Leadership
Board of Directors
Alisha Carruthers
President
Alisha Carruthers is the President and Event Coordinator of Marion Connects. She’s a driven and tenacious leader who believes that impossible is just a challenge waiting to be overcome. With a passion for creating unforgettable events, she works strategically to bring the Marion Community closer together and to support local businesses. Her mission is to make a meaningful impact through innovative and fun experiences that foster connection and joy. She’s dedicated to making Marion a vibrant and thriving hub of community spirit!
Amy Eckert
Secretary
Amy Eckert is the Secretary of Marion Connects and a Real Estate Managing Broker at House 2 Home Realty. A life-long resident of Marion, Amy's roots run deep in Southern Illinois with ancestors who were among the earliest settlers in Williamson County. A graduate of MHS, Amy has been married to Mike, also a Marion native, since 1990. Together they have raised their family of four children who are now grown. Amy has a passion for her community and considers it an honor to serve on the board of Marion Connects.
Heaven Lunsford
Treasurer
Heaven Lunsford Bio Coming Soon
Heaven Lunsford
Treasurer
Heaven Lunsford Bio Coming Soon
Autumn Vineyard
Board Member
Autumn Vinyard is the owner of One Fine Day Salon and Photography. Growing up in Harrisburg, Illinois, and becoming a Marion, Illinois, transplant in 2019, Autumn has a background in starting and growing small business, and in advocacy with CASA of Southeastern Illinois. She is dedicated to facilitating growth of local businesses and encouraging residents to become involved in their community to make it a better place through innovation, participation, and volunteerism.
Micheal Carruthers
Board Member
Michael Carruthers brings a unique combination of hands-on expertise and real estate savvy to the table. With over 14 years of experience in the building trades, he's a master of getting things done. As a licensed real estate agent, he's particularly passionate about farm and hunting ground properties. When he's not working, you can find him enjoying the great outdoors as an avid hunter and outdoorsman. As a member of the Marion Connects team, Michael provides logistical support and is always ready to lend a helping hand to ensure every project and event runs smoothly. His practical expertise and can-do attitude make him an invaluable asset to our team.
Amber hiltz
Board Member
Amber Hiltz is a dedicated entrepreneur and community leader, serving as a Marion Connects board member and owner of Celebrations Event Center. With extensive experience in launching small businesses and non-profits, Amber is passionate about fostering growth and development within her community. Her leadership and faith-driven approach inspire meaningful progress in Marion, uplifting both local businesses and the community through her dedication and service.
Sharon Vansaghi
Board Member
Sharon Vansaghi is an active member of Marion Connects and serves on its Advisory Board. She is the Curator and Coordinator of the Williamson Historical Society and has been a professional photographer for 30 years. Sharon is passionate about supporting the downtown area and community of Marion.
Amber Edmonds
Board Member
Amber Edmonds is a passionate advocate for local businesses and a proud board member of Marion Connects. As a business owner with Real Merchant Services, she partners with businesses to provide cost-saving payment processing solutions and foster strong community connections. To further support Marion Connects, Amber donates 20% of her monthly revenue from any business that chooses to process with Real Merchant Services in support of the organization. Originally from the Rockford area, Amber now calls Southern Illinois home, where she and her husband, Luke, are raising their four children. Dedicated to serving her community, Amber is honored to contribute her expertise to Marion Connects and support its mission to make a lasting impact.
Amber McCulloch
Key Volunteer
Amber McCulloch Bio Coming soon!
Marion Connects 4 Neighbors
Marion Connects 4 Growth
Marion Connects 4 Success
Marion Connects 4 Events
