President's Address

Over twenty years ago, four innovative women came together with a powerful vision to launch Leadership Illinois—an organization that ENERGIZES, ENLIGHTENS and EDUCATES women throughout the state of Illinois.  But it was in 2000 that I was first introduced to Leadership Illinois when I was asked to speak to a group of 25 women about my experiences of starting and running a fledging children’s museum – oh and by the way, could I please make it fun and interactive?  The women that I met that evening led me to want to know more about Leadership Illinois.  They were accomplished and professional; they were energetic and passionate; but most of all there was camaraderie in the room that was indescribable.

The next year I decided to make the Leadership Illinois experience my own.  As the Founder and Executive Director of the Children’s Discovery Museum, the Leadership Illinois experience introduced me to the world of State Government and corporate boards; helped me identify and harness an inner strength and passion; and introduced me to a network of amazing women.  My Leadership Illinois experience truly helped me live out the Leadership Illinois motto -- To become a catalyst for positive change in your business and community.

I am honored to be one of over 400 alumni from Fortune 1,000 companies, non-profits, education, state and the federal government as well as finance, legal services, the real estate industry and more.  Each year our alumni ranks are increased by a class of 20 to 25 women from diverse backgrounds and professional experiences who participate in three powerful conferences:

• The Power of the Government in Springfield
• The Power of the Individual, in Bloomington
• The Power of the Marketplace in Chicago

Each conference is planned and facilitated by Leadership alumnae who’ve made a personal commitment to pay it forward in the lives of other women.

If you are someone who needs the Leadership Experience, please consider applying to Leadership Illinois; just click “Candidate Application” above.  If you are an alumni, please join us at one of the many alumni social events or professional development opportunities, nominate quality candidates, or just reconnect with your classmates and invite them to reconnect with Leadership Illinois.

Together, we can make Leadership Illinois an organization of consequence and meaning, not just in your life, but in your community and beyond.

Shari Buckellew, President
Leadership Illinois Class of 2001

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