​Henrietta Dotson-Williams is a servant at heart. She has been a respected leader in Rockford, Illinois, for over 50 years. Her years of service demonstrate a long history of helping those in need, supporting the growth of marginalized communities, and working to leave behind a strong legacy so that those who come after her will have a stable foundation to build upon.

Professor Theresa Paulette Gilbert began her teaching career while attending graduate school in California. She had various instructional experiences there, including adult literacy, composition, and literature at several community colleges and a special program for persons incarcerated in San Quentin Prison. After living and teaching in Malawi, South Central Africa, she and her family moved to Rockford, where she has been employed by Rock Valley College for more than 30 years. She has been an advisor and mentor to faculty, staff, and students pursuing their academic and career goals.

As Executive Director of the Rockford Regional Health Council, Rebecca Cook Kendall ("Becky") oversees the day-to-day, long-term happenings of the organization. In this position, Becky and her experience move a positive community agenda forward by influencing and uniting community stakeholders. That is not because she dominates the conversation or oversteps her reach but because she has mastered instilling confidence and encouragement in those around her. Becky leads with fierce kindness and unwavering intention. She facilitates opportunities for others to gain their own experience while at the same time empowering them to feel like they can handle whatever has been presented.

Rockford native Chief Carla Redd commands the Rockford Police Department and its authorized strength of 302 sworn officers.

From the very beginning as an adolescent to being in the last graduating class at West High School and into her early-career experience as a substance abuse counselor, Chief Redd has made service a primary tenet throughout her life.

During her 25-year tenure with the Rockford Police Department, Chief Redd has served in a variety of roles, joining the ranks as a patrol officer, and earning several promotions to various roles including Field Training Officer, Community Services Officer, Detective, and Sergeant. In 2015, Chief Redd made history becoming the first Black woman to achieve a command rank as Lieutenant which was quickly followed by her promotion to Assistant Deputy Chief in 2016.