Caroline Leighton ’09

Caroline Leighton ’09 graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in May 2022, receiving a Master of Education degree in Curriculum & Instruction, focusing on Mathematics, Science, & Engineering Education and earning Phi Kappa Phi honors in the process. Caroline continues teaching mathematics at Urbana High School, where she began her teaching career upon graduation from IWU and has served in various leadership roles over the years.

Kristin (Siegfried) Ballenger ’09

Kristin (Siegfried) Ballenger ’09 is a maker and restorer of violins, violas, and cellos. She has recently had instruments in the Celebrating Women Luthiers Exhibit in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and Burlington, Vermont. In November, she will have three instruments featured at the Anaheim 2022 Competition and Convention of the Violin Society of America. As well as her new making, she does fine instrument restoration for Reuning and Son Violins in Boston.