Fall 2007 Issue

Carolyn Ringeisen

Ambassador to the community

Carolyn Ringeisen

Carolyn Ringeisen has planted the seeds of a beautiful garden – at home in the community. Her kindness and warmth, her natural instincts toward harmony and her work ethic have ensured her gardens’ success.

Since her arrival, Carolyn Ringeisen has grown UIS by representing it to the greater community. Her newness to the area didn’t seem to hold her back; she set roots right away.

Former mayor of Springfield, Karen Hasara, volunteers with Mrs. Ringeisen for the Alumni SAGE Society. She says Carolyn “always participates in just the right fashion.”

The Alumni SAGE Society offers alumni age 50 and better opportunities to stay connected through service activities, lifelong learning opportunities and social events. Mrs. Ringeisen is part of what makes that group successful: She contributes her time and energy, but is unassuming. “She is very helpful and has good ideas,” said Hasara. “She’s one of us.”

Carolyn Ringeisen is instrumental in a number of campus events, including Homecoming Week. Beth Hoag, assistant director of Student Life, said, “Mrs. Ringeisen is always reliable. She is organized, talks to people and is fun to have on the committee. She brings great insights.”

Ringeisen’s work behind the scenes is equally important: She ensures the comfort and accommodation of distinguished visitors by opening her home and gardens. “I love meeting people in the community and donors to UIS,” she says.

Carolyn Ringeisen has a master’s degree in business education, taught high school business and spent 15 years teaching business at the college level. Today, she spends her personal time gardening and visiting her five grandchildren. Her hopes for the future include seeing them attend college. She noted that she and the chancellor have spent the better part of their lives involved in improving higher education. As a result, she is interested to see what her grandchildren choose for their futures.