#1_Connie Terry

Connie Terry, Wood River IL, Fine Arts The women who fought for the right to vote, so not just one woman but many women. They were instrumental in the rights of women. Proving we had value, not just as property anymore. They took us from being just quiet homemakers and child-bearers to having a voice in society.

#2_Shirley Johnson

Shirley Johnson, Alton IL, OTA I would say Oprah Winfrey. She has done a lot from where she’s come from and is still building her empire and is still helping others along the way.

#3_Catie Camero

Catie Camero, Edwardsville IL, Radio & Broadcast Audrey Hepburn because of all of her work with UNICEF. Even after her career was over she still continued her work. UNICEF was even more important than her acting career.

#4_Amanda McGuire

Amanda McGuire, Brighton IL, Child Development Ellen Degeneres because she has fought for LGBT rights. She also brings joy and gives back.

#5_Paige Wolfe

Paige Wolfe, Medora IL, General Education Mary Lambert because she was influential in body positivity and LGBT rights.

#6_Linda Walters

Linda Walters, Kane IL, Director Assoc. Adult Education I would say Kayla Mueller because she had courage. She has my admiration that she would go to Syria during these times. I wonder why she took the risk. What motivated her to make the sacrifice and risk her life? Makes me wonder and admire these extraordinary people that do this voluntary work.

#7_Vicki Hinkle_Julie McAfoos_Sheila Vaughn

Sheila Vaughn, Alton IL, Coordinator Student Services Vicki Hinkle, St. Louis MO, Director Adult Education Julie McAfoos, Alton IL, Coordinator Student Services (left to right) We all agree, Eleanor Roosevelt. She was a strong woman with her own voice, when that was not popular. She started several social programs and fought for the rights of women, African Americans, and anyone who was the underdog in society. She pressed for joining and supporting the United Nations. As her husband descended into ill health, she was his representative here and around the world.

#8_ Nick Lowry

Nick Lowry, Macon MS, Radio/Broadcast Angelina Jolie because of how giving she is. She also goes out of her comfort zone to give back.

#9_Reilly Underwood

Reilly Underwood, Jerseyville IL, Radio/Broadcast Susan B. Anthony because she had the fire and energy to fuel the movement for women’s right to vote.

#10_Kevin Smith

Kevin Smith, St. Louis MO, Radio/Broadcast Michelle Obama because of her focus on health issues in America. In just a short amount of time she has made a difference and I think she will continue to make a difference even after her husband’s presidency is over.