Laura Cullinan, President of the Gilmore Foundation is a driving force behind Choose Greater Peoria. By facilitating collaboration among community leaders, she’s carrying out Bob Gilmore’s legacy to improve the livability of Greater Peoria.
Building Business Through Community
The power to make a difference is in our hands. And when we join forces, it’s even better. In an era where it’s more important than ever to build our communities up, we have to step up as business leaders and make a change. It might start as a marketing campaign, but it takes so much more than that.
It takes multiple leaders. Take the Choose Greater Peoria initiative. Leaders from over 25 businesses, civic organizations, nonprofits, educational institutions and even elected officials are putting their differences aside and working together to execute a unified strategy.
It takes a shared goal. For Greater Peoria it’s all about drawing talent to the region and building an economic engine that will survive long into the future. The Greater Peoria area has so much to offer. Like Goldilocks, the region is large enough to have all the good things you expect from an urban center, yet small enough to live, work and play greater. But it’s about more than just the physical location. A community has been created around the common interest of seeing the whole Greater Peoria region flourish.
It takes accountability. Leaders are leaning in and assuming responsibility for the future of the region. Like entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker, Jim Rohn famously said, “Whatever good things we build end up building us.” When our businesses are successful, our communities are successful – the ball is in our court. What we do together builds steam and momentum, creating a true multiplier effect.
In this season you’ll hear from a variety of leaders in the healthcare sector, Bradley University, Peoria Riverfront Museum, the economic development council and more, talking about their organizations and how they’re championing a hands-on approach to help our region (and people) thrive for the long haul. One theme that quickly emerged is that Peoria has some pretty amazing leaders who genuinely care about this region. Through their partnership and collaboration, positive change is within our reach.
Leading a Museum and Inspiring a Community with John Morris
John D. Morris, CEO and President of the Peoria Riverfront Museum, talks about leading his hometown’s museum and about his commitment to growing Greater Peoria’s wealth of activities and resources.
Building Leaders Through Athletics with Dr. Chris Reynolds
Dr. Chris Reynolds, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics at Bradley University, learned early on how athletics can change the lives of students by providing structure, teaching lessons and establishing connections to lifelong mentors.
Supporting Community Growth Through Integrated Health Care with Bob Sehring
Bob Sehring, Chief Executive Officer of OSF HealthCare, shares why “the closer to home you can receive care, the better.”
Leading a Health System with Dr. Keith Knepp
Dr. Keith Knepp, President of Carle Health Greater Peoria, talks about growing up in Central Illinois, serving in his hometown as a physician and how he transitioned to leadership to make a wider impact on health care and the region he loves.
Attracting Business and Strengthening a Region with Chris Setti
Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, talks about the many business-friendly advantages in Greater Peoria, the role of the EDC and the many partnerships in place to drive regional economic development.
Empowering Women and Youth through Art with Nikki Romain
Nikki Romain, Executive Director of Artists ReEnvisioning Tomorrow Inc., overcame a difficult childhood by expressing herself through art. Now, she’s helping empower women and youth in the region through arts programs.
Ensuring Charitable Donations are Well Invested with Jennifer Zammuto
Jennifer Zammuto, President of the Heart of Illinois United Way, shares how her organization determines the best way to allocate charitable donations to maximize return on investment and the impact that has on the whole community.
Making Connections and Bringing Joy with Greg Batton
Greg Batton, co-host of The Greg and Dan Show on WMBD Radio, is a gifted storyteller driven by a desire to connect and entertain. He’s a force for good and leverages positivity to bring joy to the community both on the air and off.