EDWARDSVILLE – The Illinois Education Association (IEA) Region 45 honored educators from Collinsville and Edwardsville for their outstanding commitment to their schools, universities, students and communities. The IEA Region 45 award recipients were nominated and chosen for the awards by their peers.
“These educators stand out for not only the work they are doing inside the classroom or on campus, but also the care and dedication they pour into the community,” IEA Region 45 Chair Jill Dupy said. “They have made a positive impact on so many students and coworkers. Congratulations to all our awardees!”
The 2025 IEA Region 45 outstanding member award winners are:
- Linda Arnold – (education assistant, Collinsville High School)
Arnold is a true leader at Collinsville High School and within her union. She shares her expertise and resources with colleagues, fostering a positive and collaborative environment. Arnold often mentors new assistants to help them take on different challenges. Within her union, Collinsville Educational Assistants Association, Arnold has served as president, vice president, membership chair, as well as other leadership roles. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to professional growth not only for herself, but also for her coworkers.
- Toni Geisen – (social studies teacher, Collinsville High School)
When educators need support, advice, advocacy or assistance, they turn to Geisen. She is a leader and a problem solver within the school and is respected by students and colleagues. In 2013, Geisen helped establish the KAHOKstrong organization to help a colleague who was battling cancer. Though this faculty member eventually lost her battle with cancer, Geisen and her colleague decided to keep the project in place to assist others in the community. KAHOKstrong assists students, staff and families in the Collinsville Community Unit School District 10 community during times of illness, need and tragedy. It also provides scholarships to Collinsville High School graduates. To date, KAHOKstrong has provided more than $100,000 in assistance to members of the school community. In addition to scholarships, the program purchases Christmas gifts for families in need. Geisen takes emails, texts and phone calls at all hours of the day and night to help community members with whatever they need. She has made an enormous impact within our school and community.
- Ed Navarre – professor of analytical chemistry, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE)
As past president of his local union, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Faculty Association (SIUE-FA), Navarre has been a tireless advocate for both students and faculty. He has organized actions to advocate for the best possible working conditions for his colleagues and the best possible learning conditions for students at SIUE. Navarre is a champion for academic freedom and spoke at a May Day teach-in on campus. Navarre, alongside fellow union members, distributed materials on immigration and civil rights, as well as “know your rights” information to promote safety on campus for all students. Navarre is an integral member of SIUE-FA and a valued faculty member on campus.
- Warren Richards – professor of economics, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE)
Richards is among the most respected instructors in the School of Business. His student evaluations are among the highest in the school, citing his organization, ability to explain difficult topics and the high standards to which he holds his students. Richards is not only a professor, but also a mentor to students. On more than one occasion, he has helped former students with networking to help them land a job after graduation. He is creative and collaborative and enjoys brainstorming new ideas with coworkers. Richards is a lifelong resident of Alton and cares deeply about his community. Off campus, he has worked with local government officials and leaders to share his expertise with infrastructure projects, taxes and community development. Richards is a valued member of his local union, his university and community and is incredibly deserving of this award.
Pictures from the IEA Region 45 awards banquet are available upon request.
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The 135,000 member Illinois Education Association (IEA-NEA) is the state’s largest union. IEA represents Pre K-12 teachers outside the city of Chicago and education support staff, higher education faculty, retired education employees and students preparing to become teachers, statewide.
