Two decades ago, Chicago decided to start a tradition: At the end of each year, the magazine would honor a few people “who’ve taken it upon themselves to make the city a better place.” Since then, a total of 150 Chicagoans of the Year have been selected. Some are familiar faces (Oprah, class of 1994!), and others have worked behind the scenes, but all have accomplished incredible things. This year’s honorees are no different. They include a decorated Latino activist, an unconventional doctor who wants to build a medical ark in central Africa, a literary “genius,” a tough-as-nails nun who scares even Rahm, and an amazing team of Little Leaguers. On December 11, Chicago will celebrate this group’s achievements with a luncheon (see here for details) at the Ritz-Carlton, sponsored in part by Carson’s. So here’s to all of the Chicagoans of the Year of the past 20 years—and to all of you who care deeply about our city.
