The University of Illinois Springfield has released the names of the 2026 class of the Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program. This program, established by the Young Alumni Committee, honors outstanding graduates under the age of 40 or those who have graduated within the previous five years. The honorees are selected for their emerging and unique innovation, creativity and success in their chosen career or life's work.

“This program serves as an inspiration to our alumni and future graduates,” said Krystal Geist, associate director of alumni and donor engagement. “By honoring these exceptional alumni, UIS highlights the lasting impact of its graduates and their continued role in shaping leadership and innovation within the community.”

Class of 2026 honorees:

• Regina Bolin – bachelor's degree in business administration, 2019, director of social media and digital strategy, Kansas State University Athletic Department
  
• Savannah Brannan – bachelor's degree in biochemistry, 2021, DBS neurophysiologist, SpecialtyCare
  
• Kaitlin Coultas – bachelor's degree in business administration, 2020, master's degree in business administration, 2021, digital marketing specialist, City of Springfield, Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
  
• Joshua Egbedimame – master's degree in public health, 2024, methods and procedure advisor III, Illinois Department of Public Health
  
• Erin Egolf – bachelor's degree in business, 2013, master's degree in business administration, 2015, head women’s soccer coach, Northern Michigan University
  
• Tina Harth – bachelor's degree in political science, 2013, senior marketing manager, WSP USA Inc.
  
• Shelby Kern – bachelor's degree in biology, 2013, family nurse practitioner, HSHS Medical Group
  
• Ashli King – bachelor's degree in communication, 2016, assistant softball coach, University of Illinois Springfield
  
• Emily Matsen – bachelor's degree in biology, 2018, manager advanced analytics, Milwaukee Bucks
  
• Emmanuel Mikaelson – master's degree in business administration, 2023, accountant, TPH Strategies
  
• Tejesh Morla – master's degree in computer science, 2010, founder & CEO, Omniskope, Inc.
  
• Edward Rose – bachelor's degree in philosophy, 2020, master's degree in communication, 2023, director of coaching, Springfield Area Soccer Association
  
• Venkata Sai Bhadra Lasya Sistla – master's degree in computer science, 2025, programmer, Perman-Bound Books
  
• Terrence Taylor – bachelor's degree in liberal studies, 2024, president & CEO, TAT Global Enterprises, Inc.
  
• John Tienken – bachelor's degree in political science, 2013, associate, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  
• Chigozie Umeadi – bachelor's degree in business administration, 2012, executive director of basketball operations, Chicago Bulls
  
• Adam Unes – bachelor’s degree in business administration, 2014 master's degree in business administration, 2016, director of analytics, Excel Sports Management
  
• Abby Vorreyer – bachelor's degree in business administration, 2013, associate athletic director for facilities and event operations, Illinois College
  
• Katie Woodford – bachelor’s degree in accounting, 2015, master’s degree in business administration, 2017, senior manager of talent management, Talos Energy

The Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program highlights the achievements of young UIS alumni. For more information or to learn more about the honorees, visit the UIS Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program website.