Geneseo Schools Honor Eight Distinguished Alumni for Career Achievement and Community Impact

The Geneseo High School Alumni Association recognized eight graduates Monday, March 9 during its Distinguished Alumni program, celebrating individuals whose careers and contributions reflect the values and legacy of Geneseo schools. The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed by the association, recognizing graduates who have reached the pinnacle of their careers while bringing credit to themselves and the Geneseo school district.

The program is part of the Alumni Association’s Hall of Fame initiative, which aims to recognize notable graduates, inspire current students to pursue excellence in their own careers, and foster pride in the school and community.

This year’s inductees represent a wide range of professional fields—from military leadership and agriculture to business, conservation, and the arts—illustrating the many paths Geneseo graduates have taken to make meaningful contributions.

Susan (Lodge) Backs – Class of 1963

Army Lieutenant Colonel Susan (Lodge) Backs built a distinguished career in military nursing and leadership after graduating from Geneseo High School. Initially hoping to join the U.S. Air Force, she ultimately entered the Army, where she served for 23 years across multiple medical specialties.

Backs served in Vietnam under demanding and unpredictable conditions, including work in a POW hospital early in her deployment. Her career later included roles in female surgery, newborn care, and the operating room. After leaving the Army, she continued serving others through nursing roles in Kansas. Today, the retired lieutenant colonel remains proud of her service and the resilience it required.

Brad Gericke – Class of 1984

Major General (Ret.) Brad Gericke is recognized as a visionary strategic leader whose career spanned decades in senior roles within the U.S. Army and Department of Defense.

Gericke earned a doctorate from Vanderbilt University and graduated from the National War College. He served as the Army’s longest-tenured Senior Strategist and Chief of Plans, where he led development of more than fifteen major joint and Army strategies, including components of the Chairman’s National Military Strategy and the Army Campaign Plan.

In retirement, Gericke continues to mentor future military leaders and contribute to national security policy discussions as a distinguished fellow and advisor.

Tony Vandemore – Class of 1995

Tony Vandemore has built an internationally respected career in waterfowl conservation and outdoor entrepreneurship.

After briefly playing professional baseball and working in the insurance industry, Vandemore co-founded Habitat Flats, a renowned waterfowl hunting and conservation operation managing thousands of acres dedicated to habitat management. Known worldwide among waterfowl enthusiasts, Vandemore emphasizes conservation, stewardship of natural resources, and sustainable outdoor traditions.

Habitat Flats continues to expand, reflecting Vandemore’s commitment to wildlife management and outdoor heritage.

Ramon Wirth – Class of 1953

Ramon Wirth’s legacy in Geneseo is deeply tied to the long-standing success of Wirth Plumbing & Heating, a family business he founded in 1965.

Wirth built the company through a commitment to craftsmanship, customer relationships, and community trust. The business became a Lennox “Premier Dealer” for more than 50 years—one of the longest tenures in Illinois.

Today, Wirth Inc. serves customers across a wide region and remains a family-centered company employing dozens of people while continuing its decades-long presence in downtown Geneseo.

Joshua Anderson – Class of 1998

Master Sergeant (Ret.) Joshua Anderson dedicated 20 years to the United States Army following his graduation from Geneseo High School.

During his service, Anderson worked in both conventional and special operations units, including assignments with the 3rd Infantry Division and the Army’s elite 5th Special Forces Group. He deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Later in his career, Anderson transitioned to leadership development, mentoring ROTC cadets at Florida A&M University. Today he remains active in the Geneseo community while continuing to exemplify service and leadership.

Thomas N. Anderson – Class of 1998

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Thomas N. Anderson also pursued a distinguished military career following his time at Geneseo High School.

A standout student and athlete, Anderson attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 2002 while competing on the Army wrestling team. Over two decades of Army service, he completed combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and served in leadership roles across the globe.

In addition to his military achievements, Anderson has contributed to leadership scholarship and remains involved in local youth activities and community organizations.

Warren Hadley – Class of 1956

Raised on a farm between Geneseo and Cambridge, Warren Hadley devoted much of his life to agriculture and community leadership.

After earning a degree in agriculture from Iowa State University, Hadley returned home to farm hundreds of acres and raise cattle while remaining deeply involved in regional agricultural organizations. His leadership extended to roles with Empire Equipment, the Henry County Beef Association, and other industry groups.

