On Friday, March 17th Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar and 16th District Women’s Commissioner Claudia Ayala hosted the Second Annual 16th District Women’s EmpowHer Brunch to celebrate women leaders throughout Cook County and the 16th District. The event, located at Lyons Village Hall, brought 100 individuals to discuss the hard work and community services led by women in the 16th District. In attendance was Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, the 16th District Peggy A. Montes Unsung Heroine award winner Antonia Ruppert, the other Unsung Heroine nominees, women elected officials, and local community leaders throughout the municipalities of the 16th District.  This event was a moment to focus solely on the work these women do in our communities, highlighting the critical services they provide to our residents, and giving the opportunity to expand their networks so that they can not only continue to be leaders in their community, but also the entire district. This event also featured a Power Panel of women leaders who discussed their work, goals, and policies they advocate for with state, county, and municipal leadership.  On the panel was the 2023 Unsung Heroine Award Winner Antonia Ruppert, Community Wellness Advocate Monica Kirkland, and Lyons Village Clerk Elyse Hoffenberg. After the panel, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle delivered closing remarks.

Photo Credit: Office of Cook County Commissioner Frank Aguilar