National Louis University 2025 Illinois Commencement Digital Progam
Commencement Exercises one hundred and thirty-ninth
JUNE 2025
congratulations TO OUR 2025 GRADUATES!
Our Mission National Louis University is an inclusive, innovative community that provides educational opportunities that inspire and empower all learners as they prepare for and advance in meaningful lives and productive careers.
National Louis University 139 Commencement Exercises
4 History of NLU 6 Agenda of Ceremonies
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Commencement Speakers and Awardees
24 Awarding of Degrees
24 26 30
Doctor of Psychology Doctor of Philosophy
Doctor of Business Administration
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Doctor of Education Education Specialist Master of Education
42 47 55 62 65 65 66 72 75 93 94
Master of Arts in Teaching
Master of Business Administraion
Master of Health Services Administration
Master of Public Administration
Master of Science Master of Arts Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Science
100 102 103 104 106
Associate of Applied Science Graduate Professional Certificate
Undergraduate Professional Certificate - National College of Education
Undergraduate Professional Certificate - Kendall College Undergraduate Professional Certificate - Accelerate U
111
Certificate of Pace Program
112 NLU Leadership
The NLU Alumni Association 113
114 President’s Charge
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THE NLU STORY
HOW NLU CAME TO BE National Louis University (NLU) is a nonprofit, non-denominational university offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in the fields of education, management, human services, counseling, public policy, culinary arts, hospitality, and others oriented toward career and professional development. As a proud Minority-Serving Institution, NLU provides an innovative, inclusive and supportive educational experience for students of all backgrounds. We are committed to the preparation of professionals who are driven to make a positive impact in their communities. In 1886, Elizabeth Harrison — urban education pioneer and community activist — had the then-revolutionary idea to create a school to train women to teach very young children with the aim of improving prospects for families and neighborhoods. In 1930, the school became the National College of Education (NCE) and introduced the first four-year teacher-training course in the state of Illinois. Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. , is the university’s 11th president. Dr. Megahed’s strategic priorities include creating the modern urban university focused on affordable, accessible, quality education that promotes student success, veterans’ education, new frontiers in digital education. NLU was founded on principles of urban education and access, both of which the university continues to honor today. A university that excels in creating learning communities where theory complements practice, NLU sustains a tradition of access to higher education for first-generation and urban university students who want to make a lasting impact in their lives and communities.
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LANDMARK MOMENTS
1886 Elizabeth Harrison opens Miss Harrison’s Training School ; the modern American kindergarten movement begins. 1930 After a series of name changes, the college changes its name for a final time, becoming the National College of Education (NCE) , and introduces the first four-year teacher-training program in Illinois. 1988 NLU’s Florida Campus is established in one of Tampa’s major business districts. It serves a diverse population nationwide with online and on-site opportunities. 1990 In recognition of the Louis family’s tremendous generosity, the institution is renamed National Louis University , a comprehensive university composed of three colleges. 2016 NLU launched the Pathways Program , a new undergraduate experience designed to provide a supportive, quality, affordable, and equity- focused education to all learners regardless of their zip code. 2018 NLU acquired Kendall College , adding culinary and hospitality management programs. 2020 NLU launched Accelerate U , a “job-first” higher education model offering short-term market-aligned stackable credentials to underemployed learners seeking a rapid route to employment. 2023 NLU launched the School of Nursing to help address the national shortage of nurses and provide opportunities for students interested in healthcare careers.
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Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 12 PM
FLORIDA COMMENCEMENT National Louis University
Academic Processional
Pomp and Circumstance, Sir Edward Elgar
National Anthem
The Star Spangled Banner, Francis Scott Key
Introduction of Stage Party and Welcome
Anthony Spano, M.Ed. Executive Director, Florida Regional Center
Commencement Speaker
Jeanette Lee Professional and Decorated Billiards Player
Student Reflections
Jenni O’Connor M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Perseverance Award
Kelly Wills Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology 4th Annual Perseverance Award Winner
Introduction of the Graduating Class
Sarah Lukas, Ed.D. Dean of Florida Programs, Florida Regional Center
Presentation of Degree Candidates and Conferral of Degrees
National College of Education Florida School of Professional Psychology College of Psychology and Behavioral Science Graduate School of Business and Leadership Undergraduate College Accelerate U
Academic Recessional
Anthony Spano, M.Ed. Executive Director, Florida Regional Center
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Friday, June 20, 2025 | 3:00 PM
National College of Education National Louis University
Faculty Processional
Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President of National Louis University Welcome
Retired Army Brigadier General Stephen Curda, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Technology in Education Pledge of Allegiance
Kathleen P. Nixon ‘96, ‘04, ‘14 NLU Life Trustee Commencement Speaker
Alma Grinston Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education Student Reflections
Veterans Recognition
Delores Mays, Ph.D. ‘99, ‘22 Public Services Administrator President, NLU Alumni Association Alumni Association Speaker
Presentation of Degrees
Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President of National Louis University President’s Charge
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Saturday, June 21, 2025 | 10:00 AM
Kendall College • Accelerate U • PACE College of Psychology and Behavior Sciences Graduate School of Business and Leadership National Louis University
Faculty Processional
Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President of National Louis University Welcome
Retired Army Staff Sergeant Trachel Green Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management Pledge of Allegiance
Kevin Boehm Co-founder and Co-owner, Boka Restaurant Group Commencement Speaker Yadira Romano Master’s in School Counseling Student Reflections Honor Societies Recognition
Veterans Recognition
Phillip Woods ‘16 Executive Chef, Big Foot Country Club Board Member, NLU Alumni Association Alumni Association Speaker Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President of National Louis University President’s Charge Presentation of Degrees
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Saturday, June 21, 2025 | 3:00 PM
Undergraduate College National Louis University
Faculty Processional
Raymond Crossman, Ph.D. President Emeritus, Adler University Commencement Speaker Navy Seaman Natalie Edwards Bachelor of Arts in Secondary English Pledge of Allegiance Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President of National Louis University Welcome
Shania Jones Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Student Reflections Edwin Rosendo Bachelor of Arts in Applied Educational Studies Lincoln Laureate Recognition
Honor Societies Recognition
Veterans Recognition
Alumni Association Speaker DaZay Green ‘24 Drama and Theatre Teacher, Butler College Prep High School Member, NLU Alumni Association
Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President of National Louis University President’s Charge Presentation of Degrees
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2025 Commencement Speaker
Jeanette Lee Professional and Decorated Billiards Player
In 2021, she faced her toughest opponent—stage IV ovarian cancer. True to form, she approached treatment with the same fierce resilience that defined her playing career and continues to beat expectations. A mother of six in a beautifully blended family, Lee’s life story has been chronicled in ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30: Jeanette Lee Vs. , and her memoir, The Black Widow , debuted in 2024. She also leads the Tampa chapter of the American Poolplayers Association, sharing her passion for the game. A cultural icon, Lee has been celebrated for her strength, style, and spirit—proving that champions are not just defined by titles, but by the battles they overcome.
