We are proud to host honorees from around the state for the Women to Watch recognition conference.

In its fourth year, Women to Watch was created to recognize the accomplishments of up-and-coming women leaders. Each year, legislators identify and invite rising stars from their districts to attend the conference, where we applaud their efforts, listen to their suggestions and provide them with a day full of empowering programming.

When: Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Where:
Springfield, IL

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CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE TODAY!

Please confirm your attendance to this invite only event. You will need the invite code provided to you by email.

DAY OF THE EVENT

Schedule

9:30 am

Recognition Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast with lawmakers in a historic Inn and mingle with other remarkable women from around the state after which you’ll be recognized for your achievements.

Keynote: House Minority Leader Tony McCombie & Illinois State Representative Natalie Manley

Location: Inn at 835
Address: 835 S Second St, Springfield, IL, 62704


12:00 pm

Board Shuttles to the Capitol

Location: Inn at 835
Address: 835 S Second St, Springfield, IL, 62704


12:30 pm

The Capitol Experience

Group photo then tour the Capitol Building with experienced guides.

Location: Illinois State Capitol
Address: 401 S 2nd St, Springfield, IL, 62701


1:30 pm

Networking Lunch

Sign-up for one of the networking lunch sessions. Guides will help you navigate the Capitol Complex to find your Lunch group.

  1. Networking Lunch – Option 1
    • Facilitator:
      • Regan Deering, State Representative
        Illinois General Assembly
    • Location: Stratton Bldg.,6th floor, Office of the Architect of the Capitol Conference Room 602
  2. Networking Lunch – Option 2
    • Facilitators:
      • Lori Poppe Hiltabrand, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, Illinois Chamber of Commerce
      • Jennifer Sanalitro, State Representative, Illinois General Assembly
    • Location: Stratton Bldg., 3rd Floor, Capitol Development Board Room, 349C
  3. Networking Lunch – Option 3
    • Facilitator:
      • Nicole La Ha, State Representative, Illinois General Assembly
    • Location: Capitol Complex Visitors Center

Please note that room changes may occur at the last minute due to the needs of legislative committees. Guides will be on hand to provide direction.


2:30 pm

Own Your Power

Speakers:

  • Andrea Aggertt, AIA, NCARB
    Architect of the Capitol 
  • Linda Reneé Baker
    Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, Southern Illinois University
  • Rebecca Losli
    President, Illinois American Water

Moderated by: To be announced


Location: Capitol Complex Visitors Center Auditorium
Address: 425 S College St, Springfield, IL, 62704


2:45 pm and 3:45 pm

Return Shuttles to the Inn at 835

Shuttles will return you to the Inn at 835, departing from the Capitol at the following times:

  • 2:45 pm (after networking lunch)
  • 3:45 pm (after Own Your Power presentatin)


Location: Capitol Complex Visitors Center
Address: 425 S College St, Springfield, IL 62704

Things To Know…

  • Bring your driver’s license or state ID.
  • Metal detectors are used throughout the Capitol Complex, do not bring knives or other weapons.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather and be prepared to do a lot of walking on hard surfaces throughout the day.
  • You will be walking between buildings, bring appropriate outerwear.
  • Please let us know if you need disability accommodations.
  • We have provided free parking at the Inn at 835, with shuttle transportation to and from the Capitol. The Inn at 835 is within easy walking distance should you need to return to your car before the end of the day.

Extending your stay? Visit Springfield can help you find lodging and attractions.

Map of the Capitol Complex

A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: