L. J. Hachmeister ’02 has created a new book called Instinct, an anthology that features stories from bestselling authors about how animals rescue us in the realm of science fiction/fantasy. The anthology is a prequel to a longer series that involves the life of a nurse on a medical mercy mission in space. The book releases March 7, 2023 and 70% of book sale profits go to rescuing animals via Lifeline Puppy Rescue. To read more about the book, check it out here. Congratulations L.J!
Mark Ordonez ’02 started in September as the Director of Information Systems & Security with Honest Game, a Chicago startup helping to empower student-athletes with a personalized College Athletic Pathway. Congrats, Mark!
Erika (Kamholz) Briesacher ’02 has a new book that is being published with Lexington Books on December 15, 2022. The book is called Festival, Culture, and Identity in Lübeck: Nordic Days, 1920-1960. You can read more about the book here. Congratulations Erika!
In the past two years we’ve witnessed the Titan community come together in new ways to share stories, expertise, and friendship. However, we have long awaited the chance to welcome you back to campus for a true Illinois Wesleyan Homecoming! We look forward to sharing a meal, a drink, and a story with all of you in person, September 23-25, 2022.
Click here for a full schedule of events and to register.

Sarah Jennings ’02 has recently been named to the Board of Trustees at Olivet College. Congratulations Sarah!
Michael Lupo ’02 has announced a campaign for state representative in Illinois’ 55th District. Read the full article here.
Justin Lee ’02 was the 2021 Illinois High School Association nominee for the National Federation of High Schools Outstanding Music Educator Award. Only one educator may be nominated from each state. Congratulations!
Patrick Hanlon ’02 died Dec. 29, 2021 in Chicago. He was 41. Patrick majored in business administration and was a member of Sigma Chi, as well as Illinois Wesleyan’s baseball and football teams. Patrick was a performer, whether it be on athletic fields or courts, playing musical instruments, singing, acting, dancing, songwriting or cracking jokes; he was truly at his best when entertaining others. His musical talents were on full display as the lead singer and songwriter for the band Patrick ’n Swayze, a popular band in college towns throughout Central Illinois. Patrick was able to connect with people from all walks of life, either on stage or through his career in sales. Patrick was always his happiest while surrounded by those he loved and who loved him back. He is survived by his parents, two brothers, including Sean Hanlon ’00, two sons, his former wife, two nieces and a nephew. See his full obituary here.
David Deets ’02 along with fellow alum, Becca (Gehring) Lamon ’93, are finalists to become superintendent of Bloomington District 87 schools. Read the full article here.
Megan Davidson has recently been appointed to Chief People Officer at Crowley. You can read more about it here.