Widely known as “The Black Widow,” Jeanette Lee is a legendary figure in professional billiards and an inspiring force far beyond the table. Formerly ranked #1 in the world, Lee has captured more than 30 national and international titles, including the 2001 World Games Gold Medal and multiple Empress Cup and Tournament of Champions victories. Her accolades include induction into the Billiards Congress of America, WPBA and Asian Halls of Fame, as well as high-profile honors such as the 2024 Tampa Bay Sports Council Award and the APA’s 2023 Achievement Over Adversity Award. Despite being diagnosed with scoliosis at age 13 and undergoing ten spinal surgeries, Lee built a remarkable career, earning global recognition not only for her competitive dominance but also her advocacy as a national spokesperson for The Scoliosis Association, Inc.
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2025 Commencement Speaker
Kathleen P. Nixon NLU Life Trustee
advanced degrees from NLU—Master of Teaching, Reading Specialist, and Technology in Education. Kathleen has also served as a Board Member and is now a Life Trustee. Her passions are her family, and particularly her two granddaughters – Lucia, 9 and Nina 6 - reading, traveling, playing tennis, and learning Spanish. Nixon uses her experiences in life to help the next generation of Chicago teachers reach their full potential.
Kathleen Pesek Nixon ‘96, ‘04, ‘14, is a committed educator who invested 20 years as a middle school teacher of English/Language Arts. She was born and raised in Illinois and attended college in Massachusetts, with a degree in English. She was a professional dancer in New York City for three years and then she then turned her attention to international development and lived in Egypt and India. She is married to Geoff Nixon, and they raised two children, Annie and Matt, in Glenview, Illinois. She currently serves as a University Supervisor and Field Coach for student- teacher candidates in the Office of Field Experience at NLU. She holds three
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2025 Commencement Speaker
Kevin Boehm Co-founder & Co-Owner, Boka Restaurant Group
After enduring homelessness, fist fights, and six months working at an amusement park, he wrote an embellished resumé that landed him a coveted captain position at Beach House Restaurant. Within a few years, he’d squirreled away enough money to open a six-table restaurant in 1993 in Seaside, Florida, the picture-perfect location where Peter Weir’s The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey, was filmed. In 1995, he opened Indigo Wine Bar in the same town, and help cater the movie’s dailies screenings. Restaurants in Springfield, Illinois, and Nashville, Tennesseee followed. By age 30, Boehm had opened and sold off four restaurants. In 2002, Boehm partnered with Rob Katz to form what in time became Boka Restaurant Group. Eventually, they would open 36 places in less than 20 years.
After opening 40 restaurants over the last 30 years, James Beard Foundation Award-winning restaurateur Kevin Boehm has established himself as one of the world’s foremost hospitality visionaries. Kevin, along with his partner Rob Katz, has a built a restaurant group based on great chefs, inspired design, and enlightened hospitality. Born in 1970, Kevin grew up in Springfield, Illinois, and told his mother at age 10 that he wanted to open his own restaurant one day. After attending the University of Illinois for two nonconsecutive years, he dropped out and moved to the Florida Panhandle to start working in restaurants and embark on a self-directed on-the-job hospitality education.
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In addition to Boka Restaurant Group, in 2020 Boehm co-founded Bian, a private club with a foundation in wellness. Forbes called it “the ultimate wellness destination.” As a writer he has had pieces published in Esquire, Plate, The Chicago Sun Times, and McSweeneys, and he is a contributing writer for Fast Company. His first book, “The Bottomless Cup,” comes out on Abrams Press in 2025. He currently sits on the board of the Illinois Restaurant Association, Open Table, and 826 CHI, and is a founding member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition. Kevin lives in Chicago and frequently spends time in Los Angeles and New York City, where Boka Restaurant Group has opened restaurants in recent years.
The group’s many accolades and accomplishments include 18 James Beard Award nominations, two Food & Wine Best New Chefs, 13 consecutive Michelin Guide stars for Boka, and 6 Boka Restaurant Group restaurants on Chicago Tribune’s Top 50 list. Boehm, along with Katz, won Restaurateurs of the year from TimeOut Chicago in 2010, the Chicago Tribune in 2011, and The Illinois Restaurant Association in 2017, and were Eater National’s Empire Builders of the year in 2012. They have been James Beard Finalists for Best Restaurateur in America 2016-2019, winning the award in 2019, and New City Chicago ranked them #1 in 2017 in its annual list of the 50 most powerful influencers on the Chicago dining scene.
