Michael Neil believes in the power of words and appreciates their impact. As University of Illinois Extension Marketing and Communications Coordinator, he uses compelling words and evocative imagery to tell Extension's story to the public. Additionally, as a skilled communicator, he conveys to key stakeholders how the work of Extension's dedicated staff positively impacts the lives of Cook County residents.

Michael has experience working with people from diverse professional, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds; and is genuinely interested in helping staff members clearly and effectively articulate their thoughts and ideas, express their passions, and find their voice. 

Neil joined Cook County Extension in 2014 and has served as program coordinator supporting STEM, 4-H Youth Development, and Social and Emotional Learning teams. During that time, Michael co-created a mentoring program for pre-teen males and created an introduction to science series for elementary school youth.

Neil has demonstrated success working individually and as a member of a group. His marketing efforts increased the number of activities and programs delivered for all of the teams he has served. And as a part of the 4-H Youth Development team, Michael received a team award for increasing traditional 4-H club membership.

Neil currently serves on the following Extension committees: Extension Strategic Planning, Council on Governmental and External Relations, Better Together Planning, Cook County Volunteer Management, and is the Vice-char of Communications and Information Technology.   

In addition to his time at Extension, Michael has worked as a grant writer, program coordinator, and workforce development instructor in the nonprofit sector. 

Neil has a Bachelor of Science degree in management with an English minor from the University of Illinois Chicago.