2025 Annual Awards Gala - Celebrating 50 Years!

We‘re recognizing Ciere for her long history and important work in community development, affordable housing, and wealth-building in Chicago neighborhoods. Boatright serves as the Commissioner of the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development.

Senator Robert Peters, has been a leading advocate for investments in tourism, small business development, and education. He has also spearheaded efforts to reform aspects of Cook County’s property tax payment process. Senator Peters represents the 13th District in the city of Chicago, which borders Wrigleyville to the north, 95th Street to the south, Wabash Avenue to the west, and Lake Michigan to the east.

Markowski enjoyed a stellar career spanning over 40 years in affordable housing and community development until his retirement in 2021. He led the Community Investment Corporation (CIC) for 13 years as a tireless advocate for the preservation of affordable rental housing.

We‘re recognizing Val Free for her ability to organize and her remarkable ability to bring diverse stakeholders together for the common good. Free is the Executive Director of the Network Neighborhood Alliance, the leading community organization in South Shore.

Crain’s Chicago Business Assistant Managing Editor, Cassandra West, will be honored for Excellence in Impact Journalism. This recognition acknowledges her exceptional contributions through in-depth coverage and solution-based journalism on critical issues, such as racial wealth inequality and housing disparities.