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Thursday, Sep 28, 2023 - Posted by Rich Miller

* Henry Haupt called me earlier this month and, for some reason, as soon as I saw his name on my phone I figured he was gonna tell me he was retiring. Sure enough, the longtime Illinois Secretary of State spokesperson was planning to leave. He’s going to take it easy for a bit and then check out some other opportunities.

I have known Henry forever. He started out at the SoS as an administrative assistant way back in 1992. He became a deputy press secretary in 2007 and then moved up to press secretary in 2019. The man has an incredible amount of institutional knowledge and is extremely accessible. He’s also one of the nicest people around and has always made it abundantly clear that he’s always available to talk, day or night. As just one example, I texted him recently at 9:30 at night about something. It wasn’t really an urgent matter, but he responded, saying his dad was in the hospital and he’d forward my question to a colleague. I was horrified that I’d interrupted him at such a difficult time and apologized, but he waved it off. I got the info I was looking for.

* Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias called today and asked if I’d put something on the blog about Henry. I asked him to send me something, but I told him I didn’t want a canned statement. I wanted it to be as sincere as what he had just told me on the phone. He said he’d write it himself and here it is…

Henry is not just one of the finest public servants I know, but also one of the finest people. He is flawlessly kind & considerate and is a tirelessly hard worker. I call him at 11 & 12 o’clock at night and he always answers; I call him on Saturdays & Sundays and he always answers (and he’s usually in the office when I call!). He is enthusiastic, truly loves the work and has been incredibly valuable to me not just as a colleague & advisor, but also as a dear friend. I’m gonna miss Henry a lot and the state will miss his dedication, deep knowledge and service. Thank you for everything you’ve done for Illinois, Henry - sorry if I drove you nuts!

16 Comments

- Regular democrat - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:05 pm:
That certainly wasnt canned. Very nice sentiments sounds like someone who really understands the idea of public servant. Best of luck to him.

- H-W - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:14 pm:
Though I do not know you, thank you for your service to our communities and out State, Mr. Haupt. May your example lead those who follow.

- Hannibal Lecter - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:15 pm:
Henry is exactly the type of person we need working in government. Here’s a tip of the hat to Henry - you have earned your retirement.

- transplant - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:18 pm:
Awww! I’ll miss Henry. He’s always been a super person to work with. Godspeed, Henry!

- don the legend - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:21 pm:
I cast my early vote for the Golden Horseshoe for Henry.

- Cool Papa Bell - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:26 pm:
I’ve crossed paths with Henry more than a few times and he’s at a level all his own as a PIO; avaible, friendly, willing to be a resource and a bit of a teacher too.

Too bad for the SOS he’s moving on.

But super awesome for Henry and the opportunities ahead.

- Jak Tichenor - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:29 pm:
I’ve worked with Henry for years scheduling broadcast television events at the Statehouse for the PBS Illinois Lawmakers series and for the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. He is a consummate professional and just a great guy to work with on so many levels. So detail-oriented and quick to accurately answer your questions and concerns…absolutely flawless in executing complicated planning issues with his staff…and always with a smile. Congratulations, Henry for a job so well-done and good luck on the next chapter of your life! Kindest regards, Jak

- Columbo - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:37 pm:
Henry is one of the all-time best in my book. I met him in his first job, and his personality, work ethic and just all-around goodness as a human being hasn’t changed in his subsequent career advancements. We did our best to corrupt him, it just wouldn’t take.

Sincere best wishes to you Henry, DT

- OneMan - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:38 pm:
Suffice it to say that OneMan has a bias toward well-regarded Henrys.

Good luck, Sir.

- former reporter - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 12:40 pm:
Henry was the model of a PIO when I was a reporter in Peoria. Always available. Always accurate. As I transitioned eventually into government, I’ve tried to use him as a model. Congrats on your next step, Henry, and thanks for your dedicated service.

- Steve Rogers - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 1:01 pm:
Henry really is a great guy. Enjoy your retirement. It is well deserved.

- Mark Denzler - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 1:56 pm:
Henry is all class and truly one of the nicest people around. More importantly, he throws a wicked curveball and heater and is a force to be reckoned with in backyard wiffleball!

Congrats and best wishes to you & Beth!!!

- Steve Brown - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 2:29 pm:
Henry is certainly top notch. Always helpful and an expert on all the varied operations at SOS. He will be missed and hard to replace. Golden HS in order

- WLDS News - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 4:06 pm:
Henry was always great to work with, and we always appreciated his willingness to pick up the phone and answer questions. Best wishes to him and his family as he retires.

- Motambe - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 8:54 pm:
Nice salute from SoS G.

- Oswego Willy - Thursday, Sep 28, 23 @ 9:03 pm:
After reading so much admiration and respect, I wish I had the pleasure of having the connection others have.

My sincere best wishes in retirement, your legacy is the hard work and reputation you leave, and the mark of your good work and character too.

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