Dr. Addison Woodward



GovState Emeritus & Distinguished Awardee

Dr. Addison Woodward, a revered Professor Emeritus at Governors State University, dedicated over 30 years to shaping the institution’s academic excellence, with 23 of those years as Chairperson of the Division of Psychology and Counseling. Originally from Upstate New York, Dr. Woodward pursued his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees before joining GovState in 1972, drawn by the university’s innovative and dynamic approach to higher education.

Reflecting on his time at GovState, Dr. Woodward fondly recalls the university’s pioneering spirit, noting, “We were doing things that other places were maybe getting to think about, but we were actually doing them.” He took immense pride in fostering a diverse and collaborative division alongside 25 talented faculty members, an accomplishment he considers one of his greatest joys.

In 2022, Dr. Woodward was honored as a Distinguished Emeritus Awardee, a recognition that holds deep personal significance. Even after retiring, his commitment to education continued through a decade of service on the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

Dr. Woodward credits GovState with helping him grow both personally and professionally and believes the university is an excellent place for students to begin and complete their academic journeys. His legacy remains a testament to the transformative power of education and leadership at Governors State University.

"I'm a leader. I'm an emeritus.

I am GovState."

–Dr. Addison Woodward

Joan Johns Maloney

Associate Director of Benefits & ADA Coordinator, GovState

Joan Johns Maloney is the Associate Director of Benefits and ADA Coordinator at Governors State University (GovState), where she supports employees and promotes inclusivity. Her GovState journey began as the Special Assistant to the Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, reflecting her dedication to higher education administration.

A proud two-time GovState graduate, Joan earned a Bachelor’s in Speech Communication (1994) and a Master’s in Higher Education Administration (2015). Growing up, college was a significant goal, and her passion for higher education was reignited during her master’s program, where she found a curriculum aligned with her aspirations.

Joan cherishes the small class sizes and meaningful connections she built at GovState, which contributed to her personal and professional growth. As an alumna, she encourages others to invest in education, emphasizing its value for career advancement, personal development, and inspiring future generations.

Believing in the transformative power of education, Joan views it as a path to personal growth, financial stability, and a legacy of shared knowledge. Her journey highlights the lasting impact of higher education and the supportive community at Governors State University.

"I'm a student. I'm an advocate. I am GovState."

–Joan Johns Maloney

Join us in honoring the stellar achievements of Governors State University's President, Dr. Cheryl Green

Governors State University invites you to honor the incredible career and legacy of our beloved president, Dr. Cheryl F. Green, at her Retirement Celebration on Friday, February 7, 2025.

Let's come together to celebrate her remarkable leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our university and community on this special occasion!

FEBRUARY 7, 2025

5 - 10 P.M.

The Odyssey Venue

19110 S Ridgeland Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477

Event Program

5:00 p.m. Cocktail Reception

6:00 p.m. Dinner & Program

Musical Entertainment following the program

Support the Dr. Cheryl F. Green Scholarship for Societal Impact

*REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED*

Community & Culture

Happening this Month...

Salute and Social: A Military Reception, January 21, 2025

Attention Alumni, Students, Staff, and Faculty!

REGISTER NOW TO ATTEND

We welcome all active-duty service members, veterans, and military-connected individuals to join us!

Come enjoy an afternoon of socializing, connecting with fellow service members, and building meaningful connections. Complimentary food and beverages will be provided.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

3 - 5pm | Center for Performing Arts, Lobby

Happening Mid-February...

DRUMLine Live!

From the creators of Drumline and Drumline: A New Beat, DRUMLine Live brings the high-energy excitement of HBCU marching bands to the stage. With bold beats, riveting rhythms, and a BRAND NEW family-friendly show, this unforgettable performance will have you on your feet by halftime.

Happening Early February...

The Silhouettes® LOVE Happens

Join The Silhouettes®, America’s premier shadow-dance company and Golden Buzzer winners on America’s Got Talent: The Champions, for their acclaimed show, “LOVE Happens.”

This family-friendly performance takes you on a heartfelt journey through all kinds of love—family, friendship, music, pets, and more—filled with laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments.

Happening in Late February...

Annual African American Alumni Mix & Mingle

Celebrate Black History Month with community, culture, and connection!

• Meet and mingle with fellow African American Alumni.
• Connect with members of the Black Student Union.
• Honor our shared heritage and build meaningful relationships.

Let’s come together to honor the strength of our shared heritage and foster meaningful relationships.

Keynote Speaker:

Be inspired by Dr. Shaniqua Jones as she shares her journey and insights from Poverty-EdD: A Great Story, a powerful testament to the transformative role of education in overcoming poverty.

Calling all GovState Alumni!

Reconnect with your alma mater and make a meaningful impact by volunteering with us. Whether you can lend a hand at events, mentor current students, or share your expertise, your involvement makes a difference.

Join our community of dedicated alumni volunteers and help shape the future of GovState. Get involved today!

Don’t miss out on the latest events happening at Governors State University!

From exciting performances and networking opportunities to alumni receptions and special gatherings, there’s always something for everyone.

