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Staffing Specialist – Rockford, Illinois
Dawn Vespa is a dedicated Staffing Specialist based in the Rockford, Illinois office. In her role within the Staffing Division, Dawn focuses on establishing strong connections with both clients and candidates to create successful staffing solutions. Her experience, particularly in orthopedics, has given her a strong foundation for understanding complex needs and adapting to meet client expectations.
Dawn is committed to her personal and professional growth, with a passion for providing exceptional service and fostering lasting relationships.
Outside of work, Dawn enjoys spending time with her family. Her two boys keep her busy, running them to various activities. When she does have a moment to herself, Dawn’s ideal day includes relaxing by the lake with an adult beverage, soaking up the sun, and enjoying some much-needed downtime.
Staffing Coordinator – Freeport, IL
Kalli Halverson is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator based in our Freeport, Illinois office, where she supports Staffing Specialists in both the Freeport and Monroe branches. Since joining the team in March 2023, Kalli has been passionate about helping candidates find fulfilling job opportunities. Her background in General Studies from Highland Community College equips her with a versatile skill set that enhances her role in the staffing division.
Kalli finds great joy in seeing candidates leave the office with smiles on their faces and a renewed sense of purpose. Her approachable nature and positive energy make her a favorite among colleagues and clients alike.
Outside of work, Kalli enjoys reading, working out, and enjoying meals with friends and family. Her enthusiasm and spirit bring a good energy to our Freeport office.
VP, Recruiting
Sally Noble joined Hughes in 2012, bringing experience from her a role in the technology industry with Electronic Data Systems (EDS). At EDS, Sally developed her expertise in technical writing and project management skills that have been invaluable to Hughes. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her transition to the role of Vice President of Recruiting has been marked by significant contributions to the growth and efficiency of the staffing operations of the company.
In her current role, Sally oversees the operations of the professional recruiting division as well as the operations of the Hughes Staffing branch locations, ensuring that the services delivered meet the highest standards of quality and excellence. Sally’s software expertise, significant training knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a key asset to the entire Hughes team.
Sally is also actively involved in several volunteer organizations, including the Freeport Noon Rotary Club, the Lincoln-Douglas Society, and the One Book One Freeport Committee. Her dedication and diligence foster a collaborative and productive work environment. In addition to time with her husband and children, Sally enjoys reading and gardening in her free time. She is known to continually seeking opportunities to contribute and grow both personally and professionally.
VP, Marketing & Sales
Carolyn Mitchell holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering with a minor in Japanese from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She began her career as a Quality Engineer, then moved to technical sales with Honeywell before transitioning to a similar role as an entrepreneur. In 2017, Carolyn joined Hughes as the Director of Staffing where she learned the ins and outs of recruiting and staffing before transitioning to Marketing & Sales side of the business.
Her role as brand curator and sales leader involves strengthening Hughes’ market position and driving revenue to achieve business objectives. Carolyn’s approach to brand management has been pivotal in elevating Hughes’ brand presence. Her experience and savvy in sales also contributes to the company’s growth and success.
Beyond her professional duties, Carolyn is dedicated to fostering a positive and engaging work culture at Hughes. She excels in connecting people and building partnerships. Carolyn’s authentic style and dedication to meaningful connections make her a valuable leader within the organization.
In her leisure time, Carolyn enjoys travel, concerts, and time with her four sons, extended family, and friends at her home or on the boat at Lake Carroll. She is also an avid yogi and 200-hour R.Y.T. Certified Yoga Instructor. She actively participates in various community and professional organizations, including serving on the Board of Directors for The Greater Freeport Partnership and volunteering at The Freeport Area Church Cooperative.
VP, Finance & Administration
Mariah Leiser serves as the Vice President of Finance & Administration at Hughes, where she oversees the financial and administrative functions critical to the company’s operations. Her responsibilities include managing payroll, invoicing, workers’ compensation, unemployment, and healthcare processes, ensuring that these functions run smoothly and efficiently to support the company’s financial health and operational effectiveness.
Mariah joined Hughes in 2014 as a Staffing Specialist and quickly demonstrated her ability to fill key roles quickly. Her exceptional performance led to a transition into the accounting department in 2016, where she excelled in handling financial operations. In 2024, Mariah earned her promotion to Vice President Finance & Administration, a role in which she continues to drive financial strategies and administrative excellence.
Mariah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Indiana University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbia College of Missouri. Her diverse educational background and advanced business training provide her with a unique perspective and a well-rounded skill set, enhancing her effectiveness in her current role.
