Chicago, IL, Nov 1, 2023 – Today, Advance Illinois joined more than 250 partners, supporters, agency leaders and elected officials at the University Club to celebrate 15 years of championing an equity-centered, students-first public education system through research, policy, and advocacy.  

“We are proud to have played a significant role in improving student outcomes and opportunities throughout the state,” said Robin Steans, President of the independent, bipartisan, policy and advocacy organization. 

Advance Illinois was founded when diverse civic leaders in Illinois came together to discuss how to improve student outcomes. With support from Boston Consulting Group and Holland & Knight, and funding from The Joyce Foundation and the Gates Foundation, Advance Illinois became the first statewide group in Illinois addressing the full education continuum—from birth to postsecondary. 

“As we mark this milestone, we reflect on the impact we have had on Illinois’ children, students, their families, and educators in our first 15 years,” said Steans. “And we are excited about the vision we have for the work ahead.” 

At the celebration, and joined by Gov. Pritzker, who provided introductory remarks, Advance Illinois honored founding Board Members: 

• William M. Daley, Vice Chairman, Public Affairs, Wells Fargo & Company 

• Miguel del Valle, Former State Senator 

• Governor Jim Edgar, Former Governor of Illinois 

Since its founding in 2008, Advance Illinois has both led and been a vocal advocate for some of the state’s most transformative education policy reforms and investments.  In collaboration with other advocates, Advance Illinois championed a more equitable school funding formula, driving resources to students and schools that need them the most. The organization helped establish the state's longitudinal data system to follow students over time and across systems. Alongside partners, Advance advocated for an ambitious plan to create a more effective and equitable system of early childhood education and care. The organization worked closely with the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus to articulate a systemic approach to student mental health and well-being. Advance Illinois has also worked to convene dozens of agencies and partners to identify and address how to strengthen and diversify our educator pipeline. Additionally, the organization is working closely with partners and legislators to develop recommendations for a more equitable and sustainable higher education funding formula.  

Steans added, “Advance Ilinois would not be the organization it is today without our board leadership, dedicated partners, fellow advocates, and staff over the years. We look forward to continuing to work alongside communities and partners across the B-20 continuum, and with local and state leaders to keep our students at the forefront.  Here’s to the next 15 years!”  

The Edwardson Family Foundation, Morrison Family, Marin and Kate Gjaja, Jennifer Steans and Jim Kastenholz, Heather Steans and Leo Smith, The Joyce Foundation, Massey & Gail LLP, Northern Trust, Gary Fencik, BCG, and Wells Fargo served as presenting, champion, and anniversary sponsors of the event. 

About Advance Illinois   
Advance Illinois is an independent, bipartisan, policy, and advocacy organization working toward a healthy public education system that enables all students to achieve success in college, career, and civic life. Since its founding in 2008, Advance Illinois has become a nationally recognized thought leader in education policy and advocacy.