Decades of Service Earn Kris Rhynders Wrenn, Michelle Schulz Sycamore's Distinguished Alumni Honor

Sycamore Education Foundation honors two lifelong volunteers whose service has strengthened local schools and the community

The Sycamore Education Foundation has named Kris Rhynders Wrenn and Michelle Rhynders Schulz its 2026 Distinguished Alumni, recognizing two Sycamore High School graduates whose leadership, volunteerism and service have made a lasting impact on local schools and the community.

Wrenn, a member of the Class of 1982, and Schulz, a member of the Class of 1980, are sisters who spent their careers at their family business, Kar-Fre Flowers. Both also followed their parents’ example of community service by volunteering with local schools, civic organizations and public boards.

"The Distinguished Alumni program celebrates people who make Sycamore a better place," said Todd Madden, chair of the Sycamore Education Foundation Board of Directors. "Kris and Michelle have spent decades giving back to their schools and community. Their lives are a reminder that the greatest measure of success is the difference you make for others."

Kris Rhynders Wrenn, a member of the Sycamore High School Class of 1982, has spent her life championing public education and community service. After earning a bachelor's degree in management from Northern Illinois University, she built her career at her family's business, Kar-Fre Flowers, while becoming a dedicated advocate for Sycamore schools. Wrenn served as president of the Southeast School PTO, spent 12 years on the Sycamore School Board and helped launch SEF's Take Root fundraiser. She helped raise more than $60,000 during the inaugural event, establishing the Foundation's first major source of support for classroom grants that continue to benefit Sycamore teachers and students. She also serves on the DeKalb County Community Foundation Board and received the Clifford Danielson Outstanding Citizen Award in 2025.

Michelle Rhynders Schulz, a member of the Sycamore High School Class of 1980, credits her Sycamore education with shaping her lifelong commitment to service. She spent her career at Kar-Fre Flowers, where she helped generations of local families celebrate life's milestones while remaining deeply involved in the community. Schulz volunteered with the Southeast School PTO and later served on the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce Board, the Sycamore Park District Board and several City of Sycamore committees. She continues to volunteer in retirement and is proud to be part of a multigenerational Spartan family.

SEF will honor Wrenn and Schulz during a community celebration Sept. 11-12 at Sycamore High School. A meet and greet will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, in the North Foyer. The celebration continues Saturday, Sept. 12, from noon to 2 p.m. with a welcome, school tour, Distinguished Alumni induction ceremony and showcase unveiling. Both events are open to the public.

ABOUT THE SYCAMORE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Sycamore Education Foundation is a volunteer-led nonprofit that provides additional resources to students and teachers throughout Sycamore Community School District 427. The foundation supports classroom grants, student scholarships, innovative programs and community partnerships that create educational opportunities beyond what the school district budget can provide. Through its programs and partnerships, the foundation brings together students, educators, families, alumni, businesses and neighbors to support local schools and strengthen the Sycamore community. For more information, visit sycamoresef.org.