Recognizing Extraordinary Contributions to Chicago – Announcing the 25th Anniversary Making History Awards

Over the past twenty-four years in June, the Making History Awards have honored over a hundred Chicagoans and twelve Chicago companies whose enduring contributions to our community have made Chicago a better and more vibrant place to live. The 25th Anniversary of the awards in 2019 marks a special milestone for the awards and the Museum in recognizing and celebrating the extraordinary contributions of exemplary individuals and companies to Chicago. This annual event supports the mission of the Museum, Chicago’s oldest cultural institution.

25th Anniversary Making History Awards Recipients 

Barbara Gaines and Criss Henderson, Founding Artistic and Executive Directors,Chicago Shakespeare Theater
The Theodore Thomas Making History Award for Distinction in the Performing Arts
Presented by Sheli Z. Rosenberg and Steve Solomon

Valerie Jarrett, Former Senior Advisor and Assistant to President Barack Obama
The Harold Washington Making History Award for Distinction in Public Service
Presented by Penny Pritzker

Frederick H. Waddell, Retired Chairman and CEO, Northern Trust
The Marshall Field Making History Award for Distinction in Corporate Leadership and Innovation
Presented by Miles D. White

Daniel J. Walsh and Matthew Walsh, Co-Chairmen, The Walsh Group
The Daniel H. Burnham Making History Award for Distinction in Architecture and Design
Presented by Monsignor Kenneth Velo

W. Rockwell Wirtz, Chairman, Chicago Blackhawks
The Amos Alonzo Stagg Sr. Making History Award for Distinction in Sports
Presented by John F. McDonough
(contingent on team schedule)

25^th Anniversary Making History Award Donors

See the list of past Making History Awards Honorees

Sponsorship opportunities are available!