Quincy, IL - May 18, 2026 - United Way of Adams County and Rotary Club of Quincy are proud to
announce Kathi Dooley as the recipient of the 2026 Joe Bonansinga Community Service Award,
honoring her decades of leadership, volunteerism, and dedication to improving the community.
For more than four decades, Dooley has devoted her life to education, the arts, and community service.
Known for her work with Quincy Public Schools, she spent more than 40 years building and leading a
music program recognized for its excellence throughout Illinois and beyond. Through her work as
Director of Music Education, Dooley shaped the lives of countless students, encouraging discipline,
creativity, confidence, and a commitment to excellence that extended far beyond the classroom.
Many of her former students have gone on to successful careers in music, theater, education, and the
arts, while others credit her influence for helping shape them into leaders within their own professions
and communities. Her passion for mentoring students, particularly those facing personal challenges
larger than themselves, became one of the hallmarks of her career. Colleagues and former students
alike describe her as someone who always saw potential in others and pushed them to become the
best version of themselves.
Dooley’s lifelong commitment to serving young people and strengthening the community through
volunteerism and civic engagement didn’t end with retirement. She has served in leadership and
volunteer roles with numerous organizations and initiatives throughout Adams County, including Arts
Quincy, the Washington Theater Commission, Trinity Church, the Quincy Public Schools Foundation, and
Quincy Together.
Most recently, Dooley played a major role in the Adams County Bicentennial Commission, serving as
both a commissioner and executive board member. Throughout the countywide celebration, she helped
organize and lead educational programs, concerts, commemorative events, historical initiatives,
volunteer coordination efforts, and large scale public celebrations honoring Adams County’s first 200
years. Her leadership, attention to detail, and ability to bring people together helped make the
bicentennial celebration a memorable success for the entire community.
Those who know Dooley often describe her as someone who works tirelessly behind the scenes, never
seeking recognition. Whether mentoring students, supporting local arts organizations, organizing
community events, or simply encouraging others, she has consistently demonstrated a deep love for
Quincy and a commitment to making the community stronger.
United Way of Adams County, in conjunction with Rotary Club of Quincy, is honored to recognize Kathi
Dooley’s extraordinary legacy and her continued commitment to enriching the lives of those around her.
Dooley will be recognized at a luncheon on May 19 at 12pm at the Holiday Inn and Suites in Quincy.