"Chicago is work" said former Mayor Richard J. Daley—a sentiment that continues to resonate deeply within the fabric of this city. While media headlines often focus on crime and disinvestment, they fail to capture the full scope of what Chicago truly represents. Beneath these challenges lies a city of resilience and possibility, driven by leaders who work tirelessly to provide hope and opportunity to its citizens. These leaders are not just transforming the city; their influence extends far beyond its borders, impacting the entire Chicagoland area.
It is this spirit of dedication, innovation, and service that inspired Chicago News Weekly to honor and amplify the work of the 2025 CNW Impact Awardees. These individuals, through their commitment and hard work, are shaping a brighter future for Chicago and its surrounding communities. They represent the very essence of impact: leaders who, through perseverance and vision, continue to uplift the city, providing pathways for progress in areas like education, job creation, health, and community development.
The 2025 CNW Impact Awardees embody the hope and change that Chicago needs, and Chicago News Weekly is proud to lift up their achievements with dignity, encouragement, and celebration. Their work is a testament to the power of leadership that drives real, tangible progress—not just in the city, but throughout the entire region.
Chicago News Weekly is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Impact Awards, a celebration of leadership, innovation, and community service. The awards ceremony, set to take place on February 28th—the final day of Black History Month—will be held at The Morgan Arts Complex, located at 3622 S. Morgan Street, Chicago, IL, from 6 PM to 10 PM. Tickets are now available on Chicago News Weekly's Eventbrite page (eventbrite.com/e/chicago-news-weekly-presents-the-2025-impact-awards-tickets-1200388136229).
Impact. A word that carries the weight of transformation, a beacon of hope and change. In a city as multifaceted as Chicago, the notion of impact is not just about individual success—it’s about collective progress. It’s about the spark that ignites a movement, the hands that lift others, and the vision that turns dreams into reality. Impact is the bridge between potential and accomplishment, the thread that binds community aspirations to tangible outcomes.
Chicago is a city of resilience, born from the ashes of its historic Great Fire, rising repeatedly from challenges with renewed vigor. But resilience alone is not enough. Impact is the engine that drives resilience toward purposeful action, creating a city where education, job creation, access to essential services, and wealth generation are within reach for all. It’s the heartbeat of a thriving metropolis that refuses to leave anyone behind, ensuring that every voice is heard, every effort is acknowledged, and every dream is nurtured.
Today, Chicago stands at a critical juncture. The juxtaposition of its rich history and current socio-economic challenges presents a landscape of both trials and triumphs. Economic disparity, social injustices, and community fragmentation threaten to erode the fabric of this great city. Yet, these very challenges offer a unique opportunity to reimagine and rebuild.
Chicago needs leaders who not only understand the complexities of these issues but who are also committed to crafting solutions that are inclusive and sustainable. Leaders who can turn adversity into opportunity, who see potential in every corner of the city, and who are not afraid to get their hands dirty to bring about meaningful change. These are the torchbearers of impact—individuals who go beyond rhetoric and take actionable steps to make a difference.
The 2025 Impact Awardees are not just leaders; they are architects of Chicago's future. Each of them embodies the spirit of determination and innovation, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous city. Their contributions span various domains, including education, job creation, access to essential services, and wealth generation, providing a blueprint for what true impact looks like.
Andrea Hill, Director of Operations at HMC Hospitality Group, has revolutionized the hospitality industry through her dedication to community engagement and diversity. Starting as a Hooters Girl, Andrea climbed the ranks to become a leader who forged strategic partnerships with top organizations and championed initiatives like the Women’s Leadership Forum and the ‘I Am’ campaign. Her efforts have strengthened the community ties of HMC Hospitality, showcasing the profound impact of thoughtful leadership.
Bishop Dr. Claude Porter, Founder and President of Proviso-Leyden Council for Community Action, Inc., has dedicated his life to community service and social activism. Through his organization, he has provided critical services to over 30,000 individuals annually, advocating for social change and community development. His work emphasizes the importance of integrating spiritual values with tangible social impact.