Outside of her professional life, Mariah enjoys time with her family, cooking, gardening, and traveling. She and her husband juggle a busy life with a toddler, two older children, and two goldendoodles. She is also actively involved in various volunteer organizations, contributing her skills and expertise to support community initiatives like Freeport Art Museum’s Paint the Port event.
Regional Manager – Region 3
Stephanie Richardson is the Regional Manager overseeing the Dixon, Illinois, and Aurora, Illinois divisions of Hughes. She joined the company in November 2019, bringing over 20 years of experience from her career in the Postal Service.
Stephanie began her journey at Hughes as a Staffing Coordinator for the Dixon office, where she quickly demonstrated her exceptional organizational skills and logistical expertise. Her outstanding contributions led to her promotion to Staffing Specialist in 2021 and subsequently to Regional Manager in 2022.
As Regional Manager, Stephanie oversees staffing operations for both the Dixon and Aurora regions, ensuring clients receive top-tier candidates and that the staffing process is efficient and effective. Her extensive background in the Postal Service has equipped her with exceptional organizational, communication, and management skills, which she leverages to lead her team and foster strong client relationships.
Stephanie is deeply committed to delivering exceptional service to both clients and candidates, striving to make every placement a positive and meaningful experience. Her dedication to excellence and her ability to foster a family-like atmosphere within the company make her a trusted leader and a valuable asset to Hughes.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys spending time at the pool with friends, cherishing moments with her kids and grandchildren, and participating in activities that bring laughter and joy to her life.
Operations Specialist
Stepheni Chandler is the Operations Specialist at our Dixon, Illinois office, within the Finance & Administration Division. Since joining the company in January 2015, she has become a vital part of the team, starting first as a Branch Manager before transitioning to Operations in 2024. Stepheni takes pride in contributing to both the company’s success and the community through her involvement in various volunteer initiatives.
As an Operations Specialist, her role involves supporting key administrative functions using her keen eye for detail. Stepheni’s dedication to organization and her consistent approach to following processes have made her a trusted resource within the division.
Outside of work, Stepheni enjoys spending time with her family and pets, as well as staying active with outdoor activities like camping, kayaking, and hiking. She is a fan of Nicholas Sparks’ books and loves a good comedic movie. Understanding the importance of community involvement, Stepheni serves as the Dixon Rotary Board Secretary on the Dixon Chamber Board of Directors. Her well-rounded approach to work and life makes her a valued member of the team.
Accounting Manager
Jessica Alexander-Gabriel is the Accounting Manager at our Corporate office in Freeport, Illinois, part of the Finance & Administration Division. Since joining the team in 2022, she has played a key role in ensuring financial accuracy and compliance across all accounting functions. With her education from Highland Community College and ongoing studies at Columbia College, Jessica brings a solid foundation to her work, helping to streamline processes and enhance departmental efficiency.
Jessica has a natural ability to build relationships with her colleagues, with a penchant for helping others find optimism in even the most challenging situations. In her role, she manages budgets, oversees audits, and supports the financial strategies that align with the company’s goals.
Outside of work, Jessica loves spending quality time with her husband, their son, along with their pets. She enjoys being outdoors, traveling, and discovering new places. Whether she is diving into a good book, enjoying movies, or indulging in cheese and chocolate, Jessica embraces a well-rounded approach to life. You will often find her sipping her iced white mocha as she works diligently on accounting reports.
Marketing Manager
Emily Seagren is a Marketing Manager based in our Rockford, Illinois office. Since joining the team in 2023, she has played a key role within the Marketing Division, promoting Hughes and enhancing its presence in local communities. With a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Emily brings a strong foundation in marketing strategies and creative thinking to her role.
She thrives in the dynamic work environment at Hughes, where she enjoys collaborating with her colleagues on a variety of projects. Emily is passionate about finding innovative ways to communicate our company’s message and drive engagement digitally and within our local communities.
Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with family and friends, travel, and golf. She is a fan of all things related to beauty and loves going to concerts. Her travels have taken her to beautiful destinations like Maui, Hawaii, and Barcelona, Spain, enriching her perspective and experiences.
Client Specialist
Heather Metcalf is a Client Specialist based in our Rockford, Illinois office, focusing on client partnerships for the Sauk Valley and Rockford regions. Since joining the team in 2024, Heather has quickly become a vital part of our sales team, using her expertise in building connections to enhance client relationships and drive company success.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and Management from The Illinois Institute of Art, Heather combines her educational background with a passion for collaboration. She easily creates opportunities to connect with her clients and colleagues, celebrating successes and sharing ideas with a vibrant enthusiasm that fosters teamwork.
