The Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce celebrated members’ contributions and welcomed Paul Donohue as its new chair for 2025 at a Feb. 19 Recognition and Board Installation Banquet.
A handful of community members were recognized with awards, while area local leaders enjoyed drinks, dinner and socializing during the event at the Idlewild Country Club.
Outgoing chairman Vernard L. Alsberry, mayor of Hazel Crest, handed the gavel to Donohue, the vice president of philanthropy and community relations at the Ingalls Development Foundation at UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital.
Before stepping aside, Alsberry thanked outgoing President Terri Winfree for her service.
“This is a very historic day,” Alsberry said. “Terri, I remember when you revitalized the chamber. I want to thank you for all that you’ve done over the years and all you have provided for our organization.”
Jennel Hooper, the chamber’s digital navigator, will replace Winfree as executive director this year.
Alsberry also recognized retiring board members and welcomed the new board members who will continue to work towards the organization’s goals in their place.
Donohue has had a long career spanning several decades. He spent 18 years as a broadcaster and some time in banking and insurance before accepting a position at Ingalls Memorial. In a short speech, he touted his authenticity and entrepreneurial spirit before thanking a list of his chamber colleagues and his wife.
“I can’t tell you a thing about how TV works, I can’t tell you a thing about issuing a bank loan, underwriting an insurance policy, or, lord knows, treating a patient. But what I do know is how to tell stories and connect to people. It has been my honor and privilege in this career of mine to connect and tell stories with so many people.”
Donohue said he looked forward to chairing the foundation board and told his fellow board members to expect him to rely on their counsel, guidance and leadership throughout the year.
The chamber gave awards to the following members for their dedication to the community in their respective categories:
- Chairman’s Excellence Award: Connie Simms – Bank Financial
- Volunteer Ambassador: Mike Thompson – Hanson Professional Services
- Small Business Champion: Hakeem Bello – Oasis Hospice & Palliative Care
- Corporate Champion: Yohan Fernando – Comcast Business
- Workforce Development Champion: Wind Creek Casino
- Legislative Ambassador: Kristi DeLaurentiis – South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association
According to the chamber’s website, the Recognition and Board Installation event is an annual opportunity for members to support the organization’s mission to “foster economic growth in our communities.”
