Sigma Epsilon, where she has held several leadership positions and developed skills in organization, mentoring, and project management. Isabel also works on campus as an office receptionist, where she continues to strengthen her communication and customer service abilities. She looks forward to exploring opportunities in the marketing field and gaining professional experience after graduation.
BONNIE HALL is a junior Integrated Marketing Communications major at Illinois State University and a proud first-generation college student. She is passionate about the intersection of creative storytelling and datadriven marketing strategy. Bonnie is actively involved in several campus organizations, including the American Marketing Association, where she participates in professional development and marketing-focused events. She also serves as a Marketing Assistant for the Illinois State Fashion Show, supporting the promotion of one of the university’s largest student-run events. Additionally, Bonnie serves as a board member for Pay It Forward within the College of Business and participates in Business Week as a mentor. She hopes to pursue a career in brand marketing or creative direction, developing campaigns that authentically connect with audiences.
RYANE HARRIS is a sophomore at Illinois State University pursuing degrees in Business Administration and Marketing with a Professional Sales sequence. She maintains a 3.9 GPA while actively participating in leadership roles across campus. Ryane serves as Director of Membership for Women in Business, Vice President of Recruitment for the Sales Excellence Academy, and Professional Development Dinner Coordinator for Business Week. Through these roles, she has helped organize events, manage recruitment initiatives, and support professional development opportunities for fellow students. She is also a member of Sigma Iota Epsilon and Order of Omega honor societies, Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority, and the ISU Impact Dance Team. Ryane will further expand her experience through a summer internship with Sentinel Technologies.
ALYSSA HOLWERDA is a senior from Algonquin, Illinois, pursuing a degree in Marketing with a Professional Sales sequence and a minor in Organizational Leadership. She is recognized for her leadership, academic achievement, and dedication to professional growth. On campus, Alyssa has held key leadership roles, including Vice President of Development for Women in Business and Director of Alumni Relations. She is also an active member of the American Marketing Association and serves as a mentor in the College of Business “Business Week” program, supporting and guiding fellow students. Alyssa’s academic accomplishments include earning the Illinois State University Scholar designation, recognition on the Dean’s List, and receiving the Values in Action Award. She has gained valuable experience through multiple internships. At Northwestern Mutual, she worked as a Talent Acquisition Intern, utilizing Bullhorn, Excel, and social media to support recruitment and candidate selection. At Wensco Sign Supply, she managed orders and contributed to sales reporting and forecasting. Most recently, she served as a Downstream Marketing Intern in Emergency Care at Stryker Medical Sales Company in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Alyssa’s leadership experience, strong academics, and hands-on internships have prepared her well for a career in marketing and professional sales.
JAMES JENKINS is a senior who takes pride in leadership, positivity, and perseverance. As the oldest of three siblings and President of the Illinois State Club Baseball Team, he values responsibility and teamwork. James is also actively involved in his social fraternity and enjoys leading groups and supporting others in achieving their goals. His experiences have strengthened his confidence, communication, and leadership skills. Guided by the values instilled by his family, “stay true to yourself,” James approaches challenges with optimism and a commitment to personal growth.
KAILEY JOHNSON is a marketing major with sequences in Advanced Marketing Analytics and Integrated Marketing Communications. She currently serves as Vice President of Marketing for Business Week, where she leads promotional strategies designed to increase event awareness and student engagement. Kailey has also gained professional experience in digital marketing and merchandising through roles with Bass Pro Shops and the College of Business. In these roles, she supported marketing initiatives, analyzed competitors, and contributed to content strategy. She is passionate about combining creativity and analytics to create engaging brand experiences.
MACIE JULIAN is a junior honors student from Hampshire, Illinois, pursuing degrees in Integrated Marketing Communications and Advanced Marketing Analytics. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA while balancing several leadership and professional roles. Macie completed an internship with Zurich North America as a Risk Engineering Strategic Vendor Relations intern and will return as a Marketing and Vendor Services Intern in Summer 2026. She is actively involved in the Honors Program as a Community Assistant and Peer Mentor and serves as Director of Social Media for the American Marketing Association. Macie has also held leadership roles in Women in Business and participates in the Business Analytics Society and Beta Gamma Sigma.