Daniel O. Ash, President of the Field Foundation of Illinois, has been at the forefront of investing in arts, justice, and leadership. His innovative platforms for civic engagement have amplified resident voices and fostered community-driven development. Daniel’s strategic vision and leadership have made significant strides in addressing systemic issues in Chicago’s underserved communities.
Donald J. Dew, President/CEO of Habilitative Systems, Inc., has significantly expanded the organization’s budget and services, focusing on behavioral health and housing for vulnerable populations. His leadership has brought in multimillion-dollar contracts and initiated community health programs that have transformed lives. Donald’s commitment to health and human services underscores the vital role of comprehensive care in building resilient communities.
Heidi Russell Green, Senior Director of Adult Services at UCP of Greater Chicago, has dedicated over three decades in the social services field. The past seven years, she has truly found her passion assisting individuals with disabilities, securing job placement and additional funding for the participants that she serves. Heidi's work is a testament to the power of compassion and perseverance in social advocacy.
Illinois House Representative LaShawn K. Ford has been a relentless advocate for social justice, economic development, and veteran protection. His efforts to increase financial resources for marginalized communities highlight his deep commitment to public service. LaShawn’s work is a reminder that effective governance is rooted in community engagement and responsiveness.
Lisa W. Rollins, Regional Development Director for the Midwest Region at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), has significantly impacted education and community development across twelve states. With leadership roles at United Way and the Salvation Army, Lisa broke barriers as the first woman and African American Executive Director of Development. Her commitment to fundraising and advocacy has expanded educational opportunities and strengthened community ties. Active in organizations like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Lisa W. Rollins is a dedicated leader driving positive change in Chicago and beyond.
Liz Abunaw, Founder of Forty Acres Fresh Market, has taken an innovative approach to address food deserts on Chicago’s West Side. By launching a mobile strategy and securing key investments, Liz has expanded access to fresh food for underserved communities. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to social impact have made a tangible difference in the lives of many.
Sandi Robinson, Director of Sales & Marketing for The Olympia Companies, co-founded ChiGivesBack and has been recognized with the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Her focus on equity and diversity in hospitality, coupled with her dedication to community service, has set new standards in both the nonprofit and hospitality sectors.
Sharron Troupe, Associate Managing Director at CIBC, has leveraged her extensive banking experience to foster community development and financial literacy. Her leadership in CRA community development and diversity initiatives has paved the way for long-term organizational success. Sharron’s commitment to inclusive growth underscores the importance of financial empowerment.
TeDora Brown Scott, COO of Scotland Development Corporation, has expanded the company’s portfolio through strategic initiatives that focus on building generational wealth and improving urban communities. Her leadership in business development and community engagement highlights the critical role of corporate responsibility in societal progress.
Tyrone Muhammad, Founder of Ex-Cons for Community and Social Change, has dedicated his life to reducing recidivism and advocating for ex-offender reintegration. His programs in self-development and entrepreneurship have provided ex-cons with the tools to rebuild their lives. Tyrone’s work exemplifies the transformative power of second chances.
The Impact Awards are not just a recognition of individual achievements; they are a celebration of collective effort and vision. Publisher Cheryl Mainor Norman and Executive Editor Kai El Zabar articulated the essence of the awards beautifully: “Our city thrives when we lift each other up. The Impact Awards honor those who have not only envisioned a better Chicago but have also taken concrete steps to make it a reality.”
In a city as diverse and dynamic as Chicago, the need for strong, compassionate leaders is paramount. The 2025 Impact Awardees have shown that true leadership lies in the ability to inspire, innovate, and create opportunities where none existed before. Their efforts in education, job creation, access to services, and wealth generation have laid the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous Chicago.
As we gather to celebrate their achievements on February 28th at The Morgan Arts Complex, we are reminded of the power of collective action and the importance of community. These leaders have not only impacted lives today but have also set the stage for future generations to thrive.
We hope you will join us to honor their contributions and continue to support the transformative work that will shape Chicago’s future.