Chicago State Alumni Association

03/18/2026

This Women’s History Month, we honor alumna Dr. Ciera Whitaker for her leadership, service, and lasting impact across Chicago’s South Side. A civic leader and strategist, Dr. Whitaker has dedicated her career to strengthening small businesses, advancing economic development, and empowering communities through thoughtful, community-centered engagement.

Through her years of leadership with the South Side Chamber of Commerce, her own consulting firm, local school council, youth civic engagement, and most recently her appointment as a 6th District Police Councilwoman, Dr. Whitaker exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, accountability, and vision. We celebrate Dr. Ciera Whitaker and all women whose leadership, service, and dedication are shaping our communities and making history every day.

State University

03/17/2026

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03/15/2026

This Women’s History Month, we honor Annette Nance-Holt, the first Black female Fire Commissioner of Chicago. Her historic leadership, courage, and commitment to public safety have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of women to lead with strength and purpose. We celebrate her legacy, service, and impact.

03/12/2026

This Women’s History Month, we honor alumna Schonella Stewart, the first female Police Chief of Beloit, Wisconsin, for her groundbreaking leadership and dedication to public safety. Like her twin sister in Evanston, Illinois, her achievements inspire women everywhere to lead with courage and pursue your dreams, no matter what obstacles lay ahead.

03/09/2026

This Women’s History Month, we honor alumna Schenita Stewart, Chief of Police in Evanston, Illinois, for her trailblazing leadership, dedication, and commitment to serving her community. Her example inspires future generations of women to lead with courage, integrity, and purpose.

Chicago State University

03/06/2026

This Women’s History Month, we proudly honor alumna Dr. Christine Houston, writer and creator of 227, whose storytelling helped shape television history and amplify authentic Black voices. Her creativity, vision, and impact opened doors for future generations of women in entertainment and beyond, in an industry that lacked Black women in such creative leadership roles. We celebrate her contributions, legacy, and the stories that continue to inspire.

#227

03/04/2026

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03/01/2026

This Women's History Month, we honor alumna Dr. Peggy A. Montes for her leadership, advocacy, and dedication to advancing equity and opportunity for women. Appointed by then-mayor Harold Washington to lead the first Commission on Women, Dr. Montes launched the first-ever Chicago Women’s History Month. Soon after, the celebration grew nationwide thanks to her advocacy. Years later, the Cook County Commission established the Peggy A. Montes Unsung Heroine Award in her honor, celebrating 16 women annually for their work in their respective communities. Dr. Montes’s commitment to women’s equality and empowerment reflects the spirit we celebrate this month. Thank you for the impact you continue to make and the lives you uplift.

02/27/2026

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02/26/2026

This Black History Month, we honor the late alumnus Edward Gardner, a visionary entrepreneur and the founder, along with his late wife, Bettiann, of Soft Sheen Products in the 1960s, the first hair care line created specifically for African hair.

At a time when the beauty industry completely overlooked Black consumers, the Gardners recognized the need for products that celebrated and cared for the unique texture and beauty of African hair. Their innovation not only transformed hair care but also affirmed cultural pride, self-expression, and representation for generations.

Edward and Bettiann Gardner’s legacy lives on in the global impact of Black-owned beauty brands and the continued celebration of Black beauty and entrepreneurship.

02/26/2026

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02/24/2026

This Black History Month, we honor alumnus and Illinois Representative Nick Smith for his dedication to public service and commitment to uplifting communities, working tirelessly on economic redevelopment on Chicago’s south side, among other things. We recognize his contributions and the impact of his service, especially in the Roseland community.