Keenan Irish

Keenan Irish serves as the Vice President of Government Relations and Member Engagement for the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association (IHLA). Since joining IHLA, Keenan has been instrumental in securing several significant legislative victories that have strengthened Illinois’ hospitality industry. Under his leadership, IHLA successfully obtained a $75 million American Rescue Plan Act grant from the state to provide critical COVID-19 relief to hotels. He also played a pivotal role in aligning Illinois’ travel per diem rates for lodging and meals with the federal rates set by the General Services Administration, and in leveling the competitive playing field between hotels and online travel agencies.

Prior to joining IHLA, Keenan spent over five years as an aide to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus under Senate Presidents John Cullerton and Don Harmon, where he gained extensive experience in policy analysis, budget planning, and strategic communications.

A proud Peoria native, Keenan is a graduate of Bradley University. He now resides in Springfield with his fiancé Maggie and their two pets.