Pause for applause

Appears In




Illinois State: Spring 2017

U.S. for MS

It has been 11 years since Corey Mackey ’95 was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The disabling disease compromises the immune system and disrupts information from the brain. The central nervous system, including the spine, is especially attacked. Mackey’s physical struggles have not diminished his resolve to tackle the disease that impacts more than 400,000 people in the United States. Mackey consequently worked to raise awareness and funds across the country by creating a national group—Team CorMack—with the goal of a member in an MS walk in every state. As 2016 came to a close, 30 states had been reached.

Beyond stand-up

Dandrell Scott ’08 honed his comedic skills while at Illinois State by performing in Theater of Ted, which is an open-mic opportunity. He pursued his passion of combining different entertainment outlets while staying true to his comedy roots following graduation. Now a producer and actor, Scott is known for his animation as well. One of his works, an animated short titled “Dance Dog Fever,” was shown nationally on the televised show African American Short Films in 2016. With the nickname of D Scott Got Jokes, he continues to live out a favorite quote that begins with “If you have a dream, chase it!”

Top of her game

As a PE student, Mary Dagraedt ’52, M.S. ’56, learned golf in preparation for teaching. Dagraedt had no idea that class would lead to a lifetime of excelling in the sport. She worked 38 years as a golf professional at Spring Creek Golf Course in Spring Valley. She also formed golf teams at Miami Dade North Community College. Dagraedt instructed 80 future professionals and thousands of students. She has been inducted into The Ladies Professional Golf Association Teaching and Club Professionals Hall of Fame. She has been chosen for four other halls of fame, including at ISU, where she competed in five sports.

Ready to lead

Chuck Scott, M.S. ’94, has overseen many initiatives on campus during the 32 years he has worked at Illinois State University. He is without question prepared to lead nationally as president of the Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA). Scott is at the head of the organization with 12,500 members from 1,650 institutions across North America. He will travel internationally in his role with the professional organization for educational facilities managers. While serving as president of APPA this year, Scott will continue in his ISU role as executive director of Facilities Management, Parking, and Transportation.