Heart of Illinois United Way Honors Decades of Quiet Leadership and Community Impact
PEORIA, IL — Heart of Illinois United Way is proud to announce Nathan Thomas as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Hoot Gibson Award, recognizing his decades of dedicated service and lasting impact on the central Illinois community.
Since 1985, this award has honored volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve the lives of others—often without recognition or fanfare. Named in memory of Horace J. “Hoot” Gibson, Jr., the award celebrates individuals who pursue their goals with quiet determination and a deep commitment to service.
Nathan Thomas exemplifies that spirit through both his professional career and extensive volunteer leadership. For more than two decades, he has been a steadfast supporter of Heart of Illinois United Way’s mission, helping ensure critical resources reach local programs that strengthen education, financial stability, and health.
Thomas joined the United Way Campaign Cabinet in 2002 and has played a key role in advancing fundraising efforts year after year. As the founding chair of GENeration United, he helped build a pipeline of young professionals committed to giving back—growing the initiative into a successful program that expanded both awareness and support for United Way’s work. His leadership also extended to the organization’s Board of Directors, where he helped guide strategy and deepen community impact.
In addition to his fundraising and governance contributions, Thomas has served as an allocation volunteer, helping review and direct funding to local nonprofit partners. His thoughtful approach has helped ensure that community investments are made where they can have the greatest impact.
Professionally, Thomas has served Bradley University since 2000 and currently holds the role of Vice President for Student Affairs. In this position, he and his team support all aspects of student life outside the classroom—helping students grow, connect, and thrive.
Under his leadership, Bradley became Heart of Illinois United Way’s first campus partner in community-based volunteering, connecting thousands of students each year with local nonprofit opportunities and helping establish a strong foundation for volunteer engagement in the region.
His commitment to service extends well beyond United Way. Thomas has been recognized with honors, including the Francis C. Mergen Award for Public Service and as a 40 Under 40 leader, and he has contributed his time and expertise to numerous boards and community organizations.
Across every role—professional and volunteer—Nathan Thomas has demonstrated a consistent dedication to helping others succeed.
Heart of Illinois United Way is honored to recognize Nathan Thomas as the 2026 Hoot Gibson Award recipient and celebrate his enduring impact on our community.
Read more about Nathan, visit:
https://www.bradley.edu/faculty-staff/nathan-thomas/.
For a complete list of previous Hoot Gibson Honorees, visit:
https://www.hoiunitedway.org/engage/hoot-gibson-award/
