Women’s History Month has been an annual celebration in the United States since 1987, but its roots go back to a weeklong event in Sonoma, California, in 1978. The celebration was expanded to a month-long observance by Congress in 1987, to recognize the often-overlooked achievements of women throughout history.
Here in Illinois, we’re proud to have several women stepping up to represent their communities in the House Republicans. These women bring a wealth of diverse experiences and a shared commitment to public service. They’ve made significant strides in healthcare, education, and economic development, showing us all what dedicated leadership looks like. Their hard work and advocacy have opened doors for future generations of women leaders.
Let’s celebrate these remarkable women!
House Minority Leader Tony McCombie
House Minority Tony McCombie’s journey from local governance to state leadership is truly inspiring. Before her tenure in the Illinois House of Representatives, she served as the Mayor of Savanna, Illinois, where she worked diligently to address local issues and foster community development. Her hands-on experience at the municipal level provided her with a profound understanding of grassroots challenges. In 2017, she transitioned to state politics, representing the 71st district. Her leadership qualities did not go unnoticed; in January 2023, she was elected as the House Minority Leader, making history as the first woman to hold this position in Illinois. McCombie’s dedication to public service is evident in her focus on job creation, property tax relief, and government accountability. Beyond her legislative duties, she remains deeply connected to her roots, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and local governance.
Rep. Regan Deering
As the new representative of the 88th District, Rep. Regan Deering has embraced being a state legislator, bringing her wealth of knowledge to the Capitol. Before becoming state representative, Rep. Deering worked as an educator, teaching science to elementary school students. Seeking to continue to promote student achievement, she operated a tutoring and test prep location of the educational franchise Huntington Learning Center in her hometown of Decatur. Although outside of the classroom, Rep. Deering continues to serve on Mt. Zion community Unit School District’s school board and has volunteered as the Chair of the Decatur Public School Foundation. She is also a compassionate community advocate, volunteering with many local organizations in her community. Rep. Deering’s background coupled with her passions have helped pave the way for her work in Springfield, focusing on economic development, advancing common sense policies, and delivering real results to working families.
Rep. Amy Grant
Rep. Amy Grant’s commitment to education and public service has been a cornerstone of her career. Before entering the political arena, Grant was an educator in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she dedicated herself to shaping young minds. Her passion for community involvement led her to serve on the DuPage County Board, where she gained valuable experience in local governance. In 2019, she brought her wealth of knowledge to the Illinois House of Representatives, initially representing the 42nd district and later the 47th due to redistricting. Throughout her tenure, Rep. Grant has been a vocal advocate for human services, mental health, and cultural enhancement, serving on various committees that align with these priorities. Her background in education and local government provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by her constituents.
Rep. Nicole La Ha
Rep. Nicole La Ha’s multifaceted career reflects her dedication to community service and advocacy. Before stepping into her role as a state representative, Rep. La Ha served as a village trustee in Homer Glen, where she was instrumental in promoting inclusivity through the co-founding of the Ability Awareness Committee. She is also a licensed dental hygienist, having earned her accreditation from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. In 2022, she gained national recognition by winning the Mrs. America beauty contest, showcasing her versatility and commitment to empowering women. Beginning her service in the Illinois House representing the 82nd district in December 2023, Rep. La Ha has prioritized issues such as lowering healthcare costs, advocating for seniors, combating human trafficking, and enhancing public safety. Her personal experiences, including being a mother to a child with cerebral palsy, have inspired her advocacy for inclusivity and support for families facing similar challenges. This inspiration led her to author a children’s book titled “My Sister is Just Like You and Me,” striving to promote understanding and inclusion from a young age.
Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro
Representing the 48th district since January 2023, Rep. Sanalitro has been a staunch advocate for policies that resonate with her constituents’ needs. Her commitment to public service is complemented by her background in business, providing her with insights into the economic challenges and opportunities within her district. Rep. Sanalitro’s approach to governance emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and a deep-rooted desire to enhance the quality of life for those she serves. Her focus areas include education reform, economic development, and healthcare accessibility, looking to create a more equitable and prosperous community.
Rep. Norine Hammond
With her tenure beginning in 2010, Rep. Norine Hammond has been a steadfast representative of the 94th district. Her extensive experience is reflected in her leadership roles, including serving as a Deputy Minority Leader. Rep. Hammond’s legislative focus has been on higher education, agriculture, and rural development, areas critical to her district’s vitality. Her pragmatic approach to legislation and her ability to work across the aisle have earned her respect among her peers. Rep. Hammond’s dedication to her constituents is evident in her efforts to address local concerns, from infrastructure improvements to supporting small businesses.
Rep. Amy Elik
Rep. Amy Elik’s background as a Certified Public Accountant has been invaluable in her role as the representative for the 111th district since January 2021. Her expertise in finance has driven her commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency in government spending. Rep. Elik’s legislative priorities include advocating for taxpayers, promoting economic growth, and ensuring efficient use of state resources. Her community involvement extends beyond her legislative duties; she has served on the school board for St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alton and has been active in local organizations such as the Rotary Club of the Riverbend.
Rep. Jackie Haas
Representing the 79th district, Rep. Jackie Haas brings a wealth of experience from her background in social services. Her career prior to joining the Illinois House was dedicated to behavioral health, where she worked extensively to support individuals and families facing mental health challenges. This experience has informed her legislative priorities, which focus on expanding access to mental health services, addressing substance abuse, and supporting social service agencies. Rep. Haas’s compassionate approach to governance emphasizes the importance of holistic support systems and community-based solutions. Her commitment to public health and well-being is evident in her active participation in related legislative committees and initiatives.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible work done by women leaders in Illinois. Representatives Tony McCombie, Regan Deering, Amy Grant, Nicole La Ha, Jennifer Sanalitro, Norine Hammond, Amy Elik, and Jackie Haas have made a real difference in their communities and across the state. Their passion, hard work, and dedication show us all what it means to lead with heart and commitment.
This month, let’s honor these amazing women and reflect on how their efforts have shaped our world. It’s also an opportunity to look ahead and imagine a future where women’s voices continue to make an even bigger impact. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the chance to thrive and make a difference!