CHICAGO — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration at the James R. Thompson Center in Chicago to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month. The event was an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of Hispanics and Latinos and present awards to active leaders in the community.
“It is important that every day we acknowledge the great achievements and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino neighbors,” Frerichs said. “Today, let us take a moment to recognize past and current leaders for their dedication to making our communities a better place to live, work and raise a family.”
Cook County Commissioner Jesus “Chuy” Garcia served as the celebration’s Keynote Speaker.
Frerichs and WGN 9’s Lourdes Duarte presented awards to the following recipients for their outstanding commitment to the community:
Outstanding Service in Business Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Outstanding Commitment in Community Service Clara Lopez, El Valor
Outstanding Commitment in Education Luis Narvaez, Chicago Public Schools Office of Language and Cultural Education
Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official Illinois State Sen. Iris Martinez
Outstanding Service in Leadership Tanya Cabrera, Illinois Dream Fund
Hispanic Heritage Month is a national effort. President Lyndon Johnson in 1968 established a Hispanic Heritage week. President Ronal Reagan in 1988 expanded the celebration to a month.
About the Illinois Treasurer The Illinois Treasurer is the state’s chief investment officer and Frerichs is a Certified Public Finance Officer. He protects consumers by encouraging savings plans for college or trade school, increasing financial education among all ages, and removing barriers to a secure retirement. As the state’s Chief Investment Officer, he actively manages approximately $25 billion. The portfolio includes $13 billion in state funds, $7 billion in college savings plans and $5 billion on behalf of local and state governments. The investment approach is cautious to ensure the preservation of capital and returns $28 to the state for every $1 spent in operations. The Treasurer’s Office predates Illinois incorporation in 1818. Voters in 1848 chose to make it an elected office.
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