Our Team

Jessica has many years of experience at Shining Star from 2014-2020, as Family Advocate, Forensic Interviewer, and Counselor.  Jessica returned to Shining Star in 2021 as the Executive Director. Jessica holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor.  Jessica's role at Shining Star is to oversee the operations of the agency, as well as work with the multidisciplinary team to ensure cases at Shining Star receive the proper services to help each family.  Jessica is trained in Child First forensic interviewing protocol and conducts child forensic interviews. 

Tracy joined Shining Star in 2020 as the Family Advocate.  Tracy holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology. Tracy previously worked in foster care and investigations at local child welfare agencies.  Tracy's role at Shining Star is to provide support to the families we serve throughout the process, starting from their initial contact with Shining Star.  Tracy provides families updates on their case, refers them for services such as mental health counseling, or other community services, and provides court advocacy to families.  Tracy also works with the multidisciplinary team ensuring clients needs are met. 

   Morgan joined Shining Star in 2025 as our trauma therapist. Morgan holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Morgan has been working in the mental health field for 10 years, including work in community mental health, corrections/probation, inpatient behavioral health and private practice. Morgan is very passionate about social justice advocacy and implementing a safe space for each child to feel heard and understood. Morgan’s role is to conduct individual counseling, utilizing a trauma-informed approach as well as evidence-based therapy modalities to allow each child to process their trauma and learn effective coping skills. Morgan believes therapy is a resourceful guide to allow children to meet their authentic self, heal and live a fulfilling life. 

  Bailey joined Shining Star in 2025 as our Forensic Interviewer and MDT Coordinator.  Bailey holds two bachelor’s degrees; one is in Psychology with a minor in counseling, the other is in English Language, Literature, and Film. Bailey previously worked as a camp counselor where she received experience working with a wide range of children. Bailey’s role at Shining Star CAC is to conduct forensic interviews with children ages 3-18 and disabled adults, allowing them a safe space to talk about their experiences.  Bailey is trained in Child First Forensic Interviewing protocol.  As our MDT Coordinator Bailey works with a team of professionals from law enforcement, child protection services, and prosecutors providing case management, education, and ensuring all case receive a proper investigation.  

  President

Charley Boonstra - Lee County

Vice President  

Mike Rock - Ogle County

 Treasurer

Angel Lillpop - Lee County

Ogle County Board Members: 

Ashley Patrick 

Lee County Board Members:

Yvette Yarbrough 

Kristina McWethy 

Aaron Simonton 

MDT Advisory Board:

Shannon Krueger - MERIT

Clay Whelan - Lee County Sheriff Office

Pete Pavia - Rochelle Police Dept

Jennifer Hawley - DCFS

TBD- Ogle County Sheriff Office

United Way of Lee County

United Way of Ogle County

YWCA of the Sauk Valley

HOPE of Ogle County 

KSB Hospital 

Rockford Sexual Assault Counseling 

Children's Advocacy Centers of Illinois

National Children's Alliance 

National Children's Advocacy Center's