Speaker Welch Hosts Second Annual Leadership Retreat

 

ROSEMONT, Ill.  – House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch hosted his second annual leadership retreat for assistant leaders, deputy leaders, and whips of the House Democratic Caucus. 

The retreat focused on fostering a culture of collaborative leadership and allowed the leaders the space to build more trusting and lasting relationships with one another. This year’s retreat also featured an interactive presentation from the National Conference of State Legislatures, a bipartisan organization providing training and development for lawmakers across the country.  

“My leadership team is one of the most diverse, dynamic, and talented in our state’s history and it is a privilege to serve alongside them,” said Speaker Welch. “Retreats like this allow us the opportunity to break bread and learn more about our unique lived experiences, while also discussing emerging priorities for our Democratic Caucus. Better relationships lead to better results; I think everyone left this retreat with a renewed sense of focus and determination in our goal to make Illinois the best place to call home.” 

“As we look ahead to another important legislative session, this retreat was an important opportunity for us to reflect on what it means to lead and strengthen bonds that will help us get the best outcomes for the people of Illinois,” said Majority Leader Robyn Gabel. 

“I appreciate Speaker Welch creating this collaborative space where we can reflect on our roles as leaders and support our colleagues in their own growth,” said Assistant Majority Leader Camille Lilly. “We each come from different places, we bring unique experiences, and our communities face their own challenges – but we all share a responsibility to finding common ground and working together for the common good.”

“The House Democratic Leadership team looks like Illinois, it speaks for Illinois, and it’s delivering for Illinois,” said Deputy Majority Leader Lisa Hernandez. “That’s due in no small part to the emphasis Speaker Welch puts on collaboration, accountability, and open dialogue – all in the pursuit of smart and compassionate policies that work for the people we represent.”


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Andrea Garcia