The Illinois Women’s Institute of Leadership (IWIL) recently honored Majority Caucus Whip Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) with the Legacy and Leaders Award. Martinez was selected for the award because of her support for IWIL and commitment to helping women succeed in the public sector. “I am humbled and grateful to receive an award from an organization that has provided training, leadership and networking opportunities for women,” said Martinez, who is an IWIL Board member. “If we want to have a direct role in shaping policies that deal with our education, pay, reproductive health and other issues that matter, then it’s important that women get involved in government and public policy.” IWIL empowers women to be involved in the public sector. Each year, twelve women are selected throughout Illinois to participate in a fellowship program that focuses on leadership development, public speaking, media and communications, digital media strategy and other topics. “IWIL is proud to celebrate Senator Martinez’s passion and dedication to her community, and throughout Illinois, to advance women in leadership in public service,” said IWIL President, Hon. Debra Shore.