Featured Speakers

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​​​We are excited to welcome an incredible lineup of speakers for this year's Women United Annual Breakfast, each bringing unique insights and inspriation to our theme, "Growing a Thriving Legacy."

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Meet our Featured Speaker​: Christine Nojd

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We’re excited to welcome Christina Nojd, Founder of Reflections in Bloom Early Childhood Consulting, as one of our featured speakers at Women United’s 2026 Annual Breakfast. In her segment, “Connection Over Perfection: Helping Families Thrive,” she will share how building authentic, trusting partnerships between families and educators helps children truly flourish. With over 25 years in early childhood education, Christina’s work centers on strengthening family connections so every child feels supported, at home and in the classroom.

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Meet our Featured Speaker​: Dr. Melvina Calvin-Edwards 

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We’re honored to welcome Dr. Melvina Calvin-Edwards, KCC assistant professor/program coordinator and former Kankakee Police Department sergeant, as one of our featured speakers at Women United’s 2026 Annual Breakfast.

In her keynote, “All in: The Courage to Bet on Yourself”, Dr. Melvina Calvin-Edwards shares her journey from uncertainty to success, and how one bold decision to invest in herself changed the trajectory of her life. Her story is a powerful reminder that when you bet on yourself, anything is possible.

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Meet our Breakfast panelist:​​

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“The Power of Volunteerism: Building Legacy Together,” moderated by Mariah Vail,  Executive Director of United Way, as they share how advocacy and volunteerism create a lasting impact for children and our community.

Brianne Hetman – Executive Director of Child Network with over 20 years in social services across all populations.

Jen Lovell – Local entrepreneur, podcast host, and dedicated CASA volunteer with Child Network.

Erica Erickson – CASA Program Supervisor at Child Network, advocating for children and families since 2019.

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Meet our Fireside Chat panelist:

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​Cindy DeGroot - Is a passionate and dedicated nurse leader with 44 years of service advocating for seniors, their families, and healthcare education, including an impressive 47.5-year tenure at Riverside Healthcare. For 27 years, she has served as Nurse Educator for Riverside Senior Life Communities and also inspires future healthcare professionals as a CNA Instructor and Adjunct Faculty member at Kankakee Community College. A Certified Dementia Practitioner, Cindy is deeply engaged in Alzheimer’s advocacy and dementia leadership, serving in key roles with the Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia Friendly Kankakee, and as a Walk to End Alzheimer’s team captain in honor of her mother. Her extensive community involvement reflects her lifelong commitment to education, caregiver support, and increasing dementia awareness across Kankakee County.​​​​​​

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Fawn Hendershott  -  is the Executive Director of UpliftedCare, a community-based nonprofit hospice, palliative care, and grief support organization serving Ford, Grundy, Iroquois, Kankakee, Livingston, and Will counties. With more than a decade of experience in hospice, shaped by her nursing background, Fawn brings a people-centered approach and a deep commitment to compassionate care, grounded in a respect for life’s transitions and the importance of connection. She serves as Co-Chair of the Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Board and was honored as the 2023 recipient of the ATHENA Young Professional Award, recognizing emerging women leaders who demonstrate professional excellence, community impact, and a commitment to uplifting and inspiring other women.​​