Bradley University President James Shadid and Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Jessica Linder-Gallo recently highlighted the critical importance of partnerships and a positive outlook in navigating "parallel challenges" facing both the university and the city. Speaking at the Chamber’s annual Thanksgiving Luncheon, they underscored the intertwined futures of Bradley and Peoria, stressing that their mutual success depends on attracting and retaining talent.
Key Takeaways
- Bradley University and the Peoria community face "parallel challenges" in attracting and retaining talent.
- The relationship between Bradley and Peoria is uniquely intertwined, with their futures tied together.
- A "Positive Peoria" mindset, characterized by optimism, collaboration, and forward momentum, is essential.
- The Chamber was recognized as the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ Large Chamber of the Year.
- Attendance at the luncheon neared pre-COVID levels, indicating strong community engagement.
A Shared Vision for Peoria
President Shadid, who took the helm at Bradley in April, drew parallels between the university’s need to attract students and the city’s efforts to bring in skilled professionals. He noted that "national headwinds of declining college enrollment, shifting demographics and questions about the value of higher education" mirror the challenges faced by mid-sized cities like Peoria. Shadid emphasized that a vibrant city with opportunities makes Bradley a more attractive institution, and a strong university experience, in turn, makes Peoria a desirable place to call home.
He reflected on the legacy of Bradley founder Lydia Moss Bradley, whose vision was rooted in "a living investment in people, in purpose and in possibility." Shadid stated that Bradley and Peoria are "co-authors of the same story," shaped by the collective efforts of students, alumni, leaders, laborers, and entrepreneurs.
The Power of Positivity and Collaboration
Jessica Linder-Gallo echoed this sentiment, promoting the "Positive Peoria" theme. She defined this positivity through tangible examples: small businesses hiring, major employers expanding, new leaders emerging, developers revitalizing neighborhoods, and startups taking risks. Crucially, she highlighted collaboration over competition as a cornerstone of this positive outlook.
Linder-Gallo also shared exciting news for the Chamber, announcing its selection as the Large Chamber of the Year by the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. She expressed pride in the team’s hard work and its measurable impact on the community.
The luncheon, which drew approximately 600 guests, was seen as a positive sign of community engagement, nearing pre-pandemic attendance figures. Linder-Gallo noted the "striking" energy in the room, reflecting a strong investment from the business community in Peoria’s future.
Chamber Honors and Recognition
The annual event also served as a platform for the Chamber’s awards presentation. Dr. James McGee, president of the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, received the Tom Connor Service Award. Prairie Home Alliance was honored with the Above and Beyond Award, and Peggy Maloof was named Ambassador of the Year.
