Flossmoor D161 Appoints 2 To Fill Board Vacancies

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Flossmoor School District 161 Board of Education on Sept. 28 officially appointed Dr. Crystal Cleggett and James Ulwick to fill vacancies left by Dr. Carolyn Griggs and Christina Vlietstra.

"We are excited to announce that the Flossmoor District 161 Board of Education has appointed Dr. Crystal Cleggett and Mr. James Ulwick as our newest members of the team," said Board President David Linnear. "Both individuals are invested in the District 161 community and the Board looks forward to beginning our work together."

Cleggett holds a Doctorate degree in Interdisciplinary Leadership from Governors State University and a Masters of Social Work from Loyola University. With more than 20 years of experience in mental health and over fifteen years in higher education, Cleggett brings a perspective grounded in education, social work, mental health, leadership, and community engagement.

"My goal as a District 161 board member is to support our scholars through the various transitions of their academic success and personal growth," said Cleggett following the appointment. "I will do this through continued partnership with our families and the community; while maintaining a fiscally responsible budget."

Ulwick holds a Juris Doctorate from Loyola Chicago School of Law and a Bachelor of the Arts in English from Kenyon College. Ulwick has practiced law in Illinois for more than a decade, representing both plaintiffs and defendants and counseling clients in complex and consequential matters. That work required him to evaluate competing positions, master complicated information, ask difficult questions, manage significant responsibilities, and work collaboratively toward practical solutions.

"I am incredibly grateful and excited to join the SD161 school board," Ulwick said. "I'm looking forward to collaborating with our community to support the next generation, and to ensure our students receive the world-class education that they deserve. I am honored to step into this role to champion their academic success, support our dedicated educators, and ensure our schools continue to thrive."

"We are thrilled to welcome our new members to the Board of Education," said District 161 Superintendent Dr. Terrance M. Sanders.

"Their diverse backgrounds and shared dedication to public education will be invaluable as we continue our mission to support every student. I look forward to working closely with them to build on our district's successes and navigate our future opportunities together."