2025 Making History Awards
Each year, the Making History Awards celebrate the accomplishments of individuals or corporations who have left their mark on Chicago. Over the past 30 years, we have honored 151 individuals from all walks of life for their enduring contributions to art and culture, sports, business, and civic life. We have also celebrated 13 companies for their historic corporate achievements.
Join us on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago as we share each of our honorees’ unique stories and hear from esteemed colleagues on the importance of their contributions to our community. We will also hear from Chicago History Museum leadership and take a look at the Museum’s current initiatives and exhibitions.
The Chicago History Museum inaugurated this event in 1995 to provide vital financial support to the Museum’s operations and programs. More than 30 years later, this event is still a cornerstone of the institution, supporting the Museum’s mission to serve as the primary destination for learning, inspiration, and civic engagement to connect people to Chicago’s history and each other.
Spotlight on the 2025 Making History Award Honorees
Martin Cabrera, Jr.
CEO & Founder Cabrera Capital
The Marshall Field Making History Award for Distinction in Corporate Leadership and Innovation
Susan Crown
Founder and Chairman Susan Crown Exchange
The Daniel H. Burnham Making History Award for Distinction in Visionary Leadership
Hon. Rahm Emanuel
Former U.S. Ambassador to Japan and Former Mayor, City of Chicago
The Harold Washington Making History Award for Distinction in Public Service
Steppenwolf Theatre
Chicago Theater Company, accepted by Audrey Francis, Artistic Director, and Brooke Flanagan, Executive Director
The Theodore Thomas Making History Award for Distinction in the Performing Arts
Contact Us
For more information on supporting or attending the Making History Awards, please contact Eric Miller, Development Coordinator, at (312) 799-2110 or miller@chicagohistory.org