2025 Women of Distinction
Dr. Jerrica Ampadu
Dr. Jerrica V. Ampadu, a Black nurse, educator, administrator, and researcher, is deeply committed to mentoring and supporting girls and women aspiring to enter the nursing profession. With 30 years of experience, she has dedicated her time to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Her volunteerism includes active participation in summer pathway programs for junior high and high school students since 1997. She frequently speaks at schools, inspiring students interested in health sciences and providing guidance on nursing career pathways. Dr. Ampadu firmly believes that representation matters—when students of color see professionals who reflect their identities, it empowers them to pursue their own dreams in healthcare and beyond.
As a mentor for the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, Dr. Ampadu advises diversity administrators at Princeton University and the University of Wisconsin, guiding efforts to advance equity and inclusion. Additionally, she mentors underrepresented students through the Student Nurse Achievement Program (SNAP), helping them navigate barriers in historically white institutions and equipping them with the tools needed for success.
Her commitment to equity extends to policy change and research. She played a pivotal role in research that led to the elimination of a standardized nursing program admission test, which disproportionately impacted students of color. Her advocacy for fairness and inclusivity has created lasting change in nursing education and student success.
Dr. Ampadu is also a strong advocate for women and underserved populations. She has secured over $10 million in funding to improve healthcare access, including grants to increase breast cancer screenings for African American women. Recognizing the health disparities in East St. Louis, she secured funding for a mobile health unit, expanding essential medical care for the community and furthering her commitment to health equity and systemic change.
A tenured Associate Professor at the SIUE School of Nursing, Dr. Ampadu recently celebrated 25 years in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, exemplifying her lifelong dedication to social justice. Students often credit her mentorship for making their dreams possible. One of her favorite quotes is: “Empowered women empower women.” She embodies resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to equity in education, healthcare, and society.
Julie S. Botterbush
Julie Botterbush’s prolific nursing career began at age 15, working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) while attending Alton High School. She went on to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Olin School of Nursing, JB Johnson Center. Upon graduation, she matriculated to Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIUE) School of Nursing, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN.) Julie continued her education at Washington University in St. Louis, earning her Master’s in the Science of Nursing (MSN), and setting her on a path to nursing leadership and administration.
Julie distinguished herself many times during her remarkable career. While working with cancer patients at Saint Louis University Hospital, she published in a peer-reviewed academic journal the CODE BMT protocol for cancer patients. She also assisted in the development of the first outpatient bone marrow transplant clinic in a multi-state area. The combined impact of the CODE BMT protocol and outpatient BMT clinic replaced the need for extended inpatient stays, resulting in statistically significant improvements in patient outcomes.
An empathetic leader, Julie advocates for women and underserved populations, championing the unique potential of each individual. Volunteering with CAP and PCT healthcare programs, she mentored nearly 200 high school and community college students, over 90% female and/or Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
She has been instrumental in community service initiatives, such as food drives for inner-city children, creating volunteer programs for healthcare students to support elderly patients, and programs connecting high school and community college students with medical shadowing and healthcare training.
Currently, Julie is Administrative Director of Nursing Operations at SSM Health St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Charles, MO and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Wentzville, MO. This role allows her to work with adolescent behavioral health patients, paying special attention to ensure they receive the high-quality care they deserve.
In addition to her career, Julie raised three children pursuing careers in neurosurgery, pharmacy, and civil engineering, respectively. She instilled the importance of giving back though her involvement in the Boy Scouts Scouting for Food drive, leading a Girl Scout Troup, chairing the Evangelical School’s Parents Interested in Children Fundraising Committee and the Salvation Army Tree of Lights Campaign.
Many students, patients and staff members credited Julie with having a significant impact on their lives. It’s Julie’s hope that the effect she had on their lives will inspire them to encourage and support others.
Rebecca Cowart
Rebecca Cowart has been described as a “truly wonderful woman.” Among her many accomplishments, she is a member of WRESTLE, an Alton area non-profit organization focused on Women's Empowerment. The organization meets weekly and offers women an opportunity to nurture each other through fellowship and sisterhood. WRESTLE also hosts community events including Unity Day in Killion Park, providing
meals, fun booths, pony rides and recreational activities all free of charge. During the holidays, WRESTLE organizes a gift program, allowing 100 area youth to choose free Christmas gifts.
