Carbondale Mayor Honored at Black History Month Celebration

Illinois State Treasurer awards Carolin Harvey for outstanding commitment as an elected official.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs awarded Carbondale Mayor Carolin Harvey with the Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official award during a celebration commemorating Black History Month and honoring leaders from the African-American community in Springfield, Illinois.

Why it matters

The event was an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of Black leaders, and Harvey's award recognizes her trailblazing role as Carbondale's first Black mayor, elected in 2023 after serving multiple terms on the City Council and Planning Commission.

The details

Harvey was one of eight downstate honorees receiving an award at the ceremony. During her remarks, she thanked the person who nominated her, her family for their support, and her parents.

  • The event took place on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Michael Frerichs

The Illinois State Treasurer who presented the award to Mayor Harvey.

Carolin Harvey

The mayor of Carbondale, Illinois, who was elected as the city's first Black mayor in 2023 after serving multiple terms on the City Council and Planning Commission.

Lynne Chambers

The person who nominated Mayor Harvey for the award.

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What they’re saying

“Harvey thanked Lynne Chambers for nominating her for the award, her family for their support and her parents.”

— Carolin Harvey, Mayor of Carbondale (wmclradio.com)

The takeaway

Mayor Harvey's award recognizes her trailblazing leadership and commitment to public service, serving as an inspiration for other African-American leaders in Illinois.