Sam Kuhnert of NubAbility Athletics Named Grand Marshal of the Du Quoin State Fair

DU QUOIN, IL -- Governor JB Pritzker announced Sam Kuhnert, founder and executive director of NubAbility, as Grand Marshal of the 2026 Du Quoin State Fair. A lifelong advocate for those with limb differences and a champion of children, Sam embodies the spirit of this year's theme of "Miles of Smiles."

Sam was born with one hand, but he has never allowed that to define him or limit his potential. A three-letter athlete in high school and a college baseball pitcher, Sam discovered at age 17 that his greatest calling was not competing himself but helping other children discover what they could accomplish.

That vision became NubAbility, a national organization that provides sports camps and mentorship for children with limb differences. Since 2012, Sam has organized NubAbility camps each year, growing the organization from a personal mission into a national movement that helps young people build confidence and develop new skills.

"The NubAbility sports camps at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds are among the most meaningful programs we host," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "It's fitting to bring Sam back as Grand Marshal in recognition of the "Miles of Smiles" he has brought to the kids he serves. NubAbility truly changes lives and opens up a world of possibility for those who attend Sam's camps."

Sam's journey has earned recognition at both the state and national levels. He was named one of the Top Ten Outstanding Young Americans by the national Jaycees in 2017, following his selection as Illinois' Outstanding Young Person in 2016. He has also received the National Youth Activist Award from Man Up Against Bullying, the Fitness Ministry Award from Faith and Fitness Magazine, and the Du Quoin Citizen of the Year Award in 2015.

"Being able to lead the Twilight Parade and represent both my hometown and NubAbility in front of thousands of people is something I never would have imagined," said Sam Kuhnert, founder and executive director of NubAbility. "I'm thankful to the Du Quoin State Fair for this recognition, and even more thankful for the people in this community who have supported me, my family, and NubAbility through the years."

Today, Sam is also a motivational speaker and author of Game Changer: How to Thrive When Life Doesn't Go According to Plan, released in 2020. Through his work, he encourages young people to embrace their purpose, overcome obstacles and become game changers in their own lives.