Community Development Staff Recognized for Outstanding Leadership and Service
Community Development Staff Recognized for Outstanding Leadership and Service
The RCAP network is celebrating several notable achievements by team members whose leadership, expertise, and dedication continue to strengthen communities across Illinois and beyond.
Anthony Brown Receives 2026 Margaret Burt Public Health Partnership Award
Anthony Brown, IL RCAP Operator, has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Margaret Burt Public Health Partnership Award, presented annually by the Tazewell County Health Department.
Tony was nominated by a colleague in recognition of his meaningful contributions to improving public health and the well‑being of residents throughout Tazewell County. The award honors the legacy of Margaret Burt, a long‑serving public health champion whose decades of service made a lasting impact across the state of Illinois.
Tony will be formally recognized at the Tazewell County Board of Health Reception on April 8, 2026, in Washington, Illinois.
James Meece Appointed to the Mahomet Aquifer Council
The Governor of Illinois has appointed James Meece, Illinois State Manager, to the Mahomet Aquifer Council, a body responsible for advising the state on protection and sustainable management of one of Illinois’ most vital groundwater resources.
The Governor’s Office expressed appreciation for James’s willingness to serve and confirmed his term will run through February 27, 2029.
This appointment underscores James’s leadership and expertise in rural water issues, an asset to both the state and the communities served by RCAP.
Great Lakes RCAP Staff Selected for National Leadership Development Program
A group of Great Lakes RCAP staff members has been selected to participate in the Spring Point Partnership Leadership Program, offered through a collaboration with The RCAP Rural Leadership Program/Internal Capacity Building initiative.
Participants will focus on developing advanced facilitation skills, strengthening inclusive leadership practices, and preparing to lead community-based leadership programming across rural regions.
Congratulations to the selected cohort: Gabie, Toby, Justin R., Jonathan, Amy, Fern Mary, Cody, Morgan H., and Debbie!
Their participation reflects RCAP’s ongoing commitment to cultivating strong leaders who uplift communities and advance local capacity.