Each year, the Mount Prospect Special Events Commission honors individuals and organizations that have a positive impact on the community by recognizing them with a Shining Star Award. The Shining Star Awards are presented on the basis of nomination by community leaders, business owners, community members and residents. The categories cover a wide range of interest areas and are designed especially to seek out individuals whose actions often go unnoticed. Nominees do not need to live in Mount Prospect, but they need to have a role in improving the quality of life in Mount Prospect (they work in Mount Prospect, they volunteer in Mount Prospect, etc.).

Judging Process: The winners are selected by the Mount Prospect Special Events Commission from nominations submitted by the public. Winners are chosen based solely on the information provided in the nomination. An ideal nomination includes specific details, multiple paragraphs, numerous strong examples, and even photos or other attachments. Judges also look at the number of nominations received per person, though this is not a deciding factor. If your nominee was not selected, you may resubmit a nomination form the next year or any other year in the future. Winning a Shining Star Award in the past disqualifies you from winning again, with the exception of the esteemed "Living Legend Award."

2025 Year

Best Educator Award | Karolyn Marabotti

Mrs. Marabotti, a teacher at St. Emily School, is described as a kindhearted, empathetic, and strong person. Every school day she greets her students with a welcoming smile and makes each and every one of them feel important. She makes sure that everyone has what they need to succeed, takes meaningful time to help students, and finds ways to make learning fun. Mrs. Marabotti tutors after school, runs religious classes at night, and runs Pep Club in the early morning. She goes above and beyond to make sure her students excel in learning and leadership skills but also confidence, social skills, and being a good person in life. As stated by Mrs. Marabotti's nominator, a 7th grade student of hers, "I want to be a teacher like her and show kids what school can really be; fun, exciting, and growing without struggling."

Best Neighbor Award | Bob and Alison Burdick

Bob and Alison are always looking out for their neighbors. For many years, Alison has maintained a list with everyone's names, phone numbers, emails, and birthdays, and she warmly welcomes each new family to the block—of course adding them to the list. At their annual block party, Alison never fails to create jars full of goodies, and Bob wheels his grill to the curb and happily plays short-order cook. Bob is the eyes and ears of the block, going out of his way to keep the block connected and informed. Throughout infrastructure projects, Bob takes it upon himself to communicate with crews and emails frequent updates to neighbors. Both Bob and Alison are animal lovers and often volunteer to walk neighbors’ dogs when they are on vacation. They check on neighbors who may need an extra hand, help shovel snow in the winter, lend tools for projects, and take time to ask how others are doing. Last spring, Bob and Alison helped an elderly neighbor by planting new bushes in her backyard. Bob and Alison are always ready with a smile and friendly conversation. The Burdicks embody everything one can hope for in a neighbor— helpful, dependable, thoughtful, and committed to making our community better.

Community Partner Award | Mike, Eric, Omar, and Sammy - Pure Elite Fitness

The staff at Pure Elite Fitness truly care about the people in their community. They work tirelessly to help people of all ages get to a heathier self, more confident self through exercise, nutrition, support, and love. Members will quickly realize that this gym is more than just a regular gym. The coaches really listen to you spend time getting to know you. They keep you on track and encourage you to reach your goals. They celebrate with you on every achievement. Team members Mike, Eric, Omar, and Sammy are knowledgeable and passionate about heath and fitness. They help people recover from injuries through movement, help young kids train for different sports, and help anyone who is looking to lose weight, gain strength, or just lead a healthier lifestyle. At Pure Elite Fitness, they check in with their members when needed for that one-on-one support and encouragement that you sometimes need to keep pushing forward.

Exceptional Youth Award | John Ciok

Currently a junior at Prospect High School, John Ciok is an exemplary young leader with a bright future ahead of him. Earlier this year, John helped lead a team to raise money and awareness for Blood Cancer United (formally The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Illinois). He and his team met with businesses, legislators, and activists—as well as sent out hundreds of emails, letters, and texts to spread the word. They also participated in multiple service projects, including co-hosting a blood drive with 28 donations. Over the course of 7 weeks, his team raised $69,359 and won the Advocacy Mission Pillar Award. On top of all this, three years ago John started pursuing the prestigious gold Congressional Award, which requires earning 400 volunteer hours, 200 personal development hours, and 200 physical fitness hours. All of these achievements are on top of John's involvement at school and in the local community. He is involved in the DECA, Congressional Debate, Academic Bowl, ASB and Service Club at Prospect High School, and has served in local and statewide positions with the Children of the American Revolution. As stated by one of his nominators, "We need more John Cioks in the world."

Inclusivity Award | Frank Mirandola

Frank has been the Associate Principal of Activities and Operations at Prospect High School since 2016 and taught as a social studies teacher there since 2002. He works diligently and with compassion, providing ample opportunities for Every Knight to be successful in and out of the classroom. His ability to connect with students and families goes far beyond his role as an associate principal. In 2016, Frank created the first Prospect Gives Back day of service. This event brings Every Knight together to go out into the Mount Prospect community and provide service. Throughout the past ten years, it is estimated that 10,000 hours of service have been completed! In 2021, Frank made an initiative to truly include Every Knight. Through his mentorship, students have formed various multicultural groups including but not limited to Latinos Unidos, Eastern European Club, Asian Student Association, Black Student Union, and South Asian Student Association. Frank initiated the first Multicultural Fair in 2022. Almost 2,000 students pass through the fair in one day and leave with a deeper understanding of their peers. Frank’s vision to create a school environment that thrives on inclusivity, respect, and understanding continues to grow stronger each year.

