Illinois Women's Institute for Leadership Training Academy

In celebration of Women's History Month, Treasurer Frerichs honored eight outstanding Illinois leaders for their contributions. A special congratulations to our very own board member Brandi Bradley ('14) for her outstanding achievements in workforce and labor, and to Lynne Chambers ('24) for her commitment to community service. Well deserved! ?? #WomensHistoryMonth

We love seeing our sisters in action! IWILTA alumnae Saba Haider ('24) and Julie Kaviar ('23) ran into each other last weekend at the Illinois Counties Dinner at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C

What a terrific March Program with our Class of 2025. It was an impactful and busy weekend covering topics like racial equity, ballot access, compliance, campaign budgets, campaign finance law, and, of course, fundraising. We're grateful to all of our presenters who shared their time and knowledge with us this past weekend—thank you! We look forward to seeing the Class next in Springfield in April!

On Saturday, Kate Coyne McCoy continued her intensive fundraising training, giving our class hands-on experience making calls with her expert guidance. In the afternoon, Olivia Pantoja and Sarah King provided invaluable insights into what donors seek in candidates, followed by an informative session on ActBlue with Carolyn Schuette. Today, we had the privilege of hearing from IWILTA board member Nancy Kohn, a leader in the fundraising industry. She led a dynamic panel discussion featuring Hon. Precious Brady-Davis, Hon. Eva-Dina Delgado, and Hon. Atour Sargon—a fantastic conclusion to the March program!

Happy Women’s History Month! We kicked off the month by celebrating with our incredible alumnae and board at a happy hour during the Class of 2025’s March Program. A huge thank you to Res Publica Group and Res Publica Vice President Courtney Greve Hack (IWIL Class of 2015) for hosting us! In times like these, there’s nothing more inspiring than reconnecting with our IWIL sisters and hearing about the incredible impact they’re making across Illinois and beyond. A special shoutout to Senator Durbin for making time to join us—straight off the plane! #WomensHistoryMonth

This morning, the Class of 2025 dove into campaign essentials—ballot access, campaign finance law, budgeting, and recruiting volunteers and staff. A huge thank you to our expert presenters for sharing your time with us! In the afternoon, we welcomed longtime IWILTA presenter Kate Coyne McCoy as she kicked off her fundraising training. We’re excited for the rest of her session tomorrow!

The Class of 2025 joined us today in Chicago for their second program of the year focused on getting ready to run and fundraising. Thank you to Hon. Cheri Bustos for kicking off this program and sharing your fundraising insights with the class. Dr. Harriet Lewis joined us again this year to lead her impactful full-day training on unconscious bias and racial equity training. A terrific start to the program, and more learning to come this weekend!

Orientation Program ?? A huge thank you to our incredible presenters for helping us kick off another fantastic year of training pro-choice Democratic women to run for office! We’re excited for all that’s ahead for the Class of 2025—stay tuned!

Black women have been at the forefront of change, breaking barriers and shaping the future of politics. This #BlackHistoryMonth, we celebrate their leadership and impact—past, present, and future.

Today’s the day! We’re excited to kick off Orientation with the Class of 2025 in Champaign! We’re honored to welcome back Gloria Cotton for another powerful leadership development session. Plus, President-Elect Pam Monetti will lead a discussion with alumnae Hon. Chaundra Bishop, Hon. Amy Rueff, and Hon. Chemberly Harris on how IWILTA shaped their careers in politics and government. A huge thank you to these inspiring women for sharing their wisdom—see you soon! #IWILTA #Classof2025