information provided by South Suburban College
This year marks PWN’s 5th Annual Summer Soiree, and event introduced by then-President Barbara Karstrom in 2014 to give PWN the opportunity to celebrate its membership and honor women who have overcome challenges.
“We continue to honor some amazing women, such as Dr. Stokes, who overcame private battles that did not hinder their drive to continue to excel and inspire,” said Doranita Tyler, PWN President, who introduced the theme “Ignite Your Why” to inspire members to strive passionately to excel in their purpose. “We are excited to recognize four individuals and one nonprofit organization with the 2019 Ignitor Award.”
Dr. Stokes is the first African American female president in SSC’s 91-year history. Having worked in public service for nearly 24 years, she has served as an advocate of youth in the child welfare system, taught elementary and community college education, and worked for equal rights organizations. Dr. Stokes earned her Doctorate from Roosevelt University, where she received the Outstanding Dissertation of the Year Award. She has also been honored with the Kathy Osterman Award for Outstanding Public Service Supervision, the 2014 Chicago Defender’s Women of Excellence Award, the 2018 ICBCHE Trailblazer Award, and the 2019 Egretha Award.
“I would like to both thank and applaud the Professional Women’s Network for recognizing achievements of women, especially those who have had significant challenges in their lives,” said Dr. Stokes. “It’s an honor to receive this award with the other outstanding recipients who have been so impressive in their accomplishments.”
South Suburban College is a community college located in South Holland, Illinois, serving 21 communities, including parts of the Chicago Southland and northwest Indiana. SSC provides a variety of support services and leadership opportunities to its students in addition to a wide range of academic program options. For more information, visit www.ssc.edu.
