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Latesha Newson, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.
GovState University Lecturer
Latesha Newson (’07, ’15) is a social justice advocate, educator, and leader committed to transformative change. A two-time Governors State University alumna and 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Social Work, crediting GovState for cultivating her passion for advocacy.
As a lecturer and field coordinator in GovState’s Department of Social Work, Newson empowers students to challenge inequities and advocate for marginalized communities. She co-founded Generating Hope, championed inclusive social work licensure legislation, and was recently appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson to the Treatment Not Trauma initiative, where she is helping reopen mental health clinics.
As President of the National Association of Social Workers Illinois Chapter, she collaborates with the Chicago Teachers Union to increase school social workers in Chicago Public Schools. Rooted in her experiences in Chicago’s Englewood and Auburn Gresham neighborhoods, Newson’s work continues to inspire the next generation of change agents.
"I'm a change-maker. I'm a social worker.
I am GovState."
–Latesha Newson, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.
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Zaporia Smith, B.H.S.
Collegiate Head Basketball Coach, Wilbur Wright College & GovState Alumna
Zaporia Smith, a proud GovState alumna, is the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Wilbur Wright College. Graduating in 2018 with a degree in Health Science of Community Health and a concentration in Health Promotion, Zaporia has carried her passion for basketball and leadership into her coaching career.
A standout athlete, Zaporia was team captain of GovState’s inaugural women’s basketball team in 2014-15, which began as a club sport. She scored 724 career points and was honored as Athlete of the Year for the 2015-16 season. Zaporia attributes much of her growth to the faculty and staff at GovState, who motivated her to excel both on and off the court, as well as the meaningful relationships she built during her time there.
Inspired by her mother’s strength, Zaporia has always been driven to give back to her family and community. Now, as a coach, she mentors young athletes, instilling in them the same values of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork that defined her journey at GovState.
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"I'm a daughter. I'm a coach. I am GovState."
–Zaporia Smith, B.H.S.
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Donate now and through December to
support the Giving Tuesday Campaign.
Help us reach our goal of 5.5% Alumni Participation. Every donation amount helps get us reach our goal!
In this special time of giving back, we invite our GovState alumni to make an impact! Giving Tuesday is about coming together to support causes that matter.
Let’s show the power of the GovState spirit.
Give today and make a difference for tomorrow!
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Happening Mid-January...
Military Reception
Attention Alumni, Students, Staff, and Faculty!
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!
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Happening Late January...
Harana
Experience the dynamic voices of LÍRIKO, a talented Chicago-based ensemble of Filipino tenors—Ace Gangoso, Rodell Rosel, Geoffrey Agpalo, and Jared Esguerra. With performances at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, their diverse repertoire spans classical, musical theater, jazz, pop, and traditional Filipino music, bringing the romantic melodies of the Philippines to life.
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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.
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Thinking of Coming Back?
Plan Your Visit Today!
Visiting Governors State University is the perfect way to discover what makes us stand out from other universities. Join a campus tour led by a GovState Student Ambassador or a fellow GovState student, and experience our community firsthand. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Explore our beautiful campus on a guided tour.
- Ask questions about the departments and programs that interest you.
- Discover the wide range of student services designed to support your success.
- Learn more about our diverse and dynamic degree programs.
Come see what GovState has to offer and take the first step toward your future!
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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!
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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! 👇
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GovState is seeking an
Assistant Athletic Trainer to join our team. Apply Today!
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GovState is seeking an
Department Chair, University Library to join our team. Apply Today!
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ComEd is looking for a Sr. Systems Engineer to join their team.
| Advocate Health is looking for an MRI Technologist to join their team. | |
Speech Matters Inc. is looking to hire an Occupational Therapist.
*Now available through Handshake.*
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Virtual Information Session: All Graduate Business Programs
Date: Friday, December 6th
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM
Are you ready to elevate your career to new heights and unlock your full potential? The College of Business invites you to a virtual information session that will change the trajectory of your future!
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Registered Behavior Technician Training
Self-paced Course
Gain the essential skills and knowledge you need with our Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Training Course! This focused program meets the 40-hour training requirement set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)—a key step toward earning your RBT certification.
Take the first step in your journey to making a difference in the lives of others through behavioral analysis.
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Women's Basketball
GovState vs. University of Indianapolis
Wed, December 11th @ 6:00 p.m.
Location: University of Indianapolis
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Women's Basketball
GovState vs. Judson
Sat, December 14th @ 1:00 p.m.
Location: Governors State University
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Men's Basketball
GovState vs. Indiana South Bend
Tues, December 10th @ 7:30 p.m.
Location: South Bend, Indiana
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Men's Basketball
GovState vs. Judson
Sat, December 14th @ 3:00 p.m.
Location: Governors State University
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* Alumni Membership Cardholder Benefits for GovState Athletics*
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Alumni Membership Cardholders (FREE): Free game passes.
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Premium Membership Cardholders: Free game passes & 50% off concessions.
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Lifetime Membership Cardholders: Free game passes & 50% off concessions for life.
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COB Annual Review 2023-2024 | |
We're excited to share the 2023-2024 Annual Report for the College of Business at Governors State University! This report highlights our achievements in advancing Strategy 2025, strengthening business partnerships, and finalizing our Societal Impact Plan to address inequalities in the Chicago Southland.
