BLOOMINGTON — Educators are tasked with making sure students know how to add and subtract, read and write, understand history and draw scientific conclusions. But there are many other life lessons to be learned, like: "Be kind to yourself and others." "Run your own race." "Your voice is just as important as anyone else in the room." "Never stop learning."
In honor of Women's History Month, here are five McLean County educators using their guidance and knowledge to empower today's kids and teens into tomorrow's leaders.
Diane Wolf
About Diane: Diane, now retired, was assistant superintendent of Bloomington District 87 from 2018-2023; assistant superintendent of the Regional Office of Education 17 from 2010-2018; adjunct professor at Illinois State University for various years; professional development coordinator with the ROE from 2003-2010; a teacher at Bloomington High School from 1992-2003; and assistant director of campus safety at ISU from 1989-2003. She’s also served on various committees over the years, including United Way of McLean County, Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, advisory to Chi Omega Fraternity, Heartland Community College 5K chairperson, McLean County Health Department, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), volunteer coach for Heartland cross country teams, and PTO at Brigham and Cedar Ridge schools.
Teaching is my passion. It's a profession that grants me the privilege of engaging with brilliant minds among both my students and colleagues. I firmly believe that a robust public school system forms the foundation of any thriving community. Transitioning from a teacher to an administrator has provided me with a profound perspective on McLean County and the remarkable possibilities that emerge when individuals unite in pursuit of a shared objective. As an educator, I have the opportunity to fulfill my mission of empowering and nurturing others to reach their fullest potential.
Tell us about your mentors or role models.
The guiding lights in my life have been my great-grandmother, grandmother and mother, who epitomized the essence of putting family first and leaving a lasting impact on their communities. In my professional journey, I've been fortunate to have mentors like Sally Tucker, former District 87 assistant superintendent, and Jane Compagna Reggio, my first professional female mentor at ISU, who both have offered invaluable guidance and insight. Additionally, my enduring book club of over 25 years serves as a joyful reminder to find pleasure in the pursuit of our goals.
A commendable leader prioritizes both the organization's mission and the growth of the individuals carrying out the work. They excel in collaboration, attentive listening and providing encouragement. Leaders who exhibit negativity, criticism and condescension fail to inspire followership. Instead, effective leaders understand the necessity of pairing high expectations with ample support. They recognize the value in considering problems from diverse perspectives, knowing that this approach yields optimal outcomes.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Without a shadow of doubt, my most significant achievement is motherhood. Raising two daughters who embody independence, compassion, love and support fills me with immense pride. Regardless of the challenges I faced in my professional life, returning home to my husband, Ty, and my daughters never failed to elevate my day to greatness.
What is your hope for women 100 years from now?
I aspire for women and men alike to envision a world characterized by kindness and fairness, where open and honest expression of opinions thrives, free from mistrust or deceit. Additionally, my hope is for all individuals to experience reciprocal love from those they hold dear.
Julie Navickas
About Julie: Julie is a novel/book author; a communications professor at Illinois State University; and vice president of external communication with the Central Illinois Communication Association of Bloomington.
What words of wisdom do you have for young girls or women in today’s world?
Find your voice. Words matter; they have meaning and hold power. I learned this too late in life. When I think about girls navigating the world today, I want them to know that their voice is just as important as anyone else in the room. In the classroom, I often share this message and hope that the example I set resonates. Write. Speak. Share stories. Because they matter.
What’s still on your to-do list in life? What are your goals?
As a published author of contemporary romance, I’m proud of the success my stories have achieved so far. My latest release hit the top 100 romance novels on Amazon, earning me the title of best-selling author. But I have another (bigger!) goal. I’d like to make it on the USA Today best-sellers list. This list requires 6,000 purchases in the first week of a book’s release. It’s a big goal, but it’s something I’m actively working toward and feel confident that one day I’ll achieve it.
What do you think makes a good leader?
A good leader listens. They’re transparent and willing to solicit feedback during times of change and transition. The best leaders (in my opinion) coach those around them to identify a strong resolution. A good leader is present and has a strong understanding of emotional intelligence. I’ve had many strong leaders in my life, and all of them have exemplified these qualities.
Who is a woman in history that you admire, and why?
Fran Walsh. She’s a New Zealand-based screenwriter and film producer. Her contributions to “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies are often overlooked — overshadowed even — because of Peter Jackson’s known name in cinema. As a female storyteller, she helped bring my favorite stories to life. I fell in love with J.R.R. Tolkien’s lore as a child and to this day, still read and watch the epic films annually. I admire Fran for her contributions in a heavily dominated male industry.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m proud of my published novels. When I first started writing, it was intended as a creative outlet during the challenging days of the early COVID-19 pandemic. It grew to be much more, though! I’m proud of the stories I’ve written, but I’m also proud of overcoming the fear of sharing them with the world. It’s difficult to put yourself out there. Thanks to Inkspell Publishing, the Trading Heartbeats and the Clumsy Little Hearts trilogies can be purchased everywhere books are sold — and that means anyone can read and share their feedback, for better of worse.
Tracy Freeman
About Tracy: Tracy was a social studies teacher for over 30 years, retiring from Normal West High School. She’s an instructional coach with the Illinois Civics Hub; works with students through the Town of Normal’s Youth on a Mission program; mentors student teachers at Illinois State and Illinois Wesleyan universities; and is active in the Illinois Education Association, mentoring teachers in social studies education.
What inspires you in your work?
I am inspired by our youth and the future. I am so frustrated to hear people (adults) criticize an entire generation based on a few or what is on TV. We have amazing young people, and with them being taught civics and to have a dialogue, I have full faith that things can be handled! I am inspired to support opening doors and opportunities for future leaders.