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2025 Commencement Speaker
Raymond Crossman President Emeritus, Adler University
Prior, he led an independent psychology school in Hawai’i, focused on education and training in diversity, equity, and inclusion. He has been faculty in clinical psychology since 1992. Dr. Crossman writes and teaches about leadership and diversity, and his 2022 book, LGBTQ Leadership in Higher Education, is the first on this topic. He serves on several civic and professional boards, and he was recently recognized with the Amplifier Award from Chicago Public Media, the Visionary Leadership Award from Haymarket Center, an honorary
Raymond E. Crossman is a social justice advocate, educator, executive and leadership expert, and psychologist. He is currently on sabbatical, as president emeritus of Adler University, following 21 years of service as its president. Across his tenure at Adler, the institution grew from a psychology school enrolling less than 200 students to a graduate university preparing over 2,000 students in social justice practice disciplines at campuses in Chicago, Vancouver (BC), and online.
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In 2017, Dr. Crossman became the first university president to disclose his HIV status publicly. He uses his personal story to advocate for marginalized communities, and he continues to write about issues such as racial equity, undocumented students, and climate justice. Dr. Crossman received his B.S. (summa cum laude) in Psychology and Fine Arts from Fordham University, he earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Temple University, and he studied at Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic.
doctorate from Columbia College Chicago, the Founders Award from LGBTQ Leaders in Higher Education, and induction into the Chicago LGBTQ Hall of Fame. He co-founded the organization LGBTQ Presidents in Higher Education, hosted its inaugural meeting in Chicago in 2010, chaired the first national conference for development of LGBTQ leaders in higher education in 2015 on the Chicago campus of Adler, and co-chaired the growing advocacy organization from 2015 - 2018.
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2025 Student Speaker
Jenni O’Connor M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Wanting to support others more deeply, she pursued her dream of becoming a counselor at NLU. Jenni is also a best-selling author of three books, a professional speaker, and a retired photographer who rediscovered her passion for photography through travel. A lifelong creative, she enjoys reading, crafting, and attending comic conventions and Renaissance Faires. Jenni would like to thank NLU for the opportunity to represent her graduating class as the Student Speaker; her professors and classmates for inspiring her to be the best counselor possible; her beautiful daughters, Sabrina and Eliana; her co-parent, Wade, for supporting her dreams and believing in her; and her service dog, Vader, who attended each class and will probably be subjected to an adorable tiny graduation hat.
Jenni O’Connor is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Based in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, she returned to academia in 2023 after over 20 years as a business owner. In her senior year of college, Jenni experienced a sudden decline in health and was diagnosed with multiple disabilities. She now occasionally uses mobility aids like a crutch or wheelchair. To stay active, Jenni began pole dancing and fell in love with it, going on to compete and win several medals. She opened her own aerial studio, now one of the top studios in the Chicago area. Through teaching, she observed how movement helped students cope with anxiety, depression, and trauma, sparking her interest in somatic work. She earned a somatic coaching certification and eventually began training coaches internationally.
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2025 Student Speaker
Alma Grinston Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education
promote growth, structure, and sustainability within faith communities. Throughout her time at NLU, she remained dedicated to academic excellence, community impact, and spiritual development.
Alma Grinston is a proud graduate of National Louis University, earning a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. With a strong commitment to both education and faith-based leadership, she aspires to continue her academic journey by pursuing a Doctorate in Education. Alma is passionate about empowering others and plans to develop training programs for ministry leaders that
Alma’s long-term goal is to influence early childhood education and ministry
leadership at both the local and national levels, creating lasting change for generations to come.
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2025 Student Speaker
Yadira Romano Master’s in School Counseling
Yadira Romano is graduating with a Master’s in School Counseling.
Romero, and as a Crisis Text Line counselor, reflecting her belief that education extends beyond classroom walls. Following graduation, Yadira is committed to bringing her best self to every environment she enters, determined to create inclusive spaces where anyone can discover their potential and succeed. With a heart full of gratitude, Yadira honors her son Sebastian, whose unwavering love has been the light guiding her throughout this journey.
With over a decade of dedicated service as a teacher, Yadira has developed a profound understanding of children’s needs and the power of education to transform lives. She combines her teaching expertise with her counseling skills to nurture students’ academic growth and emotional wellbeing. Her commitment to community service shines through her volunteer work with The Love Fridge Chicago, Centro
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2025 Student Speaker
Shania Jones Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
This fall, she will begin her first full-time teaching role at Charles Evans Hughes Elementary School, located in the uprising North Lawndale community—a neighborhood she feels called to invest in by nurturing future generations. A proud first-generation graduate, Shania hopes her story inspires others to rise above doubt and walk boldly toward their purpose. Now pursuing her Master’s in Reading Education, she remains steadfast in her mission to learn, lead, and promote equity in every classroom she enters.
Shania Jones grew up on the South Side of Chicago and is graduating with a degree in Elementary Education. With six years of experience working with children—primarily in special education—she is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive spaces where all students can thrive. During her time at NLU, Shania earned uninterrupted Dean’s List distinction, was inducted into the Tau Sigma National Honor Society, and established
a peer support network to uplift fellow student teachers during their practicum experience.
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Perseverance Award
Kelly Wills Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D)
Kelly remained committed to her education with the immense support of her family and faculty at FSPP. She plans to further her work in the mental health field in private practice while continuing to turn adversity into purpose and strength.