As a long-standing member of the YWCA Racial Justice Committee, Rebecca has been instrumental in securing funding for YWCA Racial Justice Programming, Healing IL Diversity Program, Stand Against
Racism, and two Rotary literacy grants, raising thousands of dollars to improve literacy and equity in our community. Through her work with the Racial Justice Committee, she worked alongside Dr. Nana Becoat (WOD 2024) and Annette Campbell (WOD 2024) in setting up the Hampton Community Garden in Alton’s 4th Ward. For 2 years, the garden provided fresh, healthy foods and promoted a sense of community by inviting neighbors to participate in growing their own food and attend community garden events. The garden was abruptly closed after sink holes were discovered in the surrounding land area.
In 2021, Rebecca created a program titled Diverstory: Reading for Equity, building the foundation for long- term racial healing. Through interactive workshops, children and their families listen to stories about diversity, belonging and race, with the goal of improving the family’s ability to navigate intentional
discussions about inclusion. With the help of Candace Wallace (WOD 2019), the program was later expanded to include teachers, helping educators understand the importance of including books written by and about Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in their daily classroom lessons, with the goal of facilitating race conscious conversations that encourage respect and appreciation of all people.
Rebecca also serves on the Executive Committee of the Alton Branch of the NAACP, standing up for
justice and equity. For the past 3 years, she served as the Executive Committee’s Secretary. In response to incidents at Alton Highschool in Fall of 2023, she connected President Smallwood-Bey and 1st Vice President Alderwoman Rosie Brown (WOD 2020) with Dr. Toyna Covington, a National leader in
Restorative Justice Practices. Dr. Covington and her co-worker, Ms. Viola Henry, are now supporting our Alton community in responding to violence among youth with restorative practices proven to mend
relationships and provide healing to both victims and perpetrators of violent incidents. In 2024, Rebecca worked with President Smallwood-Bey to help 10 neighborhood kids attend a free shopping day with members of the recently reinstated Alton NAACP Youth Council.
Rebecca’s life-long passion is advocating for children to be seen, heard, and respected. She fills her every waking hour participating in the education of her family. She strives to stay up-to-date on best practices in self-directed and agile learning systems with a prioritized focus on diversity, equity, and belonging. Her continuing education and the education she offers her children is a valuable part of her daily activism. Her vision is to create a space where children feel welcome and valued just as they are. Hardly a day goes by when the Cowart house isn’t filled with neighborhood children jumping on the trampoline, crafting at the kitchen table, or building with Legos, and Rebecca wouldn’t have it any other way.
Rose Gibson
Rose Gibson exemplifies the YWCA's mission by empowering women and girls, particularly those with disabilities. Over her 25-year career as the Vice Chairwoman of Challenge Unlimited Inc. and the Chairwoman of the Board for Residential Options and Project CU, Inc., she has dedicated herself to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live, work, and actively engage in our community. Furthermore, she has successfully led initiatives that have empowered over 900 individuals, two-thirds of whom face disability challenges, to achieve their highest level of independence through meaningful long-term employment. Additionally, she has worked to educate companies and corporations about the benefits of providing long-term employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, highlighting the positive impact on the entire community.
Her dedication to building a better future for women with disabilities is evident through her support of programs specifically designed to meet their needs. Rose has been quoted saying, “Individuals with disabilities aspire to have the same opportunities as everyone else; they want to work, earn their own income, and achieve the American dream. It is unfortunate that they are often subjected to stereotypes or negative categorizations due to their disabilities.”
Rose served as Co-Director for Junior Achievement in the Alton School District, where she played a pivotal role in empowering high school students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively plan for their futures and make informed academic and economic choices. Her efforts in educating youth on how to start, run, and manage their own businesses fostered critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, production techniques, sales strategies, and leadership skills. She advocated for the inclusion of young girls in the program and proudly celebrated that 100% of her students, including 50% young women, achieved the highest levels of business success. This program significantly transformed the outlook on life for many students, most of whom faced financial and demographic challenges.
Rose advocates for equality and enhances the lives of women and girls through her leadership and community service, which spans multiple organizations. She serves as a volunteer board member of the 1st Mid-America Credit Union, where she has been involved for over twenty years and currently holds the position of Chairwoman of the Board, making her the first woman to occupy this role in the credit union's 90-year history. Additionally, her volunteer activities include serving as a Red Kettle Bell Ringer for the Salvation Army, participating in the United Way Power of the Purse, contributing to the Marquette Catholic Renaissance Society, serving as a Foundation Board member for the Explorers Club, acting as an ambassador for the St. Ambrose Catholic School Expansion Program, and representing St. Ambrose Church and School in finance matters.
