The City of Highland Park announced on Apr. 10 the recipients of its 2026 Highland Park Awards, which honor individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community. The awards will be presented at a ceremony scheduled for April 23 at Highland Park High School.
The annual awards recognize achievements in arts, environmental stewardship, humanitarian efforts, character, and photography. Community members are invited to attend the event to celebrate those who have made a positive impact in various fields.
Secret World Books received the Arts Award for its engagement with the local arts scene since opening in 2023. Owners Gayle and Michael Brandeis were recognized for hosting events, partnering with other businesses, welcoming visiting writers, and supporting literary arts in Highland Park.
Heather and Colin Cosgrove were named Environmental Award recipients for their volunteer work maintaining Red Oak Elementary School’s vegetable garden. Their efforts provided over 100 pounds of fresh produce to neighbors through the Moraine Township Food Pantry.
Louis Greenwald was honored with the Humanitarian Award for his lifelong support of education as a founding member of the District 112 Education Foundation. Greenwald led campaigns to enhance educational opportunities and supported teacher grants while volunteering on programs that promote student growth and safety.
Character Counts Pillar Awards were given to community members exemplifying trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, or citizenship. Among this year’s honorees are Brianna Aragon (Trustworthiness), Alice Banerji (Respect), Eleanor Berman (Caring), Meher Chodha (Responsibility), Lucas Hoobler (Citizenship), Dr. Michael Lubelfeld (Citizenship), among others.
Winners of the Capture the Heart of Highland Park Photography Contest include Robert Limoges (“The Ultimate Cold Wave at Millard Beach”), Brad Slater (“Dusk-Fog”), David Kopka (“Ice Wave at the Highland Park Boat Launch”), Lynn West (“Sushi Sensation”), Steve Schaumberger (“Autumn in Fort Sheridan”) as Community Favorite, and Lucas Hoobler as inaugural student winner with “Homecoming.” Honorable mentions were also selected by category.
Additionally, several local businesses will be recognized for milestone anniversaries: HP Community Early Learning Center celebrates its 75th year; Pasquesi Plumbing; Pasquesi & Son; Ruben & John Auto Body Repair Inc.; and Dahlmann Properties Co., each mark their 50th year.
