Neighbors in the News: District 63 names Schleizer new superintendent of schools
• The East Maine School District 63 board of education appointed Shawn Schleizer as superintendent of schools.
Schleizer, who currently serves as the district's associate superintendent, will replace current Superintendent Scott Clay, who will retire on June 30 after 19 years with the district - 13 as superintendent.
Schleizer joined the district in 2010 as principal of Melzer Elementary School. In 2014, he was promoted to assistant superintendent of Human Resources, moving into his current position in 2017.
He holds a Master of Education degree in planning and social policy administration from Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, and earned his Doctoral degree in educational leadership from National Louis University, Chicago.
"We are delighted to be able to build upon Clay's legacy of student-centered excellence here at the district," said board President Alexandra Brook.
"Schleizer has been a key part of our leadership team for more than a decade and an integral part of our success. His in-depth knowledge of D63, ability to build and manage an outstanding staff and unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student receives an equitable education is exceptional. We look forward to a smooth transition - and to taking our district to the next level."
• Bertine "Bunny" Nixon, emeritus board member, Great Lakes Credit Union, was honored with the Drum Major for Justice Award at Waukegan Township's 20th annual Dreamers' Event, held Jan. 17 to honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Drum Major for Justice award is presented to local community members for their service to their communities in faith, business and public life.
Nixon was honored for her more than 30 years of service to Waukegan Township through her volunteer work with the credit union on its board of directors, as well as her work with other community organizations in Waukegan and Lake County.
"I am grateful today to be able to congratulate Bertine on her well-deserved 2022 Drum Major for Justice Award, on behalf of our board of directors and 225 employees," said Steve Bugg, president and CEO of Great Lake Credit Union.
"Bunny is a lifetime advocate of empowering individuals, and has dedicated her life to serving others in the community. Waukegan, and the individuals she has met throughout her life, are much better because of her selfless actions."
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Alyssa Gallarneau, 18, of Lake Villa represented the Lake County Fair at the 2022 Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Pageant, held Jan. 13-16 at the annual Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs convention in Springfield.
The Indiana University freshman was one of 71 county fair queens from across the state that competed for the title.
During the event, Gallarneau received the "Ruby Crum Memorial Award," also known as the "Spark Plug Award," which is an honor granted by the Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Pageant crew to the contestant with the most positivity, charm and enthusiasm.
Gallarneau is a media broadcasting and communications major, with plans to pursue a career in live broadcast television.
• Send your 'Neighbors in the News' items to ntwohey@dailyherald.com.