Huntley's Nancy Binger and Melissa Stocker recognized as Emerging Women Leaders in Springfield
On Tuesday, April 18, Illinois House Republicans hosted the 2023 Emerging Women Leaders Recognition Event.
Nearly 50 women from across the state of Illinois were honored at this event. All of the honorees were invited by their state representative for their achievements as leaders in their careers and communities.
Nancy Binger, Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce executive director, and Melissa Stocker, Huntley Area Chamber board member and Village of Huntley Marketing & Recruitment Specialist, were recognized as Emerging Women Leaders from District 69.
State Rep. Joe Sosnowski nominated these two women to represent his district at this prestigious event.
"It was great to have Nancy Binger and Melissa Stocker be a part of our Emerging Women Leaders Program," said Rep. Joe Sosnowski. "They are truly leaders in their respective roles at the Chamber and the Village of Huntley and the community is blessed to have them make Huntley a great place to live and work."
The event kicked off with a brunch that was highlighted by a keynote address delivered by Illinois Supreme Court Justice Lisa Holder White, the first black woman to serve on the state's high court.
Justice Holder White discussed the obstacles she and many other women face when working to achieve positions of leadership. She ended her speech with a strong message of empowerment and the need to make space for women in government.
During the brunch, each woman was brought forward and received a recognition certificate.
Following the brunch, the honorees attended a listening session hosted by the first female Minority Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives, Leader Tony McCombie, and the first black Lieutenant Governor in state history, Juliana Stratton.
Both women spoke in depth about the connection they share as women in politics, even though they sit on opposite sides of the aisle. Together they asked questions about the challenges the honorees faced as women and encouraged suggestions on how Illinois government can help.
The honorees were then guided to the House Speaker's Gallery where they watched the day's legislative session in the Illinois House of Representatives.
Leader Tony McCombie took a moment to recognize the guests from the House floor, commending their achievements as Emerging Women Leaders.
The day concluded with a special tour of the Capitol led by Architect of the Illinois Capitol Andrea Aggertt.
Nancy Binger has been an integral part of the Huntley Area Chamber's newfound growth and success, by bringing her expertise, passion, and commitment to serving its members and advancing the interests of the Huntley area business community. Her dedication and tireless efforts have helped make the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce one of the most vibrant and thriving chambers in the area.
Melissa Stocker, as the village's marketing & recruitment specialist, has played a pivotal role in enhancing the village's image and attracting new businesses and residents to our community. Her hard work, creativity, and strategic thinking have been instrumental in bringing positive changes to Huntley.
"We extend our sincerest gratitude and appreciation to Nancy Binger and Melissa Stocker for their contributions to the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Huntley," said Huntley Area Chamber board chairman Bob Panek. "We are proud to have them as part of our team and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition."