PRESIDENT: Sonya Conton, MS, BA, CST, FAST, RST
Sonya Conton has been a dedicated member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) for 13 years and has served on the Board of Directors for the Illinois State Assembly (ISA) since 2019. Her professional journey includes roles at Carle Methodist, Carle Proctor, and Carle Pekin hospitals. However, her most rewarding role has been as a mother, raising her children.
Currently, Sonya serves as the Program Director of the Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing Programs in Health Careers at Illinois Central College. Her commitment to community service is reflected in her active memberships in local and national organizations such as the Tri-County Urban League Guild, NAACP, Peoria PAC (Peoria Political Action Committee), and her church. As the ISA Community Outreach Chairman, Sonya has gained significant insight into the needs and solutions for her community.
To maintain balance in her life, Sonya enjoys reading, learning new hobbies, and traveling with her fiance. With her children successfully pursuing their graduate and postgraduate career goals across the country, she looks forward to new and varied challenges within the ISA. She is excited to meet new people and develop working relationships to achieve the organization's goals. Sonya is honored to serve as your President and National Delegate for the State of Illinois, and she is committed to supporting the membership of the ISA.
Sonya Conton has been a dedicated member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) for 13 years and has served on the Board of Directors for the Illinois State Assembly (ISA) since 2019. Her professional journey includes roles at Carle Methodist, Carle Proctor, and Carle Pekin hospitals. However, her most rewarding role has been as a mother, raising her children.
Currently, Sonya serves as the Program Director of the Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing Programs in Health Careers at Illinois Central College. Her commitment to community service is reflected in her active memberships in local and national organizations such as the Tri-County Urban League Guild, NAACP, Peoria PAC (Peoria Political Action Committee), and her church. As the ISA Community Outreach Chairman, Sonya has gained significant insight into the needs and solutions for her community.
To maintain balance in her life, Sonya enjoys reading, learning new hobbies, and traveling with her fiance. With her children successfully pursuing their graduate and postgraduate career goals across the country, she looks forward to new and varied challenges within the ISA. She is excited to meet new people and develop working relationships to achieve the organization's goals. Sonya is honored to serve as your President and National Delegate for the State of Illinois, and she is committed to supporting the membership of the ISA.
Vice President: Melissa Jensen, AAS, CST
Melissa lives in Rockford, Illinois and graduated with honors from the Parkland College Surgical Technology program. She joined the Association of Surgical Technologists in 2021 and served two terms as a Board of Director before becoming the Vice President. She is currently employed at Northern Illinois/Gilvydis Vein Clinic which is one of only three accredited vein clinics within the state of Illinois. She enjoys being able to use her Certified Surgical Technologist skills and knowledge for direct patient care outside of the operating room. Melissa is also a mom of two and enjoys sharing her love of surgery with her kids and those around her. In her spare time, she loves to read novels, spend time with family, and advocate for surgical technologists and surgical patients. Working as a Certified Surgical Technologist has been a dream come true and given her many incredible opportunities. She is eager to continue educating others about the profession and being a voice for surgical technologists throughout the state.
Melissa lives in Rockford, Illinois and graduated with honors from the Parkland College Surgical Technology program. She joined the Association of Surgical Technologists in 2021 and served two terms as a Board of Director before becoming the Vice President. She is currently employed at Northern Illinois/Gilvydis Vein Clinic which is one of only three accredited vein clinics within the state of Illinois. She enjoys being able to use her Certified Surgical Technologist skills and knowledge for direct patient care outside of the operating room. Melissa is also a mom of two and enjoys sharing her love of surgery with her kids and those around her. In her spare time, she loves to read novels, spend time with family, and advocate for surgical technologists and surgical patients. Working as a Certified Surgical Technologist has been a dream come true and given her many incredible opportunities. She is eager to continue educating others about the profession and being a voice for surgical technologists throughout the state.
TREASURER: Jennifer Jordan, BS, CST, FAST
Jennifer is from Marion, Illinois. She has been a CST for 14 years, graduating from Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market Surgical Technology Certificate program. She has since continued her education receiving an Associates of Science at John A. Logan College (Carterville, Illinois) in May 2018 and her Bachelor of Science at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale, Illinois) in December 2019. She is currently the Surgical Technology Program Director at the John A. Logan College in Carterville, Illinois. Jennifer really enjoys teaching and preparing her students for a career as surgical technologists. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her adult children. She enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and being with her significant other and beloved cat Luna aka Kitty.
