The first person most people think of from Peoria is our famous son, Richard Pryor. Granted, Richard rose from the lowest of means to become perhaps one of the most influential comedians in the last 50 years. In the spirit of expanding the world’s view of Peoria, allow me to educate you on some of the other famous sons and daughters from Peoria.

Susan G. Koman

Although her life was shortened by breast cancer, perhaps our most famous Peorian is Susan G. Koman. Koman’s sister, Nancy Goodman Brinker, founded the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation in 1982 as a promise between two sisters. More than 20 years later, the Komen Foundation is a global leader in the fight against breast cancer through its support of innovative research and community-based outreach programs. Working through a network of U.S. and international Affiliates and events like the Komen Race for the Cure®, the Komen Foundation is fighting to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by funding research grants and supporting education, screening and treatment projects in communities around the world. Continue reading People Of Peoria →