Dr. Timika Anderson Reeves, a proud Walther Class of ’98 graduate, has over 23 years of experience serving the maternal and child health population. She is currently making a significant impact as the Special Assistant to the Director for Maternal Child Health at the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. In her leadership role, she champions statewide initiatives that empower birthing individuals and families by promoting inclusive policies and innovative programs. Fueled by a deep passion for uplifting vulnerable populations, Dr. Anderson Reeves has dedicated her life to transforming communities affected by social injustices.

Her career includes serving as Chair of the CEDA Head Start Policy Council and as President of the National Healthy Start Association Board of Directors. She is also an active participant in numerous community coalitions. “My passion has always been about teaching the community to find and use their voice for social change and exploring new ways to support families in need,” she shares. Beyond her advocacy work, Dr. Anderson Reeves has served as an Adjunct Faculty member in the Social Work and Sociology Department at Trinity Christian College.

After graduating from Walther, Timika earned a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Saint Francis in 2002, a Master of Social Work from Chicago State University in 2007, and a Ph.D. in Social Work – Health Policy from Walden University in 2020. She also holds an Advanced Generalist Forensic Social Worker certificate and is a Licensed Social Worker.

Timika credits her Walther experience with shaping essential traits that continue to serve her. “Volunteering was a core part of Walther’s culture, laying the groundwork for my involvement in countless professional and community endeavors. The time management skills I developed, balancing multiple roles as a student, enabled me to give back in many ways.”

During her time at Walther, she participated in Poms, Basketball, and Track & Field, reaching the State meet in shot put. She also played clarinet in the Wind Ensemble for four years and participated in drama productions. After high school, she continued her athletic journey in college, competing in shot put, weight throw, hammer throw, and discus, while also joining the Pep Band.

Timika emphasizes the influence of her Religion classes and Chapel experiences, noting, “I learned that although we are all uniquely created, we each have gifts to share. This shaped my purpose of serving as a change agent within many organizations.”

Since 2020, she has been an engaged member of Walther’s Board of Directors, where her son graduated in 2022; her daughter is currently a

junior. Now serving as Chair of the Board, she reflects, “My time at Walther

blessed me in so many ways—academically, spiritually, athletically, and musically. I am honored to give back, ensuring that other children can experience what I did.”

As Chair, Timika’s primary goal is to prepare students for the 21st century through a dynamic curriculum and vibrant extracurricular activities. She adds with enthusiasm, “Things are heading in the right direction at Walther. Greatness is on the horizon.”