* The 2025 Golden Horseshoe Award for Best Statewide Staffer goes to Amanda Elliot…

Amanda Elliott gets things done. She knows what levers to pull and who to call to optimize State resources to make the largest and most diverse Dep Gov portfolio work. If that portfolio did not work as well as it does with Amanda’s support, every other part of government and every Illinoisan would feel it IMMEDIATELY.

* The 2025 Golden Horseshoe Award for Best State Agency Director goes to Jane Flanagan at IDOL…

Throughout her tenure, she has skillfully navigated a complex and evolving landscape for workers, from modernizing child labor laws to extending protections for independent workers in the gig economy. She leads a dedicated team that consistently addresses the challenges workers face in today’s economy.

She is committed to ensuring workers have safe environments and are properly compensated under Illinois law. Simultaneously, she educates employers and enforces state laws using the Department’s resources. This is particularly challenging given the vulnerabilities of many workers, yet her understanding of the landscape enables her to effectively reach those most in need. Above all, Director Flanagan prioritizes the well-being of her employees. She ensures positions are filled, staff are trained, and addresses complex legal questions in a rapidly changing environment. She thoughtfully implements new ideas to enhance compliance and departmental efficiency, as demonstrated by pilot programs like the mediation program. This initiative allows workers and employers to resolve claims collaboratively, fostering resolutions rather than increasing caseloads and bureaucracy. It is important to note her previous experiences as the Governor’s General Deputy Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer and founder of the Workplace Rights Bureau in the Office of the Attorney General. The office has been on the front lines in fighting for worker protections and garnered national attention on labor trafficking in the restaurant industry. She has a unique and true perspective on what it means to fight for worker justice.

Director Flanagan embodies the values of the Department of Labor: justice, empathy, teamwork, knowledge, and adaptability. Illinois workers are fortunate to have her advocating on their behalf.

Congratulations!

* On to our next categories…

Best Statewide Officer

Best US Representative

Auditor General Frank Mautino and US Rep. Lauren Underwood won last year, so they are not eligible.

Make sure to explain your nominations or they won’t count, and make sure to nominate in both categories. Thanks.

* And after you nominate your faves, please click here and help us buy Christmas presents for foster kids. It’s the best thing we do all year because it truly makes a differences in the lives of hundreds of children. Thanks!