Charles A. Jackson, Executive Director

Charles Jackson is executive director of the Illinois Environmental Council and the Illinois Environmental Council Education Fund. Both organizations work together to ensure a more healthful environment for Illinois residents by promoting sound environmental laws and policies and providing a forum for the environmental advocacy community. Before joining IEC in March 2009, Charles was deputy director of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services where he administered the state’s residential energy efficiency and affordability programs. His earlier professional experience is in public health and health care administration. He began his government service as deputy director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. While there, he employed a broad range of strategies for disease prevention and health promotion, including social marketing, community partnerships, and systematic planning and health screening. Prior to joining state government, Jackson spent several years with the American Cancer Society. In Washington, D.C., he served as a director in the National Government Relations Office, organizing national advocacy campaigns and galvanizing support from civil rights, business and labor organizations. He also directed research and provided strategic counsel for the adoption of best practices for outreach, advocacy and collaboration.

Mary Pemberton, Administrative Director
Mary coordinates all of IEC's accounting and administrative functions. She has been with IEC since 2004. She originally joined IEC as office manager/bookkeeper before being promoted to her current role as administrative director. Prior to joining IECEF, Mary served as fiscal manager for Senior Services of Central Illinois. Mary lives in Springfield with her husband Larry. She has a son, Adam, and a daughter Haley.

Wes King, Organizer
Springfield native Wes King has a bachelor's degree in political studies from the University of Illinois at Springfield where he is completing his master's thesis in political studies. He developed a respect for nature from his parents and the Eagle Scouts and believes politics, economics and the environment can't be treated as separate spheres of study and action. He joined IEC's staff in August 2008.