black history month
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs will host a celebration on Tuesday, February 18 for Black History Month.
 
The event will reflect on the achievements of African Americans and present awards to active leaders in the community.
 
The program will be held at noon at the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office in the Marine Bank Building at 1 E. Old State Capitol Plaza. 
 
Award Recipients include:
 
Outstanding Service in Business
Jeremy Bell
Co-Owner | Bells’ Finest BBQ, Springfield, and Director of Vocational Services at Sparc
 
Outstanding Service in Leadership
Jesse White
Former Illinois Secretary of State | Founder, Jesse White Tumblers
 
Outstanding Commitment in Education
Dr. Ed Hightower
Vice Chair | Southern Illinois University System Board of Trustees, Retired Superintendent for Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7, Retired NCAA Basketball Referee
 
Outstanding Commitment in Community Service
Riley L. Owens III
Former Mayor | City of Centreville
 
Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official
Hon. Doris Turner
Illinois State Senator | 48th District
 
Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor
Terance Henry
Chair | Southern Illinois Workforce Development Board
 
Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship
A.J. Guyton
Retired NBA Player | Director of Athletics for Peoria Public Schools District 150
 
Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities
Preston Jackson
Sculptor, Art Educator, Gallery Owner | Professor Emeritus, School of the Art Institute

Copyright 2025 WAND TV. All rights reserved.Â