Distinguished alumni honored in 4th annual reception
Alumna Kristi DeLaurentiis served as keynote
Before a room packed with Governors State University (GovState) alumni and their guests for the 4th Annual Distinguished Alumni Reception, Kristi DeLaurentiis ('95, '98) shared how a cancer diagnosis 30 years ago and a passion for the south suburbs fueled her desire to serve the community - and continues to serve as an “internal barometer.”
DeLaurentiis served as keynote speaker at the event where more than 130 guests and honorees walked the red carpet to celebrate those who have made major contributions to their fields and communities. DeLaurentiis is Executive Director of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association.
With a layer of emotion, DeLaurentiis reminded her fellow alums to drive change. "We know it's up to us to bring it, to do it, to keep it up, to pass it forward. I want to encourage you to stay true to that internal barometer that I spoke of, that I feel like I have and I earned and I learned here at GovState.”
Like so many other alumni, DeLaurentiis attended GovState as a parent, whose children saw her and her husband both go back to school. She asked guests if they had a similar experience, "How many of you have done exactly what I did? You're venturing into school and you've got little kids that are waving goodbye and you're serving as a role model for the rest of their lives.”
The question resonated with members of the audience who nodded and applauded with knowing smiles. “We all have a common trail that we have blazed,'' she said.
DeLaurentiis also shared her experience as part of the first Board of Trustees at GovState, a role she served in for 15 years, making her one of the University's longest serving trustees. She even recalled her part in the beginning stages of forming the University's first doctoral program.
Following DeLaurentiis’ speech, Will Davis, Vice President of External Affairs and CEO of the GovState Foundation, presented awards to the evening’s six honorees chosen from 24 finalists.
The four Distinguished Alumni awards went to those who graduated between 1972 and 2018 from each college; the Rising Star award went to a graduate who earned a degree between 2019 and 2024; and the Distinguished Emeritus Faculty/Retiree Award recognized a GovState emeritus/retiree who continues to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to their community and the university through service and distinction. Winners received trophies and finalists received GovState-branded medallions.
The Distinguished Alumni award winners are:
Dr. Terri Winfree (’98, ’00) is the President of the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce and has an esteemed history of leadership, including seven years as President of Prairie State College (PSC). With 25 years in leadership roles at PSC, she has also served on numerous boards and committees across the Chicago Southland. Winfree received a Master of Arts in Communications from Governors State University and represents the College of Arts and Sciences.
Dr. Lauren Mansell (’11) is certified in lymphedema therapy, pelvic rehabilitation, and dry needling. A former counselor for at-risk youth, she has advocated for over 130 survivors of sexual violence. Mansell teaches pelvic rehabilitation as adjunct faculty at GovState and runs Chez Therese Specialty Physical Therapy, focusing on pelvic health, lymphedema, and oncology care. Mansell received a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Governors State University and represents the College of Health and Human Services.
John Schabes (’94, ’04), Director at Forvis Mazars, has over 20 years of accounting experience. A Certified Public Accountant and active in community service, Schabes leads charitable efforts at Forvis Mazars and serves on GovState’s College of Business Advisory Board, where he mentors students and supports alumni opportunities. Schabes received a Bachelor of Arts in Business and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Governors State University and represents the College of Business.
Dr. Nicole Randick (’14), Vice President of Academic Affairs at Adler Graduate School, oversees academic policies, program assessments, and accreditation. With over 20 years of experience, she integrates art-based sensory experiences into therapy, focusing on children and young adults with diverse abilities. Randick received a Doctor of Education from Governors State University and represents the College of Education and Human Development.
Melany Villagomez ('21), Family Advocacy Center Manager at the Spanish Community Center, immigrated from Mexico at age 5, shaping her passion for helping others. As a manager at the Spanish Community Center, Villagomez has expanded services for low-income and immigrant families, providing critical support like housing, benefits, and mental health resources. She also volunteers in her community, supporting local organizations and reading to children. Villagomez received a bachelor's degree from Governors State University and is the Rising Star winner.
Dr. Susan Gaffney, retired Associate Professor of Public Administration at Governors State University, has served as Program Coordinator for Political Science and Public Administration. With degrees from Northern Illinois University, GovState, Chicago State University, and a Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Public Policy, she has taught courses ranging from Public Planning to Ethics for Public Administrators. Dr. Gaffney’s work spans academia and nonprofits, focusing on community development, ex-offender reentry, and public service. Her research and workshops have significantly impacted public administration and community initiatives, reflecting her dedication to education and public service. Gaffney who could not attend because of travel, received the Emerti/Retiree Award.
The awards ceremony was followed by a performance at GovState’s Center for Performing Arts of the show The Beat Goes On featuring Lisa McClowry as CHER.