IL SR0430

Illinois Senate resolution mourning the death of Beauty R. Kirk, who passed away on August 29, 2025, at age 72 (born February 6, 1953)

Kirk earned multiple degrees including an Associate's from Harper College, Bachelor's from DeVry University, Master's in Public Administration and Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School, and an Education Specialist degree from Northcentral University

Served Lake County youth through Employee Connections, starting as a contractor in 2015 providing GED and case management services for the Community Youth Employment Program (CYEP) under the Illinois Department of Human Services, becoming permanent staff in 2021

Established Employee Connections' GED Academy in 2022, helping numerous individuals earn their GEDs and pursue higher education and careers

Received an honorary doctorate on July 21, 2025 for community service; survived by four children: Ramon Boatwright, David Jones, A'lea Nelson, and Royalty Nelson