Heritage Month Celebrations
Celebrations honor the history and contributions of community leaders
The Illinois Treasurer’s Office proudly celebrates Heritage Months throughout the year, spotlighting the individuals who enrich our state’s diverse culture. These celebrations honor the history and contributions of community leaders and individuals who make a lasting impact, fostering inclusivity and understanding. By recognizing these achievements, the Illinois Treasurer’s Office promotes awareness and appreciation for the unique identities that make Illinois a dynamic and thriving state.
Among the many Heritage Months observed are Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Each celebration highlights the diverse heritage and accomplishments of Illinois residents and reinforces the state’s commitment to equality, unity, and respect for all.
Categories
- Outstanding Service in Business: An entrepreneur (or organization) who has successfully followed their dream of owning or leading a business Entity, shown how to overcome adversity, and, through their accomplishments, created greater economic opportunity and inspired others.
- Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities: A person (or organization) who has had significant accomplishments as an artist or in a career related to the arts or humanities and has been an inspiration to others and a source of pride for their community.
- Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official: An elected official who has made a significant contribution to their community through their government service.
- Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship: A person (or organization) who has achieved significant success as an athlete or in a sports industry career and has inspired others and brought pride to their community.
- Outstanding Commitment to Community Service: A person (or organization) who has made significant contributions as a community advocate, given back through volunteerism, made a positive impact, and worked to improve the livelihoods of those whose lives they touched.
- Jesse White Leadership Award: A person who has made a difference as a recognized and respected leader in their profession, using their expertise to make significant contributions for the good of their community and serving as a dedicated advocate for positive change.
- Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor: A person (or organization) who has made significant contributions/made a difference as a labor representative, committed to advocating for the well-being of employees and their families, as well as a safe work environment.
- Outstanding Commitment to Education: A person (or organization) who has made a difference as a teacher, mentor, or administrator; has inspired others; and has been a dedicated advocate for opportunity and positive change.
- Outstanding Service in Leadership: A person who has made a difference as a recognized and respected leader in their profession, through their expertise, made significant contributions for the good of their community, and been a dedicated advocate for positive change.
2026 Winners
- Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
- Black History Month | Chicago and Springfield
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- LGBTQ+ Leaders
- Women’s History Month
2025 Winners
- Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
- Black History Month | Chicago and Springfield
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- LGBTQ+ Leaders
- Women’s History Month
Need Media Assistance?
Members of the media are encouraged to contact the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office for interview requests, press inquiries, background information, or help connecting with the right program expert.
Contact:
Adriana Colindres
Press Secretary
Phone: 217-558-1920
Email: acolindres@illinoistreasurer.gov