How are Laureates selected?

Nominations of outstanding Illinoisans, whether by birth or by residence, are called for and received by the Executive Director from the Officers, Regents for Life, Regents, General Trustees and Rectors from the categories of endeavor from which the Academy selects its Laureates. There are presently ten categories: Agriculture, The Arts and Performing Arts, Business, Industry and Communications, Education, Government and Law, Labor, Medicine and Science, Religion, Social Services and Sports. Unsolicited nominations may be made by any Academic Trustee or past Laureate.