Fellowship, Philanthropy, and Fun
Medinah Shriners Leadership
The strength of Medinah Shrine lies in its leadership and the fellowship of its members. As part of an international fraternity known for philanthropy and care for children, we thrive through the dedication of nobles who serve in official roles, support our hospitals, and uphold the traditions of the mystic shrine. From our temple in Addison, Illinois, to chapters across North America, our leaders guide efforts that bring relief, joy, and community to those we serve.
2025 Divan
The 2025 Divan represents the heart of Medinah Shrine’s leadership, guiding our fraternity into a new year of service, fellowship, and support for children’s hospitals. These nobles, elected by their peers, embody the best of our order—men who have become masters of both tradition and innovation. Their work ensures that our temple remains a place where members, new and established, can join together in the spirit of philanthropy and fun.
As the official body responsible for the direction of Medinah Shrine, the Divan oversees our many units, committees, and clubs, helping to provide relief and care to children in need. Their leadership is rooted in the values of the ancient Arabic order, yet always looking forward, ensuring that our organization remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all who wish to become part of this great fraternity. Through their efforts, Medinah continues to be a beacon of fellowship, charity, and community throughout Illinois and beyond.
Potentate
Rupert C. Solis
(Lady Trish)
Chief Rabban
Brandon Zears
(Lady Annie)
Assistant Rabban
Dale Costello
(Lady Amber)
High Priest & Prophet
Drew Keppy
(Lady Letty)
Oriental Guide
Anthony Bianchi, Sr.
(Lady Jean)
Treasurer
Eric W. Keating
(Lady Jodie)
Recorder
William R. Sassaman
(Lady Michelle)
Captain of the Guard
Erick Coners
(Lady Lisa)
Director of Ceremonials
Lance J. Welter
1st Ceremonial Master
Terry Hartl
2nd Ceremonial Master
Jackson Sanderson
Marshal
Rich Kalivoda
Outer Guard
John Wojciechowski
Chief Potentate Aide
Chuck Wetherington
(Lady Linda)
2025 Potentate’s Aides
Potentate’s Aides
David Cox
(Lady Belinda)
Potentate’s Aides
Jim Guerin
(Lady Lois)
Potentate’s Aides
Eric Haish
(Lady Carrie)
Potentate’s Aides
Moe Jacobs
(Lady Laura)
Potentate’s Aides
Adam Jakupi
Living Past Potentates of Medinah Shrine
1990
Robert E. Peterson
1994
William H. Bock
Pat
1995
R. Steve Sandeman
Susan
1998
Roger A. Kuipers
Eloise
1999
Clifford C. Chapman
Audrey
2000
Robert O. Kuehn
Natalie
2001
Stewart B. Smith
Judy
2002
Melvin A. Hankins
2006
Robert A. Alley
Janet
2008
Kenny Frank
Arlene
2009
Ronald R. Stephan
Carol
2010
Jerry L. Wilson
Pat Biedar
2011
Paul D. Barber
Peggy
2012
Steven A. Schenk
2013
Donald R. Marquardt
Sherrill
2014
Frederick J. Martin
Jeannie
2016
Craig C. Stimpert
2017
Lance M. Evans
Debbie
2018 & 2019
William M. Kissane
Debbie Jo
2020
Keith M. Koopman
2021
George E. Stimac
2022
K. Tracy Burcham
Nui
2023
Joseph J. Alfirevic
Susan
2024
Frank J. Palella
Cindi
Living Past Potentates
Our Living Past Potentates are a special group of nobles who have served as the highest officers of Medinah Shrine. These men, once the “Great I Am” of our temple, have guided our fraternity through years of change, growth, and service. Their experience and wisdom are invaluable assets to our organization, and their continued involvement helps ensure that the lights of Medinah, and the work of our hospitals for children, shine ever brighter.
United as the Cabiri, these past leaders remain active in supporting the temple, offering guidance to the current Divan and serving as mentors to new members. Their history is woven into the fabric of our fraternity, and their commitment to the mystic shrine and its mission of care for children and fellowship among men is a testament to the enduring strength of our order. Through their ongoing service, they help Medinah remain a place where tradition and innovation meet for the benefit of all.
The Black Camel
The Black Camel is a solemn symbol within the mystic shrine, representing the passage of our nobles from this life to the next. Each year, Medinah Shrine honors those members who have been visited by the Black Camel, remembering their contributions to our fraternity, our hospitals for children, and the communities we serve. Their legacy lives on in the fellowship, love, and relief they brought to others.
As we reflect on the lives of these departed nobles, we are reminded of the bonds that unite us as members of this ancient and honorable order. The loss of a brother is felt deeply throughout our temple and the wider fraternity, but their memory inspires us to continue our work—helping children, supporting our hospitals, and strengthening the ties of fellowship that make Medinah Shrine a special place. Through remembrance, we honor their lives and reaffirm our commitment to the values that define our organization.
Medinah Shrine Nobles Visited By The Black Camel
William G. Finke
Kenneth D. Sinton
Joel H. Aarons
Robert A. Cotner
Craig Short
Gordon C. Miller
James R. Corn
Henry C. Taylor
Gordon Nystrom
Solomon Bramlett, III
John R. Sacino
Lester M. Edelson
Kenneth W. Cargle
Thomas Hastings
Ken Rooney
Anthony T. Salerno, Sr.
Robert A. Sauter
Albert S. Johnson
Lawrence H. Hansler
Harold P. Elwardt
Edward J. Hefferin
Terry A. Luetgert
Leslie A. Morris
Kenneth M. Kozak
Roland R. Lada
Charles F. Werner
James A. Sim
Robert F. Mance
Darrell D. Matthews
Don Helmig
David R. Newhouse
James A. Roudabaugh
Gary W. Kuehnel
Kenneth R. Miller
Kevin A. Skogsberg
Richard E. Bruett