Hadley also served on the Geneseo Board of Education and the Black Hawk College Board, reflecting his strong commitment to education and civic engagement.

Scott Rokis – Class of 1998

Scott Rokis followed an unconventional path from corporate leadership to creative entrepreneurship.

After graduating from the University of Illinois with honors in Management Information Systems, Rokis joined General Electric’s Information Management Leadership Program, working internationally on global initiatives across multiple industries.

At age 35, he left corporate life to pursue photography full-time, spending several years traveling North America while living in a van and documenting endurance athletes and trail runners. Today, his photography inspires outdoor enthusiasts and endurance athletes around the world.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The Distinguished Alumni program serves not only as recognition for past achievements but also as inspiration for current Geneseo students. By highlighting graduates who have excelled in fields ranging from military service to agriculture, entrepreneurship, and the arts, the Hall of Fame reinforces the values of dedication, leadership, and community impact.

School officials noted that the honorees’ careers reflect the broader mission of the Alumni Association’s Hall of Fame: to recognize outstanding graduates, motivate students to pursue excellence, and strengthen pride in Geneseo schools and community.

The eight inductees now join the growing list of Geneseo alumni whose achievements continue to shape industries, communities, and the next generation of leaders.

Geneseo School Board to Review Solar Proposal, Fee Changes

The Geneseo School Board will meet Thursday evening with several items on the agenda, including a solar energy proposal for Geneseo Middle School, potential student fee increases, and staffing updates.

A representative from E-Quantum Consulting is scheduled to present a proposal outlining a solar installation at Geneseo Middle School. The proposed system would generate roughly 270,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually—offsetting about 37% of the building’s energy use. The estimated project cost is between $561,000 and $569,000, though federal and state incentives could reduce the district’s net cost to approximately $108,000 to $115,000. The project is projected to pay for itself in about seven to eight years through energy savings.

Board members will also review proposed student fee adjustments for the 2026–27 school year. Registration fees would increase by $3 per student, bringing the proposed totals to $126 for K–8 students and $138 for high school students. Activity participation fees would rise from $35 to $40 at the high school level and from $30 to $35 at the middle school level.

The district’s S.A.F.E. before- and after-school childcare program rates are also proposed to increase slightly, with most daily fees rising by about 25 cents per child.

In addition, the board will review recommended hazardous bus routes for the upcoming school year. Areas under consideration include Oakwood Acres, Hillcrest Drive, Pine Ridge Subdivision, portions of Chicago Street south of Wells Street, Highway 82 North, and Maple Bluff Subdivision. Approximately 133 students would qualify for transportation from those areas.

Personnel matters on the agenda include several new hires for the 2026–27 school year, including a middle school social studies teacher and a new high school vocal music and choir director. The board will also review several resignations and a retirement among district staff.

The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Geneseo CUSD #228 District Office.

Sources:
Geneseo CUSD #228 Board of Education Meeting Agenda (March 12, 2026);
Solar Energy Proposal – Solar One / E-Quantum Consulting;
CSBO Report – March 2026;
Student Fees and S.A.F.E. Rates Proposal;
Personnel Chart Summary – March 12, 2026.

Girl Scouts Celebrate Girl Scout Week

From Jennifer Nelson
Service Unit Director 886

Girl Scouts celebrated the beginning of Girl Scout Week, which runs from March 8th to 14th, with a Community Service event this past Sunday, March 8th. Each troop brought all the necessary supplies for their station, which then Girl Scouts used to create items for our community. We had 60 Girl Scouts and Volunteers from Service Unit 886 of Geneseo and Atkinson participate. Afterwards most of the Girl Scouts went to a planned event at the bowling alley to celebrate their hard work. 

We would like to thank all of those that help support Girl Scouts, including those in our community and the Geneseo Community Chest. 

