Retired Oak Forest High School Athletic Director to be Inducted into the IADA Hall of Fame

Ms. Susan Bonner will be inducted into the Illinois Athletic Directors Association’s (IADA) Hall of Fame on Saturday, April 30 in East Peoria. Bonner retired from Bremen District 228’s Oak Forest High School in 2012 where she served as Athletic Director.

Susan was employed as the Oak Forest High School Athletic Director from 2003-2012. During her tenure, she saw her softball team win a State title in 2009, baseball place 2nd in 2011, and cheerleading earn two 3rd Place trophies and a 2nd Place State trophy. In 2012, Susan was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Also, Bonner was one of the pioneers in establishing the South Suburban Conference (SSC) and the SSC Handbook. A SSC All-Sport trophy was also established, and Oak Forest HS won the President’s Cup three years in a row from 2008-2010.

From 1986-2003, prior to her work as Athletic Director, Bonner became the Assistant Athletic Director and Girls’ Head Basketball Coach for Oak Forest High School. She was also involved in three Illinois High School Association (IHSA) committees: Basketball Sportsmanship, Basketball Advisory and Badminton Advisory.

Susan also worked at D228’s Hillcrest High School from 1979-1986. She held the positions of English teacher and Dean, and was the Head Coach in girls’ basketball, track and field, cross country, and volleyball.

Susan’s extensive knowledge of high school athletics and her dedication to the IADA are a few of the many reasons that led Susan to this selection as a member of the Illinois Athletic Directors Association Hall of Fame. Hillcrest High School Athletic Director Lisa Wunar remembers the work of Susan Bonner and said, “Susan set the bar for organization, expectations and sportsmanship. When one competed against Oak Forest, one could count on a positive experience. Susan coordinated every event with precision and hospitality. Guests were treated like family.”

Susan Bonner has been a member of the IADA for the past 12 years. In that time frame, she earned her Athletic Administrator certification (CAA) and has served on the IADA Executive Board as the Public Relations Director for 6 years.