Jennifer is from Marion, Illinois. She has been a CST for 14 years, graduating from Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market Surgical Technology Certificate program. She has since continued her education receiving an Associates of Science at John A. Logan College (Carterville, Illinois) in May 2018 and her Bachelor of Science at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale, Illinois) in December 2019. She is currently the Surgical Technology Program Director at the John A. Logan College in Carterville, Illinois. Jennifer really enjoys teaching and preparing her students for a career as surgical technologists. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her adult children. She enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and being with her significant other and beloved cat Luna aka Kitty.
Secretary: Becca Good, CST, CSFA, FAST
After graduating Trinity School of Surgical Technology, Moline, Illinois in 1996, Becca worked for 2 years in the Quad Cities. Her family then moved to Nashville, Tennessee where she began her 20 plus years of volunteer work with the students doing their clinicals. Precepting became a passion for her. After speaking at the 2012 TN state meeting, she began her path of involvement in the state assembly. Serving on the Advisory Board to two Nashville colleges was rewarding and gave her great insight to their needs in the clinical setting. In 2015 Becca was honored to be asked to serve on the NBSTSA Exam Review Committee for the CSFA Exam. Over the past 10 years Becca served the Tennessee State Assembly as a BOD 2 terms, Secretary 1 term and Treasurer for 2 terms. After moving back to Illinois Becca desired to be active in the Illinois State Assembly. She served her first year as BOD, and currently is serving as Secretary. Her home hospital is Unity Point in the Quad Cities where she covers OB and the OR. Currently she is enjoying working as a traveler and welcoming the challenges of the Transplant and Vascular team. In her spare time she enjoys antiquing, thrifting and restoring old furniture. Becca's grandchildren make life fun. Becca is blessed to be momma to 4 awesome adults.
After graduating Trinity School of Surgical Technology, Moline, Illinois in 1996, Becca worked for 2 years in the Quad Cities. Her family then moved to Nashville, Tennessee where she began her 20 plus years of volunteer work with the students doing their clinicals. Precepting became a passion for her. After speaking at the 2012 TN state meeting, she began her path of involvement in the state assembly. Serving on the Advisory Board to two Nashville colleges was rewarding and gave her great insight to their needs in the clinical setting. In 2015 Becca was honored to be asked to serve on the NBSTSA Exam Review Committee for the CSFA Exam. Over the past 10 years Becca served the Tennessee State Assembly as a BOD 2 terms, Secretary 1 term and Treasurer for 2 terms. After moving back to Illinois Becca desired to be active in the Illinois State Assembly. She served her first year as BOD, and currently is serving as Secretary. Her home hospital is Unity Point in the Quad Cities where she covers OB and the OR. Currently she is enjoying working as a traveler and welcoming the challenges of the Transplant and Vascular team. In her spare time she enjoys antiquing, thrifting and restoring old furniture. Becca's grandchildren make life fun. Becca is blessed to be momma to 4 awesome adults.
BOARD OF DIRECTOR: Tanisha Bonner, MS, BS, CST, CSFA
Tanisha Bonner is a highly skilled Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) with a distinguished career that began in the U.S. Army in 2001. During her six years of military service, she honed her expertise in surgical technology and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Biology. Tanisha further advanced her qualifications by obtaining her CSFA and a Master's degree in Mathematics.
With many years of involvement in the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and seven years with the Illinois State Assembly (ISA), Tanisha has held various leadership roles, including Board of Director, delegate, and Secretary. She currently works at Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago, where she continues to excel in her dual roles as CST and CSFA.
Tanisha is dedicated to serving the members and students of the Illinois State Assembly, bringing her extensive experience and commitment to excellence to her role as Board of Director. Her passion for the field and her ongoing pursuit of professional growth make her a valuable asset to the surgical community.
Tanisha Bonner is a highly skilled Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) with a distinguished career that began in the U.S. Army in 2001. During her six years of military service, she honed her expertise in surgical technology and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Biology. Tanisha further advanced her qualifications by obtaining her CSFA and a Master's degree in Mathematics.
