The Gold Lion Luncheon

The Gold Lion Luncheon was held Oct 12, 2024 in the PHS Foyer. We had about 64 Lions attend. Our luncheon allowed our alumni to socialize and trade memories about being at PHS. It was great to see our alumni return and celebrate not only being past the +50 years from graduation but to also rekindle friendships. You could say they had a "mini" reunion. We were even able to provide some quick tours of the school. Teachers who who played an integral part of mentoring the Distinguished Alumni even came back to see their students receive their well deserved award. The Distinguished Alumni were fantastic. Once their accomplishments were read and they came to the podium, we got to hear a little about how Peoria High and the faculty, during their days in the school, affected them. They all said the influence of PHS on their lives was immeasurable. From the encouragement and motivation to speak, to build confidence to perform in front of crowds, to the observation later in life that they learned to "critically think" to handle all the issues thrown at them in life...this luncheon provided a special look at our special inductees. Check out below our newest Inductees!

The Class of 2024 Distinguished Alumni!

Our current class of Distinguished Alumni in attendance at the Gold Lion Luncheon from L-R, Carolyn Mungo '78, Steve Osunsami '89, Dr Ross Zumwalt '61, Ron Givens '67, representing Aaron Oakford 1860 were grandsons Dick Oakford '52 and Art Oakford '49. Unable to attend were Jay Janssen '55, and Dr Lance Rodewald '71.

A little about our Distinguished Alumni

As President of the PHS Alumni Association, it was a pleasure for Randy Neff '78 and to introduce our Distinguished Alumni. Their accomplishments set them apart and bring great credit upon themselves and Peoria High School. They have made an impact on their community, state and nation. Reading the accomplishments made me proud to know them and also to very proud of our school and faculty who mentored us through our years at PHS. We left with a foundation to go forth and carry on as productive members of our society. Here's somme background on our new class of DIstinguished Alumni. Enjoy.

Bill Robertson '78, President PHSAA

Jay Janssen, Class of 1955

Jay Janssen, a notable figure in the legal field, graduated from Peoria High School in 1955. He continued his education at Bradley University, where he earned a B.S. in Political Science in 1959. Janssen then pursued a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Illinois, graduating in 1961.

After being admitted to the Illinois Bar Association in 1961, Janssen embarked on a distinguished legal career. He initially focused on product liability cases in the 1960s, building a reputation for integrity and tenacity.

Over the years, he became one of Illinois’ most preeminent and successful lawyers, known for defending those who have been mistreated or injured. Janssen’s contributions to the legal community have been recognized with various accolades, including the Peoria Journal Star Reader’s Choice Award in 2005. His career spans over five decades, marked by a commitment to justice and advocacy for his clients.

Dr Lance Rodewald, Class of 1971

Dr. Lance Rodewald, a 1971 graduate of Peoria High School, has had a distinguished career in public health. He is renowned for his work in immunization and vaccine delivery. Dr. Rodewald served as the director of the Immunization Services Division at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he played a pivotal role in reforming the nation’s publicly-funded vaccine system to ensure that more children, especially those who are poor and uninsured, receive life-saving vaccines.

Currently, Dr. Rodewald is a senior advisor to the National Immunization Program at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, continuing his dedication to improving global health. His contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2023 Alumni Humanitarian Award from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Illinois.

Dr Ross Zumwalt, Class of 1961

Dr. Ross Zumwalt, a 1961 graduate of Peoria High School, has made significant contributions to the field of forensic pathology. Dr Zumwalt pursued higher education at Wabash College and the University of Illinois. Dr. Zumwalt has played a pivotal role in the accreditation of forensic pathology training programs. Throughout his career, Dr. Zumwalt has been a prominent figure in academia, teaching at the University of New Mexico. He is renowned for his work as the Chief Medical Investigator for the State of New Mexico, where he has been involved in numerous highprofile cases.

Dr. Zumwalt’s expertise and dedication have earned him a respected position in the medical and legal communities. His career reflects a commitment to advancing forensic science and ensuring justice through meticulous medical investigation.

Ron Givens, Class of 1967

Ron Givens, a 1967 graduate of Peoria High School, has had a distinguished and varied career. He is the CEO, president, and majority owner of GIVSCO Construction and JM Industrial Supply, two of the largest minority-owned businesses in the Peoria area. With over 30 years of experience in owning and operating small businesses, Givens has made significant contributions to the local economy and community.

In addition to his business achievements, Givens has been recognized for his leadership and dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry. His work has not only provided employment opportunities but also served as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.

Carolyn Mungo, Class of 1978

Carolyn Mungo, a 1978 graduate of Peoria High School, has built an impressive career in journalism. She has worked as a reporter in major markets such as Minneapolis, Phoenix, and Houston. Over her 27-year career, she has earned numerous accolades, including 18 Regional Emmys and three regional Edward R. Murrow Awards. In 2012, Carolyn joined WFAA in Dallas, where she initially served as the Executive News Director. Her leadership and innovative approach significantly improved the station’s ratings and digital presence. In 2019, she was promoted to Vice President and Station Manager at WFAA.

Her contributions to the field were recognized in 2023 when she was inducted into the Silver Circle by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Carolyn’s career is a testament to her dedication and impact on the field of broadcast journalism

Steve Osunsami, Class of 1989

Steve Osunsami, a 1989 graduate of Peoria High School, has had a remarkable career in journalism.

Steve Osunsami is an award-winning senior national correspondent for ABC News, based in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been with ABC News since 1997 and contributes to various programs, including “World News with David Muir,” “Good Morning America,” “Nightline,” and “ABC News Live”. Osunsami has covered a wide range of significant events and stories throughout his career.

Some of his notable reports include coverage of Hurricane Katrina, the Charleston Church shooting, the COVID-19 pandemic, and various civil rights and social justice issues. His work has earned him recognition and awards, highlighting his dedication to impactful journalism.

Aaron Oakford 1860

Aaron Oakford, who attended Peoria High School in 1860, had a remarkable career and made significant contributions to Peoria. Born in 1845, Oakford’s family moved to Peoria when he was a child. After spending just one year at Peoria High School, he began working as a clerk at the largest retail store in the city, H.H. Potter.

In 1868, at the age of 23, Oakford, along with two other clerks, bought the business. By 1872, the company, now known as Oakford and Fahnestock, shifted its focus to wholesale food distribution. Under Oakford’s leadership, it became the largest food wholesaler in the Midwest, serving over 460 stores.

Beyond his business success, Oakford was also a philanthropist, banker, and civic leader. He was deeply involved in the economic development of central Illinois and was recognized as Peoria’s “most useful citizen” upon his death in 1933. Oakford’s legacy in Peoria is enduring, with his contributions to the community still remembered today.

Aaron Oakford was instrumental in founding and supporting several key organizations in Peoria, IL. He helped organize and sustain:

Neighborhood House

Peoria YWCA

Creve Coeur Club

Illinois National Bank (now PNC Bank)

Additionally, he played significant roles in the development of Grandview Drive and served as president of both the Proctor Endowment Home and Proctor Hospital.

Numerous sources were used to compile information on our Distinguished Alumni.