Silver Cross CEO Colby wins 2021 Athena Award
For her contributions to the community and as a mentor to other women aspiring to leadership, Silver Cross President and CEO Ruth Colby earned the 34th annual ATHENA Award.
The award honors female leaders who demonstrate the highest levels of professional excellence, contribute time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community and actively assist others, particularly women, in realizing their full leadership potential.
Colby accepted her award from the Joliet Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Council of Working Women on Sept. 15.
“I found my passion and my purpose — working at a not-forprofit that positively impacted individuals and the community at large,” Colby said. “These remain my passions and priorities at Silver Cross. For me, finding a purpose and being passionate about the work gives me the energy to show up every day, commit to do my best and withstand the storms, whether it’s a tornado or a pandemic.”
Colby joined Silver Cross in 2005 as chief strategy officer and was named president and CEO in 2017.
New Frankfort police sergeant sworn in
At the Sept. 20 Frankfort Village Board meeting, Officer Kevin Lanz took the oath of office to become the newest police sergeant for the village of Frankfort.
Lanz began his career in law enforcement in 2000 as a patrol officer after receiving his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and business administration from Winona State University. In his 21 years with the Frankfort Police Department, Lanz held many appointed positions. He also has been recognized for his leadership and performance in the line of duty and has received lifesaving awards and a meritorious service medal.
Charleston named to Bob Jones University band and choir
Bethany Charleston, a resident of New Lenox, has been named to the Bob Jones University Symphonic Wind Band. The Symphonic Wind Band is BJU’s top-performing instrumental ensemble. Charleston was also named to the Lyric Choir, BJU’s all-women music ensemble. She is a junior majoring in music education.
Southern New Hampshire University summer 2021 president’s list
Chicago: Nelson Holmes; Chicago Heights: Mechell Hardiman, RaSheeda Walker; Crete: Chris Hixson; Frankfort: Mary Ragona; Hickory Hills: Elysha Kracke; Homer Glen: Peyton Artus, Arthur Kolodziej; Homewood: Darlene Isom, Brittany McLaurin, Myesha White; Lockport: Christopher Tedor; Lynnwood: Lakecia Parker; New Lenox: Courtney Hinz, Robert Yuska; Oak Forest: Lana Steffan; Oak Lawn: Courtney Sanfilippo; Orland Hills: Daniel Novak; Orland Park: Ashlyn Griffin; Park Forest: Mia Nash; Posen: Elizabeth Meza; Richton Park: LaTasha Bullock; South Chicago Heights: Alesha Posey, Cory Roeske
Frankfort Square School students complete summer reading challenge
Frankfort Square School Principal
Jason Isdonas and Reading Specialist Kristen Jastrzab invited students at Frankfort Square School to participate in a summer reading challenge and 19 completed the task. Those 19 students included, Max Arias, Isabella Cash, Aliyah Cheval, Caleb Dvorkin, Nolan Dvorkin, David Glick, Aubree Grant, Haylee Grant, CJ Hawkins, Alexander Heitner, Isabella Heitner, Louie Jones, Max Kain, Alexis Knor, Gracie Schnolis, Gavin Tobias, Emma Walton and Bronson Wohlberg.
The Citadel spring 2021 dean’s list
Kyle Kras, Tinley Park
Bellarmine University summer dean’s list
Tori Quinlan, Orland Park
Illinois Central College summer dean’s list
Armando Avalos, Orland Hills
Seton Hall University spring dean’s list
Evergreen Park: Julia Brosnahan; New Lenox: Sebastian Kopec
Southern Illinois University — Edwardsville summer dean’s list
Chicago: Claire Choi, Teighlor Traywick; Kankakee: Annalee Grosso; Matteson: Justin M. Jubert