The City of Champaign announced in a press release on Aug. 5 that Champaign Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen received the 2026 Simon-Edgar Statesmanship Award, which is given to state public officials who’ve shown dedication to service and leadership, for her longstanding commitment to public service. According to the press release, Feinen began serving the Champaign community in 1991 as a member of the Champaign County Board. “I am honored to receive the Senator Paul Simon and Governor Jim Edgar Statesmanship Award,” Feinen said. This award is meaningful because it recognizes the importance of true public service and reminds us to strive to find common ground in these divisive times.” Karen Darch, former village president of Barrington, Illinois, received the latest award in 2025 before LaHood took over as distinguished director.