In 2024, Rose played a pivotal role in raising over $110,000 for various local organizations, including United Way, TWIGs, Riverbend Head Start, Alton Main Street, Scouts of America, teaching grants, school education programs, and sponsorships for area youth initiatives. She has allocated more than $50,000 to financial education programs through schools, nonprofits, and employers. Rose believes that financial literacy is essential for empowering the community.
Rose's most significant achievement is her role in advancing opportunities for women in the historically male-dominated field of information technology (IT). When she joined Olin Corporation forty years ago, she recognized that, as a woman, she needed to exert extra effort to maintain her position. With a strong commitment to merit, hard work, determination, and performance, she aimed to make a lasting impact regardless of her gender. Additionally, she understood the importance of challenging societal norms, and breaking barriers became a personal passion for her. Her dedication to creating a positive change for women in the workplace reflects her ambitious spirit and has contributed to a future with limitless opportunities.
Kim Hunt, MBA
Kim Hunt, a proud native of East St. Louis, Illinois, is a distinguished graduate of East St. Louis Senior High School. Her academic journey took her to Eastern Illinois University, Webster University, and Lindenwood University, where she earned her MBA, cementing her commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth.
Currently, Kim serves as the Human Resources & Workforce Development Manager at Inspired Solutions, where she brings both expertise and passion to her role. In addition, she is the visionary founder of Saving Black Minds, a nonprofit organization she has led for the past nine years. Through her tireless efforts, Kim empowers women and young girls, offering vital support to mothers striving to provide for their children and guiding them towards success. Her mission is rooted in the belief that strong women lay the foundation for thriving communities, and she dedicates herself to ensuring that the women she serves have the tools, resources, and mentorship they need to thrive.
Under Kim's leadership, Saving Black Minds focuses on financial independence, vocational skills development, and community empowerment. She works relentlessly to address critical areas of economic upliftment, helping women and girls gain the confidence, skills, and opportunities they need to create a better future for themselves and their families.
Kim's advocacy for educational equity and empowerment is exemplified through impactful initiatives such as "Off 2 a Great Start" and "If Not Now…When." These programs provide girls with the essential tools to excel academically, while also nurturing their self-esteem and leadership potential. Additionally, her collaboration with organizations like The Sofia Project and the Metro Leadership League instills vital leadership skills and self-awareness, empowering a new generation of leaders. Many of Kim’s former mentees are now thriving in leadership roles, positively influencing their communities.
A lifelong advocate for service and empowerment, Kim is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and a devoted member of Living the Word Church. She further enriches the community through her involvement with organizations such as RARE Believers, Project Compassion, Upward Bound, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Her unwavering dedication to service continues to inspire, as she lives a life committed to uplifting others, fostering empowerment, and creating lasting change.
Tanjela Johnson
A Trailblazer is defined as an innovator, someone who leads others. Tanjela Johnson has fittingly been described as a Trailblazer, utilizing her expertise in technology, project management, and strategic thinking to enhance the lives of others.
Tanjela has been an active member of the Alton Section National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) since 2016. The mission of NCNW is to empower women of color and to promote access and participation in political and socioeconomic systems. She has held
several leadership positions, including First Vice-President/Program Chairperson. As Program Chairperson, her committee re-introduced the College Fair to Alton students to promote college enrollment and scholarship opportunities. Tanjela currently serves as the President of the Alton Section NCNW. During her term, there has been active collaboration with the YWCA on the Get Out the Vote Initiative in 2024. This effort included awareness events at Alton High School and Lewis and Clark Community College.
As a member of the Cotillion Committee, Tanjela offers young ladies the opportunity to be introduced to society, focusing on socialization and etiquette skills. These competencies are developed through workshops on self-esteem, resume writing, college application assistance, and financial literacy. She has also dedicated her time to community service as a Financial Coach for Women, participating in the United Way Edward Jones program.
In 2020, Tanjela joined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she continues to serve the community through the Social Action Community, Technology Committee, and other community service opportunities. She supports programs in education, healthcare, and social action. She advocates for policies affecting homelessness, voter education, and voter injustices.
She is president of the Affiliate Board for Lewis and Clark Habitat for Humanity. The Affiliate Board supports five local chapters in policy development, recruitment, and fundraising. Under her leadership, ten homes have been completed.
