EIU Media Relations

EIU Outcomes: From student worker to Statewide leader

EIU Alumna Makiya Thomas selected for, graduates from prestigious Illinois Women's Leadership Institute

(Charleston, IL) – Eastern Illinois University Class of 2016 alumna Makiya Thomas is demonstrating the powerful trajectory of an EIU education following her recent graduation from the prestigious Illinois Women’s Institute for Leadership (IWIL) Training Academy. Her journey from connecting with alumni as a student worker on campus to joining a premier statewide network of civic leaders highlights EIU’s commitment to preparing students for impactful careers and lifelong community leadership.

Pam Monetti, President of IWIL and Chair of the Macoupin County Democratic Party, said: “Makiya Thomas is a leader who demonstrates through her actions what it means to serve her community. I’ve had the opportunity to follow her work and see the impact she continues to make across public health, military service, leadership development, and her community. Her commitment to serving others and developing the next generation of leaders is evident. Makiya has earned this opportunity, and I’m excited to see how she continues to use her leadership to make a difference across Illinois.”

Before graduating and building a distinguished career in public service, Thomas laid the groundwork for her professional journey right on the EIU campus. As a student, she worked in the Alumni Services area as a call center representative for the EIU Annual Fund. In that role, she spent hours engaging with the Panther alumni community, sharpening her communication skills, and developing an early appreciation for the power of connection and institutional support—skills that have translated directly into her public service and civic leadership today.

"Makiya’s journey perfectly illustrates how student employment and engagement at EIU serve as a springboard for exceptional student outcomes," said EIU Public Information Coordinator and former Director of the University’s Annual Fund Josh Reinhart. "The same dedication and communication skills she brought to our Annual Fund call center have now propelled her into high-level civic leadership, public health advocacy, and noteworthy military service."

The IWIL Training Academy selects just 12 women from across Illinois each year for its intensive leadership and political training program. By completing the academy, Thomas joins an influential statewide network of alumnae that includes Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and former Congresswomen Cheri Bustos and Marie Newman.

Thomas currently channels her commitment to community impact through her professional role with the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (C-UPHD), where she focuses on improving public health outcomes, strengthening regional partnerships, and connecting residents with vital resources. Her dedication to service also extends to the military; she serves as a Captain in the Illinois Army National Guard and recently helped train and develop 22 officer candidates through the rigorous Officer Candidate School program.

Reflecting on her continued growth, Thomas noted that her recent academy experience provided critical tools for her ongoing work.

“The experience has provided me with not only valuable technical skills, but also a stronger understanding of what it takes to build effective campaigns, connect with communities, communicate a clear vision, and lead with purpose,” Thomas said.

Thomas's momentum shows no signs of slowing down. She was recently appointed as an Affiliate of the University of Illinois Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Institute (IHSI), creating new avenues to build meaningful partnerships focused on health, research, and community impact. Furthermore, she remains deeply active in local volunteerism, mentoring youth at the Juvenile Detention Center through Busy Body’s Inc., and working with local school districts via the Urbana Rotary Club.

From her early days supporting Eastern Illinois University's advancement efforts to her status as a rising leader in public health and civic affairs, Thomas exemplifies the meaningful outcomes of the EIU experience.

EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, community-based services and opportunities, visit eiu.edu or call EIU's Public Information Office at (217) 581-7400.