Executive Director

Megan Ruiz
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Megan has worked with, taught, advocated for and befriended immigrants and refugees throughout her life and is passionate about human rights. She has both worked and volunteered for other non-profits and in the fields of human services and education for many years. She has taught English and special education to elementary through college-aged student and older adults. Megan embraces the Center’s mission and feels incredibly blessed to have the privilege of welcoming and working with immigrants and community members full-time.

Education Director

Sue Ellis
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Coming to us with a broad background teaching English to speakers of other languages, Sue’s passion for teaching English came across clearly in recommendations from those whom she has taught: “She has been really a good mentor because she is very patient, compassionate, understanding, available and punctual, among many qualities,” wrote one mentee. As education director, Sue helps pair adult immigrants studying English and citizenship with volunteer tutors. She helps the pairs continue their journey with English-language and citizenship learning materials, as well as embodies the Lantern Center’s mission of hospitality, education and advocacy for our immigrant neighbors. 

Community Outreach Director

Ann Lorenz
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Ann Lorenz joined the team in April 2024 as Community Outreach Director.  She has 23 years of nonprofit development and marketing experience, and she looks forward to building new community partnerships and furthering our mission of hospitality, education and advocacy for our immigrant neighbors.  She loves this mission that helps light up new pathways of opportunities for students served at the center.  She loves dogs, singing, road trips and the Chicago Cubs!

 

 

Business Support Coordinator

Sara Millhouse
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Sara Millhouse is honored to be the Lantern Center’s part-time business coordinator. A native of Galena, Ill., she loves working with immigrants and volunteers at the Center. In her other lives, she works as a magazine and newspaper journalist and at the Galena library and Fritz and Frites bistro.​