IASPA Award Winners

Kathleen serves as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at CCSD 62.  She has served in many roles for IASPA.  Her belief in collaboration strengthens the HR community, both locally and statewide.  Kathleen's mentees praise her honest, judge free guidance, genuine care, and encouragement.  She goes above and beyond to ensure others succeed.  Her "better together" philosophy is a cornerstone of her work.  Kathleen's exceptional mentorship, leadership, and generosity makes her a deserving recipient of the mentor award.  Her impact inspires everyone fortunate enough to work with her.

Gabe serves as Director of Human Resources at Beach Park District 3 and oversees recruitment, retention, policy development, and enhancing workplace culture.  Gabe has emerged as an engaged leader and invaluable contributor.  Serving on IAPSA's Communications and Mentor Committees, Gabe fosters member connections and supports new professionals in school personnel administration.  His impactful presentations, including "Student Teachers A-Z" and "ROE Audit Unveiled" offer strategies on critical topics, earning him widespread respect.

Bonnie’s exceptional leadership and innovative contributions to school personnel administration set a high standard in the field. As Executive Director of the Philip J. Rock Center, she has developed creative strategies to recruit and retain skilled educators for specialized roles serving students who are deaf-blind. Her targeted recruitment efforts, mentorship programs, and focus on professional development have fostered thriving environments for educators and students.

Beyond staffing, Bonnie’s strategic vision has driven advancements at the Rock Center, including a major modernization project and partnerships like the one with Morton Arboretum. A longtime contributor to IASPA, Bonnie generously shares her expertise, inspiring excellence in hiring practices across Illinois.

Dr. Danielle Carter exemplifies leadership and innovation in school personnel administration. As IASPA Secretary and Chair of Webinar Wednesdays and Administrator Academies, she has expanded professional learning, transforming Webinar Wednesdays into a key resource for HR leaders statewide. She also played a pivotal role in IASPA’s strategic plan and contributes regionally through NEIASPA and NWPA while promoting diversity nationally on AASPA’s Leon Bradley Scholarship Committee.

At Grayslake D127, Dr. Carter fosters positive workplace cultures through climate surveys, leader coaching, and mentorship, driving employee satisfaction. A sought-after presenter, she empowers HR professionals with practical strategies on investigations, just cause, and leadership. Known for her empathy and passion, Dr. Carter’s dedication to inclusion and service makes her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Barbara exemplifies excellence in education law with her expertise and dedication to supporting school districts and municipalities. As a partner at Hodges, Loizzi, Eisenhammer, Rodick & Kohn, she provides vital guidance in labor relations, employee discipline, and compliance, helping clients navigate complex legal challenges.

A sought-after presenter at IASPA, IASBO, IASA, and IASB conferences, Barb empowers HR professionals with actionable strategies on topics like superintendent contracts and employee accommodations. Her role on IASPA’s “Ask Anything” panel and insightful articles offer practical solutions and risk mitigation.