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The Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship welcomes new staff member

The Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship announced today that Cheryl Mitchell, of Mahomet, is joining the staff of the Institute as the interim executive director. Craig Lindvahl, the current executive director, will be handing over day-to-day operations to Mitchell as he deals with a health issue.

Cheryl’s most recent work has been as an educator in Mahomet Illinois. From 2007-2010 she was Director of Training and Development with Northwestern Mutual, and from 2010 – 2015 she was a first grade teacher. A 25-year veteran of the academic and corporate community, Cheryl holds a Bachelor’s Degree from SIU-Carbondale and a Master’s Degree from Concordia University. In addition, she holds an administrative degree. She specializes in building a vibrant and collaborative relationship between academia and entrepreneurship, networking with and recruiting and training high-level partners. She is a vision-focused individual with the passion and drive to bring CEO to new levels.

Cheryl has two sons: Doug, currently at EKU in Richmond, KY, and Ben, high school junior, currently at home. Cheryl is a native of Newton, IL and has strong ties to the area. Cheryl enjoys reading, playing golf, cooking, and serving on the Mahomet-Seymour Education Foundation in the role of Public Relations.

“The minute I observed my first CEO class, I knew it was magic and that every high school senior should be afforded the opportunity to participate. Like every person who has the privilege of spending time with Craig, I too was forever changed after our first conversation; he got me, and I am incredibly privileged to get to be a part of this team.”

The Midland Institute oversees CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) programs in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Minnesota, and the CEO program is experiencing rapid expansion. Lindvahl says Mitchell is a perfect fit for the mission of the Institute. “I met Cheryl about a year ago, and it’s clear that she shares our passion for kids and communities. We’re so lucky to be able to bring her on board just when her skills and attributes will be the most helpful and effective.”

Karen Wolters is a member of the Midland Institute board. “Several years ago we found a great teacher to work hand in hand with Craig for the original CEO class in Effingham, and now we are finding a great person to work hand in hand with Craig to help lead the Midland Institute.”

Lindvahl was recently diagnosed with some significant health issues, and says, “Life sometimes throws us a curve, but CEO is just the right thing at the right time, and it’s critical that our work continue with all the same excitement and passion that has gotten us to this point. Cheryl is just the right person to lead that work.”

Cheryl Mitchell officially will begin her new position on December 7, 2015

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