Elgin Y seeks nominations for this year's leader awards

The YWCA Elgin hosts its 27th annual Leader Luncheon on Thursday, May 13 at The Seville in Streamwood. Keynote speaker is the first lady of Wisconsin, Jessica Doyle. The popular Leader Luncheon is attended by hundreds of community leaders, business and nonprofit agency representatives, and community volunteers who acknowledge and honor women in the Elgin area that have made significant contributions to the community.

Do you know a woman in Elgin, or any of the surrounding communities, that has demonstrated qualities of leadership and commitment to excellence?

If so, consider nominating her for a YWCA Elgin Leader Luncheon Award. Deadline for submissions is 4 p.m. Thursday, March 25. Nomination forms are available at ywcaelgin.org or call the YWCA at (847) 742-7930. The award categories include:

• Margaret Hillis Award for the Arts: Hillis was the Elgin Symphony Orchestra music director for 14 years and conducted the Chicago Symphony Chorus for 35 years.

• Beatrice Dorsey Award for Business and Professions: A successful local business woman for 45 years, Dorsey was instrumental in assisting women to succeed in business.

• Marguerite Henry Award for Communications/Technology: Author of over 50 books including children's classics, Henry held many prestigious national literacy awards.

• Harriet Gifford and Hattie Griffin Award for Education: Gifford established the first school in Elgin in 1836, initiating the foundation for local educational systems. Co-founder of the YWCA Elgin, Hattie Griffin, was an educator for over 50 years.

• Myrtle Spiegler Award for Public Service: As the first woman to assume the position of Elgin City Clerk, Spiegler designed the city flag and paved the way for women to actively participate in the field of public service.

• Marie Grolich Award for Social Service: As executive director of the YWCA of Elgin for 20 years, Grolich spearheaded many innovative programs to benefit the entire community.

• Marjorie Leonard Award for Volunteer/Community Service: As a volunteer and humanitarian, Leonard donated countless hours to civic organizations and social agencies.

• Racial Justice Award: One award will be given to a woman who has demonstrated achievement and leadership in the field of Racial Justice.

This year's keynote speaker shares the YWCA's passion for education. Doyle will be adding her name to the impressive list of past YWCA Elgin Leader Luncheon keynote speakers, such as: first lady Barbara Bush, Illinois State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka, violinist Eugenia Zuckerman, race car driver Janet Guthrie and Chicago Mayor Jane Byrne.

For information, call Deirdre White at the YWCA Elgin at (847) 742-7930.