Chicago Construction News staff wri
Landmarks Illinois will host the annual Preservation Forward fundraiser and awards ceremony on March 6 at The Old Post Office in Chicago. This year’s honorees include:
- Chicago Women in Trades, a nonprofit organization empowering women through skilled trades training.

- Chris Enck, an architect and preservationist known for integrating innovation with historic architecture.
- Elizabeth & Ethan Finkelstein, founders of Cheap Old Houses, an initiative that promotes the restoration of historic homes and makes homeownership attainable.
“We are thrilled to honor these remarkable individuals and organizations whose dedication to historic preservation is shaping the future of the field,” said Bonnie McDonald, President and CEO of Landmarks Illinois. “From advancing diversity in the trades to inspiring people to restore and cherish old homes, this year’s honorees are leading the way in ensuring our historic places remain relevant and valuable for generations to come.”
The event, which is expected to draw nearly 800 professionals from the design, real estate, building, and community development industries, will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at The Old Post Office, the largest adaptive reuse project in the U.S. This stunning former government building, once at risk of demolition, now serves as an extraordinary office space and event venue, showcasing the power of historic preservation.
In addition to honoring the 2025 Influencers, the evening will feature a cocktail reception, a main program, a paddle raise to support Landmarks Illinois’ preservation efforts, and an after-party. Raffle tickets for unique prizes and experiences will also be available, with winners announced at the event.
Proceeds from Preservation Forward support Landmarks Illinois’ mission to save historic places across the state through advocacy, resources, and financial assistance. The event raises nearly half of the organization’s annual budget, which fuels its critical work in historic preservation.
Tickets for the full event and after-party are now on sale, with nonprofit and student rates available. Visit Landmarks.org/events/preservation-forward for more details and to purchase tickets or sponsorships. The Old Post Office is located at 433 W. Van Buren St. in Chicago’s Loop.
Landmarks Illinois is a nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation. By providing resources, expertise, and advocacy, the organization works to protect and preserve Illinois’ architectural and cultural heritage. For more information, visit Landmarks.org.
More Woke garbage! And Chicago continues its decline on the World Stage and on the graph of importance!