Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen recently joined municipal leaders from across Illinois in the Illinois Mayors Public Diplomacy Mission, Papal Visit and Cultural Exchange, held in Rome, Italy.
The mission, coordinated by the Illinois Municipal League (IML), brought together a small group of mayors and community leaders for a program focused on international engagement, cultural exchange, and diplomacy.
During the program, participants visited historic religious and cultural sites throughout Rome, participated in meetings with international and diplomatic leaders, and attended events in Vatican City. The delegation also attended a Private Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, an experience many described as once-in-a-lifetime.
“It was an incredible honor to represent the City of Champaign and join fellow municipal leaders from across Illinois during this mission,” said Mayor Feinen. “The experience provided meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and reflect on how local leadership can contribute to a global community.”
The mission also included discussions with Deputy Chief of Mission Laura L. Hochla of the United States Embassy to the Holy See, who provided insight into international diplomacy and global partnerships.
ABOUT THE ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
The Illinois Municipal League is the statewide association representing municipalities throughout Illinois. IML has worked continuously for the benefit of all 1,294 cities, villages and towns in Illinois to provide a formal voice on matters involving common interests. The League is managed under the general direction of Chief Executive Officer Brad Cole, former Mayor of the City of Carbondale.