Kelly Wills is graduating with her Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D) from National Louis University – Florida School of Professional Psychology and is the proud recipient of this year’s Perseverance Award. Throughout her academic journey, she faced and overcame significant medical and personal loss challenges with resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
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2025 Alumni Association Speaker
Delores Mays, Ph.D. Public Services Administrator President, NLU Alumni Association
a Master of Social Work Degree, and lastly, Dr. Delores Mays is a proud alumna of National Louis University where she had earned both a Master of Science Degree In Counseling and a Ph.D. in the Philosophy of Community Psychology. Dr. Delores Mays is a natural leader, a compassionate speaker, and Dr. Mays currently serves as the National Louis University’s Alumni Board President. She is also a Certified Addiction Counselor. Dr. Delores Mays’ personal Philosophy about life is that “No one person is responsible for the state of the world whether it be celebrated for its goodness or ridiculed for evil, however every one person is responsible for what they have contributed to the world’s physical state and human condition”.
Dr. Delores Mays is an expert in the field of Health and Human Services. She has more than 30 years of administrative and managerial experience working in both the private and public sectors. Dr. Mays is currently employed in the great state of Illinois as a Public Services Administrator where she provides consultation to qualified mental health professionals. She also conducts on-going research on evidence base practices in order to help enhance service delivery. Dr. Delores Mays’ academic achievements include being a proud alumna of Columbia College where she had earned a Bachelor of Liberal Arts Degree, a proud alumna of Governor State University where she’d earned
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2025 Alumni Association Speaker
Phillip Woods Executive Chef, Big Foot Country Club Board Member, NLU Alumni Association
Phillip Woods has spent the last 12 years in the private club sector, including seven years serving in a leadership role as Executive Chef. Prior to his culinary career, he held customer-facing leadership positions at Robert Half and Labor Ready in the staffing industry. Phillip has a proven track record of leading high-performing culinary teams with a leadership style rooted in mentorship and collaboration.
Across both the culinary and staffing sectors, his teams have consistently driven increased sales and customer satisfaction, while maintaining a strong focus on operational efficiency and worker safety. Outside of his professional life, Phillip is an avid fan of the Noir film genre and regularly attends film festivals. A passionate barbecue enthusiast, he enjoys crafting smoked meats with the precision and patience required for truly great low and slow barbecue. He also serves on the Alumni Board at National Louis University.
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2025 Alumni Association Speaker
DaZay Green Drama and Theatre Teacher, Butler College Prep High School
to the Black Scholars Educational Excellence Narrative.
DaZay Green, a proud South Side Chicago native, is dedicated to giving back to his community through the power of the arts. DaZay graduated from National Louis University with a degree in Applied Educational Studies with a Leadership Concentration. DaZay serves as the Drama and Theatre teacher at Butler College Prep High School, where he inspires students to express themselves and find their voice on stage and beyond. During his time at NLU, DaZay was deeply involved in campus life. He served as President of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, mentored first-year students, and contributed
He also founded and led the NLU Drama Club, using it as a platform to uplift student voices and promote diversity in the arts. Since graduating, DaZay has continued his mission of educational empowerment through original playwriting, community outreach, and arts-based leadership. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, with a vision to continue transforming education through creativity, inclusion, and purpose. DaZay believes every student is unique and deserves the chance to shine in their own spotlight.
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Doctor of Psychology Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
Nicole Burlingame
The Withdrawal from Afghanistan: Impacts on U.S. Veterans That Served in Afghanistan Chair: Dr. Sandra Zakowski Navigating Emotional Transitions: A Study of Self-Perception and Emotion in Bio-Childfree Women Entering a Blended Family Chair: Dr. Emese Vitalis Gender Differences in Perceived Organizational Support among Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Chair: Dr. Leah Horvath Patterns and Predictors of Police Officers’ Utilization of Healthcare Services Chair: Dr. Sandra Zakowski Effective and Empowering Psychotherapy for Black Women: A Proposed Framework Chair: Dr. Gary Howell Link Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Parenting Styles of African American Fathers Chair: Dr. Gary Howell
Janine Cednick
Elizabeth Gomez
Nicquelette Gregory
Kaylla Jackson
Tatianna Johnson
Charmagne King
The Correlation Between Depression and Gendered Racism Among Black Women Chair: Dr. Leah Horvath
Evan Miller
One Step Closer to Greater Understanding! Does a Correlation Exist Between Fluid Intelligence and Player Rank in League of Legends? Chair: Dr. Emese Vitalis