Visit our Events Page to stay up-to-date and ensure you’re in the know about what’s coming up next! 🎉

Click the button below now to explore and mark your calendar! 👇

Job Alerts

GovState is seeking an

Office Manager, Department of Social Work to join our team. Apply Today!

Closing Soon!

ComEd is looking for a Sr. Engineer to join their team.

Advocate Health is looking for an Clinical Nursing Supervisor to join their team.

North Chicago School District 187 is seeking a School Psychologist to join our team. Apply Today!

*Now available through Handshake.*

The Village of Elk Grove is looking to hire a Human Resource Management Analyst.

*Now available through Handshake.*

Professional Opportunity

Master of Public Administration at GovState LinkedIn

Stay connected and inspired by joining the Governors State Masters of Public Administration (MPA) LinkedIn page! Whether you're a proud MPA alumnus or considering advancing your career with this transformative program, this is your space to network, share insights, and celebrate achievements.

Connect with fellow professionals, explore opportunities, and stay updated on the latest program news and events. Together, let's continue building a vibrant community of public service leaders!

Patient Care Technician

Self-paced Course

Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) are essential in providing direct care and support to patients in hospitals, clinics, and beyond. With demand at an all-time high, our comprehensive, asynchronous training program prepares you for a rewarding career in healthcare.

Gain skills in basic nursing care, critical thinking, and patient-focused problem-solving while fostering positive outcomes for diverse populations. Upon completion, you'll receive a complimentary voucher to take the CPCT/A or PCTC certification exam, setting you on the path to success.

Start your journey toward a fulfilling healthcare career today!

JAGUAR ATHLETICS

Women's Basketball

GovState vs. Viterbo

Wed, January 22nd @ 5:30 p.m.

Location: Governors State University

Men's Basketball

GovState vs. Trinity Christian

Sat, January 18th @ 3:00 p.m.

Location: Trinity Christian College

* Alumni Membership Cardholder Benefits for GovState Athletics*

• Alumni Membership Cardholders (FREE): Free game passes.

• Premium Membership Cardholders: Free game passes & 50% off concessions.

• Lifetime Membership Cardholders: Free game passes & 50% off concessions for life.

COLLEGE UPDATES

College of Business

Alumni Spotlight: Kendall King – From GovState to Thriving in Accounting and Beyond

Kendall King, Senior Accountant

Governors State University alumnus Kendall King brings us an inspiring story that showcases resilience, determination, and the power of a supportive community. Kendall, who graduated in the summer of 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, has charted an impressive career path that reflects his dedication and ambition.

Kendall's journey into accounting wasn’t linear. He began his higher education in Civil Engineering but soon realized his passion lay elsewhere. “I discovered that while the compensation aspect of engineering was appealing, my true interest was in understanding how businesses generate cash flow,” Kendall explained. This epiphany led him to pursue accounting, a field that aligned with his interests and allowed him to thrive.

Coming from a working-class family, Kendall and his siblings saw higher education as an opportunity to create a path for others to follow. “We were the first-generation college students within our immediate family,” he shared. “This journey allowed us to see beyond our environment and champion possibilities for those around us.”

Kendall's professional journey began with a Volunteer Income Tax Assistant (VITA) role through a recommendation from Dr. David Green at GovState. This experience sparked his interest in tax accounting and led him to pursue a Master’s in Taxation at DePaul University. After working as a Tax Associate at CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), Kendall transitioned to assurance at Grant Thornton in 2022 to gain a broader understanding of business operations. This shift allowed him to work with industries like manufacturing, telecommunications, nonprofits, and technology, providing him with a well-rounded view of accounting and business strategy. Now serving as a Senior Accountant at Kroenke Sports and Entertainment in Denver, Colorado, Kendall continues to build on his diverse experiences.

Kendall credits much of his success to his time as a student worker at GovState, where he built relationships with faculty and staff. “Student workers have unique opportunities to expand their network,” he noted. His advice to current students is simple and impactful: “Always network and make connections with your peers. You never know who will be on the other side of the hiring table or who can help you achieve your career goals.”

Kendall fondly remembers several faculty members who influenced his journey: Michael Trendell inspired his passion for teaching accounting. Karen Williams (Blackman) opened doors to networking opportunities. Dr. Corey Williams pushed him to pursue his master’s degree and think beyond Chicago. Dr. Alice Keane sparked his love for tax accounting. Dr. TJ Wang motivated him to pursue CPA licensure, emphasizing its ROI for accountants.

Kendall’s aspirations include becoming a professor in accounting, starting his own tax firm, and eventually serving as a CFO of a privately held company. “I see my current role as a catalyst for other opportunities in the business world,” he shared.

When reflecting on his time at Governors State University, Kendall emphasized the sense of community that defined his experience. “GSU provided an environment where I felt seen and supported. Even five years later, that sense of community remains strong.”

As a first-generation college graduate, Kendall encourages others to persevere through challenges. “The journey is uneasy and sometimes discouraging, but the experience on the other side is worth it. Once you reach the finish line, circle back to help those in your shoes. Together, as a village, we can achieve so much more.”