With many years of involvement in the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and seven years with the Illinois State Assembly (ISA), Tanisha has held various leadership roles, including Board of Director, delegate, and Secretary. She currently works at Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago, where she continues to excel in her dual roles as CST and CSFA.
Tanisha is dedicated to serving the members and students of the Illinois State Assembly, bringing her extensive experience and commitment to excellence to her role as Board of Director. Her passion for the field and her ongoing pursuit of professional growth make her a valuable asset to the surgical community.
BOARD OF DIRECTOR: Emily Gregg, BS, CST, FAST
Emily Gregg, BS, CST, FAST, resides in St. Joseph, IL. She graduated from Parkland Community College with an AAS degree in Surgical Technology and earned her BS in Organizational Professional Development from Eastern Illinois University. Emily has been employed at Carle Health in Urbana, IL since 2008 and has served as adjunct faculty and clinical coordinator for Parkland College since 2010. She currently works as the Clinical Coordinator at Parkland Community College.
Emily brings vast experience to her role as ISA Education Chairman, thanks to her extensive background as an educator and clinical coordinator. Her dedication to education and professional development is evident in her commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment for students and colleagues alike.
In her free time, Emily enjoys hunting, canoeing, and spending time outdoors with her husband, her two young sons, and their yellow lab. Her passion for the outdoors and family life complements her professional achievements, making her a well-rounded and valuable member of the ISA Board of Directors.
Emily Gregg, BS, CST, FAST, resides in St. Joseph, IL. She graduated from Parkland Community College with an AAS degree in Surgical Technology and earned her BS in Organizational Professional Development from Eastern Illinois University. Emily has been employed at Carle Health in Urbana, IL since 2008 and has served as adjunct faculty and clinical coordinator for Parkland College since 2010. She currently works as the Clinical Coordinator at Parkland Community College.
Emily brings vast experience to her role as ISA Education Chairman, thanks to her extensive background as an educator and clinical coordinator. Her dedication to education and professional development is evident in her commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment for students and colleagues alike.
In her free time, Emily enjoys hunting, canoeing, and spending time outdoors with her husband, her two young sons, and their yellow lab. Her passion for the outdoors and family life complements her professional achievements, making her a well-rounded and valuable member of the ISA Board of Directors.
BOARD OF DIRECTOR: Bridget Hoffenkamp, BSHS, CST
Bridget lives in Homewood, IL and has been a member of the AST for 16 years. She graduated from the Surgical Technology program at Prairie State College in 2007. She was employed at Ingalls Memorial Hospital for 9 years and enjoyed working with the neuro team there. She joined Prairie State College as an adjunct lab instructor in 2011 and became the program clinical coordinator in 2014. She also taught a sterile processing class in 2017. She then worked as clinical coordinator of the Surgical Technology program at Rasmussen College Romeoville campus. Bridget received her bachelor degree in Health Science in 2017 and is a CPR BLS instructor with the AHA. She is currently the program director of the Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing and Distribution programs at Elgin Community College in Elgin, IL. Bridget enjoys sharing her knowledge of aseptic technique with her students and is eager to help prepare them for their surgical technology/sterile processing career. Being an educator and sharing knowledge in regards to helping save lives and ensuring quality patient care is very fulfilling to her. She has two adult sons with one working at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL and the other attending an HBCU in Columbia, SC where he plays for their baseball team. During her free time, Bridget enjoys traveling, trying cuisines from other cultures, cooking, attending or watching live stand-up comedy, attending or watching Chicago football and baseball games, and most often enjoys relaxing weekends at home. She is excited to give back to the community and the surgical technology profession by serving as an active member of the Illinois State Assembly of the AST.
