Jackson CEO

06/17/2026

We’re excited to welcome Nicole Allen as the interim facilitator for Jackson CEO!

Nicole has been part of the CEO program in several roles over the years. She is a graduate of the Lawrenceville CEO program and later served Jackson CEO as a co-facilitator, mentor, and most recently, board officer. Professionally, Nicole serves as an Account Manager with Arthur Agency, where she works closely with clients, develops marketing strategies, and helps bring projects from concept to completion. She knows firsthand the impact CEO can have on students and is passionate about helping them discover opportunities here in Jackson County and across southern Illinois while learning to think like entrepreneurs and business leaders.

"I'm honored to step into this role and continue investing in our local students," Nicole said. “I love this program because it’s so much more than a business class. Students see their communities through new eyes, meet business owners, and experience firsthand how businesses are built. It doesn’t just prepare you to start your own business, it helps you find your path, whether that’s leading your own business or becoming a leader within an existing organization."

05/26/2026

Last weekend, the last three of the five seniors graduated. Congratulations to Josie, Taylor, and Mariana for graduating with high honors.

We are proud of you and excited to see what comes next!

05/18/2026

Saturday began our graduation journey for five of our graduating seniors. Our first stop was Carbondale Community High School District 165 to celebrate Kyla Ford and Bradyn Schimpf, two of CEO’s finest.

And today is Kyla’s 18th birthday 🎉🎈!

We are proud of you both and excited to see what comes next!

05/05/2026

Class may be over, but the work continues. I’m grateful for our community partners who make space for us to learn more about CEO.

This morning, our facilitator, Christopher E. Swims, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Carbondale- Breakfast, sharing how valuable CEO is to our students and community. Thanks to Vanessa Sneed and the Rotarians for your amazing hospitality.

We ended the day at Carbondale Community High School District 165 for their Job Fair. Another great opportunity to connect with juniors and seniors and share about CEO. Special thanks to Superintendent Dr. Daniel Booth and William Lo, Executive Director of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, for the opportunity.

In case you forgot, there are still a few spots left. The application deadline is May 15.

05/01/2026

40+ business visits. 50+ guest speakers. One life-changing journey.

The Jackson CEO Class of 2027 isn’t just a program—it’s an experience that will stretch you, grow you, and prepare you for more.

Spots are limited and the deadline has been extended… but not for long.

📲 Scan the QR code and apply today. Your future is waiting.

04/30/2026

04/30/2026

What an amazing 2026 Trade Show! 🎉

We’re so grateful for the incredible support that made this event a success. Special thanks to our board for their continued guidance, the Dunn-Richmond Economic Dev Center and their staff for their flexibility and support, and Legence Bank for sponsoring the $250 cash prize for Best Trade Show Booth Setup.

Shoutout to Esther Kabwe Photography for capturing such awesome moments we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy them! Be sure to check out the Jackson CEO 2026 Trade Show album for more photos.

And last but certainly not least, the 2026 Jackson CEO young professionals you were simply outstanding. As Dr. Burgin often reminded you all… you’re the best!!!

Enjoy the photos! 📸

04/29/2026

It’s Trade Show Day! 🎉

After months of hard work, creativity, and growth, our Jackson County CEO Class of 2026 is ready to showcase their businesses to the community. These young entrepreneurs have built their ideas from the ground up, and tonight is their moment to share it all with you.

Join us this evening:
📍 Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center
📍 1740 Innovation Dr. Carbondale, IL
🕓 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM

Come out, meet the students, support local entrepreneurship, and see firsthand the innovation happening right here in Jackson County. Special thanks to Legence for sponsoring a $250 cash prize for the best trade show booth setup, which will be awarded tonight, and to Dr. Jeffert Burgin, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, for sponsoring tonight’s trade show.

We would love to see a great crowd tonight as we also celebrate 11 years of CEO in our community. Bring a friend, share this post, and help us make it a night these students will never forget.