Meet our Board Members
Steve Mathesius
President
Steve Mathesius is the VP of Data Management and Chief Information Security Officer at TDS Telecom. He holds a BA in Computer Information Systems from Wartburg College and earned his MBA from the University of Wisconsin. Steve and his family live in Milton, where in his free time he enjoys cycling. Steve is active in the parents' group and joins the board as parent liaison. His middle child, James, is a member of the first freshman class at RUHS graduating in 2023.
Kim Sullivan
Treasurer
Kim Sullivan joins the RUHS board as a former educator and career pathway advocate. She is the Imaging Director for SSM Health and her responsibilities for imaging service lines in the Janesville and Monroe markets. She holds a BA in Radiologic Science from Florida Hospital College of Health Science and a master’s in teaching, Learning and Assessment from National Louis University, IL. She has worked in healthcare and education over the last 20 years. Kim resides in Milton with her family and enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors, and riding horses in her free time.
Gail Graham
Board Memeber
Gail Graham is Business and Employer Services Coordinator at Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Board. She is responsible for planning, delivery and management of services provided directly to businesses and employers. Gail collaborates with Job Center partners to streamline processes to provide full service employee recruitment and coordinates On the Job Training contracts. In her position, she conducts other analysis and activities that identify and address employer focused training needs. She is a former president of the United Way of North Rock County.
Dr. Kim Kostka
Board Member
Kim Kostka is currently the Associate Dean and a professor of chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at the Rock Campus. Kim has served as the chair of the Department of Integrated Studies, and was the academic director for the University of Wisconsin Flexible Option program. Past work also includes service as Interim Dean of the University of Wisconsin–Rock County, the director of the Universities of Wisconsin’s Women and Science Program, and prior chair of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin Colleges. Kim Kostka holds an MS (1991) and a PhD (1993) in Chemistry from Carnegie Mellon University and a BS in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (1986). Kim earned the 1999 Green Chemistry Challenge Award from the EPA, the Roseman Excellence in Teaching Award, the Women of Distinction Award from the YWCA of Rock County, and the Excellence in Instruction Award from the University of Wisconsin-Rock County. Kim enjoys traveling, gardening, reading, and attending live performances.
Amanda Harilal
Vice President
Amanda Harilal is an innovative leader and creative problem solver with extensive expertise in operations management, vendor relations, and strategic administration. Currently holding multiple roles at Beloit College, Amanda manages procurement cycles, ensures risk and compliance, oversees insurance matters, and provides direct support to the Vice President of Strategic Leadership. Previously, she excelled at Achievement First Brooklyn, where she managed budgets and administrative programs, and at Kaiser Transport, where she optimized recruitment strategies and reduced turnover significantly. Amanda has a proven track record in developing and executing strategic plans across diverse industries. Known for her adaptability and strong communication skills, she excels at building relationships with stakeholders, ensuring project alignment, and driving operational improvements. Currently pursuing a Sociology degree at Beloit College, Amanda is also actively engaged in community leadership, serving on various boards and councils. She was recognized as a finalist for the Stateline Chamber of Commerce’s “Influential Women in Business” in both 2023 and 2024, reflecting her commitment to effective leadership and community impact. Beyond her professional endeavors, Amanda is a proud wife to her husband, Jay, and a dedicated mother to her son, Dean. She is passionate about advocating for underrepresented communities and amplifying their voices, particularly within educational settings.
Dr. Karen Schmitt
Secretary
Dr. Karen Schmitt serves as the Vice President of Academic Affairs at Blackhawk Technical College. Dr. Schmitt received her bachelor’s degree from UW-Madison in Geology and Geophysics, master’s degree at the University of Otago (New Zealand) in Geology, and Ph.D. from Columbia University in Geological Sciences. Dr. Schmitt joined Blackhawk Technical College in 2020. Prior to coming to Blackhawk, Dr. Schmitt served as Provost and Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs for University of Wisconsin (UW) Colleges from 2017-2020. During the restructuring of the 2-year campuses of UW Colleges in 2018-2019, she also served as Interim Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs with the UW System Administration. Before returning to her home state of Wisconsin, Dr. Schmitt spent 16 years working within the University of Alaska system where she held roles of Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, Vice Provost of Research; Sponsored Programs, Dean of the Community Technical College and Dean of the Schools of Management and Career Education. Dr. Schmitt’s academic career within higher education began at the University of Washington in Seattle as Research Coordinator, progressing to Program Manager and Associate Dean in the College of Ocean and Fishery Sciences. Dr. Schmitt’s prior professional work experience includes Marine Project Coordinator with ITT Antarctic Services and Senior Research Geologist with Exxon Production Research.
Heidi Mallinson
Board Member
Heidi Mallinson works for the Janesville International Education program for the School district of Janesville. She loves working with international students and learning about their culture. Heidi also is a small business owner. She owns Glassroots Keepsakes where she makes glass memorial cremation keepsakes. She partners with numerous funeral homes locally and throughout the country. Heidi has a strong passion for helping others and volunteers for hospice and Wisconsin Wildcare. Heidi resides in Janesville with her family. In her free time she enjoys traveling, reading, rehabbing squirrels, gardening and most of all, spending time with her family.