Thursday, August 20, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Location: Lodgic Coworking, 1807 S. Neil Street, Champaign
Turning Ambition into Action
What happens when women lead authentically, with resilience and compassion? Hear how Joan Walls navigated her leadership journey and how she turned her ambition into influence and action, leading her to the role of City Manager of Champaign.
Joan Walls has served the City of Champaign for over 20 years and was appointed City Manager in December 2024. As the City’s Chief Executive Officer, she provides visionary leadership, ensuring Champaign residents receive high-quality services while fostering equity, engagement, and community trust. Joan has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the Mental Health Emergency Co-Responder Model, the BEAT on Market Street, the Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint, and the creation of the Equity and Engagement Department. She also led the City’s Crisis Communication Team during COVID-19 and champions programs like the Summer Youth Employment Program and the LIFT program - Leading Individuals and Families to Transformation. Through her dedication, vision, and leadership, Joan Walls continues to make Champaign a stronger, safer, and more inclusive community.
Luncheon Agenda:
11:30 am: Doors open and check-in
11:45 am: Lunch is served (catering by Blue Dragonfly)
Noon: Program starts
Luncheon Menu: TBA
***Please note dietary restrictions on your registration and we will try to accommodate by informing our chef.***
Registration Information:
The location is at the Lodgic Coworking, 1807 S Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
Registration includes lunch and is $25.00 for in-person members and $30.00 for in-person non-members.
The registration deadline for the luncheon is Monday, August 17, 2026 at Midnight.
No refunds or credits will be given. Registration can be transferred to another person. We often have a waiting list; please email us if you are unable to make it, and we will fill your seat: ExecutiveClubofChampaignCounty@gmail.com.
Non-Members: We love having non-members join our lunch! You are welcome to register on your own, with a current member, or email our Outreach Chair, Caitlyn Floyd to be a guest of the board!
