CHICAGO – Lou Sandoval, president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, received the National Latino Education Institute’s (NLEI) Cuauhtémoc Leadership Award on Tuesday, June 24.
The award, NLEI’s highest honor, recognizes individuals who exemplify vision, integrity, and a commitment to promoting economic opportunity and empowering the Latino community. Past recipients include Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
“As the first Hispanic president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Lou has quickly established himself as a powerful advocate for inclusive economic growth and opportunity,” Elba Aranda Suh, NLEI executive director, said in a news release.
Mr. Sandoval has a history of breaking barriers. They include being the first Hispanic business leader appointed to the board of Wintrust Bank N.A. and the first Hispanic commodore of the Chicago Yacht Club.
“It is an incredible honor to receive the Cuauhtémoc Leadership Award from NLEI,” Mr. Sandoval said in the release. “This recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of the broader movement to ensure that leadership at all levels reflects the rich diversity of our communities.”
Mr. Sandoval received the award at the NLEI’s annual Fund It Forward Fundraiser at the University Club of Chicago.
