Leadership Illinois

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     Retired Attorney, Lois B. Ryan, is one of the Founders of  Leadership Illinois, a Past President and Board Member.  She and the other founders of Leadership Illinois were all classmates in the inaugural national class of Leadership America in 1988.  Their experiences were so extraordinary during that year with the 95 other Leadership American women from around the country that the Illinois delegates committed themselves to bringing the program back to Illinois.

     Lois graduated from Northwestern University with her undergraduate degree in History and English and her Juris Doctor degree from Northwestern University School of Law.

     Having worked as a staff attorney in the legal departments of Shriners' Hospital for Crippled Children and Chicago Title and Trust Corporation, Lois then opened Ryan Law Office, Ltd. in Libertyville, Illinois.  In later years, also practicing in this firm were Lois's husband, Dennis P. Ryan, Sr., and their son, Dennis P. Ryan, Jr.  The areas of concentration of Ryan Law Office, Ltd, included estate planning and administration, family law, commercial and resident real estate, as well as civil litigation.

     Both Lois and her husband retired from the practice of law in June 2006, almost exactly upon the 40th anniversary of their admission to the bar.  To celebrate their retirement, the Ryan's completed a three month, Around the World trip, following the winter.

     Lois has lectured frequently throughout the years on legal topics, as well as women's rights and responsibilities.  She has received many honors and awards for her civic and professional achievements.

     A member of many organizations, Lois has always worked to propel issues related to the health, welfare, education and professional progress of women and children to the forefront of the community for attention and resolution.  Lois has traveled to Mongolia China, Myanmar India, Africa, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman South America, Central America, etc. to promote international understanding and to identify high potential women to receive educational grants in the USA for graduate study and internships.  She is currently mentoring two young women in China and Pakistan as they progress through their professional careers.

     Lois lives in Libertyville with her husband, Dennis.  Two of the Ryan's children, Julie and Jennifer, did not survive beyond five years of age.  Happily, their son, Dennis, Jr. and his wife, Kelly, and their four children live in Libertyville also.
 
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Leadership Illinois will accept applications beginning November 1st of each year. Applications must include three letters of recommendation for consideration. The class will be selected by the Nominating Committee and approved by the Leadership Illinois Board of Directors at its March meeting. New class members will be notified by telephone shortly after that meeting. Upon Board approval, new class members must register for all three sessions.

Please contact Shannon Fox, Program Director, at info@leadershipillinois.org or download the Leadership Illinois PDF application by clicking here.