ABOUT THE CANDIDATE

With deep roots in the community and a bold vision for a better tomorrow, Dr. Nona Parker is proud to officially announce her candidacy for Illinois State Representative in District 98 for the 2026 election.

A seasoned advocate for change, educator, champion for senior citizens and proven leader, Dr. Parker is the founder and CEO of The Hope Center of Joliet, a non-profit hub for community services, youth and adult education, and community outreach. Through her tireless efforts, she has launched numerous initiatives including Excel Homeschool Academy (grades K–8), a thriving homeschool co-op that supports families seeking quality alternative education and she works closely with foster care providers and other community service agencies through collaboration and support.

Dr. Nona’s  25+ years of service as a community leader and visionary reflect her deep dedication and commitment to being a voice for others while leading to address and solve real problems. Dr. Parker is not only a successful entrepreneur and community leader, she is a seasoned professional in accounting, with 21 years’ experience in corporate accounting with an emphasis on financial reconciliation. She is a published author and holds an honorary doctorate of Divinity. 

Dr. Parker is stepping forward to be a voice for the people, bringing fresh leadership, bold reform, and a compassionate, results-driven agenda, to state legislation. As a mother and a grandmother, Dr. Parker vows to be a representative who listens, leads with integrity, and puts people over politics- which is the duty of every elected official.