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McFarland A. Bragg
Inducted 2024
As the former Executive Director of the Peoria Citizens Committee for Economic Opportunity, McFarland expanded the Head Start program under his leadership. He built 140 homes for low-income families, establishing affordable housing solutions statewide through the Illinois Community Action Development Corporation. His dedication earned him a place in the Peoria African American Hall of Fame Museum in 2002, honoring his lasting impact on Community Action in Illinois.

Vincent Clark
Inducted 2024
As the former Executive Director of Kankakee Community Services, Vincent was a dedicated leader within the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies (IACAA) for nearly 30 years, serving as a board member and chairman. He fiercely advocated for impoverished communities like Pembroke Township and Hopkins Park, leveraging his statewide leadership to bring critical infrastructure improvements and capacity building. His unwavering faith and servant leadership were central to his work, whether advocating for the marginalized or guiding Community Action through challenging times. His contributions spanned community development, advocacy, and collaboration with neighboring agencies.

Theresa Faith Cummings
Inducted 2024
Theresa served as the Executive Director at Sangamon County Community Action Agency, dedicating over six decades to championing civil rights and significantly influencing local and national advocacy. Drawing inspiration from her family’s resilience against discrimination, she bravely tackled systemic inequities, advocating for causes ranging from school desegregation to economic justice. Her steadfast commitment to equality, often at personal risk, has profoundly impacted her community, emphasizing the importance of persistence and continuous dialogue in the fight for justice.

Dorothy Rabe Ivanuck
Inducted 2024
Dorothy Rabe Ivanuck served as the Executive Director of the Western Egyptian Economic Opportunities Council. A dedicated leader in early childhood education, committed to enhancing the lives of young children and their families throughout her career. Her efforts focused on developing inclusive educational programs that catered to the community’s diverse needs. Dorothy’s commitment to equity in education and her work with family support services helped pave the way for better opportunities for generations to come.

Dwight Lucas
Inducted 2024
Dwight served as the CEO of the East Central Illinois Community Action Agency for 27 years, guiding the organization through significant transformation. He drove the agency’s growth and launched essential programs in education and emergency shelters that addressed critical community needs. As chair of the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies, Dwight’s influence extended statewide, helping to shape policies that strengthened the entire network. Even in retirement, his ongoing mentorship reflects his enduring commitment to the cause.

Suzan Nash
Inducted 2024
As the former Western Illinois Regional Council Executive Director, Suzan has demonstrated transformative leadership in securing funding for public infrastructure improvements. Under her guidance, WIRC became a Community Action Agency, blending individual services with community development to revitalize neighborhoods. Her dedication to projects such as domestic violence services, housing rehabilitation, and public water systems has impacted western Illinois.

Ken Pettijohn
Inducted 2024
Ken Pettijohn served as the Executive Director of WADI, motivated by a profound passion for Community Action from his childhood poverty experiences. His dedication to fostering pathways to self-sufficiency transformed lives in the community. It revolutionized the workplace with policies that offered healthcare, educational assistance, and additional benefits for staff. As a respected and influential leader, Ken’s legacy inspires those within the Community Action field.

Rob Schroeder
Inducted 2024
As the former Western Egyptian Economic Opportunities Council Housing Coordinator, Rob’s visionary leadership transformed lives through initiatives like Pyramid Manor, which provided housing for low- to moderate-income Sparta residents. His affordable housing efforts in Carbondale set a statewide standard. Beyond his housing contributions, Rob’s unwavering commitment to community service was evident in his leadership of home rehabilitation projects and the WEEOC’s certification as a Housing Counseling Agency, creating a legacy of kindness and meaningful contributions.

Frank Schwab
Inducted 2024
As the former Executive Director at Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation, Frank’s dedication to Community Action spans over three decades and is defined by his tireless advocacy and pursuit of institutional change. He set a high standard for leadership, spearheading the FCD program and leveraging his legislative connections to secure crucial CSBG funding. Frank’s legacy is one of transformative leadership, enriching the Illinois Valley while driving positive change throughout the state.

Dalitso Sulamoyo
Inducted 2017
Dalitso Sulamoyo began his career in community Action at the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies (IACAA) where he served as President and CEO. He moved on to become the Chief Executive Officer of Champaign County Regional Planning Commission. Dalitso serves as the Chair of the National Community Action Partnership Board and the IACAA Board of Directors. Dalitso has led many successful advocacy and public policy initiatives. He built relationships and partnerships with governmental administrations in the State of Illinois and developed effective political strategies to safeguard the interests of Illinois’ Community Action Network. Inducted 2017 as the initial inductee.

Vince Thomas
Inducted 2024
As the former Executive Director of Project Now, Vince has passionately advocated affordable housing and community activism for nearly three decades, significantly impacting the Quad Cities. His leadership has mobilized community support and resources, garnering backing from local leaders and companies like Deere & Co. His commitment to fighting poverty and housing injustice remains unwavering, and his involvement in state and national housing organizations further amplifies his efforts.

Cheryl Vanderford
Inducted 2024
Cheryl Vanderford served as the Executive Director at Shawnee Development Council, Inc., a dedicated advocate for underserved communities, and was pivotal in advancing affordable housing initiatives. She was known for fostering collaborations between local governments and non-profit organizations to provide sustainable housing solutions. Her commitment to social justice and community empowerment left a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Grey Warrner
Inducted 2024
Grey Warrner’s leadership transformed the Community Action landscape in Illinois, beginning with hands-on experience at Wabash Area Development as their Executive Director and later advancing to lead the new CSBG program after the abolition of the Community Services Administration. His collaborative approach built strong partnerships with agencies, promoting resilience during challenging times and fostering economic and housing development initiatives. Above all, Grey’s unwavering commitment to the people he served and his advocacy for fair treatment and effective resource use have left a legacy, inspiring a thriving Community Action network.

Kris White
Inducted 2024
Kris White has served as the Executive Director of Will County Center for Community Concerns for over 20 years. Kris began her career in 1989 as a Weatherization Coordinator, dedicated to enhancing families’ quality of life through safer, more energy-efficient homes. By 1993, she advanced to Housing Manager, overseeing key programs such as Weatherization, Community Development Block Grants, and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. She guided the agency with a steady vision, broadening its impact to help countless families achieve self-sufficiency. Her passion for service and commitment to state and community boards have left a lasting impact on Community Action in Illinois.

Mary Lockhart White
Inducted 2024
Mary Lockhart White began her impactful journey in Community Action in 1993 and has devoted her career to uplifting low- to moderate-income residents. As Executive Director since 2000, she has driven transformative programs that provide employment, training, and essential services. A respected leader at both national and state levels, Mary advocates fiercely for the underprivileged, earning accolades like the “BE BOLD Award” from the United Way Leadership Council. Through her community engagement and regular meetings with legislators, she tirelessly secures funding for vital programs, embodying the essence of a true community leader. Her passion for social justice and commitment to collaboration have profoundly enriched Lake County, making it a better place for all.