Today’s Streaks Alumni Profile is with Jeff Parmenter from the GHS Class of 1977.
Jeff was on the first basketball team that I coached at GHS. I was an assistant to Barry Swanson on the ‘75 GHS sophomore “Ponies.” Jeff was on a sophomore team that was absolutely loaded with talent. Jeff was a role players but he never pouted, and never went thru the motions. He just kept working and getting better and better.
By the time he went to Carl Sandburg, Jeff was 6’4” and his hard work began to pay off. He scored 18ppg per game as a sophomore, leading the Arrowhead Conference in scoring. Jeff and former GHS teammates, Mark Mendez and Mark Brown were selected first team All-Conference.
Needless to say, Jeff’s basketball journey is an inspirational story.
Jeff and his brother, Greg, along with Frank Goodman, and Scott German set the school record in the 4 x 400 relay. They still hold the GHS record for the event.
Jeff went onto to have tremendous career of service to others in Big Brothers, Big Sisters.
Favorite Classes/Teachers at GHS
I really enjoyed my time at GHS. Mr. Deimer’s Rhetoric class, Mr. Glasnovich’s Science class, and Mr. Fish’s PE class all stand out. They made learning fun and were genuinely good people. I also loved my typing class—though I can’t remember the teacher’s name, the skills I learned there have served me my entire life.Favorite Memories from Your Years as a Student, Athlete, and Classmate
One of my favorite memories was playing on the undefeated basketball team my sophomore year—22–0! I’m incredibly grateful to Coach Swanson for giving me the opportunity to be part of that team. Both Coach Swanson and you, Coach Massey, made such a major impact in my life. You helped give me the confidence and work ethic that I’ve carried with me ever since.I also enjoyed running track my senior year, especially being part of the mile relay team that still holds the GHS record today. Coach Albright and Coach Kane pushed me to reach my full potential, and I loved competing under their leadership.
Beyond athletics, the friendships and teammate relationships I formed were truly special—and many of them remain strong to this day.
Your Experience at CSC
My time at CSC wouldn’t have happened without Coach Hungate recruiting me to play basketball for him. He gave me the chance to continue playing the game I love and earn a college degree—something I may not have accomplished without his belief in me.It was an honor to play on Coach Hungate’s first team to reach the state finals during the 1978–1979 season. It was equally an honor to compete alongside teammates like Mark Mendez, Rollie Williams, Mark Brown, and Chuck Grant. We prepared so hard for that year that our success felt almost inevitable.
Your Career and the Work of Your Agency
I spent 34 years as the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters, a program that remains incredibly close to my heart. I began with BBBS in 1991 after community leaders encouraged me to apply, believing my background in juvenile probation made me a great fit.BBBS matches adult mentors with youth who need guidance, support, and encouragement during their formative years—helping them graduate high school, pursue higher education, and become productive, confident adults.
Over the years, I personally served as a Big Brother to a dozen young men, building deep, lasting relationships. My first match, with Marcus in 1994, was especially meaningful—we were honored as a “Dreaming Big” Campaign match by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and the Arby’s Foundation, celebrating our 30-year milestone together.
Throughout my career, I was honored with a “40 Under 40” award in 1996 and a “Hometown Hero” award in 2008. Our BBBS agency received numerous recognitions as well, including Gold Standard awards from BBBSA and a Gold Star award from the State of Illinois. Several matches from our agency gained national recognition, including one that earned National Big Brother of the Year in 2013.
What You are Up to Today
I have retired from BBBS and currently work as a substitute teacher in the Decatur school district. I’m enjoying more time with family and friends and staying active with hobbies like boating, golfing, and traveling.
Your Advice for Today’s Streaks Athletes
Be a great listener and seek knowledge from those who have succeeded before you. Commit yourself to learning, developing strong work habits, and embracing your mistakes—they’re part of the process. Believe in yourself as you grow, both in athletics and in the classroom.Most importantly, take time to enjoy the journey. Treat others with respect, empathy, and compassion, and always remember to stop and smell the roses along the way.
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