Alumni Association Board Members

Dr. Toya Garnes has graciously served as the Governors State University Alumni Association’s Co-Chair for 1.5 years. Dr. Garnes earned her Master of Health Science in 2008 and then her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University. Before attending Governors State University, she received her Bachelor of Science from Olivet Nazarene University. Dr. Garnes is a proud member of the International Chiropractors Association, Rotary Club, Illinois Chiropractic Society, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

Kimberly Gonzalez, Associate Director of Alumni Relations at Governors State University, is a proud alumna dedicated to strengthening alumni connections. A 2017 GovState graduate (B.A. in Psychology), she spent six years in the Center for Performing Arts before transitioning to alumni relations in 2022. She leads outreach, events, and career programs to engage alumni and foster lifelong connections. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Communication, Kimberly remains committed to building a strong alumni network.

Gillian is a marketing enthusiast passionate about design, mentorship, and community engagement. Her goal is to inspire and drive meaningful engagement that leads to lasting success.

"Procrastination is the thief of time and opportunity."
- Jeffrey Buford

Dr. James A. Munz brings over 40 years of healthcare experience to his classroom instruction. He has held executive leadership roles in physician relations, recruitment, and business development at Advocate Health, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, and Ingalls Memorial Hospital. Most recently, he served as a Senior University Lecturer in Governors State University’s Health Administration Program, ensuring curriculum alignment with CAHME accreditation standards. Currently, Dr. Munz is an adjunct professor at Loyola University Chicago, Aurora University, and Moraine Valley Community College, teaching health administration and clinical programs. He holds a Bachelor of Allied Health Science and a Master of Health Administration from Governors State University, and a Doctorate in Business Administration with a specialization in Health Administration from Northcentral University.

Peter Brassea ’22 earned his Master of Social Work from Governors State University in May 2022, specializing in Practice with Children and Families. As the graduate student speaker at GovState’s Spring 2022 Commencement, he shared his inspiring journey from earning his GED at 17 to becoming a first-generation college graduate.

After graduation, Peter worked as a Program Therapist at Silver Oaks Behavioral Hospital, providing patient assessments, consultations, and treatment planning. In December 2023, he obtained his Licensed Social Worker (LSW) certification, and he now serves as a Clinical Case Manager in the Behavioral Health Unit at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL, where he continues his commitment to patient care and mental health advocacy.

Lester (Van) Moody is a dedicated advocate for student success, committed to helping students navigate and excel in their college careers. A Governors State University alumnus, he earned a BBA in Finance and later obtained a Master’s in Educational Leadership-Higher Education Administration from Chicago State University.

As a Retention Coach for General Studies students, Van provides guidance and support to promote academic success. A former student trustee, he remains passionate about mentorship, leadership, and higher education advancement.

With 28 years of experience in the U.S. Marine Corps, supply chain leadership, and entrepreneurship, Marc Brajkovich now serves as Assistant Terminal Manager at Estes Express Lines. Committed to leveraging an MBA and leadership skills, Marc actively supports GovState’s leadership, student-athletes, staff, alumni, and community. Outside of work, the greatest achievement is raising two children, Bradley and Brooke, with a spouse of 26 years, Kristin Brajkovich.

Bridget Drury-Guerra is the Associate Director of Scholar Supports and Wellness at Chicago Scholars, a non-profit organization that provides support to first generation college students as they transition into college, persist through college, and begin their careers. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Governors State University and went on to receive her master's degree in organizational leadership from North Central College (NCC). Bridget is also a part of the alumni board at NCC, and volunteers across several organizations in Chicago to support first-generation professionals like herself. Outside of work- Bridget enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her husband Jacob, a fellow GovState alumnus, with their two dogs, Oliver and Mabel.

Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons, ‘19, is a graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a minor in dance. Isabella was the first person to graduate with a minor in dance from Governors State and worked collaboratively with faculty in the program to introduce the minor to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. As an alumna, Isabella works at Governors State as the university's Social Media & Brand Assurance Manager. She has a strong passion for the performing arts industry and shares her knowledge and passion for dance education across the country. Her influence extends to the role of a dance competition judge and choreographer, inspiring others with her dedication to the art of dance.

Rene Rivas is a graduate of the Governors State University College of Business, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. As a financial advisor with Bank of America Merrill, Rene helps individuals and families navigate their financial goals with confidence. He actively gives back to the community through volunteer work with organizations such as Junior Achievement of Chicago, providing financial literacy workshops to local students. Rene also recently served as a mentor in the GSU College of Business Mentorship Program, supporting current students in their academic and professional growth. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, playing soccer, and creating art or singing with his daughter.

Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons is a first-generation entrepreneur and passionate advocate for youth, dedicated to serving the next generation holistically. A serial entrepreneur and success enthusiast, Jarrell thrives on connecting with influential individuals, learning from their experiences, and sharing encouragement, hope, and guidance with those around him. Through Harris Enterprise, he provides programs that support young lives with homeschooling, tutoring, and annual summer camps, mentors young men through Empowering Males, Inc., and offers development workshops and consulting through Consult with Harris. Jarrell finds joy in seeing others succeed and is committed to pouring into the lives of young people and peers alike. He was recognized as a Rising Star in the Distinguished Class of 2023 by the Alumni Association at GovState, and he continues to inspire and uplift his community.

Stefany Sigler's college journey began at Joliet Junior College (JJC) and took off when she discovered the Dual Degree Program (DDP), a unique partnership between GovState and 17 Chicagoland community colleges that provides transfer students with a seamless pathway to earn quality, accessible, and affordable associate and bachelor's degrees. As a first-generation student, DDP provided Stefany with the resources and support to successfully complete her Associate of Arts degree at JJC and then her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at GovState. Stefany’s involvement in DDP and engagement on campus at GovState made her realize her passion for serving students, which led her to continue her studies at North Central College where she completed her Master of Leadership Studies with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership. Stefany is grateful to now serve at GovState as a Graduate Academic Advisor for the College of Arts and Sciences and to have the opportunity to give back to the institution that so profoundly impacted her journey. In addition to her passion for higher education, Stefany also enjoys traveling, good food, and spending quality time with her family, friends, and dogs: Lily, Sookie, and Georgie.

Danielle Terry is an experienced assistant researcher with a demonstrated history of working in higher education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from Governors State University and a master’s degree in Higher Educational Leadership from North Central College. Danielle is skilled in conflict resolution, group discussions, relationship building, public speaking, and leadership development coaching. She is committed to supporting student success, fostering collaborative learning environments, and advancing research initiatives that strengthen the higher education community.

Interested in Joining the Board?

We’re looking for passionate alumni who want to give back, stay connected, and help shape the future of our alumni community. If you're interested in serving on the Alumni Association Board, please contact Kimberly Gonzalez at cgonzalez6@govst.edu to learn more about the process and upcoming opportunities.

Eligibility:

• • Must be a graduate of the institution
• • Prior involvement with the university or Alumni Relations
• • Passion for supporting the university’s mission
• • Professional experience (preferred)

Commitments:

• • Attend regular board meetings (quarterly)
• • Serve on at least one committee
• • Support fundraising efforts (personal donation included)
• • Represent the alumni association at university events
• • Contribute to strategic planning and goal-setting
• • Volunteer time, skills, or mentorship

Term Structure:

• • 4-year term (with possible renewal)

Jocelyn Bell is the Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator at Governors State University. Passionate about engagement and storytelling, she connects alumni through newsletters, social media, and events. Currently pursuing her MBA at GovState, she is committed to strengthening alumni relationships and keeping the Jaguar community engaged.