Outside of work, Heather enjoys traveling, attending sporting events, and camping. She cherishes moments spent with family, especially her son. When it comes to food, nothing beats her mom’s cooking! Heather embraces every moment of her busy life while still dedicating time for her love of travel and photography.
Marketing Intern
Natalie Yeoman is a Marketing Intern at our Corporate office in Freeport, Illinois, within the Marketing and Sales Division. Since joining the team in September 2024, she has embraced the opportunity to learn and grow in a collaborative and dynamic environment. Currently enrolled at Highland Community College, Natalie is set to graduate in May 2025 with an Associates of Arts degree before transferring to Illinois State University in the Fall of 2025 to pursue a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in General Marketing.
In her role as a Marketing Intern, Natalie enjoys diving into new projects and collaborating with her colleagues to develop innovative marketing strategies. Her enthusiasm for learning makes her an asset to the team.
Outside of work, Natalie loves to spend time “glamping” with her family, friends, and her two Labrador Retrievers. Whether it is enjoying a day outdoors, watching movies, or shopping, she makes the most of her free time. When not at work or school, she is likely out shopping or dreaming of her next adventure.
Search Consultant
Kira Jaghama is a Search Consultant based out of our Rockford, Illinois office, specializing in recruiting for Professional, Technical, and Executive roles. Since joining the team in March 2024, Kira has eagerly embraced her role, focusing on building strong partnerships with clients and candidates. Kira finds fulfillment in being a trusted resource for clients looking to fill professional roles.
A graduate of Rock Valley College, Kira brings a dynamic approach to her work, where no two days are alike. She enjoys the variety of her role, from interviewing new candidates to exploring diverse positions. Her dedication to professional growth and relationship-building sets her apart as integral member of the team.
Outside of work, Kira enjoys spending quality time with her family and engaging in activities such as boating and volleyball. Kira’s commitment to excellence and her passion for her work make her a key contributor to our success.
Branch Manager – Freeport, Illinois & Monroe, Wisconsin
Christine Ceroni is a Branch Manager at our Freeport, Illinois, and Monroe, Wisconsin offices. Since joining the team in March 2022, Christine has embraced her role with enthusiasm, leveraging her background to build meaningful connections with candidates and clients. She holds an Associate of Applied Science with an emphasis in Equine Science from Highland Community College, along with certifications in Riding Instruction, Stable Management, and Hoof Care.
Christine’s favorite part of her job is meeting new people and understanding their unique needs. She takes pride in being part of their support system, providing guidance, and fostering a sense of community among her teammates, who she considers family.
Outside of work, Christine enjoys the great outdoors, whether working or relaxing, and treasures cozy moments with her favorite books. Her ideal day includes painting and organizing her home, playing with her dog Piper, and unwinding in the sun.
Staffing Specialist – Dixon, IL
Sarah Wypasek is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Dixon, Illinois office, where she focuses on connecting job seekers with exciting opportunities. Since joining the team in April 2022, Sarah has leveraged her education from Sauk Valley Community College to support candidates and clients effectively, ensuring a positive experience throughout the staffing process.
Passionate about her role, Sarah thrives on building relationships and helping individuals find their ideal jobs. Her commitment to understanding the needs of both candidates and businesses has made her a valued resource in the Sauk Valley Region.
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys spending quality time with her two daughters, as well as her extended family and friends. Her ideal day involves relaxing by the pool or catching up on her favorite true crime shows.
Account Executive- Rockford, Illinois & Beloit, Wisconsin
Bobby Shallenberger is an Account Executive for the Rockford, Illinois and Beloit, Wisconsin branches. He joined the company in 2025 and brings considerable sales and marketing expertise to Hughes. He has owned several businesses during his career and excels at developing relationships with companies to understand and support their initiatives.
Staffing Coordinator – Dixon, IL
Amarilis Rendon is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator at our Dixon, Illinois office, where she focuses on supporting Staffing Specialists in the region. Since joining the team in June 2023, she has leveraged her strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail to effectively match candidates with opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.
Amarilis is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and strives to create positive experiences for both clients and candidates. Her commitment to understanding the unique needs of each party ensures that the staffing process is efficient and effective.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Amarilis enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren, which brings her immense joy and fulfillment. On her ideal day off, she loves to relax with a good book or a captivating movie.
