Chicago Urban League Honors Public Servants and Renames Building for James W. Compton

Honorees Include Kam Buckner, Pat Dowell, Kim Foxx and Adam Kinzinger

The Chicago Urban League hosted its 3rd Annual Reception Honoring Public Servants on Monday, March 24, 2025, at its headquarters, bringing together civic leaders, community members, and public officials to celebrate distinguished individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing equity, opportunity, and social justice.

The evening featured a special tribute to James W. Compton, the longest-serving president and CEO of the Chicago Urban League, to recognize his decades of leadership and commitment to empowering the Black community. He was President & CEO of the organization for 28 years, from 1978 – 2006. Prior to that, he served as Executive Director for six years. In his honor, the organization officially renamed its headquarters the James W. Compton Center and unveiled a commemorative sign.

“The Chicago Urban League has been my life’s work, and it’s deeply humbling to see my name on this building that has provided opportunities for so many,” said James Compton, former President & CEO of the Chicago Urban League. “This honor isn’t just about me, but about the countless individuals who work tirelessly each and every day to advance equity in our city. I’m proud of what we have built together, and I know the League will continue to change lives for generations to come.”

“No one deserves the honor of having the building named after them more than Jim Compton,” said Chicago Urban League Chairman Emeritus John W. Rogers, Jr. “He embodied the spirit of the Urban League: bringing people together. That’s what we need in today’s society. People like Jim who know how to get great things done on behalf of all of our citizens.” 

The event also recognized four outstanding public servants for their contributions:

• Adam Kinzinger, former U.S. Representative and lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard, for his commitment to public service and democracy
• Kam Buckner, Illinois State Representative (26th District) and House Assistant Majority Leader, for his advocacy in policy and community development
• Kim Foxx, former Cook County State’s Attorney, for her leadership in criminal justice reform
• Pat Dowell, 3rd Ward Alderman, for her dedication to urban development and public finance

Dowell and Foxx accepted the 2025 Trailblazer awards in person. Kinzinger accepted the award via pre-recorded video remarks, and Buckner’s chief of staff, Dulana Reese, accepted the award on his behalf.

“It was intentional that we honor Mr. Compton on the evening that we are honoring exemplary public servants,” said Karen Freeman-Wilson, President & CEO of the Chicago Urban League. “This event is important to the Chicago Urban League because it allows us to recognize the elected officials and appointed officials who serve with great distinction.”