ZACH KIBLER is a senior marketing major from Tuscola, Illinois, with a sequence in Professional Sales. Before attending Illinois State University, he served in the military, where he developed discipline, resilience, and a strong commitment to serving others. In addition to being a fulltime student, Zach is a licensed Emergency Medical Technician in Illinois and a dedicated father to his son, Vincent. He is actively involved in the Honors Program and Beta Gamma Sigma and enjoys exploring new cultures, including completing a 25-day backpacking trip across Europe. Zach’s experiences have shaped him into a driven and resilient individual committed to professional and personal growth.
AUSTIN KING is a results-driven student at Illinois State University, pursuing a dual Bachelor of Science in Professional Sales and Advanced Marketing Analytics, with an expected graduation date of May 2026. He has demonstrated consistent academic excellence and earned recognition on the Dean’s List. His education is supported by a strong foundation in data-driven strategy and applied leadership experience. Austin has gained diverse experience across sales, operations and leadership roles. In the summer of 2025, he interned at Graybar in Itasca, Illinois, where he supported the electrical sales team, gained proficiency in industry software, and analyzed market trends to improve workflow alignment. Beyond his professional experience, he is an active member of Pi Sigma Epsilon. He led a team to a first-place finish in a chapter case competition and organized a volleyball tournament that raised over $1,500 for charity. He also holds certifications in HubSpot Email Marketing and Digital Advertising, equipping him to integrate traditional sales strategies with modern analytical tools.
OLIVIA LOWDER is a senior marketing major who has always valued education and hard work. While in high school, she worked every day after class while balancing extracurricular activities and preparing for college. After graduation, Olivia attended community college for two years while working full-time to save money before transferring to Illinois State University. Her determination and dedication allowed her to earn an associate degree and continue pursuing her bachelor’s degree. She remains active in the Women in Business organization while balancing coursework and multiple jobs and takes pride in being a hardworking and driven student who strives for excellence in everything she does.
FLAVIO MORALES is a senior Business Education major from Mundelein, Illinois, and a first-generation college student whose family’s immigrant journey has shaped his commitment to education and opportunity. Motivated by a lack of representation in his own schooling, he aspires to become a business educator who creates inclusive classrooms where all students feel seen and empowered. Flavio is passionate about teaching practical life skills such as financial literacy, communication, and career readiness. Through student teaching, he has focused on building strong relationships and refining instructional strategies. His leadership in Alpha Psi Lambda National, Inc., where he served in multiple roles including Chapter President, strengthened his ability to lead with empathy and support others. Flavio is dedicated to inspiring confidence, celebrating diversity, and preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
JACOB MORLOCK is a senior marketing major with a sequence in Professional Sales. Originally from Plainfield, Illinois, he has been actively involved in several campus organizations including Delta Sigma Pi, the Business Week Mentor/Mentee Program, and the Real Estate Club. During his time at Illinois State, Jacob has received multiple recognitions for his achievements, including being named a Sales Leader in Training and receiving the Enterprise Mobility Scholarship. Following graduation, he hopes to pursue a career in the real estate industry where he can combine his two favorite things – interacting with people and the everchanging industry of real estate.
HAILEY NEILL is a freshman from Bourbonnais, Illinois and a Marketing student pursuing a sequence in Integrated Marketing Communications. She serves as a Student Photographer for the ISU Marketing and Communications department, where she captures campus life and universitywide events. In addition to her campus role, she is the owner of Hailey E Photography, a business she independently built and continues to grow through client work, brand development, and strategic marketing. Managing her own business has strengthened her skills in social media strategy, client communication, content creation, and visual branding. Hailey is also the Director of Media Relations for the registered student organization Women in Business. In this role, she manages the organization’s website, responds to inquiries, and oversees all event photography and member headshots. Hailey plays a key role in shaping the organization’s visual identity while ensuring its online presence remains current and engaging. Through her academic pursuits, professional experiences, and campus involvement, Hailey continues to develop her passion for marketing and communications, with the goal of building a career that influenced by the skills she has acquired at Illinois State University.
MARLIE ORLANDI is a freshman Business Education major from Ottawa, Illinois. Inspired by a high school teacher and coach who made a lasting impact on her life, she is passionate about becoming a supportive and influential educator. Marlie is actively involved on campus as a manager for the women’s basketball team and works at the YMCA where she has gained experience supporting youth. Her background in sports has shaped her discipline, resilience, and appreciation for mentorship, which she hopes to bring into her future classroom.
KATELIN ORSTROM is a senior Business Education major and a first-generation college student. Encouraged by her father to explore business education, she immersed herself in financial literacy, leadership, and real-world skills. Her passion for teaching developed in high school through her exposure to business courses and inspiring educators. Her clinical experiences, campus involvement, and substitute teaching roles have strengthened her commitment to education. She is currently student teaching at Schaumburg High School, where she continues to develop her skills as an engaging and supportive educator.
