Ruth Gloede — 2014 Monarch Award Recipient Q: What does being chosen to receive the Monarch Award mean to you? A: It’s a humbling acknowledgement of the blood, sweat, and sometimes even tears that come as the result of playing a critical role in shaping a child’s future and in running a large complex business operation. Q: How has your involvement within Illinois ASBO shaped your career? A: You always have someone to go to, someone who is willing to extend their time and experience to help you. The commitment of so many is quite astonishing. Q: What advice would you give to those that aspire to follow in your footsteps? A: Never risk your credibility or integrity, keep the educational program at the forefront and deeply value the taxpayer’s contribution to your organization’s efforts. Q: Your thoughts on the mission and importance of the Illinois ASBO Foundation? A: Bringing recognition to the important role of the business official plays, not just in activities but also in perspectives, is an important message to promote not just to schools but the larger community as well. I congratulate the Foundation for taking the lead on that.