Congressman Kinzinger to Speak at Communication Week

United States Congressman Adam Kinzinger, an Illinois State University alumnus, will make a keynote address during Communication Week (COM Week) at noon, Wednesday, March 23 in Stevenson 147 on the Illinois State campus.

Dr. Larry Long, executive director of the School of Communication, is excited that students will get the opportunity to learn from Kinzinger.  "This is a great opportunity for students to learn a different perspective on communication," said Long. "Political communication is a complex field and learning it first hand from Congressman Kinzinger is invaluable." 

Kinzinger graduated from Illinois State in 2000.  As a sophomore, he was elected to the McLean County board, becoming one of the youngest members in the board's history.  Kinzinger joined the Air Force in 2003 and was awarded the United States Air Force Airman's Medal for saving a woman's life.   He was also awarded the National Guard's Valley Forge Cross for Heroism and was selected as the Southeastern Wisconsin American Red Cross Hero of the Year. 

After proving his dedication to his country, Kinzinger was elected to the United States Congress for the 11th District in 2010. 

"It is very generous of Congressman Kinzinger to take the time and visit his alma mater for COM Week," said Long.  "The School of Communication is thankful and looking forward to March 23."

COM Week 2011, Believe, Achieve, Inspire, will host four keynote speakers and 40 panelists from March 21-25.  This year's theme, Believe, Achieve, Inspire, encourages students to believe in themselves, achieve their goals and inspire each other.  All speakers and panels are free for Illinois State students, faculty and staff.   

For more information on COM Week, please visit www.Communication.illinoisstate.edu/comweek or follow COM WEEK on Twitter and Facebook pages.