b'Chamber Hosts 2025 National Civics Bee In July, the Illinois Chamber ofRidge Middle School, who earnedgaging their members, and ensuring Commerce had the honor of host- first place in Illinois State Civics Bee!strong representation from across the ing the very first State Civics BeeWe are so proud to have her repre- state.Finals at the University of Illinoissent our state this November at theWe would like to recognize and Springfield, presented by IllinoisNational Civics Bee in Washington,thank those who generously shared Chamber Member, Kinder Morgan.D.C. Her achievement is a testamenttheir time, talent, and expertise to The event brought an outstandingto the power of civic education andhelp bring this event to life. A special turnout and an inspiring show ofthe promise of our youth. thank you goes to our emcee and Illi-support! We were thrilled to welcomeThe Illinois Chamber of Com- nois Chamber Board Member, Kelly fifteen bright and engaged students,merce is grateful to all who partici- Edwards, whose energy, professional-supportive families, and communitypated and supported this inauguralism, and presence guided the evening leaders together to celebrate civicevent. Together, we are not onlyseamlessly.knowledge and leadershipcelebrating outstanding students butWe are grateful to our distin-The National Civics Bee, held inalso strengthening the foundation ofguished panel of judges, whose partnership with the U.S. Chambercivic engagement that will carry ourthoughtful insights and commitment of Commerce Foundation, bringscommunities forward. were central to the success of the together exceptional middle schoolThis event would not have beenprogram. Chairman of the Illinois students from across the state ofpossible without the incredibleChamber Board of Directors, Dan Illinois to demonstrate their knowl- support of our presenting sponsor,Wagner, Brad Cole, CEO of the edge of civics, government, and theKinder Morgan. Their partnershipIllinois Municipal League, and Ryan principles of active citizenship. Thisand commitment made it possibleMcCreery, Government Affairs initiative not only highlights the im- for us to bring together leaders,Consultant with Kinder Morgan each portance of civic education but alsoprofessionals, and communitiesbrought a wealth of knowledge and fosters a spirit of engagement andfrom across Illinois for an evening ofperspective to the judging process, leadership among our youth. connection and recognition. We alsohelping us highlight and honor out-The energy in the room wasextend our gratitude to our collabo- standing achievements.inspiring. Our student participantsrating chambers, whose involvementTogether, our sponsors, cham-demonstrated not only a strongand dedication were instrumentalbers, judges, and emcee helped create understanding of civics but also thein making this event a true success:an event that not only celebrated confidence and passion that willThe Greater Springfield Chamberexcellence but also fostered stronger shape the future of our state. Theirof Commerce, Lake Zurich Areaconnections across communities and thoughtful answers and innovativeChamber of Commerce, Orland Parkindustries. Their contributions exem-ideas showed us that the next genera- Area Chamber of Commerce, OFal- plify the spirit of collaboration that tion is ready to take on challenges andlon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce,makes events like this possible. We find solutions for their communities. and Champaign County Chamber oflook forward to welcoming everyone We extend our warmest con- Commerce. Each Chamber played aback next year!gratulations to Aisha from Timbervital role in promoting the event, en-SEPTEMBER 202525'