Tanjela is an engaged member of New Sunny Mount Missionary Baptist Church. She teaches Sunday School, sings in the Worship and Arts Ministry, and serves on the Capital Campaign Committee and the Youth Board. She also helps the Juneteenth Committee and participates in other community activities.
As if this weren't enough, she is pursuing a doctorate in Organizational Leadership at the University of Phoenix. Despite her many accomplishments, Tanjela considers her service to others her most outstanding achievement.
Annie Johnson
Ms. Johnson confronted challenges with determination as one of the first African American mathematics educators in the Alton School District. She was deeply committed to ensuring that all students had the opportunity to reach their full potential. Always willing to exceed expectations for her students, she provided additional support for those eager to excel. Her consistently positive attitude inspired her students by affirming their potential for success and equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to achieve their goals.
With over 40 years of experience in the Alton School District and the Drew School District, Ms. Johnson has made a lasting impact on the lives of many students. Now in retirement, she remains dedicated to promoting education and creating opportunities for women and girls in the community, in line with the mission of the YWCA.
Ms. Johnson’s extensive volunteer work has significantly impacted the lives of many individuals within the community. She has held the position of Girl Scout troop leader and served as a member of the YWCA Board. Furthermore, she has made notable contributions to the Youth Department at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church and has mentored young women through the Alton Section of the National Council of Negro Women, where she has participated in the Debutante Committee. In her role with the Cotillion Committee, Ms. Johnson has engaged with each debutante through various workshops, offering mentorship and support. She is also an active member of the Scholarship Committee and has taken on roles such as Treasurer, Parliamentarian, and Program Chair.
As a committed Pink Lady volunteer at Saint Anthony’s Hospital for over 15 years, she plays an essential role in addressing patient care needs. Her contributions at the Cancer Center have offered support and comfort to patients during difficult times, promoting an atmosphere of dignity and compassion. Furthermore, as an engaged member of the Juneteenth Committee, she has dedicated considerable time to educating the community about the significance of this important holiday. Ms. Johnson's commitment also extends to other organizations, including the NAACP, Senior Service Plus, and Delta Kappa Gamma.
As a staple in the community, Ms. Johnson has proven herself to be reliable, dedicated, and a positive role model who holds our community upward through mentoring, advocating, and supporting causes that uplift community members through her unwavering commitment and seamless dedication.
Michelle Matsche
Michelle Matsche is a passionate advocate. For over 15 years, she has dedicated her career to creating safe, inclusive environments for individuals of all abilities. As the Director of Organizational Training and Development at Challenge Unlimited, Inc., an agency that serves individuals with disabilities, Michelle has empowered thousands by teaching essential crisis prevention, communication and de-escalation strategies. In her role, she provides individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to manage challenging situations, all while maintaining safety, dignity, and respect for everyone involved.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Michelle has become a leading force in promoting inclusion and accessibility across her community. She has expertly designed and led impactful community conversations advocating for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities, including “Fostering Inclusive Patient-Provider Relationships” at OSF Healthcare and “Creating Inclusive Work Environments” with the Rotary of the Riverbend. These initiatives have not only raised awareness but have also fostered real change, ensuring better representation and support for individuals in both healthcare and workplace settings.
Michelle’s influence extends into local faith communities as well, where she has worked closely with churches to create more inclusive environments for children's ministries. Her efforts have resulted in the implementation of adaptive equipment, sensory-friendly experiences, and the removal of barriers, allowing children with diverse needs to fully engage in church activities and services.
A committed leader, Michelle, has been involved with the Riverbend Growth Association. For 10 years, she served on the Ambassador Committee, where she has used her expertise to drive growth and inclusivity. Five of those ten years, she volunteered as the emcee for the LeadHERship Seminar, an initiative that has profoundly transformed the lives of countless women. By providing leadership training, mentorship, and community-building opportunities, Michelle has helped these women build the confidence and skills necessary to become powerful and effective leaders in their communities.
In addition to her leadership roles, Michelle is a dedicated volunteer who actively speaks at various community events, educating others on neurodiversity. As a Crisis Prevention Institute Facilitator for over 15 years, she is also certified in mental health and autism spectrum disorder training. Through her efforts, Michelle equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to create more supportive, inclusive environments, ensuring that everyone—regardless of ability—has the opportunity to thrive.
Dr. Tanya Patton
Dr. Patton is a dedicated educator whose enthusiasm is apparent in every role she assumes. She cultivates positive and meaningful relationships with all students, emphasizing the creation of opportunities for young women to develop their skills, amplify their voices, and recognize their self-worth.
