Rockford Sun

Gov. Bruce Rauner has taken note of Rockford native Emily Bear.

A 16-year-old who has gained fame as a pianist, composer and songwriter, Bear will be one of the 2018 Order of Lincoln award recipients, according to a recent press release.

Bear began performing as a 5-year-old at the Ravinia Festival and has since made a name for herself in performing, including at Carnegie Hall and the White House, and composing, with symphonies from around the world performing her work. Bear is also a dedicated philanthropist, using performances and events to raise millions of dollars for charity.

Gov. Bruce Rauner | Courtesy of Illinois.gov

This year's award recipients include football great Dick Butkus, internet entrepreneur Steve Shih Chen and the Reverend Michael J. Garanzini.

“This year’s Order of Lincoln recipients are an extraordinary group of individuals that truly embody President Lincoln’s relentless and passionate spirit for public service,” Rauner said in the press release. “They have positively changed their communities in numerous ways, and their contributions will impact Illinois and the world for generations to come. It is my honor to award them the Order of Lincoln.”

The 54th Annual Lincoln Academy of Illinois Convocation will take place on May 5, 2018. Over the past 54 years, 340 Illinoisans have earned the award.