The 17th Annual Chicago Defender Women of Excellence Awards and Ceremony is taking place on March 22, 2024, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, with the theme "EmpowerHer: Celebrating Strength, Resilience, and Unstoppable Women."
Desirée Rogers, former White House Social Secretary to President Barack Obama and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company, will be honored as the 2024 Woman of the Year. The event will recognize and celebrate the achievements of exemplary Black women in the Chicagoland community, highlighting their hard work, dedication, creativity, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
Among the honorees is a class of 50 Black women, adding to the 800-strong community of Women of Excellence, a prestigious group recognized for their outstanding achievements. Other special honorees include Josephine Wade, Lifetime Achievement Awardee; Dr. Carol L. Adams, Vanguard Awardee; and State Senator Mattie Hunter, Vanguard Awardee.
2014 Women of Excellence
The Women of Excellence (WOE) awards recognize admirable women, while forming a solid network of accomplished individuals. The Chicago Defender Women of Excellence Awards honor these exceptional women who are at the forefront of their respective fields, paving the way for future generations.
Honoree Profiles
- Lorell E. Lynch, Director of Public Affairs, Community Outreach & Events at Allvvyn North America
- Stacy Davis Gates, President at Chicago Teachers Union
- Dr. Pamela Blackman, President & CEO at Building Brighter Futures Center for the Arts
- Dyanna Knight Lewis, Publisher- The Chicago Defender
And many more inspiring individuals are being recognized at the ceremony.
Ceremony Details
- Date: Friday, March 22, 2024
- Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Location: Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, 301 E North Water St, Chicago, IL 60611
- Presenting sponsor: ComEd
- Emcees: Samantha Chatman, ABC 7 Chicago, and Marseil “Action” Jackson, Inspiration 1390 AM WGRB
- This event is SOLD OUT. For more information, please visit www.chicagodefender.com.
About the Chicago Defender Women of Excellence:
Each year, the Chicago Defender takes great pride in recognizing African American women in our community who inspire others through their excellence, vision, leadership, achievements, and commitment to empowerment. We are proud of the accomplishments of these remarkable women who are making our community stronger and more resilient.
About the Chicago Defender:
The Chicago Defender is a multi-media content provider of news and information. The Chicago Defender offers marketing solutions, strategic partnerships, and custom events covering the African American market. Our platform equips us to leverage audience influence to reach, connect, and impact the Black Community with culturally relevant content not often serviced by mainstream media.
FAQs:
Q: What is the theme of the 2024 Women of Excellence ceremony?
A: "EmpowerHer: Celebrating Strength, Resilience, and Unstoppable Women."
Q: Who will be honored at the 2024 ceremony?
A: Desirée Rogers, former White House Social Secretary to President Barack Obama and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company, and other special honorees and 50 Black women of excellence.
Q: Who is the presenting sponsor for the 2024 Women of Excellence ceremony?
A: ComEd
Q: How can I find out more information about the event?
A: Please visit www.chicagodefender.com.
