Stepping inside the Union County Courthouse gave our Union County CEO class a whole new appreciation for the people and the work that keep our county running. 🏛️
A heartfelt thank you to Union County Clerk Stephanie Cox, Chairman of the Union County Commissioners Max Miller, and Deputy Treasurer Heather Barrow for opening your doors and sharing your time, your stories, and your wisdom with our students. Together, they bring a wealth of experience: Mr. Miller has served as a commissioner for 14 years, Ms. Barrow has been with the treasurer's office for about eight years, and Ms. Cox has served as County Clerk for over a year.
These three are truly part of the Union County CEO family. Stephanie has been a long-term member of our UCCEO board and a mentor, Max's grandson, Maddox Thorpe, is a 2021 UCCEO alum, and Heather's son, Reece Barrow, is a 2020 UCCEO alum. All three continuously support our program with their encouragement, enthusiasm, and willingness to share about CEO with others, and that belief makes a real difference. One student shared how much it means to hear community leaders say they believe in them, and that hearing it helps them believe in themselves a little more. Thank you, Stephanie, Max, and Heather, for being those voices for our young leaders. We are so thankful for you!
Our class was amazed to learn just how much happens inside a courthouse beyond court cases. Students got an up-close look at birth, marriage, death, and land records, along with old surveys and beautifully bound, handwritten documents, including a marriage license dating all the way back to 1818, when Union County became one of Illinois' original counties. Several students noted how personal and beautiful those early records are, and many left with a deeper respect for the organization and care it takes to inventory, sort, and protect our county's history.
They also learned how county decisions are made for the benefit of the people, and how local property taxes are put to work, with about 70% supporting our schools and other local services like the highway department. Hearing Mr. Miller speak about the postponement of Choate's closure reminded students how deeply our community cares about the jobs, families, and institutions that make Anna home.
Beyond the records, our speakers offered life lessons that truly resonated. Students reflected on the importance of first impressions and "dressing for success," of staying curious and asking questions, and of finding a career that fits who you are, whether you're an introvert or an extrovert. Mr. Miller's example stood out to many: you can disagree respectfully, use your voice to advocate for change, and still work alongside others for the good of the whole community. As one student put it, the visit was a reminder to think decisions through carefully and consider every option and opinion before making big choices.
We are so grateful for leaders who invest in the next generation! 💙
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