What these girls completed during the event:
- 45 bus driver and crossing guard treat bags 
- 100 Kindness rocks 
- 120 cat toys and 50 dog treats for the Humane Society
- 200 thank you bags for local teachers
- 60 cards for dialysis patients 
- Oodles of bracelets to make people smile 
- 50 Placements for nursing homes 
- 50 appreciation snack packs and cards for first responders
- 120 seed bombs for Girl Scout camp

Paintings from RutabagA Members for WQPT Fundraiser

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

RutabagA Art Gallery members Joyce Mattan, left; and Sharon Michaelsen, are shown with the paintings to be donated to the WQPT Public Broadcasting Fundraising Auction that begins Sunday, March 15, at WQPT’s Facebook Page.  
In addition to Mattan and Michaelsen, both Karen Vroman and Les Hoste also did paintings for the upcoming fundraiser.  Contributed Photo

Art Work by Sharon Michaelsen Featured at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Sharon Michaelsen. Contributed Photo

Geneseo artist Sharon Michaelsen is shown by some of her pastel paintings that currently are on display at the Geneseo Public Library.  The collection showcases historical locations she painted after traveling in Greece. The paintings are offered for sale and more information is available by contacting Michaelsen at 309-944-4580. 

 

Community Choir Concert is June 24

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Community Choir of Geneseo will celebrate their 18th annual concert, entitled, “American Tapestry-Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday,” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, in the Geneseo High School Concert Hall.

   The Community Choir includes those people entering eighth grade and older adults.  Rehearsals are held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday evenings, beginning Wednesday, May 27, and continuing through June 17 in the GHS Concert Hall.

   Repertoire includes “Blowin in the Wind”, “Tell My Father”, “The Gift to be Simple”, and “Beautiful City.”

   Anyone interested in singing is asked to contact Pam Edwards, Community Choir Director, at 309-944-7380 or email (singplay53@gmail.com) by Saturday, May 2.

   Students entering grades 4-7 are invited to sing in the Children’s Choir, and they will rehearse June 18, 19, 22, 23 and 24.  Registration forms are available through the Geneseo elementary and middle school choir instructors, or by contacting Pam Edwards.  Deadline to register for the Children’s Choir is Friday, May 8.  Repertoire includes “Mississippi”, “Everyday People” and “50 Nifty United States.”

  Combined choirs will sing “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”, “This Land is Your Land” and “Let There Be Peace on Earth.”

 

Chamber Kicks Off 2026 with Networking Event at Central Schoolhouse Inn

Chamber President Jenna Rushing welcomes businesses and speaks about the Chamber’s 2026 priorities. Photo by Sarah DeMaranville

by Sarah DeMaranville

The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce hosted its first networking event of 2026 on Friday, February 27, at Central Schoolhouse Inn, bringing together approximately 40 local businesses for an evening of updates and networking.

Chamber board members were present as President Jenna Rushing of Hanford Insurance shared the Chamber’s direction and priorities for 2026. Rushing summarized upcoming initiatives and focus areas intended to support and strengthen the local business community in the year ahead.

Business owner Katie Katsunis (Pegasus & Four Seasons) shares information on the new gift card roll-out. Photo by Sarah DeMaranville

Katie Katsunis, owner of Four Seasons and Pegasus, introduced the Chamber’s new gift card program. The program replaces traditional check-style gift certificates with an updated system designed to streamline transactions and modernize how Chamber gift cards are issued and redeemed among participating businesses.

The evening provided business owners and community leaders an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and gain insight into what’s ahead for the Chamber in 2026. The Chamber plans to host quarterly networking meetings throughout the year, with events taking place at various area businesses.

For information on Chamber of Commerce membership and benefits, visit geneseo.org.

Delivery Day to Dress for Success of the Quad Cities

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Kim Schwarzkopf, left, and Bethany Winkleman

It was “delivery day” to Dress for Success of the Quad Cities when Kim Schwarzkopf and Bethany Winkleman finished packing the items that were collected for the not-for-profit support system. 

  Winkleman’s State Farm Insurance office, at 113 South State St. in downtown Geneseo, has been the drop-off point for the last two months for new or gently-used business attire clothing items, purses, and shoes for women only.  Dress for Success is a not-for-profit that provides career coaching, professional clothing and a support network to help Quad City and surrounding area women thrive in work and in life.

   Winkleman said this year’s donations were consistent, as they have been in the last four years that she has sponsored the clothing drive…”Even though I grew up in this community, it still amazes me at how generous the people are that live in Geneseo,” she added.

   Winkleman is the owner of Bethany Winkleman State Farm office in downtown Geneseo, and Schwarzkopf owns and operates A Spotted Apron, located at 12727 Wolf Road, Geneseo. 
Photo by Claudia Loucks