Alison Jefferson.

A native of McDonough County, Alison grew up in a farming family just outside of Colchester. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies and Political Science from the University of Iowa, and a Master of Science degree in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University.  She lives in Macomb with her husband and five year old son.  Locally, she has served as Treasurer for the McDonough County Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, currently serves on the Board for the Samaritan Well, Inc., and is involved in the worship ministry at her church.   Alison has worked with people of all ages in developing leadership skills.  Prior to signing on as the McDonough County CEO Program Facilitator in 2021, she served as the Program Director for the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation, the Coordinator for Community Service at Washington University in St. Louis, and worked for two Members of Congress in Washington, DC.  She has a heart for service and seeing young people develop into confident leaders and professionals.   Upon taking this role, Alison stated: “I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with the talented youth of McDonough County, as they grow and learn about what it takes to run a business.  I also look forward to seeing our communities have a clearer understanding of McDonough County CEO and its impact on our area students.”