School counselor, local pastor to be honored at YWCA Elgin Leader Luncheon

An Elgin Area School District U-46 high school counselor who goes above and beyond for students and a retired U-46 social worker who is still busy shaping young lives will be among those recognized at a May 12 leadership luncheon.

Larkin High School counselor Brittney Walker and the Rev. Janie McCutchen of Elgin are among the 31 honorees who will be recognized at the 33rd annual YWCA Elgin Leader Luncheon, which takes place Thursday, May 12, at The Seville banquet hall in Streamwood.

The event celebrates women volunteers and employees who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and contributions to the community.

"We're very excited about this year's group of honorees," said YWCA Elgin Chief Executive Officer Julia McClendon. "The nominations come from the community, and it gives women who may not seem to be in the forefront an opportunity for much-deserved recognition."

Both Walker and McCutchen are being honored in the category that recognizes contributions to racial justice, and Walker also earned a nomination in the education category.

Walker has helped lead community discussions on race and works daily to help Larkin students receive information to pursue scholarships and make informed choices about college.

"Brittney is extremely passionate about her work, and is an integral part of our Larkin family," said Principal Jon Tuin. "Whether she is supporting a students' journey to college or the prom, she works tirelessly on their behalf."

McCutchen, who is associate pastor at Second Baptist Church in Elgin, retired from U-46 as a social worker in 2014, but was right back in school six months later, said Carolyn O'Neal, the former U-46 principal who nominated her. McCutchen serves as a mentor two days a week at Timber Trails Elementary and Larsen Middle School and helps support staff at Harriet Gifford Elementary. She also has been a driving force behind the "Read to Succeed" program.

For more information about the leader luncheon, including ticket information, visit www.ywcaelgin.org.