We are proud to support the eight Illinoisans who will be designated Laureates of the Lincoln Academy at the 54th Annual Spring Convocation and Investiture of Laureates of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois, which will be held at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford on May 5, 2018. Recognized for their exceptional professional achievements and contributions to the betterment of humanity, they inspire all Illinoisans to respond to what Lincoln called “the better angels of our nature.” They join only 340 Illinoisans honored over the last 54 years. This year’s recipients include two Rockfordians, acclaimed musician Emily Bear and industrialist/philanthropist Dave Rydell. The other recipients include:
- Hall of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus
- YouTube co-founder Steven Chen
- Secretary for higher education for the Society of Jesus Father Michael J. Garanzini
- President of Ariel Investments Mellody Hobson
- President and CEO of Purina Mills Edward L. McMillan
- Leading diabetes researcher Louis H. Philipson, M.D., Ph.D.
On May 5, The Lincoln Academy will also honor our longtime partner, Tom Johnson, who was the Eighth Chancellor of the Academy (2010 – 2015), with a memorial concert that will include an original composition written by Laureate Emily Bear and performed by the Rockford Symphony Orchestra and Miss Bear. For more information about Tom and this special dedication by The Lincoln Academy, click here. Visit The Lincoln Academy of Illinois for ticket information and other details.