For Immediate Release – February 5, 2025
Treasurer Frerichs Presents Awards to Chicago Leaders In Honor of Black History Month
Jesse White, actor Harry Lennix, baseball player Curtis Granderson, Bakery owner Hart among those recognized
Video will be posted here: https://cms.illinois.gov/agency/media/video/videos.html
CHICAGO – Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to commemorate Black History Month and honor leaders in the African American community.
The event, held in the Illinois Room at 555 W. Monroe St., was an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of Black leaders. The eight honorees included a bakery owner, former secretary of state, university president, youth violence prevention founder, state senator, labor leader, baseball player and actor.
“We acknowledge the great achievements and contributions of African Americans every day, not only during the month of February,” Frerichs said. “These leaders are making a difference in the lives of our youth, fighting for a more equitable Illinois, and educating students for a bright future. We applaud their dedication to making our communities a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Black History Month is a national effort started in 1926 by University of Chicago graduate, author and educator Carter G. Woodson. In 1976, the annual celebration was expanded to a month. This year’s Black History Month theme is “African Americans and Labor.”
Treasurer Frerichs honored the following individuals for their outstanding commitment to the community:
Outstanding Service in Business
Stephanie Hart
Founder & Owner | Brown Sugar Bakery
Outstanding Service in Leadership
Jesse White
Former Illinois Secretary of State | Founder, Jesse White Tumblers
Outstanding Commitment in Education
Dr. Katrina Bell-Jordan
President | Northeastern Illinois University
Outstanding Commitment in Community Service
LaVonte Stewart
Founder & Executive Director | Lost Boyz Inc.
Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official
Hon. Elgie Sims Jr.
Illinois State Senator | 17th District
Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor
Chynna S. Hampton
Equity Director | Climate Jobs Illinois
Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship
Curtis Granderson
Retired MLB Player | Founder, Grand Kids Foundation
Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanity
Harry Lennix*
Actor | Founder, Lillian Marcie Center Project
Later this month, Frerichs will hold a celebration in Springfield honoring Downstate Black leaders.
*Not in attendance
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