Director Raven A. DeVaughn Announces NASCA 20 Under 40 Honorees

Cynthia Johnson, IOCI Deputy Director, and Jomy Jacob, Chicago - North Loop Facilities Manager for the Bureau of Property Management receive 2026 NASCA 20 Under 40 Award

Chicago - The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) and Director Raven A. DeVaughn announces Cynthia Johnson, Deputy Director of the Illinois Office of Communication (IOCI), and Jomy Jacob, Chicago - North Loop Facilities Manager for the Bureau of Property Management have been honored by The National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA). They have been selected as 2026 NASCA 20 Under 40 Award recipients.

This prestigious award honors 20 exceptional rising stars from across the United States, who are making an impact on state government. NASCA has recognized Johnson and Jacob for their dedication, leadership, and innovation.

IOCI Deputy Director Cynthia Johnson has brought her media expertise to her role while overseeing the strategy and creation of CMS branded content. She also helps with the execution of important State events like the Governor's State of the State address, news conferences and the Illinois and Du Quoin State Fairs. She brings her Emmy Award-winning storytelling to life with projects, including the inception of "Generations of Service." Johnson has also helped with visually modernizing CMS content with a new video studio in Springfield. Once filled with outdated tools, the IOCI Springfield studio can now host a variety of video projects, including interviews and Green Screen projects. She graduated Cum Laude from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelors of Arts, Communication and Journalism, and also holds a Masters of Science in Communication (MSC) with a Double Concentration in Strategic Communication and Organizational Leadership from Northwestern University.

"I am incredibly proud of the innovation, dedication, and excellence Cynthia executes every day on behalf of the State of Illinois," said Raven A. DeVaughn, Director of CMS. "With an accomplished career in media in a former life, Cynthia brings the kind of knowledge and experience seen in colleagues twice her age with a quiet yet steady strength. I am thankful NASCA for recognizing our young rockstars and proud to count Cynthia as one of Illinois' own."

Jomy Jacob now serves as the Chicago - North Loop Facilities Manager for the Bureau of Property Management, where he oversees operations at one of the State of Illinois' premier and sensitive government facilities in downtown Chicago, supporting various high-level governmental functions and agencies. throughout his career, he's progressed through technical, engineering, operational, and leadership roles within facility management, managing complex operations with a strong focus on operational excellence, sustainability, and continuous improvement - always with a focus on collaboration and positive occupant experiences. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Operations Management, and several professionally recognized credentials and certifications in facility management, sustainability, community management, and green building practices, including Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP), Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA), and LEED Green Associate.

"I am proud Jomy is receiving the recognition he deserves," said Erin O'Boyle, Chief of Staff for CMS. "He is one of the most capable and effective employees at CMS. He has been making a positive difference since beginning his journey with the State of Illinois. His knowledge and calm demeanor have benefited all who have the privilege to work with him."