You’ll also find updates on curriculum enhancements and initiatives designed to prepare graduates for success in today’s dynamic business world, along with inspiring stories of faculty, students, and alumni making a difference.
Thank you for being part of the GovState community and contributing to our continued success!
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College of Arts & Sciences | Alumnus Spotlight: Marshall Gibson, Award-Winning Filmmaker and Advocate for Untold Stories | Marshall Gibson, Filmmaker | |
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GovState is proud to celebrate alumnus Marshall Gibson, an independent filmmaker whose documentary Life in My Eyes recently earned the prestigious Sergio Mims Prize for Excellence in Black Filmmaking at the 30th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival. Premiering on November 11th as part of the festival’s Shorts from the Block series, the film captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling and deep humanity.
A 2024 graduate of GovState’s Master of Fine Arts in Independent Filmmaking and Digital Imaging program, Marshall’s journey began in the Southland of Chicago. Drawn to storytelling through theater, writing, and visual art, he earned his undergraduate degree in Communications, Media Arts, and Theater from Chicago State University before deciding to deepen his filmmaking skills. “Governors State’s program stood out to me because it offered a unique combination of creative freedom and practical skill-building,” Marshall shared.
Currently an independent filmmaker and educator at Triton College, Marshall credits GovState with shaping his craft and career. “The faculty encouraged me to push boundaries creatively while offering practical advice on navigating the industry,” he said. Professors Beth Parin, Dan Nearing, and Ryan Park were particularly impactful, offering guidance and support as he developed Life in My Eyes, a documentary that explores profound themes of identity and resilience.
Winning the Sergio Mims Prize has been a milestone for Marshall. “It was an incredible honor and deeply humbling,” he remarked. “This award affirms that the stories I want to tell resonate with people. It’s a tribute to the individuals who shared their journeys with me in Life in My Eyes.”
Excitingly, Life in My Eyes will screen again in Chicago on February 19th at the Gene Siskel Film Center as part of The Best of Black Harvest screening, giving audiences another opportunity to experience this powerful work.
| An image from the documentary, Life in My Eyes | |
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Looking ahead, Marshall is focused on telling more untold stories from marginalized communities and fostering conversations about inclusion and social justice. He also plans to enter Life in My Eyes into additional film festivals and expand its reach through new partnerships. Long term, he aims to mentor emerging filmmakers, helping them navigate the industry and find their unique voices.
When asked what advice he would give aspiring filmmakers, Marshall said, “Don’t wait for the perfect moment or all the resources to align—start where you are, with what you have. Filmmaking is as much about persistence and problem-solving as it is about creativity.”
Marshall’s journey epitomizes the transformative power of art and education. As the founder of his production company L8Bloomers, Marshall lives by the company’s inspiring slogan: It’s never too late to bloom. His story is a testament to the importance of investing in your passion and embracing the power of your unique voice.
To Marshall, Governors State University is more than an institution—it’s a community that nurtures creativity, inclusion, and support. “Transformative, inclusive, and supportive,” he said when summing up his experience at GovState.
Congratulations to Marshall Gibson on his well-deserved recognition and the incredible impact he’s making in the world of filmmaking and beyond!
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College of Education & Human Development | |
Support Young Artists! Shop Unique Notecards Created by the Children of the Family Development Center! | |
Looking for a heartfelt way to celebrate a birthday, share holiday cheer, or just let someone know you're thinking of them? Send a unique, illustrated card drawn by the talented children of the Family Development Center (FDC)!
Choose from festive holiday designs like snowmen and stars, or select an assortment of whimsical everyday cards perfect for any occasion. Each pack includes 12 blank cards for only $15, with the option of convenient on-campus delivery at no extra charge or mail delivery for just $2 more.
Your purchase directly supports the College of Education and Human Development and the Family Development Center. Thank you for making a difference!
Qustions? Contact Penny Perdue at pperdue@govst.edu
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SCHOLARSHIPS & CONTRIBUTIONS | |
Dr. Cheryl F. Green Endowed Scholarship Award | Dr. Cheryl Green - Governors State University President | |
Dr. Cheryl F. Green became the 6th president of Governors State University in 2020. A passionate advocate for the transformative power of education, she has championed programs and initiatives that boost retention and graduation rates for first-generation and non-traditional students. Her influence extends beyond campus, serving on 12 advisory boards nationwide, reflecting her commitment to community service and educational advancement.
Public policy, educational leadership, and community transformation have been the cornerstones of Dr. Green’s career. This scholarship honors her legacy and lifelong dedication to public service, equity, social mobility, and expanding access and opportunity for all.
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ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
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Alumni Membership-Free
- Free Home Game Access
- 1 Year Recreation Fitness @ $120
- 15% off all performances in the Center for Performing Arts
- And More
Premium Membership
- Free Home Game Access
- 50% off concessions
- 1 Year Recreation Fitness @ $60
- 25% off all performances in the Center for Performing Arts
- And More
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Lifetime Membership
- Premium Membership Amenities for Life
Questions? AlumniRelations2@govst.edu
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Tell Us Your Story
Do you have a story to share?
Do you know someone with a story to share?
Contact us to tell your story: alumnirelations2@govst.edu
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Tell us about your business. We'd love to partner with you to provide for our Alumni Association members and promote Alumni-Owned Businesses.
Email alumnirelations2@govst.edu to start the conversation.
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