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Elizabeth Sanders
Infertility’s Impact on Couples’ Functioning Chair: Dr. Lisa Costas
Alicia Smith
Examining the Impact of Premature Death and Loss of the Black Male on the Black Family System and Community Chair: Dr. Gary Howell Useful Measures of Adult Attachment and Object Relations in Psychotherapy Chair: Dr. Kathie Bates A Qualitative Exploration of Intergenerational Trauma in Three Mexican Immigrant Families Chair: Dr. Leah Horvath A Review of the Role of Anxiety in Diagnosis of Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Paradigm Shift in Conceptualization and Diagnosis Chair: Dr. Lisa Costas Incorporating Meditation, Yoga, and Reiki Interventions to Reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Mood Symptoms Among the College Population Chair: Dr. Christina Brown Black Women, Black Pride, and Mental Health: How does the power of an African American Woman’s cultural pride impact her perceived barriers to mental health care? Chair: Dr. Brad Olson
Matilde Torallas Huerta
Azalia Torres
Evan Wahlquist
Kelly Wills
Lynnette Wright
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D. in Community Psychology
Angela Brown
Welfare Dependency and Issues of Policy for Low-Income Programming in America Chair: Dr. Brad Olson The Heart of the Defense: Exploring the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Competence, and Client-Centered Lawyering in Public Defense Chair: Dr. Ericka Mingo Chronic Stress, Obesity Pathogenesis, and the Moderating Effect of Internalized Weight Stigma: a Quantitative, Illinois Study Chair: Dr. Suzette Fromm Reed A Phenomenological Qualitative Study of Sense of Community in an Inner-City Parochial School: Expanding the Seats at the Table Chair: Dr. Ray Legler
Cherise Burdeen
Karyn Byrne
Mary Darnall
Sandra Desjardins
The Interplay of Strength Training, Self-Efficacy, Sense of Belonging, and Generational Perspectives on Anxiety Chair: Dr. Suzette Fromm Reed
Dominique Edwards
Land Access as Liberation: A Qualitative Study on Faith, Food, and Farming of Urban and Rural Black Land Stewards in the United States Chair: Dr. Brad Olson and Dr. Tiffeny Jimenez Building Bridges: Union Efforts to Address Stress Among Educational Staff Chair: Dr. Ray Legler It Bakes a Village: A Narrative Recipe Framework for a Culturally-Based Baking Program Chair: Dr. Brad Olson
Theodore Hamilton
Heidi Hedeker
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Mary Hescox
On the Road to Perdition: the Relationship Between Psychosocial Health, Trauma, and Political Ideals in White Americans Chair: Dr. Judah Viola Exploring the Relationship of Citizen Participation and Citizen Empowerment in the Community and Local Government Chair: Dr. Ray Legler A Phenomenological Examination of Experiences, Perceptions, and Reflections on Moral Injury by Combat Veterans: A Qualitative Study Chair: Dr. Suzette Fromm Reed Exploring The Relationship Between Black Women Reporting Experiencing Racially Biased Care and Health Outcomes Chair: Dr. Judah Viola The Montessori Secondary School Experience: A Mixed Methods Analysis Chair: Dr. Brad Olson Community and Developer Perspectives on Gentrification and Displacement Chair: Dr. Brad Olson Culturally Responsive Service Provision For African Immigrant Women Survivors Of Intimate Partner Violence (Ipv): Examining The Impact Of Cultural Norms And Psychosocial Barriers On Safety Perceptions And Help-Seeking Behaviors Chair: Dr. Judah Viola
Alicia Johnson
Richard Kallao
Cheryl Lucas-Robinson
Sara Motlagh
Johnny Mullins
Titilayo Ogunbambi
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Jumai Kaosarat Olumo-Saidu
The Impact of Female Genital Mutilation on Migrant Families: Insights from the African Migrant Community in Chicago Chair: Dr. Brad Olson Bridging the Gap: Exploring the Intersection of Formal Mental Health Services and Informal Social Supports in BIPOC Communities Chair: Dr. Ray Legler
Patrice Patton
Elisabeth Peloquin
The Impact of Restorative Practices Intervention on School Culture Chair: Dr. Ray Legler
Jacqueline Pettigrew
Religious Leadership and a Culture of Perfectionism: Social Environmental Effects on Leaders’ Ability to Practice Self-Care, and the Resulting Health Repercussions Chair: Dr. Judah Viola A Mixed Methods Analysis of the Privacy Dilemma: Convenience, Resignation, Accountability and Hope Chair: Dr. Brad Olson Leading Against the Current: How Black and Brown Women Navigate and Thrive in Educational Leadership Chair: Dr. Judah Viola Youth Perceptions of Youth Employment Initiatives and Attachment to Community as Determinants of Migration Decisions Among the Youth in Keta Municipality of Ghana Chair: Dr. Judah Viola
Jordan Tackett
Oriana Wilson
Fortune Zaglago
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Amanda Brown
Seen and Heard: A Visual Testimony of Purity Culture Using Qualitative Photovoice Methodology Chair: Dr. Tremaine Leslie
Shu-Han Huang
Shades of Families: Exploring Intersectionalities of Cross-Cultural Parenting Experiences in the U.S. Chair: Dr. Tremaine Leslie
Robert Lima
Counseling in the Space Between: Counselor Perceptions of Empathy and Therapeutic Alliance during Videoconferencing-Based Teleplay Therapy Sessions Chair: Dr. Martin Wesley Analyzing the Impact of Motivational Interviewing in a School Counseling Setting with Academically At-Risk High School Students Chair: Natasha Schnell
Brian Linhart
Elizabeth Lopez
The Influence of Mexican Culture on Help- Seeking Behaviors and Use of Mental Health Services Among Mexican Immigrants Living
in Midwestern America Chair: Dr. Tremaine Leslie
Dana Manzo
