Katie, a Carlinville native, brings 20+ years of experience in marketing, communications, and organizational growth. She has a B.S. in Business Management, A.A. in Psychology from Liberty University, and has completed Graduate School of Banking (GSB) through University of Wisconsin-Madison, Community Bankers School through Community Bankers Association of Illinois, and Sales & Marketing School through GSB. When Katie is not working or learning, she enjoys SCUBA diving and spending time with her fiance, Steph, children (including 3 CEO alumni), and 4 pets. Katie is passionate about supporting the development of future business leaders through the CEO program.

Angela Verticchio grew up in Gillette, Wyoming, and Mudgee, Australia, before moving to Carlinville, Illinois, during high school. She earned her Master’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Angela began her career at Ernst & Young (EY), where she spent eight years in the firm’s St. Louis and Denver offices, specializing in audit services to Fortune 500 companies within the energy sector. After returning to Carlinville to raise her family, she joined Fleming, Tawfall & Company, a local accounting firm focused on audit and tax services. When the Carlinville office later spun off to form Carlinville CPA Group, Angela soon became a Partner and continues to play a key role in the firm's leadership and growth. Outside of work, Angela and her husband stay busy with their two children, Jace and Arlee, along with their dog and turtle.

Scott Badger Reichmann grew up on a family dairy, hog and row crop farm in Carlinville, Illinois. He attended Colorado State University then attended and obtained his BS in Air Commerce and Flight Technology from Florida Institute of Technology (now Florida Tech). He worked as a Union Ironworker (Local 46), then designed, developed, sold and managed industrial construction projects in southern Illinois, St. Louis and St. Charles County, Mo. He helped develop 4 industrial parks in those areas. He now sells industrial real estate in southern Illinois representing the Barber Murphy Group and is involved in sales and marketing for DRAXXON, an international manufacturer of mobile and portable command centers focused around the UAV industry. Scott first saw the wonder of the CEO program demonstrated at an economic development Christmas program in Montgomery County Illinois in 2014. The students in the program of that year presented and impressed. Scott became of member of the Macoupin County CEO Board soon thereafter. Scott won the lottery when he somehow talked Jane into marrying him in 1998. Jane came with the double bonus of Dinah Jane (San Antonio) and Luke (Austin).

Dr. Brandi Kelly is an award-winning educator, former superintendent, and CEO of Spark HOPE Edu, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in education and organizational systems. She is known for her strategic, people-centered approach to leadership, helping leaders and executive teams lead with clarity, confidence, and resilience. She is the creator of the System of H.O.P.E.,Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence, a practical framework that supports sustainable leadership, strengthens self-efficacy, and combats burnout. A sought-after speaker and author of Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy, Dr. Kelly is committed to building cultures where people thrive and purpose drives impact.

Sean Rees has built a reputation among judges and fellow attorneys for his thorough preparation, knowledge of the law, and tireless advocacy. He primarily practices in the areas of criminal defense and family law, including adoptions, guardianships, divorces, and custody disputes. Sean is extremely active within the community, serving on multiple boards and civic organizations. He shares three children with his wife and can often be seen at their events throughout the community whether as a coach or spectator.

Brett Allen serves as the Superintendent of the Staunton School District and is a founding member of the Macoupin County CEO Program. He has been in education for over 15 years serving as a High School Science Teacher, Building Principal, and District Administrator. Mr. Allen recognizes the importance of the CEO program for students and is dedicated to ensuring a prosperous and bright future for the program. He is married and enjoys biking, skiing, hunting, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Shannon Wright, of rural Gillespie, brings over 20 years of legal experience spanning civil and criminal law, most recently working as a Paralegal for the Macoupin County Public Defender’s Office. Throughout her career, Shannon has supported attorneys and clientele across the U.S. in federal, state, and municipal courts, always prioritizing professionalism and client care. She and her husband, David, have three children, Macie (Macoupin County CEO Alumni), Izzy and Alex. Inspired by the CEO program’s impact on her daughter, Shannon is committed to supporting CEO’s growth and longevity in our schools and community. Shannon enjoys helping on the family grain farm, attending her children's sporting events, and spending time outdoors.

Ellen Etter grew up on a small family farm in rural Carlinville, Illinois. She attended Illinois State University and double-majored in Agricultural Education and Agribusiness. Ellen is currently the Director of Student Services at Northwestern Junior Senior High School in Palmyra, Illinois. Prior to her role at Northwestern, she was an Agriculture Education Teacher and FFA Advisor at North Mac High School and Carlinville Middle School. Ellen and her husband, Zach, have two boys, Raymond and Warren. Ellen became a supporter of the Macoupin County CEO program after seeing her students thrive and excel in the program. Ellen joined the Macoupin County CEO Board during the Summer of 2025.