Outstanding Young Alumni
2024 Awardees
Cody Pullium
Dr. Cody Pullium, ’20, earned a bachelor’s degree in special education from Illinois State. In 2024 he earned a doctorate in educational leadership and policy. A recipient of the Illinois Principal Association Building Bridges, MCUSD #709 District Potters Hand, and Golden Apple Awards, Pullium’s commitment to educational excellence and meaningful student relationships has earned him substantial recognition. Cody is an assistant principal at Mossville Junior High and Elementary School. He began his career as a special education teacher where he used collaborative teaching methods to support students. He most recently was the associate principal at Parkside Junior High School where he led the development of strategic curriculum standards and strong community building initiatives for the success of his students. Pullium’s remarkable service to the field of education has made him a leading voice in the conversation of educator’s professional development and community engagement.
Brittany Wiggins
Brittany Wiggins, ’14, graduated from Illinois State with her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Filling the roles of teacher, administrator, and instructional coach at Herzl Elementary School, Wiggins prioritizes a holistic approach to education, leading her school community through collaboration between students, families, and educators. She led professional development programs for teachers as a part of the school’s Instructional Leadership Team to increase student achievement. In her current role as Assistant Principal, she works to foster a school community committed to developing the whole child, and her relentless belief in her students’ abilities puts them on a pathway toward long-term success. Wiggins has since opened Herzl’s doors to ISU students participating in Chicago Teacher Education Pipeline (CTEP) program, hosting classes for students based in the city. Wiggins has also collaborated with program students and redesigned courses to have an applicable urban focus, serving future Chicago Public Schools teachers with her expertise.
Past Recipients
- 2023
- Daniel Jackson
- 2022
- Andrea P. Dinaro Brosseau
- 2021
- Karyn Baldwin
- Daniel Frederking
- Brandon Thornton
- 2019
- Billy Martinez
- Rachel McGuire
- 2017
- Rebecca (Gilbert) Gonzalez
- Rae Hughart
- Ashley Wolinksi-Norton
- 2016
- Heather Costner
- Kristin Richey
- 2014
- Peter Richey
- 2013
- Rebecca Mullen