WHO:
- U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13^th)
- Family of Mary Lou Cowlishaw, former Illinois representative, journalist, and educator
- Diane Nilan, President of Hear Us Inc., a non-profit homeless advocacy organization 
- George Pradel, Naperville Mayor
- Harold Wilde, North Central College President

WHAT:
NorthCentral Collegeand Hear Us, a non-profit homeless children’s advocacy organization, will host an event honoring the life and legacy of former State Representative Mary Lou Cowlishaw, who passed away on June 28 at the age of 78 and was a life-long advocate for homeless youth.  Biggert will offer brief remarks to highlight her work with Cowlishaw on legislation improving the education of homeless children.  The event also will feature a screening of the 60-minute documentary “On the Edge,” which portrays the challenges faced by homeless families, and was produced by Hear Us President Diane Nilan.

WHEN:
6:00 p.m. Central Time, Friday, October 29

WHERE:
NorthCentral College Fine Arts CenterMadden Theatre
171 East Chicago Avenue
Naperville, IL

WHY:
Community members will honor the legacy of Mary Lou Cowlishaw, including her work as an educator, journalist, state representative and advocate for homeless children.  The program will include speeches by members of the Cowlishaw family, Hear Us Inc’s Diane Nilan, NCC President Harold Wilde, Naperville Mayor George Pradel, and Biggert.

Biggert will offer remarks highlighting her long-time friendship with Cowlishaw and their work together advancing state and federal legislation aimed at protecting the access of homeless children to an education.  The reception will be held on October 29, which the City of Naperville has proclaimed “Mary Lou Cowlishaw, Mother of Homeless Children’s Education Act Day” in honor of legislation she secured in 1994.  The event will also will commemorate the fifth anniversary of the founding of Hear Us! 

“This is a fitting tribute to the immense impact Mary Lou made in the lives of countless homeless children, and a continuation of her important work increasing awareness of homelessness.  Her 20-year service in the state legislature was filled with many victories as she advocated passionately for school children and fought hard for the priorities of her district.  Mary Lou Cowlishaw was a legendary public servant and a dear, dear friend.”

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