The Impact of Counseling Services and Campus Engagement on Academic Performance of Neurodiverse College Students Chair: Dr. Martin Wesley
Melissa Thorson
Intersecting Inequities: Latinx Access to Mental Health Services Chair: Dr. Laura Schmuldt
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GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP
Doctor of Business Administration DBA
Dorian Cornelius
Does Artificial Intelligence Bias Exist in Mortgage Underwriting Software? Investigating Bias, Regional Disparities, and Fair AI Models Chair: Dr. Marguerite Chabau The Role of Affordable Housing in Enhancing Tenants’ Economic Stability in Connecticut: A Focus on Income, Employment, and Housing Stability Chair: Dr. Marguerite Chabau
Osaid Zubi
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COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR SCIENCES
Doctor of Education Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Martha Jarmuz
An Exploration of Competency in Graduate Counseling Students Chair: Dr. Natasha Schnell
Yemilei Schroeder
A Phenomenological Inquiry into the Emotional Connection Between Bilingual ESL Individuals and Their Native Language: Implications for Counselor Education Chair: Dr. Angiemil Perez Pena
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NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Doctor of Education Ed.D. in Curriculum, Advocacy and Policy
Jordan Lanfair
Role-Ing While BIPOC: Understanding the Experiences of Table Top Roleplaying Game Players of Color Chair: Dr. Molly Buren Impact of Student Voice in the (Dis)Engagement of Middle School Students in Urban Elementary
Valandra Lloyd
Schools and Academic Achievement Chair: Dr. Todd Price and Dr. Angela Elkordy
Oana Manta
Enhancing Trauma-Informed Care in Head Start: The Role of Reflective Practice Chair: Dr. Todd Price An Expanding View of Math Workshop: Including Problem Posing During Problem Solving Chair: Dr. Todd Price Students’ Perspectives on Co-Creation Opportunities Within Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Level Education Preparation Programs Chair: Dr. Gloria McDaniel-Hall A Case Study of the Impact of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) on Academic Achievement in one Pre-K Classroom Chair: Dr. Ayn Keneman
Lee Tate
Lucille Taylor
Katy Wetter
Ed.D. in Disability and Equity in Education
Alexandra Correa
The Color of Discipline: A Look at the Impact of Disciplinary Actions on Minority Students in
Special Education Chair: Dr. Molly Buren
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NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Ed.D. in District Level Education Leadership
Margaret Alhasoon
School Leaders: English Learners’ Teaching Supports Chair: Dr. Christine Nelson Examining the Value of Industry-Recognized Certifications in Illinois Secondary Career and Technical Education Programs Chair: Dr. Christine Nelson
Nancy Awdziejczyk
Tamika Ball
Increasing Student Achievement Among Multilingual Learners Chair: Dr. Jason Stegemoller
Anthony Candela
Educator Wellness: An Examination of the Things We Need to Keep Talented Educators in the Profession and Impact Student Outcomes Chair: Dr. Elizabeth Minor The Role of Policy and Leadership in Embedding Social Emotional Learning for Systemic Change in Chicago’s Educational System Chair: Dr. Elizabeth Minor
Alexandra Dakessian
Zach Ernst
An Elementary Review of Multi-Tiered System of Support Chair: Dr. Donald Angelaccio
Belinda Jaquez
Uncovering Best Practices for Professional Learning: A Focus on Dialogic Discourse Chair: Dr. Jason Stegemoller
Amy Jefferson
An Evaluation of Programming Designed to Support Black Students: Effective Strategies for Social Emotional & Academic Progress Across School Districts Chair: Dr. Harrington Gibson
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NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Jeffrey Kersten
The Transition to Middle School: A Research Inquiry and Recommendations to Support At-Risk Students Chair: Dr. Elizabeth Minor Examining the Influence of Professional Learning Communities on Grit and Social- Emotional Skill Development in Students and Collective Teacher Efficacy Within a Middle School Chair: Dr. Geri Chesner The Impact of Restorative Practice Implementation on Culturally Responsive Teaching and Student Behavior Chair: Dr. Renee Gugel
Sam Kurtz
Patrice McCoy-Booth
Mariana Nicasio
Instructional Coaching: Understanding the Impact, Overcoming Barriers, and
Getting It Done Right Chair: Dr. Elizabeth Minor
Lisa Niforatos
The Impact of Unstructured Student Mobility in an Elementary Setting Chair: Dr. Elizabeth Minor
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NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Shirley Roberson
The Role of Instructional Coaches in the Development of Early Literacy Skills in Elementary School Teachers Chair: Dr. Renee Gugel Transformational Leadership Teams and Implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support [MTSS] in the Context of an Urban All-Male Catholic High School: Bridging the Gap to Academic Identity and Student Efficacy Chair: Dr. Harrington Gibson The Relationship Between Parental Involvement and Student Achievement Chair: Dr. Geri Chesner A Comparison of the Factors that Affect Graduation Rates of Students Enrolled in Dropout Prevention Programs Chair: Dr. Stefanie Shames
Michael Rodrigo
Markeise Russell
Catina Thomason
35
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration
Vanessa Beckett
Building Capacity in Elementary Content Specialization: A Framework For Long-Term Success Chair: Dr. Christie McMullen
Rachel Chappell
Oral Language in a Literacy-Based Intervention Chair: Dr. Carla Sparks
