Laurie Swilley’s mother influenced her decision to become a business professional.  

“She worked for AT&T in their Technical Education Training Center,” she said. “She worked her way up through various positions from telephone operator to administrative supervisor, and eventually financial portfolio administrator. As a young girl, my mother would take me into her office in downtown Chicago to see what she did and help out with filing. She exposed me to corporate life and administrative roles.”

After her family moved to Villa Park, Swilley enrolled at College of DuPage. It was the recommended place for higher education and the best option in terms of commute, classes and flexibility, which allowed her to work part-time.

As an alumna of COD, I am extremely proud to represent this community and be an advocate for community college education.

Laurie Swilley

She initially thought about earning a certificate in administrative support, but then she decided to pursue her associate degree to further both her education and career.

“After several years of working in support fields, I realized that HR was my path and passion,” she said. 

Since earning her Associate in Arts degree, followed by a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Elmhurst University, Swilley spent more than 20 years in corporate America working with Fortune 500 companies to lead their HR functions. Her experience includes director roles at McDonald’s Corporation, The Home Depot and Allied Universal Security.

Swilley is now the CEO and founder of LEAP HR Consulting, LLC. Launched in May 2022, the company specializes in strategic planning, talent management, workforce engagement and HR training.

“As an entrepreneur, my goal is to successfully grow my business, be a vital resource for professional services, and contribute to the growth and development of my community,” she said.

Swilley also is an advocate for community engagement and building trusted partnerships. She serves as a board member on the Bolingbrook Park District Foundation and the Will County CED, and she teaches business as an adjunct in COD’s Continuing Education program.

As for the College, Swilley advises students to take full advantage of the opportunities, resources and support offered to them.  

“As an alumna of COD, I am extremely proud to represent this community and be an advocate for community college education,” she said. “It has been a full circle experience going from student to becoming an adjunct instructor, a milestone I do not take lightly and one I hold dear to my heart. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue paying it forward.”

Learn more about the Business program at College of DuPage.

Learn more about the Continuing Education program.