Dear ICA and Order colleagues, It is with great sadness that we wanted to let you know that our beloved colleague, mentor, and friend Dennis Jennings passed away on the morning of February 15th 2026. There isn’t a bad thing anyone in this world could say about Dennis. He was simply the best. Loving, nurturing, kind, thoughtful, funny, and just filled with so much care and dedication for the people and spaces around him. Dennis will be so dearly missed by so many. His presence in our community and lives will never be quite filled – but may we be able to take the wisdom and care he imparted on us into all the rooms we step into -- and make each space a little better for it. May we be able to embody his humility, soft-but-grounded presence, and quick wit and levity. Dennis had a great quiet knowing: he knew what was needed to make any situation better, and had a way of manifesting what was needed. I know many of our hearts are broken by this huge loss – and we will find a time to grieve and celebrate this cherished and wonderful life in community soon. For now, here are some words from his partner in crime, and the one who knew him best – Judy Weddle. ----------------------------------------- Our dear friend Dennis Jennings passed away this morning. While Dennis was a quiet and careful person he exhibited many strengths. He soared when recalling data gleaned from research. He was thorough and trustworthy in reporting data. There was many a time in meetings when the group would become silent when he would speak up - knowing that his contribution was valuable and that he was going to make was succinct comment that was thought-through and nearly always a helpful perspective - either with new ideas keenly analyzed or accurate reflection of contributions from chaotic conversations. He was an especially organized person and could “pull up" and find facts that would be long past for many of us. Dennis had a gift for planning paying careful attention to details. This made him a powerful facilitator. He loved the Technology of Participation and was totally grounded in these methods. He enjoyed leading groups and helping people find meaning from the work they do. He also enjoyed ToP Training and teaching the methods to others. We have lost an example of fine facilitation and training support. Dennis was proud to have been a part of the Institute of Cultural Affairs for many years. He was a part of the staff for many years. Dennis was also a very kind and gentle person. His spiritual foundations made his personal values strong. He knew how to live in community. He was not weak. He was tenacious and rooted like a tree. While he did not relish conflict he did not run from it. He would throw himself into the fray, even knowing how stressful it was for him, whenever he felt the need to stand his ground. He cared deeply for others and he had a self-deprecating sense of humor that many people admired. My sweet friend. I will miss him. Seva Gandhi Principal and Founder Collaborative Connections 708-712-5467 Dennis was also a foundational member of the *Greenrise Community* on the 6 th and 7th th floor of the ICA Chicago building. Dennis was key in helping not only think through the organization of the community but more important a constant presence in working out the day-by-day practices. It was amazing to see the amount of time and energy he took in making community work. What a presence. Dick Alton -- Richard H. T. Alton ICA Global Fund United Methodist Creation Care Behold, all things are being made anew T: 773.344.7172 richard.alton@gmail.com