Blog/opportunities

 

In Memory of Leanna...

Those her knew her best share memories and stories of our friend Leanna.

Author: Fellow STLF Core Leaders

We are sad to share that our friend, long-time STLF leader, and Western Illinois University Chapter Co-Founder Leanna Pokora passed away less than two weeks ago in a tragic accident in Springfield, IL.  Here is an article that tells more. While we are all saddened, we want to celebrate her life and the positive impact she has made on countless people. The following is in the words of those who were fellow Core Members of Leanna and knew her best.

Leanna changed the world...

…by empowering others to be themselves. She was encouraging, helpful and had the heart of an angel.

…by trusting in others and expanding the dream.  

…by being herself everyday. I think many people get caught up in trying to be someone they're not but Leanna was truly genuine and I think we need more people like that in the world. We at WIU will cherish the time we had with her forever.

…through her determination to others.

…by focusing on individuals.

…by putting others first, being a good listener, and always having the back of her friends.

…because she wasn't afraid to change it.

…just by donating her time, but she was also a huge part in changing my life in monumental ways that can't even be described.

…by bringing this great organization to our university.

…because she had the passion for serving others and believed that anyone could lend a hand.

…by getting everyone involved and ALWAYS helping others no matter what she had going on in her life. I still don't know when she ever did homework. I don’t think she ever did. She was always out and about literally helping someone.

 

When I think of Leanna, I think of…

…a caring spirit always willing to help.

…driving around campus blasting Dixie Chicks while screaming it on the top of our lungs. Also, our long talks in the office about life and boys.

…many nights and meetings trying to make STLF possible for students on Western's campus.

…a strong leader who inspired and motivated everyone around her.

…a tough chick who wouldnt take any crap from anyone, but also a kind hearted soul devoted to the causes of STLF.

…all the fun times we had outside of classes and student organizations. She was great at balancing her academics, involvement, and friendships.

…an inspirational young woman, my mentor, the STLF road trip to fall conference and the "grunting song" (aka "Slow Motion" by Juvenille), late nights in the IHC office

…animal crackers and the careful attention she paid to make sure everyone felt comfortable.

…someone who is willing to do a job that few want to do

…a person who really wanted to help others reach their full potential. Leanna was so organized and was a fun person to be around for my 3 years in school. The one time that really I remember about Leanna is her drive to get people involved in STLF. Leanna and the other founders worked very hard but when Leanna said "Lets Go" that's all I needed to hear.

…great memories on the first ISU bus. Her faith and laughter helped a lot of people feel so much more comfortable.

…a selfless person who loved others deeply.

 

Leanna revealed my leadership…

…by supporting everything I did.

…by believing in something that she had no idea existed previously. She taught me to trust myself and go for what I truly believe in.  

…getting me involved from day 1. All of my accolades and accomplishments I owe to her for her willingness to get me involved.

…by getting me to want to experience STLF another year

…by listening.

…by believing in me.  She never let me quit when things were getting hard.  I wish I could have gotten the chance to say thank you for all of our memories.   

…by her enthusiasm in all her involvement. From Thompson Hall Government to STLF, her passion always shone bright and spread to the people around her.

…by pushing me to do the best i could while on tour.

…by believing that I could lead a tour without any prior STLF experience.

---

- Support STLF by Making a Donation Online!

---

View and Read More Recent Blog Posts!