Central Illinois Business Hall of Fame 2026

The Central Illinois Business Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose professional success and dedication have significantly advanced the Central Illinois business community.

On Thursday, March 26, 2026,

Junior Achievement of Central Illinois is proud to welcome:

Meenakshy Aiyer MD, Regional Dean, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria; Glen Barton (posthumously), Philanthropic Leader, Caterpillar Inc. and Polly Barton, Philanthropic Leader; and Keith Knepp MD, President, Carle Health Greater Peoria as inductees into the Business Hall of Fame.

Junior Achievement will celebrate these remarkable individuals during the 20th Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette. Their induction adds them to a respected roster of laureates who serve as influential role models throughout Central Illinois.

Also to be honored are the Junior Achievement Volunteer of the Year and Educator of the Year. The Volunteer of the of the Year to be honored is Mark Geason, CEFCU, and the Educator of the of the Year is Dr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat, Peoria Public Schools. Honorees have a history of outstanding achievement and dedication to impacting young people through Junior Achievement.

Related Events

Central Illinois Business Hall of Fame - 2026

When: Thursday, 26 Mar 2026

Where: Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette

Time: 4:00 PM CST

4:00 PM Cocktail Reception

5:30 PM Dinner & Induction Ceremony

Laureate induction into the Central Illinois Business Hall of Fame is a lifetime achievement award for individuals who have consistently demonstrated these qualities throughout their professional lives: Business Excellence, Visionary, Innovative Leadership, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Longstanding, Contemporary Accomplishments, Community, Involvement and High Moral and Ethical Principles.