IL HR0987

Congratulates David Joens on his retirement after 20 years as Director of the Illinois State Archives and 35 years in state government and public service.

Acknowledges Joens' modernization of the Illinois State Archives, including digitizing records, expanding capacity by one-third, creating an online finding aids system, and establishing an intern program.

Recognizes Joens' role in securing more than $1 million in grant funding and establishing a 14-year-old re-grant program that funds archival projects at small Illinois historical institutions.

Notes Joens' service on numerous state boards and commissions, including the State Records Commission, Illinois State Flag Commission, and his two terms on the National Council of State Archivists board.

Highlights Joens' scholarly contributions to Illinois history through journal articles, books including "From Slave to State Legislator, John W. E. Thomas, Illinois' First African American Lawmaker," and active membership in history organizations.