Remembering Cynthia Clampitt
Writer, author, and food historian Cynthia Clampitt leaves behind a lasting legacy of curiosity, generosity, and lifelong learning. It is with deep sadness that we share news of her passing on September 14th, 2026.
Features
Diego Villegas
November 5, 2026
Since joining the Road Scholars Speakers Bureau in 2014, Cynthia brought her engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of food, culture, and history to audiences throughout Illinois.
A longtime Road Scholar speaker, Cynthia connected people through stories of food, place, and heritage. Whether speaking about corn, travel, or the Midwest's rich culinary traditions, she had a gift for revealing the connections between everyday experiences and larger historical narratives.
Cynthia Clampitt presenting at the White Oak Library.
Cynthia Clampitt doing a Road Scholars presentation at the Stockton Heritage Museum.
Her enthusiasm extended far beyond the presenter room. Cynthia loved exploring Illinois and embraced every opportunity to learn more about the places she visited, often sharing stories of local landmarks, scenic routes, and unexpected discoveries. Following her final Road Scholars presentation, she reflected on the beauty of her journey home:
“The abundant greenery on all hands, both farms and forests, reminded me of the happy truth that the Midwest is one of the planet's top oxygen-producing regions. So it's not just beautiful, it's keeping us alive.”
Anyone who attended one of Cynthia's programs knows she offered more than expertise. With warmth, wit, and an infectious love of learning, she made history accessible, engaging, and relevant. Hosts consistently praised her thoughtful preparation, welcoming presence, and willingness to engage with every question. Many invited her back again and again, a testament to the impact she made.
“Cynthia embodied the very best of our state's cultural landscape and what programs like the Road Scholars Speakers Bureau makes possible,” said Dr. Gabrielle H. Lyon, Executive Director and CEO of Illinois Humanities. “She brought extraordinary knowledge to every room, but what set her apart was her genuine appreciation for the people and places she encountered. Her work and enthusiasm for Illinois, its history, and its communities was evident everywhere she went and we will miss her greatly.”
Cynthia Clampitt sharing at the Kewanee Public Library.
Cynthia Clampitt presenting to an audience at the Kane County Forest Preserve.
Through her presentations and writing, Cynthia encouraged people to look more closely at the stories woven into everyday life. Her contributions to the Road Scholars program and her enduring impact on audiences across the state will be remembered for years to come.
To read Cynthia’s latest article, and learn about her impact across the state, we encourage you to visit the links below:
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