Kendall’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education, determination, and relationships. From GovState to Denver, his journey highlights the importance of following your passion, embracing challenges, and building a strong community around you.

The Alumni Association at GovState celebrates Kendall King’s accomplishments and looks forward to seeing him continue to thrive as a leader in the field of accounting and beyond.

College of Arts & Sciences

Alumnus Spotlight: Chris Weber, GovState Alumnus and Advocate for Accountability

Chris Weber, Freelance Journalist

Governors State University alumnus Chris Weber is making waves in the field of investigative journalism, shining a light on critical issues of justice and transparency. A 2023 graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Human Communication, Chris has leveraged his education to build a career rooted in storytelling and social impact. Now a freelance journalist and current graduate student, Chris’s passion for uncovering the truth and amplifying important issues continues to set him apart in the world of media.

During his time as an investigative reporting intern with the Invisible Institute, Chris worked through the Governors State University Center for Community Media to produce a compelling story on law enforcement accountability. His article, Illinois Law Requires Transparency in Police Killings, examines the challenges of enforcing Illinois' Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to obtain critical police records in cases involving fatal shootings. Through his in-depth reporting, Chris highlights the need for transparency and the systemic gaps that impede public access to vital information. His work underscores the crucial role journalists play in holding institutions accountable and advocating for justice.

Chris’s academic journey at Governors State University played a pivotal role in shaping his path as a journalist. His experience with the GovState Center for Community Media provided opportunities to engage in impactful reporting and collaborate with professionals dedicated to creating meaningful change. The internship with the Invisible Institute allowed Chris to gain hands-on experience in investigative journalism, sharpen his craft, and contribute to narratives that matter. Now, as a graduate student, Chris continues to build on this foundation, blending academic learning with real-world impact.

Chris Weber’s achievements serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of experiential learning. His dedication to truth-telling and advocacy reflects the core values of Governors State University—empowering students to become agents of change in their communities and beyond. By shedding light on issues of transparency and accountability, Chris is not only making a difference but also inspiring the next generation of journalists to use their voices to drive progress.

Explore Chris’s impactful work and join him in advocating for justice by reading his article: Illinois Law Requires Transparency in Police Killings.

College of Education & Human Development

The Joy of Teaching

Timothy W. Pedigo, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology

As Timothy W. Pedigo, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology at Governors State University, concludes his tenure, he reflects on a career shaped by profound connections with students and a passion for teaching. Over the years, Dr. Pedigo’s role as an educator has been more than a profession—it has been a source of joy, fulfillment, and inspiration.

"I cannot help but reflect on the years I have enjoyed," Dr. Pedigo shares. "Yes, I have appreciated my colleagues, some of whom have become close friends, but most of all, I cherish the relationships I have had with students."

For Dr. Pedigo, the most rewarding moments have been those where students openly shared their thoughts, experiences, and feelings, fostering connections not only with him but with one another. These connections have brought depth and meaning to the classroom experience, transforming it into a space of mutual learning and growth.

Among the many courses he has taught, mindfulness stands out as a favorite. "The class is not only focused on helping students settle their minds but also on deepening into themselves," Dr. Pedigo explains. "They get through the negative feelings they may have and experience the richness of who they are."

Teaching mindfulness, Dr. Pedigo discovered, requires courage—not just from the instructor, but from the students themselves. Many must confront their fears and uncertainties, facing parts of themselves that may have been long ignored. Yet, their willingness to take this journey has never ceased to amaze him.

One of the most important lessons students learn in Dr. Pedigo’s mindfulness class is that they are not alone in their struggles. This realization fosters a profound sense of common humanity. "The sense of common humanity that arises is palpable," Dr. Pedigo notes. "It helps students bond, dissolving their sense of being the 'only one' who struggles."

As students begin to connect, their defenses drop, and they learn to share openly in a safe and supportive environment. This process, Dr. Pedigo says, is nothing short of inspiring. "They learn that connecting feels good!"

As students bond and create a community of shared understanding, they often take the next step: delving deeper into their own emotions and experiences. Through this exploration, many come to understand the context of their past experiences and develop self-compassion. "They learn that instead of blaming themselves, they should understand themselves," Dr. Pedigo reflects. "They begin to feel more of the goodness of who they are."

This journey, from struggle to self-compassion, is transformative—not just for the students but for the educator guiding them. For Dr. Pedigo, working with students has always been a gift. He acknowledges the challenges many have overcome to reach Governors State University and recognizes the immense gratitude they express when supported and encouraged.

"It has been a gift for me to help students believe in themselves and re-orient toward an appreciation of who they are as they journey forward," Dr. Pedigo says. As he closes this chapter, Dr. Pedigo carries with him a deep sense of gratitude for the relationships he has built and the lives he has touched. His reflections serve as a testament to the profound impact of teaching and the joy that comes from guiding others on their journey of self-discovery.

Governors State University has been fortunate to have an educator like Dr. Pedigo, whose commitment to his students’ growth and well-being has left a lasting legacy.

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