SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is honoring Hispanic community members from across the state during Hispanic Heritage Month.
The State Treasurer held a celebration honoring the achievements of eight Latino leaders, including Coach Antigua, the associate head coach of the University of Illinois men's basketball team, a leader in organized labor, a Chicago Public Schools educator, an entrepreneur, and an artist.
This year's theme is "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together." Organizers said it encapsulates the spirit of innovation, resilience, and unity defining the Hispanic and Latino experience.
Frerichs said during the event, "Today, we are formally recognizing the contribution of some of our Hispanic and Latino neighbors. We thank them for their longtime dedication and celebrate their work in making our communities better places to live, work, and raise families."
The Treasurer honored the following people:
- Dr. Magdalena Perez, founder of Luna Behavioral Health Center for Outstanding Service in Business
- Daniel Barreiro, retired Chief Community Services Officer of Auroa for Outstanding Service in Leadership
- Antonio Martinez Jr., President and CEO of Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation for Outstanding Commitment to Community Service
- Olga Nunez-Johnson, the Golden Apple Awardee with Thomas Waters Elementary School for Outstanding Commitment in Education
- Honorable Barbara Hernandez, an Illinois State Representative and House Assistant Majority Leader in the 50th district for Outstanding Commitment as an elected official
- Juan Campos, the Vice President at Large, International Brotherhood of Teamsters and Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 705 for Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor
- Orlando Antigua, the Associate Head Coach of University of Illinois Men's Basketball for Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship
- Monica Zanetti, an artist and owner of Wild Rose, and Executive Director of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association for Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities
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