Video posted here: https://cms.illinois.gov/agency/media/video/videos.html
Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs hosted a celebration to highlight the achievements of community leaders during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This year’s theme for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience.”
The event, which was held at the state government building at 555 W. Monroe St., honored eight people for their contributions to their communities: a restaurant owner, a business leader, a nursing association leader, a healthy schools advocate, a medical school dean, a state lawmaker, a labor leader, a football coach, and a graphic artist.
“Today, we honor leaders who are inspiring others, advocating for healthy schools, and helping our football team gain a competitive edge,” Frerichs said. “These leaders give their time, talent and voice to improve our communities.”
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month dates back to 1978, when President Carter signed a joint resolution marking the first 10 days of May as Asian Pacific Heritage Week. In 1990, the celebration was expanded to include the entire month.
Treasurer Frerichs honored the following people for their outstanding commitment to the community:
Outstanding Service in Business
Sujan Sarkar
Chef/Owner | Indienne
Outstanding Service in Leadership
James Mark
Managing Director Private Markets, Chief Strategy Officer | Wight & Company
Outstanding Commitment to Community Service
Sung Duk Park
Senior Board Member | Korean Nurses Association of the Midwest
Outstanding Commitment to Education
Jennifer Tani
President & CEO | Healthy Schools Campaign
Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official
Honorable Janet Yang Rohr
State Representative | 41st House District
Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor
Tyrone Valdez
Director of City Delivery | National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 11
Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship
Pierre Ngo
Head Strength & Conditioning Coach | Chicago Bears
Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities
Nadine Nakanishi
Co-Owner | Sonnenzimmer Graphic Arts Studio
***Courtesy of Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs***
