Director Rowell Honored with Public Policy Award

CHICAGO – Illinois Department of Employment Security Director Jay Rowell today was honored by an international organization for his efforts to improve the Illinois workforce, increase business opportunity and protect taxpayer money by fighting against waste, fraud and abuse.

The International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) honored Rowell with the Public Policy Award at its International Educational Conference in Chicago. The organization started here 100 years ago with the understanding that unemployment is a social issue that is best addressed by ensuring that a trained workforce meets the evolving needs of business.

“A ready-trained workforce that offers the dignity of an honest day’s work is the hallmark of a progressive society,” Rowell said. “This award recognizes the hard work of Gov. Quinn, IDES associates and local partners in putting people back to work while underscoring the strength and adaptability of our Illinois workforce.”

The Public Policy Award recognized Rowell’s efforts to link workers ready to work with employers ready to hire. It also recognized Trust Fund reform legislation and anti-fraud initiatives to protect the integrity of the unemployment insurance program. In the past 18 months, IDES recovered more than $85 million in fraudulent benefit payments while preventing an additional $136 million from being issued to save taxpayers $221 million.

About the Award:
The IAWP Public Policy Award recognizes an individual who performed outstanding public service in the support of workforce development programs and/or personnel. Potential nominees include state or federal elected officials, appointed federal administrators and workforce agency directors. The award affords national recognition for outstanding public service occurring during the calendar year proceeding the judging year.

About the International Association of Workforce Professionals
The International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) is a worldwide professional association available to all individuals with a common interest in workforce systems. IAWP equips members for success by providing the highest quality of education, leadership, information exchange and recognition of excellence through a network of local, regional and International chapters that prepare members for the workforce challenges of tomorrow.