Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 ILACP Awards BanquetOn April 25, 2025, the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (ILACP) gathered at the Grand Marquee Pavilion of the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort for an unforgettable evening of honor and recognition. The 2025 ILACP Awards and Installation Banquet brought together law enforcement, security professionals, community leaders, and families from across the state to celebrate the individuals and partnerships that exemplify the very best of public service. From heartfelt tributes to fallen heroes to recognizing tomorrow’s leaders, the evening highlighted the strength and achievements of those serving within Illinois law enforcement. Russell B. Laine Lifetime Achievement Award: Chief George Graves (Ret.) One of the highlights of the night that brought many to tears was the recognition of retired Chief George Graves. It was no contest as the Executive Committee quickly saw that the second-ever Russell B. Laine Lifetime Achievement Award belonged to Chief Graves. Chief Graves has been involved in law enforcement for 66 years, with nearly six decades of that time as an active ILACP member. He’s a constant professional, always striving for continuous improvements in the law enforcement profession, attends every meeting and conference, and serves on several ILACP committees. Chief Graves is always willing to share his knowledge, insight, and experience with others for the benefit of the association. A past ILACP president and ongoing mentor, Graves’s enduring contributions include leadership roles in multiple agencies, co-founding the Suburban Law Enforcement Academy, and helping organize ILACP’s 75th anniversary gala. Additionally, he is still a strong advocate for the law enforcement profession and is actively involved in legislative issues such as the recent Social Security Fairness Act change. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of public safety professionals. Chief of the Year: Chief Schenita Stewart, Evanston Police Department It was a historic night during the banquet as Evanston Police Chief Schenita Stewart became the first woman to receive ILACP’s Chief of the Year honor. A 25-year veteran who started her career in Lincolnwood, she went on to lead the police department in her hometown of Evanston. Inheriting a department grappling with staffing shortages, morale issues, and challenging police-community relations, Chief Stewart reshaped the department through her visionary leadership rooted in transparency, officer wellness, and community engagement. Stewart’s accomplishments include restoring staffing, launching specialty units like a drone team and marine unit, and strengthening ties with the community, all while maintaining a nearly two-year stretch without a homicide in the city. Celebrating this honor with Chief Stewart was Jayden Reddins, the son of Oak Park Police Detective Allan Reddins, who was killed in the line of duty last year. ![]() Officer of the Year: Officer Carol Cadle, Carol Stream Police Department Affectionately known as “#CrimeFreeCarol,” Officer Carol Cadle’s dedication to community outreach and crime prevention earned her this year’s James J. Wade Officer of the Year Award. From coordinating more than 100 police volunteers and community events to launching innovative programs like the Blessing Bags initiative for the homeless, Cadle’s compassionate leadership embodies the best of community policing.
Criminal Investigator of the Year: Detective Edgar Alba, Cicero Police Department
Rising Shields of Law Enforcement: Commander Kristan Kolar and Sgt. William Donato This year's Rising Shields Award went to two dynamic up-and-coming leaders:
We look forward to seeing all they will continue to accomplish in their law enforcement careers.
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Scholarship Awards: Lt. Nicholas Goc & Chief James Mandujano The ILACP is proud to support the education of law enforcement in the State of Illinois with its two scholarships, the Carl Dobbs Memorial Scholarship and the Jacob J. Novak Scholarship. Village of North Utica Police Chief James Mandujano and Macomb Police Lieutenant Nicholas Goc were selected among dozens of applicants to receive these amazing opportunities to further their education and training. Both awards provides financial support to courses at Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command.
Passing the Torch: Chief Joe Leonas Sworn in as ILACP President
President Leonas’s efforts for his presidency started before he was sworn in with the formation of the ILACP Women’s Leadership Section, designed to help police chiefs recruit, retain, and promote women in their police departments. Chief Leonas brings fresh ideas and outlooks to the association, and we look forward to seeing what more can be accomplished during his term.
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