Through her engagement with young women within her work community, Dr. Patton has made significant strides in boosting their self-confidence and reinforcing their potential as future leaders. The activities in which these young women have participated have broadened their knowledge, strengthened their belief in themselves, and enhanced their leadership abilities within the church, school, and broader community.
Dr. Patton has also supported and participated in community resource fairs aimed at supporting women and children. These events provide essential resources such as credit repair services, first-time homebuyer programs, GED classes, and personal safety workshops designed to combat human trafficking.
With 29 years of experience in education, Dr. Patton consistently prioritizes teaching and guiding the school community in principles of equality, dignity, and respect. She leads her staff with honor, integrity, and character, instilling these same values in her students. Her commitment to student development is evident as she emphasizes the importance of education at every stage of growth. Additionally, she has been proactive in encouraging female students and students of color to pursue leadership roles.
Dr. Patton offers mentorship to students across various educational levels, from primary education to executive leadership. Her initiatives include the establishment of aftercare programs, engagement with young women in community settings, and facilitating opportunities for high school girls to visit the Missouri State Capitol. These visits enable them to participate in the electoral process and engage with local politicians.
Recognizing her unique position as an African American woman in a leadership role, Dr. Patton understands her responsibility to empower young women. As a district leader, she has prioritized hiring women for her cabinet, valuing their perspectives and contributions while providing opportunities for their growth as leaders.
Dr. Patton’s volunteer endeavors demonstrate her commitment to the community she serves and her positive impact on many lives. She currently serves as a member of the Alton Memorial Board of Directors and the Board for North County Incorporated, with previous affiliations with the NAACP-Edwardsville and SAK (Serving Are Kids summer lunch program).
As a pillar of the community, Dr. Patton exemplifies the mission and vision of the YWCA through her dedicated service efforts.
Megan Tyler
Megan Tyler is a dedicated champion for those facing adversity, particularly individuals and families struggling with trauma and mental health challenges. Recognizing the profound difficulties people in the Alton area faced in navigating available resources during times of crisis, Megan founded Sacred Spaces of Care in 2023. Through this transformative nonprofit, she has created a vital bridge, connecting vulnerable individuals to the support services they desperately need. Megan’s mission was born from the realization that, in the midst of trauma, navigating the complex landscape of available resources can feel overwhelming. Sacred Spaces of Care steps in to simplify this process, linking clients to counseling, case workers, and essential services. The organization also assists with securing insurance, maintaining stable housing, and accessing medical care, providing critical support for individuals during some of their most difficult times.
Beyond providing direct services, Megan and her dedicated team offer training to public safety officials, mental health first aid courses to youth, and other essential services providers. By working closely with vulnerable populations, Megan’s organization provides counseling, social work, and essential linkages to other service providers, ensuring comprehensive care. She has built strong partnerships with the Madison County Juvenile Justice Group and local public safety officials, coordinating efforts when clients interact with the criminal justice system. Through her tireless advocacy, Megan has encouraged local law enforcement to divert vulnerable individuals away from the criminal justice system and towards the appropriate care and services that can foster long-term healing and support.
Megan is deeply committed to breaking down barriers and making health and wellness accessible to all, with a particular focus on mental health. She works relentlessly to remove the stigma surrounding mental health care, ensuring that her clients feel empowered and supported in seeking the help they need. The services provided by Sacred Spaces of Care are offered entirely free of charge, further emphasizing Megan’s unwavering dedication to her community.
In addition to her work with Sacred Spaces of Care, Megan played an instrumental role in coordinating the Morningstar Wellness Gathering, an event focused on distributing food to those in need while also connecting families with essential service providers. She has also been a key organizer for United Youth Services meetings, bringing together nonprofits, public safety officials, court representatives, elected officials, and healthcare providers to foster collaboration and improve youth-focused services in the area.
Megan’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional role. She has generously volunteered her time and talents to several community organizations, including the Lewis and Clark College for Kids Reading Program, St. Mary’s Summer Literacy Session, and tutoring local students. She is also actively involved in Godfrey First United Methodist, the Simple Room After School Program, and the Community Hope Center in Cottage Hills. Megan further lends her expertise as a board member of Amare and PreventEd, working to strengthen the resources available to those in need.
Megan’s passion for creating positive changes and her dedication to uplifting her community have made a lasting impact, providing hope and support to countless individuals and families in the Alton area.