Each year since 1994, Chicago has honored a handful of people for their selfless contributions to the city and suburbs. After 15 years, that adds up to more than 100 people—not even counting the seven individuals the magazine is honoring for 2008: a Northwest Side housing activist, an African American historian, a philanthropic chef, a concerned mother, a pair of dance makers, and a soulful singer with a voice for the ages. At a January luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago will celebrate the achievements of these seven remarkable individuals, as well as the accomplishments of the five score honorees who preceded them.

TIMUEL BLACK | JAY FRANKE & LAR LUBOVITCH | NANCY GIANNI
DIANE LIMAS | JACKIE SHEN | MAVIS STAPLES

ALSO:
+ Watch CLTV’s video profiles >>
+ Meet past honorees >>

Photography by Taylor Castle