Staffing Specialist – Beloit, WI
Michelle Walker is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Beloit, Wisconsin office, focusing on matching talent with great job opportunities in the area. Since joining the team in July 2023, Michelle has made it her mission to understand the unique needs of both clients and candidates, fostering strong relationships to ensure successful placements.
With an Associate of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin campuses, she combines her educational background with a passion for helping others. Michelle enjoys the dynamic nature of her role, where every day brings the chance to connect with new people and assist them in achieving their career goals.
Outside of work, Michelle loves spending quality time with her family, singing, cooking, and attending concerts and music festivals. On her ideal day, you might find her whipping up a delicious breakfast, tidying up her home, and enjoying lunch or dinner with a friend.
Branch Manager – Rockford, IL
Mayana Sims is the Branch Manager at our Rockford, Illinois office, where she oversees staffing operations for the area. Since joining the team in May 2022, she has been instrumental in connecting talented individuals with meaningful career opportunities while fulfilling the staffing needs of local businesses. Mayana finds immense satisfaction in her role, as it allows her to make a positive impact on both job seekers and clients.
With a strong background in networking and relationship-building, Mayana thrives in her work environment, where her leadership and communication skills shine. She is dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative atmosphere within her team.
Outside of work, Mayana enjoys spending quality time with her daughters as well as her dog. In her free time, she loves to travel, dance, cook, and watch a good movie. Her ideal day would be a pampering spa day, complete with a massage and manicure.
Staffing Coordinator – Rockford, IL
Danielle Chavez is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator based in our Rockford, Illinois office, where she supports the needs of local Staffing Specialists as well as Regional Managers.
Since joining the team in April 2024, Danielle has quickly established herself as a vital resource, connecting talented individuals with rewarding job opportunities and leaving a lasting positive impression on candidates.
Outside of work, Danielle loves to spend time with her spouse and their four children, as well as their three beloved dogs. She enjoys reading and making cherished memories with family and friends.
Branch Manager – Woodstock, IL
Sandra Ramos is a Staffing Specialist based in our Woodstock, Illinois office, where she is committed to matching candidates with rewarding job opportunities. Since joining the team in May 2024, Sandra has leveraged her background in Public Relations from National University College to foster strong connections with both clients and job seekers.
Sandra takes great pride in her role, where she enjoys helping people navigate their career paths and find fulfilling positions. Her favorite aspect of the job is building relationships and contributing to the success of others.
Outside of work, Sandra cherishes quality time with her son and their cat. She loves dancing, cooking, and exploring nature, often enjoying the great outdoors. An avid reader of drama and fiction, she likes action and crime films and is always up for trying new foods.
Staffing Specialist – Woodstock, IL
Ana Hansen is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Woodstock, Illinois office, where she focuses on connecting talented individuals with great job opportunities. Since joining the team in May 2024, Ana has embraced her role with enthusiasm, leveraging her skills to support both clients and candidates in achieving their career goals.
Ana is passionate about creating positive experiences in the staffing process and enjoys working closely with her clients to understand their unique needs. She believes that fostering strong relationships is key to successful placements.
Outside of work, Ana is a proud mother of five and loves spending quality time with her family. Her favorite pastimes include cooking and visiting the nail salon—her ultimate relaxation spot—where she enjoys indulging in a bit of self-care.
Staffing Specialist – Lake Geneva, WI
Sydney Zimdars is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Lake Geneva, Wisconsin office, focusing on connecting talented individuals with great job opportunities. Since joining the team in August 2022, Sydney has utilized her educational background in Psychology and Business Administration from the University of Findlay to effectively support both candidates and employers in their staffing needs.
Sydney’s passion for helping others is evident in her approach to her role, where she emphasizes building strong relationships and understanding the unique needs of those she serves. Her friendly demeanor and commitment to excellence have made her a trusted resource in the Lake Geneva division.
Outside of work, Sydney enjoys working out, solving puzzles, and binge-watching her favorite TV shows. Her ideal day off involves relaxing on the lake with family and friends.
Staffing Specialist – River Falls, WI
Khrystyna Kneefe is a Staffing Specialist at our River Falls, Wisconsin office, focusing on staffing solutions for the Southeast Metro Area. Since joining the company in January 2024, Khrystyna has quickly made her mark by fostering strong relationships with candidates and clients alike, helping to match talent with opportunity.
With a Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language, Khrystyna brings a unique perspective to her role, enhancing communication and understanding in her connections with diverse individuals. Her favorite aspect of the job is the ability to guide candidates toward fulfilling careers while collaborating with her dedicated team.