Wendell Dorsey
The Academic Performance Comparisons Among Cultural Subgroups of Middle School Students in the United States Chair: Dr. Carla Sparks
Lisa Fisher
Sustained Effects of Reading Recovery: Beyond the Intervention Chair: Dr. Carla Sparks
Latanya Giles
The Disproportionate Placement of Black Males in Special Education Chair: Dr. Carla Sparks A Phenomenological Study of School Staff Perceptions of the Threat and Prevention of School Violence Chair: Dr. Lorrie Butler Evaluation of Educator Outcomes of Teaching Social-Emotional Learning, Mindfulness, and Life Skills Chair: Dr. Lorrie Butler
Rebecca Linton
Gary McCarthy
Lara McElveen
Social Media and the Effects on Student Engagement Chair: Dr. Lorrie Butler
36
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Cheryl Morgan
An Evaluation of Career and Technical Vocational Education (CTE) Programs Chair: Dr. Stefanie Shames
Lori Rath Minton
An Investigation into the Effectiveness of High School Models of Instruction in English Language Arts for Exceptional Education Standard Diploma Students Chair: Dr. Stefanie Shames Empowering Educational Leaders: Enhancing Administrative Leaders’ Effectiveness through Strategic Professional Development Chair: Dr. Christie McMullen An Evaluation of the English Language Learner and English Language Learner-Exceptional Student Services Program at One Charter School Chair: Dr. Lorrie Butler Addressing Challenges Encountered by English as a Second Language Learners (ELL) in Grades K - 2 Chair: Dr. Lorrie Butler
Elizabeth Reed
Everlie Vassor
Pierre-Nola Vassor
37
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Ed.D. in Leadership for Learning and Organization Development
Dominique Allen
An Evaluation of the Equity Framework in a Large Urban District and Its Impact on School Disciplinary Practices Chair: Dr. Harrington Gibson The Impact of Professional Development of Effective Teachers in Low-Performing Schools Chair: Dr. Carla Sparks Creating a College-Going Culture in Schools for Black Boys Chair: Dr. Harrington Gibson
Brian Gibson
Dennis Lacewell
Lanita Lucas
Minoritized Women and Perceived Barriers to Leadership Roles in Education Chair: Dr. Lorrie Butler
Elisabeth Trost
Understanding the Afghan Newcomer Experience from the Perspectives of
Teachers and Students Chair: Dr. Christine Nelson
Matthew Wester
A Descriptive Case Study of an Innovative, University-Based Coaching System For Resident Teachers Chair: Dr. Harrington Gibson
Ed.D. in Post Secondary Teaching and Instructional Leadership
Kyle Hobbs
Improving Academic Success and Student Persistence at a Rural, Private Post-Secondary Institution Chair: Dr. Stuart Carrier
38
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration
Kwtay Calvin
Perception Matters: A Case Study Exploring How Belief Systems Affect Family-School Partnerships and Family Literacy Initiatives in a Title I School Chair: Dr. Sophie Degener
Ed.D. in School Level Leadership
Gabriela Aguirre
Little Learners, Big Feelings: Navigating Behavior Strategies in Early Childhood Education Chair: Dr. Elizabeth Minor Here Be Dragons: The Barriers of Korean American Female Leaders in Secondary Schools Chair: Dr. Gloria McDaniel-Hall
Joyce Kim
Ed.D. in Strategic Educational Leadership
Luleta Dardovski
Protective Play: The Impact of a Before-School Play Program on Sixth-Grade Students’ Social-
Emotional Well-Being Chair: Dr. Geri Chesner
Chloe Kiser
Technology Infusion in Higher Education Curriculum: A Case Study of the Strategic Educational Leadership Program Chair: Dr. Geri Chesner
39
GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP
Doctor of Education Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership
Jeri Bingham
Differences are not Deficits: Women Introverting While Black Through the Ascent to Executive Leadership in Higher Education Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard Through the Wire: Examining the Experiences of Formerly Incarcerated Students in Prison Education Programs and the Wraparound Services Needed to Support Their Success. Chair: Dr. Ignacio Lopez Influential Factors in Faculty Perception and Support of Pedagogical and Institutional Psychological Capital Interventions Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard Exploring the Lived Experience of Black Gay Males that Attended or Attend an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard Chronically Underfunded: A State Fails to Fulfill Responsibilities, A University Struggles Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard The Battle is Not Ours!: The Impact of Racial Battle Fatigue on the Career Trajectory of Black Women Administrators at Predominantly White Institutions Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard Understanding How Community College Students Navigate Their Goals, Challenges, and College Experience in the Context of Text Nudges Chair: Dr. Stuart Carrier
Isabel Castro
Rachel Ersing
Sonya Fitzpatrick
David Gorton
Tonishea Jackson
Kevin Li
40
GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP
Amanda Means
College Choice Factors of Division II Student-Athletes Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard
Angelette Prichett
Exploring Perceptions of Workload and Leadership Inequities of Black Women in Higher Education Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard Black Educators in Indiana: Barriers to Pursuing and Persisting in a Career in Education Chair: Dr. Jaclyn Rivard
Cayla Wise
Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership
Elfego Gallardo
