Jen Gervasi Receives Award from Leadership Illinois

Jennifer Mead Gervasi, Quincy University's presidential spouse, has been named as the recipient of the 2012 President's Award by Leadership Illinois, a statewide network of 600 professionals that provides education relating to the advancement of women. The President's Award is given to a member who has made a significant contribution to Leadership Illinois and its success over the past program year.

Mrs. Gervasi was selected for her contributions to two of the organization's three professional development conferences. She co-chaired and organized the Power of the Individual conference in July 2012--the first such conference ever held in Quincy. This three-day event focused on leadership development, and it also highlighted Quincy history, arts and architecture, including a plenary session at QU.

"Jen was clearly the choice for the President's Award," said Monica Rausa Williams, Co-president of Leadership Illinois. "She was selected not only for her contributions to a successful programming year but also because, professionally and personally, she embodies the mission of Leadership Illinois -- to educate, energize and enlighten, and be a catalyst for positive change. Jen truly is a treasure and we are so lucky to have her as part of our organization."

Through her professional contacts, Mrs. Gervasi also arranged for the organization to visit the famed Merchandise Mart during a Chicago program--the first such visit in Leadership Illinois' 25-year history.