IL HR1559

Illinois House of Representatives mourns the death of Leonard E. Hawthorne of Alton, who passed away on December 21, 2016.

Hawthorne had a 32-year career as an educator in Alton Community Unit School District 11, serving as teacher, assistant principal, and principal, and retired in 2003.

Developed and taught a financial literacy course at Alton High School and received the "Those Who Excel Meritorious Service Award" twice from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Was active in professional organizations including the National Education Association, National Business Education Association, and Illinois Principals Association, and served on boards for 100 Black Men of Alton, United Way of Southwest Illinois, and Madison County Urban League.

Served over 40 years as Trustee Board Secretary and Finance Committee Chairman at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church and was a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the NAACP.