Illinois Lincoln Excellence in Public Service Series Announces Class of 2008

 Program trains women as future leaders for the GOP

Carol Stream, IL -- Pamela J. Fenner, President and the Board of Governors, announced Fellowships have been awarded for the Illinois Lincoln Excellence in Public Service Series, Class of 2008. Founded in 1993, the Illinois Lincoln Excellence in Public Service Series is a 527 leadership program, dedicated to the training and mentoring of Republican Women throughout the State of Illinois.  Over 160 women have participated in the program.   Graduates have gone on to achieve elected office, public service careers in the state and federal government and campaign management positions.

 The Class of 2008 includes Jennifer Baty, Arlington Heights; Karen Foster, Champaign; Janet M. Hood, Bloomington; Susan Newton, Peoria; Marie Piraino, Roselle; Debra Spencer, Peoria and Elizabeth Van Holt Farrar, Downers Grove.

 “These talented seven women chosen for our 2008 class follow in the strong tradition of the 160 previous Excellence Program participants.  They have already demonstrated outstanding dedication to their communities and we look forward to their future contributions which will enhance the quality of our political system at the local, state and federal level,” said Fenner.

 “I am delighted that our program continues to contribute significantly to the political process and provide the necessary tools that women need to become informed and active participants in that process,” added Alice Philips a past president of the organization.

 In1994, Illinois became the second state to found an Excellence Series program following the lead of the Lugar Series in the neighboring state of Indiana. Currently, 20 states have established an Excellence in Public Service Series. The Illinois Lincoln Series includes course work and hands-on experience at all levels of government and campaigns.  Previous speakers and trainers for the program have included, U.S. Congressman and former Speaker of the House, J. Dennis Hastert, Illinois Congresswoman Judy Biggert, 2006 GOP Gubernatorial candidate Judy Baar Topinka, U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe, U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, Republican strategist Mary Matalin, and former Lt. Governor Corinne Wood who is a graduate of the Class of 1996.

Information regarding the Illinois Lincoln Excellence in Public Service Series can be found at www.lincolnseries.com or by contacting the Executive Director, Dawn Disher at 847-226-3918.