CAMMY OSTERMEIER is a junior Honors student majoring in Marketing with a sequence in Analytics. She has strong interests in brand strategy, advertising, and graphic design, and enjoys applying classroom concepts to real-world projects and leadership opportunities. This summer, Cammy will expand her professional experience through a sports marketing internship with the Memorial Health Championship. Outside the classroom, Cammy is actively involved across campus. She serves as an Illinois State University Tour Guide, contributes to the Business Week Team, and holds a leadership role within her campus ministry, Salt Company. Through these experiences, she has developed effective communication, leadership, and teamwork skills while connecting with fellow students and the broader campus community. Cammy hopes to continue growing in the field of sports marketing and values opportunities that allow her to learn, create, and build meaningful connections with others.
JAINA RATTARY is a senior majoring in Marketing with a sequence in Professional Sales. During her time at Illinois State University, she has developed strong professional and personal skills while building meaningful friendships and connections across campus. Through her coursework and experiences, Jaina discovered a passion for the sales side of business and has pursued opportunities that allow her to further develop her skills and expand her knowledge of the business world. Jaina currently works in the Sales Lab in the College of Business, where she assists professors in recording and facilitating roleplays used to simulate real-life sales and business scenarios. This role has provided her with valuable insight into sales strategies and classroom concepts while preparing her for her own coursework in the program. Collaborating with motivated peers has encouraged her to pursue new goals and continue opening doors for future opportunities. She is also an active member of the business fraternity Alpha Kappa Psi, where she has gained valuable mentorship and professional development. Through these experiences, she has strengthened her leadership style, learned to delegate effectively, and continues to grow as a future business professional.
LUKE READ is a senior transfer student majoring in Marketing with a sequence in Integrated Marketing Communications. Before transferring, he attended Harper College where he played collegiate baseball and served as team captain. A career-ending nerve injury changed his plans but redirected his focus toward academic and professional development. Since arriving at Illinois State, Luke has become actively involved in organizations such as the American Marketing Association and Pi Sigma Epsilon and gained professional experience through an internship with Rawlings Sporting Goods.
KENNADIE RUOT is a junior marketing major with a sequence in Integrated Marketing Communications. She has earned a place on the Dean’s List while maintaining strong academic performance. Outside the classroom, Kennadie is actively involved in the university band, where she plays the French horn, and the Graphic Design Club, where she serves as Vice President. She is also a member of the American Marketing Association and hopes to pursue a career in digital marketing and advertising.
RYAN RUSSELL is a senior Marketing major with a focus in Professional Sales and a minor in Organizational Leadership at Illinois State University. Originally from Metamora, Illinois, he chose Illinois State to experience the opportunities of a larger university while maintaining a close-knit community feel. Determined not to “be just a number,” Ryan has made a significant impact through extensive campus involvement and leadership. Throughout his time at the university, Ryan has held numerous leadership roles. He currently serves as the Student Trustee on the Board of Trustees. Ryan is enthusiastic about fostering a safe, inclusive, and studentcentered campus environment while building meaningful relationships across the university community. He values the sense of connection found on campus and takes pride in contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Ryan is committed to continuing his work alongside university leaders to enhance the student experience and strengthen the community he proudly calls home.
JAKE RYAN is a sophomore pursuing a degree in Business Education. He is a recipient of the Redbird Scholar and AIM High scholarships and has earned a place on the Dean’s List each semester. He contributes his passion for teaching from his family, many of whom are retired or current educators. Jake is an active member of the Association of Male Educators and plans to teach at the high school level in subjects such as marketing, entrepreneurship, and business law.
KASSANDRA SANDOVAL is a Business Educator at Thornwood High School with over five years of experience in the business field, specializing in social media marketing. She previously served as a social media intern for Do312, promoting major Chicago-area events, including Lollapalooza, Chicago sports teams, and local happenings. She also worked as the social media manager for the Chicago band White Mystery, where she led campaigns across multiple platforms, promoted nationwide shows, and implemented strategies that grew audience engagement and following. In addition to her business experience, she has dedicated seven years to education, beginning as a paraprofessional supporting students in grades one through five. Enthusiastic about building meaningful relationships, she remains connected with many former students and families. As a teacher at her alma mater, she is committed to inspiring future entrepreneurs, marketers, and business leaders.
