Jim Reilly to Receive Motorola Foundation Excellence in Public Service Award December 9th

October 05, 2010

The Motorola Foundation and the Civic Federation are pleased to announce the 2010 Motorola Foundation Excellence in Public Service Award honoree, Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority Trustee Jim Reilly. The Excellence in Public Service Award annually recognizes a non-elected government official who has had an extraordinary impact on the quality of state and local government services in Illinois. The award will be presented on Thursday, December 9, 2010 at the Palmer House Hilton with a coffee reception beginning at 8:00 a.m., followed by breakfast and the award program at 8:30 a.m.

The Motorola Foundation Excellence in Public Service Award has for 19 years sought to honor individuals who show dedication to a vision of quality management, leadership, and innovation that leads to lasting achievements and a more effective government in Illinois.

As the Trustee of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA, also known as “McPier”), Jim Reilly was entrusted by the Governor and General Assembly with the task of saving Chicago’s multi-billion dollar convention and trade show industry by streamlining operations at McCormick Place. Mr. Reilly’s 18-month role also includes building Navy Pier as the Midwest’s premier tourist destination and maximizing the income the venue generates. Mr. Reilly has already succeeded in cutting costs and making other changes that allowed McCormick Place to retain large and important trade shows that were threatening to leave.

During a distinguished career in public service, Mr. Reilly has served as Chairman of the Regional Transportation Authority, led the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau, was Chief of Staff to two Illinois governors, and was elected Representative in the Illinois General Assembly.

Immediate past recipients of the Motorola Award include past Illinois Board of Higher Education Executive Director Judy Erwin, United States Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, past Chicago Transit Authority President Ron Huberman, and Illinois Arts Council Chairman Shirley Madigan. Other notable past recipients include Paul Vallas, formerly with the Chicago Public Schools, and Illinois Auditor General William Holland.

To join the invitation list for this event, please contact Carol Smith or Kara Forrestal at PJH & Associates at 312.553.2000.