NASCA Press Release: Cynthia Johnson Announced as 2026 20 Under 40 Award Winner
For Immediate Release
May 14, 2026
Contact: Elizabeth Whitehouse, Executive Director, executivedirector@nasca.org
NASCA Press Release: Cynthia Johnson Announced as 2026 20 Under 40 Award Winner
Springfield, IL — The National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA) is proud to announce Cynthia Johnson—Deputy Director of the Illinois Office of Communication and Information (IOCI) within the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS)—as a 2026 NASCA 20 Under 40 Award recipient.
The NASCA 20 Under 40 Award recognizes 20 exceptional young leaders from across the country who are making significant contributions to state government. Our 2026 honorees represent the very best of public service – exemplifying innovation, collaboration, and a dedication to improving the lives of those they serve every single day.
As Deputy Director of IOCI, Johnson has expanded both the capacity and quality of the agency’s communications, ensuring that information shared with the people of Illinois is timely, accurate, and meaningful. Setting high standards for the agency’s social media creators, graphic designers, photographers, and videographers, Johnson ensures that messaging meets people where they are. Johnson also plays a central role in planning and executing live coverage for key state events, including the Governor’s State of the State Address, statewide news conferences, and the Illinois and Du Quoin State Fairs.
One of Johnson’s most transformative achievements has been modernizing the Illinois Office of Communication and Information’s video studio, bringing it from outdated 1990s equipment into a fully capable 21st century production environment. This upgrade has enabled state agencies to share more polished, compelling stories with Illinois residents. She continuously advocates for the tools and technology her multimedia team needs to succeed.
Upon nominating Johnson, CMS Director Raven A. DeVaughn commended Johnson’s leadership style and lasting impact on public communication.
“Cynthia’s leadership style is thoughtful, practical, and data driven. She approaches challenges with curiosity, listens actively, and makes decisions grounded in facts and common sense. Her calm mentorship encourages creativity and excellence among her staff, fostering an environment where people can grow and contribute meaningfully.”
DeVaughn continued, “Cynthia Johnson is an invaluable asset to the State of Illinois. Her influence will continue shaping public communication for years to come, and she is highly deserving of recognition, including the 20 Under 40 Award.”
Johnson’s commitment to accessible communications and thoughtful leadership uphold the values recognized by the NASCA 20 Under 40 Award. NASCA celebrates her selection as a 20 Under 40 recipient, and we look forward to her continued work advancing excellence in state government operations.
Founded in 1976, NASCA is the nation’s only nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving chief administrative officers or CAOs. NASCA provides a forum for state chief administrative officers to exchange information and learn new ideas from each other and private sector partners. NASCA engages states in transforming government operations through shared knowledge, operational excellence, and thought leadership.
For more information on NASCA, please visit NASCA.org.