Bridget lives in Homewood, IL and has been a member of the AST for 16 years. She graduated from the Surgical Technology program at Prairie State College in 2007. She was employed at Ingalls Memorial Hospital for 9 years and enjoyed working with the neuro team there. She joined Prairie State College as an adjunct lab instructor in 2011 and became the program clinical coordinator in 2014. She also taught a sterile processing class in 2017. She then worked as clinical coordinator of the Surgical Technology program at Rasmussen College Romeoville campus. Bridget received her bachelor degree in Health Science in 2017 and is a CPR BLS instructor with the AHA. She is currently the program director of the Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing and Distribution programs at Elgin Community College in Elgin, IL. Bridget enjoys sharing her knowledge of aseptic technique with her students and is eager to help prepare them for their surgical technology/sterile processing career. Being an educator and sharing knowledge in regards to helping save lives and ensuring quality patient care is very fulfilling to her. She has two adult sons with one working at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL and the other attending an HBCU in Columbia, SC where he plays for their baseball team. During her free time, Bridget enjoys traveling, trying cuisines from other cultures, cooking, attending or watching live stand-up comedy, attending or watching Chicago football and baseball games, and most often enjoys relaxing weekends at home. She is excited to give back to the community and the surgical technology profession by serving as an active member of the Illinois State Assembly of the AST.
BOARD OF DIRECTOR: Natan Mendes, MD, MBA, CST
Dr. Natan Mendes
Dr. Natan Mendes is a dedicated and accomplished healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience in education and administration. He currently serves as the Senior Medical Director at City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College, where he oversees the Health Sciences department. Dr. Mendes has a rich educational background, including a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the American University of Integrative Sciences, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Higher Education Administration from Roosevelt University, and a Healthcare Management Certificate from Loyola University Chicago.
Throughout his career, Dr. Mendes has been committed to fostering an educational environment that supports both students and faculty. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing programs maintain compliance with accreditation standards and regulations. Dr. Mendes' passion for education and healthcare is evident in his work, as he strives to provide quality learning opportunities that lead to meaningful careers for his students.
In addition to his current role, Dr. Mendes has held positions as an Education Coordinator at City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College and as a Program Director/Associate Teaching Professor at Roosevelt University. His extensive experience and dedication to the field make him a valuable asset to the academic and healthcare communities.
Dr. Natan Mendes
Dr. Natan Mendes is a dedicated and accomplished healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience in education and administration. He currently serves as the Senior Medical Director at City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College, where he oversees the Health Sciences department. Dr. Mendes has a rich educational background, including a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the American University of Integrative Sciences, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Higher Education Administration from Roosevelt University, and a Healthcare Management Certificate from Loyola University Chicago.
Throughout his career, Dr. Mendes has been committed to fostering an educational environment that supports both students and faculty. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing programs maintain compliance with accreditation standards and regulations. Dr. Mendes' passion for education and healthcare is evident in his work, as he strives to provide quality learning opportunities that lead to meaningful careers for his students.
In addition to his current role, Dr. Mendes has held positions as an Education Coordinator at City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College and as a Program Director/Associate Teaching Professor at Roosevelt University. His extensive experience and dedication to the field make him a valuable asset to the academic and healthcare communities.
Board of Director: Regina Barajas, AAS, CST
As a dedicated and skilled Surgical Technologist, Regina brings over six years of experience to her role, ensuring a safe and efficient operating room environment. Her extensive background in scrubbing in various operating rooms has provided her with a strong foundation in sterile techniques, patient care, and teamwork.
Throughout her career, Regina has excelled in providing top-notch support to surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members during a wide range of procedures, including Orthopedics, Ortho-Trauma, Ortho-Spine, Gynecology, robotics (MAKO & Da Vinci), General Surgery, Podiatry, Urology, Gastrointestinal, and bariatric cases. Her exceptional attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication skills have significantly contributed to the success of surgical teams.
As a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), Regina has demonstrated expertise in maintaining the highest standards of patient care and safety, adhering to hospital policies, and ensuring that all procedures meet regulatory standards. In her role as a traveler at hospitals in central Illinois, she has consistently shown her ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations while maintaining a safe and clean environment.
Regina's dedication to the field of healthcare, along with her passion for lifelong learning and growth, drives her to contribute to the excellence of surgical teams. With a strong background and an ongoing commitment to continuing education, she is confident in her ability to excel in a challenging and dynamic environment.
Regina has been a active member and has served on the 2024 ISA Teller Committee. She is excited to leverage her skills and experience as a Certified Surgical Technologist and contribute to the success of the Illinois State Assembly of the Association of Surgical Technologists.