Illinois America 250 is an inclusive, statewide commemoration that uplifts local stories, places and programs, builds pride and showcases how Illinoisians bring the ideals of Declaration of Independence to life.

The Commissioners represent civic, nonprofit, educational and business sectors, as well as Native and tribal organizations, museums, higher education, arts organizations.

The priorities for the Illinois America 250 Commission are:

  • Youth engagement

  • Promoting local commemorations

  • Uplifting local stories and places

  • Recognizing service

Image caption. (Photo: CREDIT)

Commission Members

Gabrielle H. Lyon, Ph.D., Chair
Executive Director, Illinois Humanities 

Ada Cheng
Educator, Artist, Storyteller 

Brad Cole
CEO Illinois Municipal League 

Michelle Donahoe
Executive Director, DeKalb County History Center 

Jennifer Edginton, Ed.D.
Director, IL State Museum 

Rep. Edgar Gonzalez
Illinois House of Representatives, 23rd District  

Jessica Harris, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Associate Professor of Historical Studies, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville 

Lindsay Laren
Assistant Commissioner, Collections, Content and Acccess, Chicago Public Library

Elisa Marcus
International Marketing Manager, Illinois Office of Tourism 

Read the Illinois America Commission Act here.

The Commission regularly updates meeting information. Updates and reports can be found below.

Sara Phalen, J.D., M.A.
Director, West Chicago City Museum; Director, Warrenville Historical Museum & Art Gallery; Board President, Kane DuPage Regional Museum Association

Gerald Savage
Chief White Winnebag, Ho-Chunk Nation Elder

Christina Shutt
Executive Director, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum 

Dick Simpson
Professor Emeritus, University of Illinois, Chicago 

Amber Smock
Director of Advocacy, Access Living 

Sen. Doris Turner
Illinois State Senate, 48th District

Andy Van Meter
Sangamon County Board Chair, President Design Ideas 

Dorene Wiese
Chief Executive Officer, American Indian Association of Illinois 

Nikki Williams Rucker, M.Ed 
Senior Director of Professional Learning and Partnerships