Congratulations to the 2025 College of Business Distinguished Inductees!

The inductees representing the College of Business exemplify innovation, leadership, and a commitment to driving progress in their industries and communities. Their achievements reflect the strength and vision of our GovState business alumni. Join us on Saturday, November 8, as we celebrate their accomplishments!

Category Leader

Joseph Williams

BA '09, MPA '12, MBA '14

Joseph Williams, a triple Governors State University alumnus, serves as Senior Project Manager for the CTA’s $5.7 billion Red Line Extension Project, which will expand access and create over 25,000 jobs for Chicago’s South Side communities. A U.S. Army Reserve Officer and former National Guard Executive Officer, he exemplifies service and leadership both in uniform and in his community. Joseph also volunteers at his children’s school and coaches their swim team. He holds degrees in Criminal Justice (’09), Political Science (’12), and an M.B.A. in Supply Chain Management (’14) from GovState.

Inductee

Dr. Oludare Akande

BA '09

Dr. Oludare Akande, a proud Governors State University alumnus, is a Nigerian entrepreneur and recipient of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) for his contributions to national development. He has held executive roles in Fortune 500 companies and founded the American Polytechnic of Nigeria, the American International University of Nigeria, and Bellagio Airline Ltd, valued at over $170 million. Guided by GovState’s values of integrity and innovation, Dr. Akande continues to inspire and expand opportunities across Africa and beyond.

Inductee

Michelle Hayes

BA '02

Michelle (GovState 2002’) is a manager and licensed financial broker at Fidelity Investments. She has been in finance for 30 years and holds multiple securities licenses and awards. During her tenure in banking, she has worked in various capacities from High Net Worth to Anti-Money Laundering as a financial crimes investigator. Michelle is also a principal partner at Math Language, LLC helping hundreds of students perform above grade-level in math. She is a proud mom, grandmother, daughter, patron of the arts, an actress, volunteer and board member.

Inductee

Blevian Moore

BA '11, MPA '22

Blevian Moore is the Founder and Executive Director of the Midwest Business Association, where she supports small business growth and has helped over 100 businesses earn federal and state certifications. A Real Estate Broker, President of B. Moore Consulting, and Executive Producer of Midday Mondays on WYCA 102.3 FM (DJ Bless on Prayze Café Radio), she is a dynamic leader in business and media.

A proud Governors State University alumna, Blevian holds degrees in Business Management and Public Administration. She serves on the Chicago Women’s Conference Advisory Board and Southland Juvenile Justice Council, living by her motto: “Work smarter, not harder; and live life for all its possibilities.”

Join us on November 8th as we celebrate and

honor our distinguished inductees!

Saturday, November 8, 2025

Check-In: 4:30 p.m.

Center for Performing Arts, Governors State University

You’re invited to an extraordinary evening for the 5th Annual Distinguished Alumni Reception!

Join us as we honor the remarkable accomplishments of our alumni and emeriti whose leadership, service, and impact continue to inspire the GovState community.

🎟️ Reserve your spot today—and consider sponsoring a student registration so the next generation of leaders can be part of this special celebration.

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