The Downtown Springfield, Inc. (DSI) board of directors has appointed Jay Shanle as the nonprofit’s new executive director.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the DSI board and our community have placed in me, and I’m honored to step into the role of executive director,” said Shanle. “Downtown Springfield has shaped so much of my personal and professional life, and I’m energized by the opportunity to move this work forward. I couldn’t be more excited to continue collaborating with the people and partners who believe in the heart of our city.”
The announcement was made at DSI’s annual fundraising dinner – the Get Your Kicks Gala at the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield hotel – on Mar. 26. Shanle, who had been serving as interim executive director, was selected after a search process led by Always On Consulting. He officially begins the new role on April 6.
“Jay’s passion for downtown is palpable, and we are enthusiastic to have found a new executive director who is ready to hit the ground running,” said David Lee, DSI board president. “We look forward to the leadership and passion that Jay has showcased – from his time on staff to years on the board, as well as his handling during the interim term. Jay is uniquely qualified for this role, and I couldn’t be more excited for him to lead our organization.”
Prior to his promotion, Shanle served as the DSI Director of Communications, as well as Program Director for the Springfield Area Arts Council. He assisted with DSI’s transition from a 501(c)(6) to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and has been part of the grassroots community campaign, “My Heart’s Downtown.” Shanle also serves as co-chair of the Downtown Alliance, a group working to implement the Downtown Springfield and Mid-Illinois Medical District Master Plan.
“Downtown is, and always has been, an ever‑changing environment, and DSI will continue to adapt as those changes unfold,” said Shanle. “There is no single solution that will address all of downtown; the work is ongoing, and that’s what makes it both challenging and exciting.”
DSI also presented awards to several individuals and businesses during the gala.
- Amy Deweese Peterson, Downtown Advocate of the Year
- Vondra Social House, Best New Business
- Floyd’s Thirst Parlor, Cornerstone Award
- Cainan Barnett, Volunteer of the Year
Karen Conn of Conn’s Hospitality Group received the Wally Henderson Lifetime Achievement Award for her extraordinary leadership in historic preservation, downtown revitalization and community-driven hospitality in Springfield.
“As CEO and co-owner of Conn’s Hospitality Group, she has spent decades revitalizing historic structures and transforming them into vibrant community assets — an effort that directly aligns with the legacy of architect Wally Henderson, whose work shaped Springfield’s built environment,” DSI said.