PGN at Illinois State University
PGN is a professional development organization for all majors…
…that believes there are clear steps, training and support networks that can mitigate underemployment and unemployment risk, and prepare graduates for a lifetime of success.
What We Offer
Real-World Experience
PGN members have the opportunity to apply the skills they learn in the classroom to real-world projects, running an organization, managing people, and navigating situations that will better prepare them for transitioning to the workplace
Community of Mentors
At PGN, we are devoted to each other and driven to success, meaning you have mentors for life - ready to help you throughout your career
Industry Diversity
PGN accepts all majors to ensure that we are reflective of the demographics and skill sets of today’s businesses. Most importantly, this allows us to prepare future leaders across verticals with the skills needed to succeed.
GOLD SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSOR
Thank You To Our Sponsors
Our sponsors have exclusive access to future high-performing employees. PGN makes recruitment easy by helping you tap into our broad student and alumni network.
Where We Work
Diverse majors translate into diverse career paths. Check out where our alumni are located
We love giving back!
From large campus-wide fundraising football tournaments to weekends at food pantries, we think there’s nothing better than working together to improve our community. Every year we volunteer hundreds of hours and raise thousands for important causes and nonprofits.
Our Leaders
Andrew Cedeño, President
Major: Business Information Systems
Hometown: Des Plains, IL
Andrew Cedeno is a Risk Management & Insurance major at Illinois State University and serves as the President of Phi Gamma Nu. Having previously served as Vice President of External Affairs, Andrew played a key role in expanding professional partnerships, leading large-scale events, and strengthening the chapter’s external presence across campus and with industry partners.
In addition to his leadership within Phi Gamma Nu, Andrew is an active member of Gamma Iota Sigma, further aligning his campus involvement with his professional interests in risk management and insurance. He also works at Campus Recreation in the Student Fitness Center, balancing his academic responsibilities with leadership development and professional growth.
As President, Andrew is focused on building a strong chapter culture rooted in accountability, opportunity, and long-term impact. His vision centers on elevating professional programming, strengthening alumni engagement, and ensuring members gain tangible skills and experiences that prepare them to succeed beyond college.assion for making a meaningful impact in all areas of his life.
Kate Miller, Vice President of External Affairs
Major: Human Resource Management
Hometown: Decatur, IL
Kate Miller, a Decatur, IL native, is a Human Resource Management major with a strong passion for leadership, involvement, and organizational growth. She currently serves as Vice President of External Affairs for Phi Gamma Nu, where she focuses on strengthening the chapter’s external presence and creating meaningful connections that support the organization’s long term success.
In addition to PGN, Kate is an active member of Alpha Omicron Pi, where she previously served as Director of New Member Experience, helping guide and support new members during their transition into the chapter. Through her leadership roles, she has developed a people focused leadership style centered on communication, support, and giving back to the organizations that have shaped her college experience.
Outside of her academic and leadership commitments, Kate enjoys golfing, long walks, and working at a country club, where she continues to build strong interpersonal and professional skills. Her goal as a leader in Phi Gamma Nu is to help strengthen the chapter and give back to an organization that has provided her with growth, opportunity and lasting connections.
Owen Schmidt, Vice President of New Membership
Major: Accounting & Finance
Hometown : Robinson, IL
Owen Schmidt, a Robinson Illinois native, is a dedicated Finance and Accounting double major with a commitment to academic excellence and leadership. He currently serves as the Vice President of New Membership for Phi Gamma Nu, and is focused on maintaining his 4.0 GPA.
Outside of the classroom, Owen enjoys golfing, traveling, meeting new people, and watching sports. As the VP of New Membership, Owen is dedicated to leading potential new members, and helping them grow professionally and individually.
Owen’s passion for professional and personal growth is what inspired him to serve as the VP of New Membership. He is looking forward to meeting the new member class, and making a difference in their lives.
Allyson Ford, Vice President of Finance
Major: BS/MPA Accounting
Hometown: Geneseo, Illinois
Allyson Ford is an accounting major from Geneseo, IL who is actively involved in both academic and student organizations at Illinois State University. She currently serves as Vice President of Finance for Phi Gamma Nu, Treasurer of the ISU Women’s Rugby Club, and a Business Week Mentor, where she helps support peers through campus-wide professional programming.
In addition to her leadership roles, Allyson enjoys playing rugby, watching movies, listening to music, and building LEGO sets. She takes pride in managing finances responsibly and contributing to the success of the organizations she’s part of. With a 4.0 GPA, Allyson plans to pursue her master’s degree and pass the CPA exam during her time at ISU as she works toward a career in accounting.
Kelsey Hutchison, Vice President of Marketing
Major: Marketing Profession Sales
Hometown: O’Fallon, IL
Kelsey Hutchison is a Sophomore majoring in Marketing Professional Sales at Illinois State University. Coming from a hardworking background, she brings a strong work ethic and dedication to everything she does. She currently serves as the Vice President of Marketing for Phi Gamma Nu, where she leads strategic marketing initiatives and brand development efforts. Previously, she held the role of Assistant Vice President of Marketing, a position that played a key role in helping her develop and refine the marketing skills she will carry into her future career.
She is not only an active member of a professional development organization, but also deeply involved in a sorority, where she builds leadership skills and strong relationships. In addition, she consistently gives back to her campus community through volunteering, demonstrating a genuine commitment to service, involvement, and making a positive impact on others.
In Kelsey’s free time she enjoys hanging out with friends, go to the gym, and listening to music. As a leader in Phi Gamma Nu she wants to strengthen Phi Gamma Nu’s name, increase campus awareness, increase recruitment engagement, and effectively promote professional development opportunities to others.
Through her leadership role, she consistently demonstrates responsibility, initiative, and managing responsibilities effectively while maintaining academic excellence.
Emma Jenkins, Vice President of Internal Affairs
Major: Risk Management and Insurance
Hometown: Naperville, IL
Emma Jenkins is a risk management & insurance major from Naperville, IL, who values leadership, teamwork, and meaningful connection. As the Vice President of Internal Affairs, she is passionate about bringing members together and creating experiences that strengthen brotherhood, build lasting connections, and ensure everyone feels included within the chapter.
Outside of the classroom, Emma enjoys cooking, traveling, watching movies, and painting. Academically and personally, she values balance, personal growth, and forming genuine relationships, and she strives to bring those qualities into everything she is involved in, both within Phi Gamma Nu and beyond.
Martin Kocian, Vice President of Communications
Major: Exercise Science
Hometown: Mundelein, IL.
Martin Kocian, a junior from Mundelein, is working towards an Exercise Science degree at Illinois State University. During his time in Phi Gamma Nu, Martin has served as the Risk Management chair, Assistant Vice President of New Membership, and now the Vice President of Communications. His experience within PGN has been a cornerstone of his professional development and leadership training.
This semester, Martin aims to advance his coursework in preparation for graduate school in pursuit of a career in healthcare. Outside of academics, he enjoys going to the gym, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying the outdoors.
In his role as VP of Communications, Martin is committed to maintaining transparent, steady dialogue within the chapter while strengthening ties with PGN alumni. He strives to cultivate an encouraging environment that promotes the personal and professional advancement of every member. Martin looks forward to applying the leadership skills he gains in this role to his future career.