Dr. Alicia Wodika recognized for exemplary community and civic engagement with the LOVE Award

Illinois State University proudly celebrates Dr. Alicia Wodika as the next recipient of the Living Our Values in Excellence (LOVE) Award for her outstanding commitment to community and civic engagement, a core value of the Excellence by Design 2024-2030 strategic plan. Since joining the faculty in 2018, Alicia has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to service that extends far beyond the classroom. Her leadership and volunteerism have touched countless lives-from serving as PTO president at Glenn Elementary and supporting the School Street Food Pantry to advancing health equity through her work with the NAACP Environmental Justice and Health Committees and the Community Health Care Clinic. In addition, her role as a Planning Commissioner for the Town of Normal reflects her deep investment in shaping policies that benefit the public good.

Wodika's impact is equally profound within Illinois State University. She has served on numerous departmental, college, and university committees, offering collaborative leadership and vision while securing community-focused grants that strengthen ISU's outreach and sustainability efforts. Whether improving air quality, promoting tobacco-free initiatives, or enhancing recycling systems, Wodika consistently transforms ideas into meaningful action. Her tireless efforts exemplify what it means to live our values, creating lasting connections between the university and the community. She was nominated by Amanda Cullen, who praised Wodika as "a doer whose service reflects a deep and authentic commitment to building a better world."

Visit the strategic plan website to learn more about the award or to nominate a current Illinois State University student, faculty, staff member, or group working on a program or initiative that reflects the University's core values:

• Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship
• Individualized Attention
• Equity, Diversity, Access, and Belonging
• Collaboration
• Community and Civic Engagement
• Respect
• Integrity