Assessing Alexithymia in Law Enforcement: The Role of Service Tenure and Sex Chair: Dr. Kent Provost The Effectiveness of MBSR on the Occupational Stress Levels of Correctional Officers Chair: Dr. Kent Provost
Nikolas Kerr
41
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Education Specialist Ed.S. in Reading, Language and Literacy
Joao Goebel
Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction with Advanced Professional Specializations
Georgianna Monnier Esther Muppidi Aimee Murillo Jill Neish Wendy Ovalle Jillian Pinnock Delanie Preston Blanca Rodriguez Jada Russell Tanisha Sanderson Kimberly Sawyer Delaney Schneider Cortney Sindelar Kara Smith
Sharice Holloway Heidi Hoppe Stefany Horn Susana Ibanez Rheanna Johnson Bria Kitching Sarah Koza Cynthia Lunn-Romer Lauren Martin Tateayanna Martinez
Lukmon Jermaine Adebayo Charmaine Allen Kristen Anderson Yerelyn Benzel Sade Brown Simms Alberto Cardozo Duarte Holli Clark Barbara Evans Patricia Fuentes Kanesha Gonzalez Oscar Gonzalez Jr. Mary Hansard Fredericka Hardaway
Nicole McCraney Da’Vya McMillan Takyra McMillon Carol Mejia
42
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Esbeidi Zavala Laura Zuppa
Paula Van Hagey Jesus Vera Amanda Yee Lilibeth Zaragoza
Jill Stone Angela Thomas
Ashley Toms Julie Tziolas
Ed.S. in District Level Educational Leadership
Maria Martin
Martina Smith
Ed.S. in Educational Leadership
Rickeyah Jackson Angeleigh James-Norwood Randie Johnson Bre’Ann Jones Agnes Juarez Vicky Karahalios Chay King Annie Kinsey Anna Kopacz Larissa Lizarraga
David Ford Megan Forrest Lisa Freidenfelds Debra Gibbs Megan Grabbe Sharee Greenwood Steven Greer Imani Hicks-Spears
Natia Brownlee Erin Buddy Christina Buelow Tiffany Burns-Cooper Kandyce Bynum Aimee Coon Britt Czupryna Antonio DiCristofano
Julia Huffman Brigette Hurst Stephanie Hurst
Ronecia Duprat Stacey Fischels Angela Flores
43
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Austin Scott Hetal Shah Anabel Stelmaszek Kristina Tinsley Jamie Trost Caylee Villegas Taureen Whiteman Paul Zanotti
Tricia Oconnor Draylon Patterson Margaret Peter Maggie Price Devon Radford Monique Ramsey Marquita Reese Michelle Rodriguez Krista Rowland
Melissa Lundgaard Michelle Lyle Jacklyn Mancilla Rebecca Mardula Meghan McGovern Caitlin Molinaro Rachel Moore Rachel Mutter McKeon Pamela Noble
Ed.S. in Education Leadership and Administration
Jomane Thompson Dorothy Turner Latisha Valentine Sarah Valls-Rivera Micketa Warner
Nayrobi Perez Zaneta Schaffer Julia Schaffer
Equitia Armour Dominique Brown Jennifer Kynerd
Melodi Smith Serena Sowin
Beatrice Noad Monica Parker
Ed.S. in Reading Specialist
Breyon Brown
Jacquelyn Calderon
Sarah Hepner
44
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Ed.S. in School Psychology
Jaleigh Sanders Grace Schendel Sarah Stevenson Hailey Strimpel Amanda Taggart Jocelyn Vo
Asha Jaleel Nicole Koeplin Kelly Kolpack Nicola Nelson Jennifer Ouellette Roxana Pagan Humberto Rosado Sanchez
Katelyn Bayne Adam Burke Kaitlin Coan Tania Corujo Colleen Evola Vanessa Gallegos Nicole Ann Gorospe Cosheka Hughes
Kerri Walisch Nealia Wright
Ed.S. in Strategic Educational Leadership
Tamika Robinson
Nour Sayes
Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership
Christina Jou-Kim
45
GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP
Education Specialist Ed.S. in Higher Education Leadership
Caprice Butts Monica Montgomery
Kaycee Sakal Brandon Sparkman
Ed.S. in Postsecondary Teaching and Instructional Leadership
Mary Tillery
46
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Master of Education M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with Advanced Professional Specializations
Alyssa Donton Nicole Dormeier Amanda Dudgeon Yesenia Esparza-La Fronza Dulce Fajardo Deandra Focht Stephanie Franklin Dirlene Freitas Ariana Galle Miriam Galva Vanessa Garay-Meza Heather Garrett Phil Gary Morgan George Tori Georgopulos
Elaine Campbell Sandra Candelas Carmichael Carrick Michelle Carter Natalia Castro-Molina Heather Caucci Alexandria Chandler Kevin Choe Lucy Christianson
Maria Abarca Arellano Kristin Abbott Malak Ahmad Samantha Akouris Betsy Alderman Yessenia Arenas Jessica Askar Megan Aurrichio Jolie Avant Jordan Bartels Marializa Batiller Forouzan Behnia Victoria Bevilacqua Megan Biehl
Aubrey Ciesiun Carolyn Clauser Annabella Colucci Ashleigh Couty Katelynn Cox Sarah Cucco Ana Cuevas Jasmine Daudelin Karen David Erin Dawe Sharon Dershin Samantha Deyo Dana Dombkowski
Meriem Boufetta Jessica Breede Kaitlin Bridges Stacy Brockway Amy Brynda Chloe Burken Amanda Burt Jaymie Callahan
Jami Gibbs Billy Glaser Victor Gomez
Francisco Gonzalez Lauren Goodsnyder Lindsey Gorse
47
NATIONAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
May Ling Sarah Loessl Katelyn Luckey Katelyn Malartsik Rachael Manley Jessica Manrriquez Caron Matthews Jennel Mead Elizabeth Meraz-Lechuga Jessica Meza Sara Mielke Fatima Mohiuddin Christal Monasterio Catherine Moreano Hayley Murphy Therese Myers Sonja Nasiopulos Jennifer Navarrete Alyssa Nicholson Michell Nies Stacie Nikkel
George Kennedy Mary Jo Kent Jennifer Kerr Harpreet Khanna Heather Kijewski Kathryn Knudson
Kaitlin Gragson Allison Greenwood Linnea Grooms Marilyn Gutierrez Tait Hagen Catherine Hayes Jackelyn Hernandez Lupita Hernandez Sheri Highland Jessica Hilario Kyler Hughes Kathryn Hurman Emily Iannucci Mark Imber Tekeyla Jackson Katelyn Jilek Naomi Johanson Rebecca Johnson Lori Jordan Necole Jordan Katherine Kendryna
Lindsay Kobus Alexandra Kocis Heather Kolaski Jocelyn Kollath Chilson Alyssa Kordopitoulas
Dena Korompilas Laura Koterbski Kathleen Kreisel Emily Kronlage Alexandria Kusek An La Sylwia Laniewski Tammy Lawson Monica Limon Jodie Limperis
48
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