Division of Student Affairs
Division of Student Affairs list
George Banks ’11
George is a proud first-generation college student whose journey at Illinois State began with uncertainty but was transformed through a strong support network. This community of support eventually led George to pursue a role as a resident assistant, where he focused on helping students find their place and community on campus.
After graduation, George joined University Housing Services at Illinois State, where he was able to continue his work with students. He now serves as an academic advising specialist in University College, guiding undergraduate students through their academic and professional journeys. In 2022, George earned his master's in college student personnel administration.
George lives in Bloomington with his wife, Maria, also an ISU alum, and their son, Oliver.
Chase Breeden ’14
Chase earned his degree in business management and organizational leadership from Illinois State University, where he was an active student leader in organizations such as the Association of Residence Halls, Student Government Association, Alternative Spring Breaks, and Pi Sigma Epsilon. He also held several on-campus roles, including residence hall tour guide for Watterson Towers—his home for three years—and front desk assistant with University Housing.
Chase went on to earn a master’s in higher education administration from Florida State University and an MBA from East Carolina University. He began his career in student affairs administration before transitioning to a successful role as a financial advisor. Today, Chase brings the same passion for service and leadership to his work with individuals and families planning for their financial futures. He remains active in his community as a proud Rotarian and supports nonprofit efforts focused on education access and food security.
Molly Johnson ’16
Molly is a proud fourth-generation ISU alumnus, graduating from the College of Business in 2016. While at ISU, she worked as a Welcome Week intern and as an HR student employee. Molly was actively involved on campus as a member of the University Hearing Panel, ISU-SHRM, and Business Week. She also served as a trip leader for Alternative Breaks International and completed a study abroad program.
Currently, Molly is the director of business development at The Loft Rehabilitation and Nursing, where she finds purpose in serving seniors across Central Illinois. She played a key role in launching clinical programs at The Loft for ISU student nurses and music therapy students, providing a bridge between academics and real-world experience. Molly remains involved locally as a board member for Faith in Action and for Senior Care Network of McLean County. Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their dog.
Chandler Vandenberg ’07
Chandler is a proud Redbird whose journey in higher education fundraising began at Illinois State University. As a student, he immersed himself in campus life and founded the first ISU Student Foundation, laying the groundwork for a career dedicated to philanthropy and alumni engagement. After earning his degree in graphic design from the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts, Chandler advanced through development roles at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was named the Edwardsville-Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year in 2014. He also earned his MBA from SIUE and completed specialized studies in charitable financial planning at Texas Tech University.
Today, Chandler serves as the senior director of development for principal gifts at the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. His leadership connects donors with transformative opportunities in engineering education and research. His enduring Redbird pride continues to inspire his commitment to building purpose-driven teams and advancing philanthropy in higher education.
Vanesa Velazquez ’20
Vanesa graduated from Illinois State University with dual degrees in international business and Spanish. At ISU, she worked at the Alumni Center, served as president of Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a multicultural sorority, and held multiple executive board roles with the Student Alumni Council. She also participated in the Innovation Consulting Community and studied abroad in Spain and Querétaro, Mexico.
In 2022, Vanesa earned her Master of Education in urban higher education from the University of Illinois Chicago and now works in student affairs, advancing community building, engagement, and student success.