Illinois Leaders Honored for Black History Month 2026

Ceremony in Chicago recognizes achievements across business, arts, public service, and more

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Illinois State Treasurer's Office hosted a Black History Month recognition ceremony in Chicago on February 4, 2026, honoring eight leaders from the Chicagoland area for their contributions to business, the arts, public service, sports, community service, leadership, labor, and education.

Why it matters

Recognizing a diverse slate of honorees underscores the state's commitment to celebrating Black excellence across economic, cultural, and civic arenas. Such public acknowledgment can reinforce community pride, encourage broader participation in state initiatives, and set a precedent for future recognitions that bridge urban and Downstate contributions.

The details

The ceremony highlighted the achievements of leaders in various fields, including the President & CEO of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation, an artist and co-founder of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood, a State Senator, a high school football coach, a senior pastor, the Executive Director of Public Allies, the President of Teamsters Local 743, and the President of Kennedy-King College.

  • The Illinois State Treasurer's Office hosted the Black History Month recognition ceremony in Chicago on February 4, 2026.
  • A separate Black History Month celebration in Springfield is planned for later in February 2026 to recognize outstanding Downstate leaders.

The players

Christy George

President & CEO of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation, recognized for Outstanding Service in Business.

Tonika Lewis Johnson

Artist, photographer and co-founder of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood, honored for Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities.

Hon. Adriane Johnson

State Senator, 30th District, Illinois, celebrated for Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official.

Christopher Mallette

Director of Community Relations & Outreach and Head Football Coach at Chicago Hope Academy, awarded for Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship.

Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III

Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ, recognized for Outstanding Commitment to Community Service.

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What they’re saying

“Recognizing a diverse slate of honorees underscores the state's commitment to celebrating Black excellence across economic, cultural, and civic arenas.”

— Samantha Carter, Editor-in-Chief, Newsy-Today.com (Newsy-Today.com)

What’s next

The Treasurer's Office will host a separate Black History Month celebration in Springfield later in February 2026 to recognize outstanding Downstate leaders in service, business, education, and community advancement.

The takeaway

The Illinois State Treasurer's Office's recognition of Black leaders across diverse sectors underscores the state's commitment to celebrating the contributions of the Black community and setting a precedent for future celebrations that bridge urban and rural divides.