The Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual recognition and board installation event on Feb. 19 at Odyssey Country Club in Tinley Park.
The chamber will celebrate leadership transition, recognize outstanding members and honor individuals and organizations whose contributions have strengthened the Chicago Southland business community.
The evening will mark the transition from 2025 Chair Paul Donohue of UChicago Medicine Ingalls Foundation to incoming 2026 Chair Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, president of South Suburban College.
The program also will feature the presentation of six distinguished awards recognizing excellence in leadership, service, advocacy and community impact.
Stokes brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to education and workforce development. Her vision and dedication are expected to further advance the chamber’s mission and strengthen its impact across the region.
The Chairman’s Excellence Award will be presented to Steven Pappageorge, vice president of Workforce, Strategy and External Affairs at Moraine Valley Community College. He is recognized for his years of service on the chamber’s board of directors. He currently serves as chair of the strategic plan committee and is chair-elect for 2027. His leadership has played a vital role in advancing the chamber’s mission, strategic priorities and long-term goals.
The Volunteer Ambassador Award will be presented to Bonita Estelle, external affairs manager – South Region at ComEd for her exceptional dedication and service. She has served as board chair, co-chaired the business growth committee, and consistently supports chamber initiatives, including Business After Hours and Signature Events. Her commitment has helped foster engagement, connection and community throughout the chamber.
The Small Business Champion Award will be presented to Alonzo Abron, founder of A. Progeny Global, for his advocacy and leadership in support of small business growth. He hosted a business after hours event focused on business growth in the real estate sector and continues to actively support and participate in chamber programming.
The Corporate Champion Award will be presented to UChicago Medicine Ingalls Foundation for its exceptional leadership and steadfast support of the chamber. Under the leadership of 2025 Chair Paul Donohue, UChicago Medicine demonstrated outstanding engagement through sponsorships, event participation and committee involvement. Donohue’s energy, commitment and advocacy, supported by his organization, made a lasting impact throughout the year.
The Workforce Development Champion Award will be presented to Governors State University for its commitment to preparing individuals for a rapidly changing economy. Through innovative academic programs, workforce initiatives and strong partnerships, GSU continues to support economic growth in the region. Will Davis, vice president of external affairs and CEO of the GSU Foundation, has been a strong supporter of the chamber’s goals, along with continued leadership from current and former board and foundation members, including Craig Schmidt and Lauren Healy.
The Legislative Ambassador Award will be presented to Kate O’Malley, founder of K.O. Strategies. She is a director and chair of the government affairs committee and serves as a liaison between the business community and elected officials. Her deep understanding of the legislative process and tireless advocacy have strengthened the chamber’s public policy efforts at the local, state and national levels.
