New Massey Commission Co-chairs Announced
Co-chairs Take More Time to Announce Commissioners and First Meeting Date
Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter and State Senator Doris Turner today announced two new co-chairs that will lead the Massey Commission with current co-chair Dr. Jerry Kruse, Dean and Provost of SIU School of Medicine and CEO of SIU Medicine.
“We are pleased to announce that JoAnn Johnson and Shadia Massey, cousin of Sonya Massey, have agreed to serve with Dr. Kruse as the new co-chairs of the commission,” said Andy Van Meter.
“This change in leadership comes after a successful September 16th listening session in which more than twenty county residents spoke out about their hopes and concerns for the commission,” said Senator Doris Turner. “As we have been from the beginning, we will continue to be responsive to community voices in this process.”
During the listening session, participants previewed the Massey Commission co-chairs’ draft mission, values and areas of focus. Participants then spoke up about the commission’s leadership, member selection, scope and authority.
“The co-chairs have been committed to listening and learning first, even while others are pushing for immediate action,” said Pastor T. Ray McJunkins, who will end his time as a co-chair. “One of the things we have consistently heard is that it is important to have the Massey family represented in the leadership of the commission. “My transition makes a way for that.”
Nina Harris, previously selected as a co-chair, has completed her commitment and her time with the commission will end as new leaders join. “My intention was always to volunteer and be present for the construction phase of the commission,” said Nina Harris. “I’m proud of our work so far, and I’m grateful to Shadia and JoAnn for answering the call to lead.”
New co-chairs will need some time to transition into the leadership position, review the commission structure and member selection. In light of this, the co-chairs will delay the announcement of additional commissioner names and the previously scheduled September 30 hearing.
“In the last few weeks I’ve heard the stories and personal experiences of many who want to assure that the commission is built to truly listen to the citizens of Sangamon County,” said Dr. Kruse. “This work is urgent, but as I heard at the listening session, the hard work of reform, cultural change and anti-racism can be seemingly slow. We will move forward in a way that is responsive to the community.”
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The Massey Commission was announced on August 16, 2024, by Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter and State Senator Doris Turner. It is a citizens' commission established in response to the tragic killing of Sonya Massey by a former Sangamon County deputy in July 2024. This Commission is a direct response to many thoughtful comments from members of the community voiced after the tragic death of Sonya Massey. The commission is committed to leading a process for the community to listen, learn and act.
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