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Congratulations to the 2025 College of Education & Human Development Distinguished Inductees! | | The inductees from the College of Education & Human Development have shown remarkable dedication to empowering others through learning, leadership, and compassion. Their impact extends beyond the classroom, shaping the future of education and human growth. Join us on Saturday, November 8, as we honor their excellence! | | |
Kristen Koppers
MA '03
Kristen Koppers is an award-winning educator, author, and Governors State University alumna with over 20 years of experience. She teaches English Language Arts at Joliet West High School and serves as an adjunct professor at Joliet Junior College. A National Board Certified Teacher, Kristen has been honored with the ISBE Teacher of Excellence Award, the Will County Great Teacher Award, and the Herald News Everyday Hero Award.
She is the author of Differentiated Instruction in the Teaching Profession, The Perfect Puppy, and Escape Ed: Unlocking Student Achievement. Through her teaching, writing, and advocacy, Kristen continues to inspire excellence and equity in education.
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Michael McGrone
MA '11
Principal Michael McGrone, Sr. is a nationally recognized educator, author, and advocate for justice-involved youth. A Triton College Wall of Fame inductee, he overcame early adversity in Gary, Indiana, to become a transformative school leader.
The first African-American assistant principal at Bishop Noll Institute, he gained national recognition for his leadership at Rich Township High School, featured on The Rachael Ray Show. Now principal with Illinois School District 428, McGrone leads a juvenile justice facility in Chicago and is the author of The Twists & Turns of Possibility and A Rare Glimpse Into the Lives of Boys in Prison.
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Dr. Peggy Montes
MA '74
Peggy A. Montes is a Chicago native, educator, and philanthropist dedicated to empowering women and educating children. She is the Founder and President of the Bronzeville Children’s Museum, the nation’s first African American children’s museum. A civic and cultural trailblazer, Peggy has led major institutions including the DuSable Museum of African American History and Leadership Illinois, serving on numerous state and local boards.
Her decades of leadership and advocacy have earned countless honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of African American Museums, the Margaret T. Burroughs Legacy Award, and an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Chicago State University.
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Dr. Audra Rowe
Ed.D '14
Dr. Audra Rowe is the Owner and Clinical Director of Solutions Counseling and Consulting Group, providing counseling, consulting, and training services across Chicago. With over 30 years in child welfare, mental health, and public health, she has led major community programs and nonprofits serving youth and families.
A GovState University alumna with an Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, Dr. Rowe is dedicated to improving mental health outcomes, addressing trauma and anxiety, and preparing future counselors to create lasting community impact.
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Join us on November 8th as we celebrate and
honor our distinguished inductees!
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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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| This Event Is Sponsored By | | | | |
