Kathi Griffin, Schaumburg
Kathi Griffin will be in a group of about 20 educators from across the state attending the inauguration with the Illinois Education Association/National Education Association.
"I wanted to attend the inauguration for a variety of reasons. I believe that President-elect Obama exemplifies who we are as Americans," Griffin said. "His positive approach, his belief in the American people and his confidence that we can and will be able to make our country better has been inspirational.
"During his campaign he listened to many voices and found commonality among them. He energized a younger generation to become involved and is living proof that with hard work and determination you can fulfill your dreams. I'm attending to witness history and experience the beginning of positive change in our country."