Starting July 1, 2019, Illinois Computing Educators (ICE) will officially change the organization’s name to Illinois Digital Educators Alliance.

Executive Director, Amber Heffner, explains “Over the last several years, we have seen our membership grow and diversify and our role as educational technology influencers increase too. As an organization, we felt that it was time that our brand represent those changes as well.”

Illinois Computing Educators was formed in 1986 by a group of 30 educators as a statewide 503(c) non-profit organization dedicated to leadership in education through technology. Since then, the organization has grown to over 12,000+ members and reaches far beyond the role of the computer teacher. Through our professional learning opportunities and thirteen local chapters, we provide services to classroom teachers, pre-service teachers, administrators, educational IT professionals, technology coaches, and more.

We believe that this new name will create a better understanding of our identity while furthering our mission to inspire, connect and provide the educational community with opportunities that transform teaching and learning through technology. Illinois Digital Educators Alliance will also more accurately reflect our vision that connected and empowered educators inspire today’s learners to become tomorrow’s leaders.

The organization’s Governing Board has been working on the rebrand for the last 18 months and encouraged input from their membership throughout the process. The name, in fact, was suggested by one of the organization’s members and then chosen by a vote that was open to all members in late February during their annual edtech conference, #ICE19.

Incoming Executive Board President, Mike McGowan, acknowledged the importance of involving the organization’s membership in the decision-making process. “Our members are passionate about their profession and many dedicate their free time to continue learning in the ever-changing field of education and educational technology. We know that they also have a passion for our organization and what we offer. We wanted to be sure that our members were part of the process and felt an ownership to the direction that the organization is headed.”

Interested parties can learn more about Illinois Digital Educators Alliance on the company’s new website: www.ideaillinois.org. You can also follow them on social media channels including Facebook (@ideaillinois), Twitter (@ideaillinois), Instagram (@ideaillinois).

Contact:

Amber Heffner, Executive Director 
aheffner@ideaillinois.org  
630-628-1088  

Jenna Hnilo, Director of Marketing & Outreach 
jhnilo@ideaillinois.org 
708-785-2844