Illinois Honors 8 Women Leaders During Women’s History Month Celebration

A Women's History Month celebration was held in honor of eight influential women in Illinois for their leadership and community contributions.

State Treasurer Recognizes Influential Women

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs hosted a ceremony in downtown Chicago to celebrate the eight women whose work has shaped our great communities across Illinois.

We celebrate these eight individuals who are dedicated to helping others through education, mentorship, and service. -Michael Frerichs, Illinois State Treasurer

The event, held in the Illinois Room at 555 W. Monroe Street, highlighted leaders from business, public service, education, athletics, and the arts. Frerichs said the celebration honored individuals who have demonstrated dedication to mentorship, service, and leadership throughout the state.

Leaders Recognized for Service Across Illinois

The honorees represent a wide cross-section of Illinois leadership:

• Nadine Johnson, Senior VP at Old National Bank, was recognized for business leadership
• Claire Babineaux-Fontnot, CEO of Feeding America, was honored for community and nonprofit leadership.
• Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank, honored for community and nonprofit leadership

Education and public service were also highlighted with the recognition of Dr. Carmen Ayala, former Illinois State Superintendent of Education, and State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, who represents Illinois' 46th District.

Other honorees included workforce leader Michelle Stiff, Special Olympics Illinois athlete Mallory Marvin, who competes in snowshoeing, and Grammy-nominated violinist Desiree Ruhstrat, an educator at Northwestern University Bienen School of Music.

Women’s History Month Rooted in a Century of Advocacy

The celebration also touched on the historic impact of women in shaping Illinois and the nation.

The observance traces its roots to International Women's Day in 1911, and was later expanded when Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first National Women's History Week in 1980. Congress officially designated March as Women's History Month in 1987.

Frerichs said the honorees reflect the ongoing influence of women working to advance opportunity, equality, and stronger communities throughout Illinois.