RYAN SCHAEFER is a Division I track and field studentathlete at Illinois State University, pursuing a degree in Marketing with a concentration in Professional Sales and expected to graduate in May 2028. He earned Dean’s List honors during the 2025–2026 academic year, demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence while balancing the demands of collegiate athletics. He has earned two AllMissouri Valley Conference honors and finished his sophomore season ranked among the top 50 athletes nationally in the indoor heptathlon and top 75 in the outdoor decathlon. He also holds a place on Illinois State’s all-time top 10 list in both events. Schaefer is deeply family-oriented, coming from a background that values athletics, discipline, and support. Beyond athletics, Schaefer serves on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where he advocates for studentathlete engagement and supports community initiatives. Professionally, he has worked as a top-performing outfitter at Fleet Feet and held customer-focused roles at Sunset Ridge Country Club and Techny Prairie Activity Center, developing strong sales, communication, and time management skills.
CHRIS SCHWUCHOW is a junior majoring in Marketing with a sequence in Professional Sales. He is recognized for his leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to personal discipline. He is actively involved in Pi Sigma Epsilon, where he has served as Vice President of Administration and Vice President of Market Research. Within the College of Business, he works as a Sales Lab Monitor and Teaching Assistant, mentoring students and supporting skill development in professional selling. Chris will join Oracle as a Sales Development Representative Intern in summer 2026. He is a member of the Honors Program and Beta Gamma Sigma and is a consistent Dean’s List honoree. He aspires to build a career in sales and business leadership grounded in integrity and continuous improvement.
SHERILLYN SILVESTRE is a senior Marketing student with a strong passion for building relationships and entrepreneurship. She has been actively involved in the College of Business as a member of the American Marketing Association and has participated in Business Week as both a mentee and a mentor. In addition to her academic commitments, she has successfully grown and managed her small business, Nails by Sherillyn. Sherillyn will graduate in May. She looks forward to continuing to develop her professional skills in her upcoming role with Aegis Worldwide in Chicago, Illinois.
JONATHAN SNELGROVE is a junior from Marengo, Illinois, double majoring in Marketing with a Professional Sales sequence and Management with a concentration in Organizational Leadership. He is actively engaged in leadership and professional development across campus. Jonathan serves as Vice President for Business Week, a Brand Intern for the College of Business, and a Teaching Assistant. He is also a member of Phi Gamma Nu, where he has held multiple leadership roles, including Vice President of Internal Affairs. Additionally, he works as an Admissions Ambassador. His academic achievements include multiple scholarships, consistent Dean’s List recognition, and nomination as a Bone Scholar. He will join Caterpillar as a Business Operations Intern this summer.
AKANJI SOLOMON is a marketing student at Illinois State University who is passionate about leadership, service, and personal development. As a cadet in the United States Army National Guard and Army ROTC, he has developed discipline, resilience, and a service-first mindset. On campus, he participates in Alpha Kappa Psi, serving as Pledge Active Coordinator, and contributes to the Business Week Team as Transition Seminar Coordinator. He also works in the College of Business Sales Lab, assisting with sales simulations and professional development events. Professionally, he has gained experience as a brand ambassador for Hollister and Celsius. He will continue building his skills as a Sales Intern at Dell Technologies, with the goal of pursuing a career that integrates leadership, service, and business impact.
KYLIE SOUDAN is a marketing student at Illinois State University with a concentration in Professional Sales and a minor in Entrepreneurship. She currently serves as Director of Promotions for the American Marketing Association, where she leads promotional strategy and drives engagement for organization events and initiatives. Kylie is enthusiastic about building strong relationships and believes that community is essential for success. Through her experiences at Illinois State, she has developed a deeper understanding of personal growth, leadership, and resilience. She thrives in challenging situations that encourage her to step outside her comfort zone, learn from setbacks, and continue improving both personally and professionally. Kylie is excited to continue developing her skills and pursue a career focused on relationshipdriven sales and long-term client partnerships.
MADISON SPIRLING is a senior majoring in Integrated Marketing Communications with plans to graduate in December. Originally from Peoria, Illinois, she transferred from Illinois Central College and currently commutes to Bloomington for classes. Her interest in business began in high school through an Orientation to Business course that sparked her curiosity about marketing and organizational strategy. Madison recently gained firsthand experience as an Events Intern at the Peoria Zoo, where she assisted with marketing collateral, promoted wedding venues, and supported event coordination. This role strengthened her communication, organization, and marketing skills. She is also committed to community service, volunteering with the Dream Center in Peoria. After graduation, she hopes to begin a full-time career in marketing.
