Our Mission is to invest in an equitable and empowered future for Champaign Urbana by strengthening the community’s commitment to our public schools, teachers, and students.

 

Advocates, Allies & Ambassadors for Champaign Unit 4 & Urbana USD 116 schools.

2026 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS HONOREE
Jonathan Butler- DuPlessis – Central HS Class of 2004

Jonathan Butler-Duplessis, a 2004 graduate of Champaign Central High School, has built an extraordinary career as an acclaimed actor, singer, and performing artist. After attending Parkland College and earning his BFA in Acting from the University of Illinois, Jonathan quickly became a standout talent in Chicago’s musical theatre community, earning the esteemed Joseph Jeff Award in 2017 for his versatility as a “triple threat.”

Known for his professionalism, generosity, and deep empathy, Jonathan has performed with leading regional theaters across the country, including Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Actors Theatre of Louisville, and more. His television credits include appearances on Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Empire. He also lends his voice to the animated series Jade Armor and the Webby-nominated children’s podcast The Plate Show to name a few.

Jonathan’s career reached new heights when he joined the Broadway cast of Hamilton, performing in the ensemble and understudying the roles of Aaron Burr and George Washington. Despite national success, he remains deeply connected to his Champaign roots, returning to speak with students, support the arts community, and celebrate the educators who shaped his journey.
Any guesses as to who is being honored this year? 
Stay tuned - and get your tickets to join us on April 10th at the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center for the Annual Distinguished Alumni Reception.
Central HS teacher Jill Cappa received a book grant to encourage her students to participate in the Illinois Read for a Lifetime Program, sponsored by the Illinois State Library and the Secretary of State, which invites students to dive into a rich mix of classic and contemporary reads.

Each year, a committee curates 25 must-read titles across genres (fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels). Students who read at least four books from the list earn a Certificate of Achievement signed by the Secretary of State and State Librarian. This year's list includes 
• Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
• The Reappearance of Rachel Price by Holly Jackson
• James by Percival Everett
Share your NAAPID pictures in the comments below so we can share in the fun of this special day celebrated in both @urbana116 & @@unit4schools
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CU Schools Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization designed to enhance the quality of education in Champaign-Urbana through community support of the public schools. The Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization; our EIN # is 37-1273798