Chase is a graduate from SIU College of Engineering and SIU Law School. He currently works as a patent examiner at the United States Patent and Trademark Office where his background of law and engineering synthesize to aid him in analyzing and processing patent applications in the autonomous vehicle space. When not examining patents, Chase works on renovation projects and community outreach giving him additional skills that will be beneficial to the restoration of the Heart Theatre. 

While he was only able to view a single showing at the Heart Theatre before it closed, his love for film, renovation, and Effingham’s downtown fuels his excitement to bring the Heart Theatre back for future generations to enjoy. He looks forward to utilizing his understanding of law, engineering, and construction to reestablish The Heart as a gem of the city.

Recently retired as an outreach librarian and returned to her hometown after 40 years, Laura's connection to the Heart Theatre goes back to the 1970’s where she found her first job.  When she’s not advocating for the restoration of the Heart Theatre to ensure it remains a cultural hub for all, you will find her performing storytimes and puppet shows, coordinating book sales at the Effingham Library, volunteering in her parish ministries or creating keepsake quilts.

Monique is a founding member of Three Chicks & a Stage Theatre Company, directing and/or producing each  of their shows in multiple venues. She has taught theatre in community camps, schools, churches, libraries and various community organizations, with a focus on charitable works and inclusive access for all. 

Larry Johnson is a CPA and Tax Manager at Sikich based in Springfield, IL. He also is a lover of history and executive director for the Illinois National Guard and Militia Historical Society. Professionally and personally he has expertise in fundraising, charitable gift planning, donor relations and board training.

Digital Marketer. Passionate about spaghetti, traveling, and connecting brands with their audiences. 

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Marlyn is also a graduate of EIU, a marketing, finance and business specialist who has also volunteered as a speech and drama coach for Charleston High School. 

A lifelong resident of Effingham, Carrie has been very involved in our community in many ways by serving on several local boards: HSHS St. Anthony Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, Effingham City Zoning Board of Appeals, Effingham Blessings In A Backpack, and the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce. She has worked at Tuscan Hills Winery for seven years refining her skills in customer service, office/staff/kitchen management, social media and website marketing, as well as supervising hundreds of

events over the years.

Sara is an HR professional with 10 years of experience. She also has served as a board member for the Effingham CORE Academy and the Fine Arts County of Effingham (FACE.) She looks forward to the area offering even more fun, creative and artistic opportunities for people of all ages.

Kenny's passion for the big screen is backed by more than 25 years of movie theater experience and a certification as an NEC digital projection technician. Coupled with 30 years in the IT sector, his skills will be invaluable in building a thriving and technologically sound community theatre for all to enjoy.  

Amy was born in Effingham and purchased The Heart Theatre in 2022 and donated the property in 2024 to the nonprofit. A resident of Florida now, she is a retired nonprofit professional with 30+ years experience, predominantly working with individuals with disabilities and their families.

Brett is an IT professional with 17 years' experience and is employed by Heartland Dental. He has also served on the board of the Effingham Child Development Center and EHS Band Boosters. Brett looks forward to bringing more artistic opportunities to the community and revitalizing The Heart.

Nicole has been an educator with ECSD Unit #40 for over 30 years, serving as a kindergarten teacher, interventionist, and physical education teacher at the Early Learning Center. She has the rare distinction of participating in a photo shoot on top of the Heart marquee for the Effingham Daily News. She fondly recalls attending movies at The Heart Theatre over the years; she looks forward to the day when families can once again attend events at The Heart.