Naperville, Illinois – City officials have selected three community members to lead planning efforts for Naperville’s 2031 bicentennial celebration, marking 200 years since the city’s founding.
According to the City of Naperville, Stacey Fontecchio, Atusa Freyer, and Paul Hinterlong were chosen by a selection committee representing local organizations and city staff following a February application process. The City Council is expected to formally confirm the appointments at its meeting on Tuesday, May 5.
Officials said the trio will serve in key leadership roles guiding community events, partnerships, and fundraising efforts leading up to the milestone year. Fontecchio will serve as Fundraising and Resources Chair, Freyer as Communications and Marketing Chair, and Hinterlong as History and Heritage Chair.
Fontecchio, who works with the Naperville Park District, has experience in sponsorship development and community partnerships. Freyer, a marketing executive and founder of local wellness initiatives, brings experience in large-scale event promotion and community engagement. Hinterlong, a longtime resident and former city councilman, has decades of involvement in civic boards and prior anniversary celebrations.
City leaders say the bicentennial will highlight Naperville’s history, culture, and growth while bringing residents together through events and initiatives. The volunteer leadership team will also recruit additional community members to serve on subcommittees and support planning efforts.
Naperville, located in DuPage and Will counties in the Chicago metro area, is expected to mark the bicentennial with a series of events and programs designed to reflect its past and future.
