The Hunt Institute Brings Illinois Legislators Together for 4th Annual Illinois Legislators Retreat

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2026
Contact: Dr. Javaid Siddiqi
Javaid.Siddiqi@hunt-institute.org

Chicago, IL — The Hunt Institute hosted its 4th Annual Illinois Legislators Retreat on July 20–21 at the University of Illinois Chicago, bringing together state legislators from across Illinois to address the state’s most pressing education issues.

The 2026 Retreat was hosted in partnership with bipartisan and bicameral Co-Chairs, Lieutenant Governor Stratton, Speaker Chris Welch, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, Assistant Majority Leader Maurice West II, Assistant Minority Leader Amy Elik, and Representative Mary Beth Canty, reflecting The Hunt Institute’s long-standing commitment to fostering bipartisan leadership in service of students and the state’s future.

“With the support of our bipartisan co-chairs, I’m excited about the impact and collaboration this Retreat will inspire. The Illinois Legislators Retreat has become a meaningful opportunity for lawmakers to come together, strengthen relationships across the aisle, and engage in thoughtful discussions about the future of education,” said Dr. Javaid Siddiqi, President and CEO of The Hunt Institute. “As The Hunt Institute marks its 25th anniversary and honors Governor Jim Hunt’s enduring legacy, we remain committed to creating spaces where policymakers can learn from one another, build trust, and work toward practical solutions that expand opportunity and improve outcomes for students in Illinois and across the nation.”

“Illinois’ future depends on strong education policy that expands opportunity, strengthens our workforce, and supports thriving communities. The Illinois Legislators Retreat provides a forum for legislators to build relationships and explore solutions that benefit students across the state,” said Retreat Co-Chair, Illinois House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch – IL House District 7. 

Over two days, legislators engaged with national experts, state leaders, and practitioners to explore data-informed strategies spanning the full education continuum—from early childhood through postsecondary education and workforce development. Sessions examined policies that respond to the evolving needs of Illinois students, families, communities, and employers, while equipping legislators with practical insights to inform their work in the upcoming legislative session.

“When we invest in our students, we invest in Illinois’ future. Every learner deserves the opportunity to succeed, and that starts with strong leadership and meaningful collaboration. I know The Hunt Institute’s work is centered on improving outcomes for all learners, and this Retreat creates an important space for leaders to come together, share ideas, and advance that shared goal,” said Retreat Co-Chair, Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.

In addition to the distinguished state and national education leaders who joined legislators throughout the Retreat, The Hunt Institute was honored to welcome Dr. Tony Sanders, Illinois State Superintendent of Education, who participated on a panel exploring the shift from measuring “chronic absenteeism” to promoting “consistent attendance,” and what this change could mean for how Illinois measures student success and supports school districts.

“Strong education policy creates stronger opportunities for Illinois students, families, and communities. By working together to expand pathways to success, we can build a more prepared workforce and a stronger future for our state. We’re grateful to The Hunt Institute for convening leaders around these important issues,” said Co-Chair, Assistant Republican Leader, Amy Elik – IL House District 111.

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About The Hunt Institute

The Hunt Institute, an affiliate of Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy, is a leader in transforming public education. Marshaling expertise from a nationwide partner network since its establishment in 2001, The Institute brings together people and resources that help build and nurture visionary leadership and mobilize strategic action for greater educational outcomes and student success.

For more information, please visit: www.hunt-institute.org