What do you think makes a good leader?
I just heard historian Dorris Kearns Goodwin speak, and she summed it up well. She said qualities of a great leader are humility, empathy, resilience, accessibility, communicator, and ambition for something larger than yourself. I believe these qualities, and especially the ambition for something larger, are so important!
Who is a woman in history that you admire, and why?
This is hard! Abigail Adams, Pauli Murray, Fannie Lou Hamer, Eleanor Roosevelt, and if I have to pick one — Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She overcame many obstacles and stayed true to her beliefs, opening doors for others (ambition for something larger).
“Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
“Women belong in all the places where decisions are being made.”
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud that I was able to support students as they discovered their voice in the political process. I have seen conservative and liberal students (and in between) have civil dialogue on a variety of topics. They have found common ground and united in causes as well as agreed to respectfully disagree. They learn to value those who have chosen to serve in office while questioning their policies. They have learned to value local and state officials as much as national.
What can people do to support your efforts at work or in the community?
Support programs that keep our youth engaged. Teach them what they need to know to advocate for their beliefs (not what to believe). I have found a local youth program with the Town of Normal doing just that (Youth on a Mission) and am advocating to keep it funded! So many of these programs impact our future leaders and are on the chopping block of budget cuts.
Kristen Weikle
About Kristen: Dr. Weikle has been an educator for 26 years and is the 13th superintendent of McLean County Unit 5. She previously served as superintendent at Warrensburg-Latham CUSD 11 and as director of special education for the Special Education Association of Adams County. Originally from a farm outside of Quincy, she also was principal in Quincy Public Schools and an adjunct professor at John Wood Community College in Quincy. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education and a master's degree in education with a focus on curriculum and instruction from Quincy University. She later received her doctorate in educational leadership from Western Illinois University. She was recognized as a “20 under 40” by both the Herald & Review in Decatur and the Quincy Herald-Whig.
What inspires you in your work?
Our students inspire what I do every day. I want every student to walk into school knowing they are cared about, supported, and capable of achieving their dreams.
Tell us about your mentors or role models.
I have a lot of respect for Christie Bliven, a friend and colleague, who is one of the most positive individuals I know while also serving as a strong educational leader. I also admire Hoda Kotb, who has overcome personal and professional challenges and remains positive and genuine in a field she loves.
What words of wisdom do you have for young girls or women in today’s world?
Be kind to yourself and others. Everyone can benefit from having more positive thoughts and self-talk in their lives.
What do you think makes a good leader?
A good leader cares about those they work with and for. They are looking ahead to see what the opportunities and potential obstacles are while also being fully engaged in the present.
What can people do to support your efforts at work or in the community?
Connect with the young people in our community and help support and guide them as they navigate their youth and enter into adulthood.
Cameo Williams
About Cameo: Cameo is assistant principal at Pepper Ridge Elementary School in Bloomington.
What inspires you in your work?
The joy of connecting with children and witnessing their growth and happiness is what fuels my inspiration. There's not a day that goes by that you won't see me in the hallways loving on kids. Every moment spent nurturing their curiosity, offering guidance and sharing in their laughter reminds me of the profound impact we can have on shaping their futures. It's a privilege to be part of their journey, watching them learn, explore and develop into confident individuals filled with boundless potential. This connection with students ignites a passion within me that continually drives me forward and fills my heart with purpose.
As a Black administrator, I cherish the opportunity to serve as a mirror for students of color, reflecting their potential, resilience and worth. My presence in a leadership role not only provides representation but also empowers students to embrace their identities with pride and confidence. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where all students feel seen, heard and valued. By sharing my experiences, advocating for their needs and championing their success, I strive to inspire and uplift the next generation of leaders.
What words of wisdom do you have for young girls or women in today’s world?
Run your own race. There are no timelines. Focus on your own journey, goals and progress without comparing yourself to others. It's about staying true to your path, pace and priorities regardless of what others are doing or achieving. This mindset is what keeps me grounded and reminds me that race is not given to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but to those who endure to the end. When life gets weary, remember to run on. One step forward brings you that much closer to your aspirations and dreams.
What’s still on your to-do list in life? What are your goals?
On my to-do list is to become a building principal one day. My primary goal is to excel in my role as an assistant principal, striving to create a positive and supportive environment where students thrive and educators flourish. I am committed to fostering a culture of learning, collaboration and growth within our school community. While I am dedicated to my current position, I am also eager for the opportunity to step into a principal role when the time and opportunity present themselves. Until then, I will continue to hone my leadership skills, expand my knowledge and contribute wholeheartedly to the success of the school, preparing myself for the responsibilities and challenges that come with a principalship.
What is your hope for women 100 years from now?
My hope is that women will continue to remove all doubt and fear and remember to believe in themselves. I hope that they trust their instincts, capabilities and aspirations.
Second, my hope is that women will continue to empower each other by supporting, uplifting and advocating for fellow women in their endeavors. When women support each other, amazing things happen. There is room for us all at the table.
Third, never stop learning. Embrace knowledge and growth in all aspects of life.
Fourth, make self-care a priority: mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Lastly, my hope is that women remember their worth. Remembering that they are valuable, capable and deserving of respect and equality.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
My most significant achievement in life is the privilege of being a mother to my two wonderful children, Zaya and Jonah. Watching them grow, learn and flourish brings me immeasurable joy and fulfillment every single day. Being their parent has taught me patience, resilience and unconditional love. Guiding them through life's challenges, celebrating their milestones and cherishing every moment we share together are the greatest honors I could ever imagine. They are my greatest source of pride and my most cherished blessings, and I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to be their mom.
Women on quarters: Who they are and why it matters
Women on quarters: Who they are and why it matters