Effingham, IL – July 25, 2024 – The Effingham County Chamber will host the First Friday Breakfast: Kickoff to Education event on Friday, August 2, 2024, from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Effingham. This event will highlight the plans and goals of local schools for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Attendees will hear from representatives of area schools, who will share updates on their educational initiatives. This event aims to enhance collaboration and engagement between the educational community and local businesses, emphasizing the importance of supporting education in Effingham County.

Confirmed speakers for the event include Cary Jackson, Superintendent of Dieterich Unit #30; Denise Lee, Assistant Director of Admissions, and Ethan Osborne, East Central Illinois Admissions Counselor from Eastern Illinois University; Andrew Johnson, Superintendent, and Erin Hartke, Marketing & Communications Specialist from Effingham Unit #40; Effingham Regional Career Academy (ERCA); Josh Bullock, Ph.D., President of Lake Land College; Andrea Wright, Communications Coordinator for Sacred Heart Parish & Schools; and Matt Sturgeon, Superintendent, and Jill Spour, High School Teacher from Teutopolis Unit #50.

The Effingham County Chamber invites all members and interested parties to attend this informative breakfast. A breakfast buffet will be available at 7:30 a.m. with presentations beginning promptly at 8:00 a.m. The cost to attend is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. To register or for more information, please visit EffinghamCountyChamber.com/event or call (217) 342-4147.

The Chamber is dedicated to strengthening community connections and supporting local education. The First Friday Breakfast: Kickoff to Education is a key event in achieving this mission.