Outside of work, Khrystyna enjoys traveling and exploring new places, with her ideal day spent in a new city discovering its unique offerings. A fan of sushi and Chinese/Thai cuisine, she also indulges in sweets such as chocolates and vanilla coffee shakes.
Branch Manager – River Falls, Wisconsin & Hastings, Minnesota
Kim Pechuman is a Branch Manager at our River Falls, Wisconsin, and Hastings, Minnesota offices, where she is dedicated to connecting Southeast Twin Cities Metro job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities.
Joining the team in June 2024, Kim brings a passion for fostering relationships and ensuring a positive experience for both clients and candidates.
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Stout, Kim combines her educational background with her desire to help others navigate the job market. Her favorite aspect of the role is facilitating connections that lead to successful placements, making a difference in people’s lives.
Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending quality time with her spouse and their three dogs. She loves golfing and spending time on the lake or river, often going boating and fishing. In her downtime, Kim can be found reading or watching movies.
Staffing Specialist – Rockford, Illinois
Erin Butler is a passionate and strategic Staffing Specialist serving the Rockford, Illinois office. In her role within the Staffing Division, she focuses on connecting top talent with the right opportunities while building lasting relationships with clients and candidates. With a strong foundation in business management and leadership, she brings energy, drive, and a commitment to helping others succeed, making her a vital contributor to the team’s success.
A proud graduate of Judson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Leadership, she combines academic knowledge with a proactive mindset to deliver thoughtful staffing strategies and exceptional service. Her dedication to personal and professional growth fuels her ability to lead with confidence and support meaningful outcomes for clients and colleagues alike.
Outside of work, Erin enjoys working out, visiting coffee shops, and reading. Her ideal day off would include grabbing a coffee, going to lunch with her sisters, and taking a nap before everyone else gets home, a perfect blend of connection, relaxation, and recharge.
Account Executive- Aurora & Dixon, Illinois
Angela DeCarlo is a personable and driven Account Executive serving the Aurora and Dixon Illinois offices. In her role within the Sales Division, she focuses on building strong client relationships and delivering thoughtful solutions that support business success. With a background in the beauty industry and experience managing a laser hair removal company, Angela brings creativity, adaptability, and a passion for helping others to every interaction.
Her professional journey from esthetician and makeup artist to real estate license holder reflects her resilience and ability to connect with clients on a meaningful level. She takes pride in understanding individual goals and creating lasting partnerships built on trust.
Outside of work, Angela enjoys spending time with her three daughters. She loves cooking, yoga, shopping, gardening, decorating, and attending estate sales. Her ideal day includes a hot yoga class, a spa visit, and dinner with her family.
Staffing Coordinator- Rockford, Illinois & Beloit, Wisconsin
Renya Knuth is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator supporting the Rockford and Beloit, Illinois offices. In her role within the Staffing Division, Renya focuses on building connections with both clients and candidates to help create successful employment matches. With a background in orthopedics, she brings a detail-oriented mindset and a strong work ethic to her position, contributing to a reliable and responsive staffing experience.
Renya recently earned an associate degree in science from Northeast Iowa Community College. Her commitment to growth and her ability to adapt across industries reflect her proactive approach to both career and client service.
Outside of work, Renya enjoys daily hikes with her dog and spends as much time outdoors as possible. Whether fishing, kayaking, biking, or floating down a river, she finds balance and energy in nature. Her ideal day off is simple, just a long hike surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors.
CEO
Vanessa Hughes is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Hughes. A native of Freeport, Vanessa earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Elmhurst University and is currently pursuing a Masters in Finance through an extension program of Harvard University. Her career began at a technology company in the Chicago area before returning to Freeport in 2001 to manage a branch of Workplace Staffing. In 2003, Vanessa purchased the business and has been busy for 21+ years transforming it into what is now Hughes Recruiting & Consulting.
Under Vanessa’s leadership, one local staffing branch office has grown into a regional staffing and recruiting firm recognized for its commitment to excellence and community involvement. She oversees business development, strategic planning, and operational management, ensuring the company’s growth and sustainability.
Vanessa has always been one to give back and currently serves as Chair of Finance on the Executive Committee of Temporary Services Insurance Ltd., President of the Board of Directors for Freeport Art Museum, as well as serving on the advisory board for State Bank Freeport.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Vanessa enjoys time with family and friends, reading, and travel. Her business savvy along with her dedication to her team and clients throughout the region has been instrumental in Hughes’ success and positive impact on the community.
