MEET NEXTGEN ILLINOIS LEADERSHIP!
Matt Saner, Director of NextGen Illinois Faith
Hello! I am Matt Saner, a junior at Illinois State University. I am very involved with many different organizations in Normal, and I am also very politically engaged. I am a part of NextGen Illinois because I believe there is something worth fighting for. Illinois has long been governed by bad policies, and the state can become something much greater than it is now. From the sand mines in Ottawa to the infrastructure in Chicago. Illinois can become something that this country has never had before. I have lived in Illinois my entire life, and I see myself staying here long-term.
Contact: msaner.nextgenillinois@gmail.com
Aubree Ketring, Director of NextGen Illinois Youth
Growing up in Southern Illinois, I appreciated our rural communities' values. I worked with a local cattle farmer who taught accountability, dedication, and integrity. Handling poultry and livestock requires a steady, firm approach, and I learned effective mentorship needs patience, responsibility, and persistence. Participating in FFA enhanced my leadership, love for agriculture, discipline, and teamwork. These experiences motivated me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in General Agriculture with minors in Animal Science and Agricultural Education. I also enjoy volunteering, like Toys for Tots, to give back to my community. Guided by my Christian faith, I aim to embody integrity, humility, and selflessness personally and professionally. Now pursuing a Master's in Education, I remain dedicated to inspiring and mentoring the next generation. These experiences have fueled my commitment to service and passion for nurturing honest, principled young leaders. As Director of Youth Affairs, I support students in becoming confident leaders and look forward to equipping them with the skills to serve their communities and country.
Contact: aketring.nextgenillinois@gmail.com
Adam Heimann, Board Member of NextGen Illinois
I'm Adam Heimann from rural Clinton County, Southern Illinois. A fifth-generation farmer and SIU Carbondale alumnus, I studied Agribusiness Economics. I have a passion for history and politics, starting in college as a campus leader for conservative voices, hosting speakers, and facing threats like being barricaded inside a police station and needing escorts from protesters. Despite these challenges, I feel called to restore a prosperous Illinois for future generations. As a Board Member of NextGen Illinois, I aim to build an organization worthy of faith and future. I see politicians neglecting crime and social justice, often self-serving and unhelpful. I believe in replacing self-interest with faithful service to improve Illinois. I know no one is coming to save us, so I want to be part of the change in my community and state.Â
Contact: aheimann.nextgenillinois@gmail.com
Brandon Kujawa, Board Member of NextGen Illinois
My name is Brandon Kujawa. I originate from a small rural community in Washington County, Illinois. I have devoted my entire life and education to Southern Illinois, and I aspire for the region to regain its pivotal role as the heart of the state. As a native of Southern Illinois, it is essential to recognize the history of this area, not only for Illinois but for the nation as well. By understanding our past, we can work towards rebuilding a more prosperous and promising future for all residents of Illinois.
Contact: bkujawa.nextgenillinois@gmail.com
Zachary Lochard, Founder of NextGen illinois
My name is Zachary Lochard, and I am the Founder of Next Generation Illinois, a nonprofit organization dedicated to locating, equipping, and mobilizing the next generation of leaders across our state. I founded NextGen Illinois to provide students and young adults with opportunities to grow as leaders through civic engagement, education, community service, and public policy advocacy. My mission is to help build a generation that is prepared to serve their communities with conviction, humility, and a commitment to constitutional principles. I am passionate about empowering others to lead with confidence, stand firm in their beliefs, and make a meaningful impact wherever they are called to serve. Above all, my faith in Jesus Christ guides both my personal life and my commitment to serving others with purpose and integrity. I remain dedicated to helping build a stronger Illinois by investing in the leaders who will shape its future for generations to come.