Urbana, IL (Chambana Today) – In an emotional and heartfelt ceremony, the Scott M. Bennett County Administrative Building was officially dedicated on what would have been the late State Senator’s 48th birthday. The event drew a large crowd and included remarks from family, colleagues, and local leaders whose lives were touched by Bennett’s service and character.

Speakers included Bennett’s wife, former State Senator Stacy Bennett, Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz, State Senators Paul Faraci and Tom Bennett, Scott’s brother Rob Bennett, Champaign County Board Chair Mike Ingram, Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, and County Board Member Jenny Lokshin, who read the official proclamation of dedication. Champaign County Executive Steve Summers and CU Schools Foundation CEO/Executive Director Michelle Gonzales also shared remarks.

Just as Stacy Bennett began speaking, dark clouds rolled in, and a sudden thunderstorm forced the ceremony indoors. Attendees quickly pivoted to a conference room inside the building, where the event continued.

Michelle Gonzales, who chaired the 12-member planning committee for the dedication, said the group began planning the event in March. “We decided early on that it had to be on July 16—Scott’s birthday. It was the perfect way to celebrate his life and legacy,” she said. Gonzales reflected on her personal relationship with Scott Bennett, crediting him as one of the most important influences in her life. “Scott taught me how to give back to my community. He showed me what it means to be a true public servant—not just in your job, but in how you live. Volunteering, advocacy, philanthropy—it all became part of my civic duty because of him,” she said.

She shared how Scott’s open-minded approach to dialogue shaped her professional philosophy. “Scott always came into conversations with openness and humility. That’s something I try to do every day. Because of him, I’ve been able to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and understanding,” Gonzales said. She added with emotion, “I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for Scott.” Like several others, Gonzales noted that Scott would have been uncomfortable with the spotlight: “He would have hated all of this attention—and having a building named after him. But we’re doing it because he deserves it.”

State Senator Paul Faraci, who now holds the seat once filled by Bennett, spoke emotionally about carrying on his friend’s legacy. “It feels like yesterday we were laughing together,” Faraci said. “This is such an emotional day. I miss him deeply. I just hope I can carry even a fraction of Scott’s grace and humility in my work.” State Senator Tom Bennett, Scott’s uncle, offered a reminder of what mattered most to Scott: “Service, kindness, and community—those were his priorities. And that’s what today is about.”

The dedication event was followed by a reception with food provided by local favorites: Dish Passionate Cuisine, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Black Dog Smoke & Ale House.

Closing the event, Faraci offered a final tribute: “We remember Scott today and honor the life of a man who made everyone laugh.”