MIRA TERRANOVA is a senior Marketing student at Illinois State University, pursuing concentrations in Professional Sales and Integrated Marketing Communications. She has a strong interest in consumer behavior, brand strategy, and creating impactful customer experiences that deliver measurable business results. Mira serves as Director of Fundraising in the American Marketing Association and leads initiatives that connect local businesses with student events. She has enhanced brand visibility while fostering meaningful, long-term relationships within both the campus and local community. She has also participated in Illinois State’s Business Week mentor/mentee program and is a member of the Sports Marketing Student Association. She is also an alum of the Disney College Program, which helped to strengthen her communication and adaptability skills while working in merchandising at the World of Disney store. Following graduation, she will join American Marketing & Publishing in Schaumburg, Illinois, as a Business Development Representative.
JOCELYN TOBEN is a senior Honors student from Lombard, Illinois, majoring in Marketing with sequences in Integrated Marketing Communications and Advanced Marketing Analytics. She has a strong interest in marketing strategy, brand management, and digital engagement. Jocelyn serves as Vice President of Women in Business and as Editor-in-Chief of the Marketing Matters newsletter, where she leads content strategy and communication efforts. She also works as a Brand Intern for the College of Business, creating digital content and analyzing engagement data. Additionally, she serves as an Office Assistant in the Department of Kinesiology and Recreation. A consistent Dean’s List honoree, she is dedicated to academic excellence and professional growth.
GRACE UNVERZAGT is a senior Honors student and Presidential Scholar majoring in Marketing with sequences in Integrated Marketing Communications and Advanced Marketing Analytics. She is passionate about combining creativity with data-driven strategy. Grace participates in the American Marketing Association, contributing to social media content and pursuing a leadership role. She previously interned with Echo: Share Music, where she created content to increase engagement and brand awareness. She has accepted an Operations Internship with Paylocity, where she will gain experience in collaboration and process improvement. She is interested in careers that integrate marketing communications, analytics, and strategic growth.
ADDY WEYRAUCH is a marketing student in the Professional Sales sequence at Illinois State University. Growing up in a competitive and sports-driven environment helped shape her discipline, resilience, and determination, qualities that continue to influence her academic and professional pursuits. At Illinois State, Addy has been actively involved in Pi Sigma Epsilon, where she served as Vice President of Marketing. She is also a member of the Illinois State Women’s Club Soccer team, where teamwork and competition remain an important part of her college experience. Additionally, she gained firsthand marketing experience as a Marketing and Communications Intern with the Normal CornBelters, supporting fan engagement initiatives through promotions, social media, and event marketing. She is passionate about building relationships and creating experiences that bring people together through marketing and sales.
KACPER WUJDA is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Education with an expected graduation date of May 2026. He is passionate about teaching, leadership, and preparing students with practical business skills for real-world success. Kacper currently serves as a student teacher at Normal Community High School, where he has gained firsthand experience planning and delivering standard-aligned business lessons and working closely with mentor teachers to support diverse learners and maintain effective classroom routines. These experiences have strengthened his instructional, organizational, and communication skills. Fluent in both English and Polish, Kacper values collaboration in diverse environments. He has also served as President of the Illinois State Men’s Ultimate Frisbee Club and currently serves as the club’s Social Chair, focusing on recruitment and campus involvement. Kacper is committed to lifelong learning and making a positive impact as an educator.
NATALIE YEOMAN is a marketing student and transfer student from Freeport, Illinois, who previously attended Highland Community College. Growing up in a rural community instilled in her a strong work ethic, appreciation for community, and determination to make the most of every opportunity. Even before officially enrolling at Illinois State, Natalie demonstrated her commitment by traveling more than two hours to interview for a Brand Intern position. Since then, she has served as a Brand Intern for the College of Business and works within the President’s Office. In these roles, she collaborates with teams to create engaging content, connect with students, and support major university initiatives and events. Natalie hopes to further expand her involvement by joining the Business Week team, where she would bring creativity, energy, and the perspective of a transfer student. She is excited to continue growing professionally while contributing to initiatives that highlight the College of Business and strengthen the Illinois State community.
VISIT US AT: business.illinoisstate.edu/be business.illinoisstate.edu/psi business.illinoisstate.edu/marketing
The Faculty and Staff of the Department of Marketing would like to congratulate all of this year’s award recipients.
We would also like to thank family and friends for their support of our programs and for sharing this special time with us.