8 ILLINOIS BUSINESS LEADER 8 ILLINOIS BUSINESS LEADER CONNECTING Highlights from Annual Luncheon 2024 The Illinois Chamber of Commerce Annual Luncheon took place this year on September 19 at the Marri ott Marquis Hotel. This year’s event brought in over 400 attendees to enjoy the day. The morning kicked off with a networking reception before mov ing everyone into the Ballroom for the full program and lunch. Our emcee for the day, Lourdes Duarte, opened the program by welcoming the attendees and bringing up Dan Wagner, the Chairman of the Illinois Chamber Board of Directors to the podium. He kicked off the program by introducing the Chicago Police honor guard to present the colors and the pledge of allegiance. Board member Kelly Edwards sang the national anthem. Next, Lt. Governor Juliana Strat ton spoke briefly about the strength of Illinois businesses. President and CEO Lou Sandoval then welcomed elected officials and VIP guests be fore inviting all to enjoy their lunch. Following a delicious lunch, State Treasurer Michael Frerichs took the stage to speak about the I-Cash program and was able to return some cash to some of our members. Each year, the Illinois Chamber honors one of our strongest support ers with the Tony Reinhart Cham pion of Free Enterprise Award. This award recognizes the partnership that is necessary for successful business advocacy. While many committed individuals work on behalf of a better economy in our state, it is important to recognize those who consistently rise to the challenge and help make Illinois a better place to work and live. The award was presented this year to Kelly Edwards. Kelly joined the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in March of 2022. After her first meeting, former Pres ident & CEO, Todd Maisch, knew Kelly had the drive and dedication to join the Illinois Chambers’ Executive Committee. She was nominated in June of 2022 and currently serves as Secretary of the Board. Kelly is the epitome of what this award means. She is tireless in her efforts to move the Chamber’s mission forward. Laurie Silvey, Vice President of Business Services, is the current chair for the Illinois committee for Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve. She presented three Above & Beyond Awards to IL Chamber members who are strong advocates and supporters of their reserve com ponent servicemember employees. Awards were accepted by Natalie Higgins for Deere & Company, Jason Jahnke, Advocate Health Care, and Kim Godden, Superior Ambulance. Lourdes then returned to the po dium to welcome our keynote speak er, David M. Foulkes, Chief Executive Officer and Director for Brunswick Corporation. David spoke about the journey that Brunswick Corporation has had through the years. He kept the audience enthralled and finished his portion with a Q&A segment with the audience. Lourdes concluded the event by thanking all our sponsors and the day’s distinguished speakers. She thanked everyone for coming and hoped to see everyone again next year! The Annual Luncheon will be held in late September 2025. Natalie Higgins of John Deere accepts the Above & Beyond Award for her company.
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