Open Arms Award | Lemons of Love

Founded in 2014, Lemons of Love began as a way to turn life’s lemons into lemonade. Through chemo care packages, free programming, and unwavering support, Lemons of Love fulfills their mission to share love with anyone impacted by cancer. They are a beacon of hope to many during their time of uncertainty. Founder Jill Swanson started this organization because she was affected by cancer. Her inspiration is admirable as she continues to help all others affected by this disease. Julie Kapustka, Community Outreach Director (affectionately known as the "Cruise Director"),  makes it her mission each day to greet everyone with warmth, positivity, and a contagious energy that brightens the room. Julie also spearheads the Pink Lemonade 5K each year, an event that has grown exponentially under her leadership, raising funds so they can continue providing support to those touched by cancer. As a team, Lemons of Love demonstrates a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others beyond their core mission. Their contributions—whether through volunteerism, financial support, partnerships, or resources—create meaningful change that strengthens the community as a whole. By prioritizing people and well-being, they inspire others to act, foster a culture of compassion, and build lasting connections that make the community stronger, more resilient, and more united.

Public Service Award | Jill Friedrichs

Jill served for 28 years on the Mount Prospect Special Events Commission, holds leadership roles with the Mount Prospect Lions Club, and participates on the board of the Mount Prospect Historical Society. Her leadership and organizational skills have greatly benefited local projects and the community as a whole. She is a natural collaborator who brings people together through various ongoing initiatives like the annual tree lighting ceremony, 4th of July carnival, Public Works Open House, and the annual corned beef and cabbage dinner, to name a few. Her cheerful outlook and willingness to go above and beyond set a shining example for others. Jill's impact extends far beyond the Lions Club. Her involvement with the Mount Prospect Infant Welfare Chapter and the Mount Prospect Historical Society Housewalk has touched the lives of countless residents and fostered a sense of unity and belonging throughout the community. Her commitment to making Mount Prospect a better place is evident in all that she does. Whether volunteering at local events, supporting neighbors in need, or leading community initiatives, Jill approaches every task with remarkable energy and selflessness. She embodies the spirit of Mount Prospect, and her service quietly but powerfully strengthens our Village every day.

Star Spangled Banner Award | Ron Vlcek

Ron spent 4 years in the United States Air Force. His natural abilities with engineering and mechanical things led to his Air Force training as an airplane mechanic. Ron continued his patriotism and service by becoming the Adjutant of the Mount Prospect American Legion post. Ron spends hundreds of hours annually recruiting local veterans to join or renew membership in the American Legion post via phone calls and letters every year. He is devoted to keeping Post 525 at or near 100% membership annually, thereby causing the post to be nationally recognized. Ron contacts all Mount Prospect grammar schools to work with them to arrange veteran visits during the Veterans Day period. As part of the annual Adopt-a-Sailor Thanksgiving Day program, which is planned by Dennis and Marcie Kane, 40+ sailors assigned at Great Lakes can enjoy a day of great food and relaxation away from “boot camp” and visit with Mount Prospect veterans, of which Ron participates and spends his day. At precisely 1500 hours locally on Memorial Day each year, Ron has stepped up to be the Mount Prospect representative supporting the TAPS Across America program where musicians of all ages, abilities, and instruments unite in a moving nationwide performance of TAPS. A few years ago, Ron came up with the idea of the Veteran Banner Program. Since its inception, hundreds of our Mount Prospect veterans have been honored with their pictures on large banners adorning the streets each year. Ron is a gentleman, a devoted patriot, and a true example for our children to emulate. He is also a great friend.

Unsung Hero Award | Mike Mokate and Maura Reschke - St. Mark's PADS Shelter

For the past eight years, Maura Reschke of St. Raymond Parish and Mike Mokate of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church have led one of Mount Prospect’s most compassionate ministries: the PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) program at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Center. This program has been a life saver for countless individuals and families with insecure housing. Maura and Mike worked side by side to ensure guests were welcomed with warmth and respect. Each week, they offered those in need a safe place to sleep and a table around which to share meals. This interdenominational dynamo of Mike Mokate and Maura Reschke have been quietly sheltering the unhoused in Mount Prospect for over eight years. Together, they built more than a shelter—they built a community. Their work was never about recognition; it was about restoring dignity, offering hope, and living out the values of compassion and service. With the PADS program now concluding at St. Mark’s, this is the moment to honor their extraordinary legacy. Maura and Mike are the very definition of Unsung Heroes.

2024 Year

Best Neighbor Award | Rachel Leiner & Manolo Rider

Community Partner Award |  Bill Knee, The Knee Law Firm

Exceptional Youth Award | Brock Wrede

Inclusivity Award | Michael Folkers

Open Arms Award | Grace Lutheran Church Garden Club

Public Service Award | Phyllis Cigrang

Star Spangled Banner Award | Casey Bachara

Unsung Hero Award | Caryn Davidson

2023 Year

Best Neighbor Award | John Ward

Community Partner Award | Claudia Boyle, Van Driels Medical Support Wear

Inclusivity Award | Bob and Donna Alexander

Open Arms Award | Prospect Moose Lodge 660

Public Service Award | Officer Greg Sill 

Star Spangled Banner Award | Jim Parker

Unsung Hero Award | Jill Johnson, Mount Prospect Junior Women’s Club President

2022 Year

Best Neighbor Award | Ray & Ginny Wilke

 

 Living Legend Award | Linda Hoefert

 

 There Ought to Be More Like This Award | Cameron Smith

 

 Star Spangled Banner Award | Ron Willer

2021 Year

Best Neighbor Award |Zeno Lenczuk

Open Arms Award | Village of Mount Prospect Human Services

There Ought to Be More Like This Award | John Junius, Jr.

Invigorated Youth Award | Robyn McCluskey

Star Spangled Banner Award | Chuck Ohrn

Living Legend Award | Carol Tortorello

Rising Star Award | Kelly Robinson

Unsung Hero Award | John Koziol

2020 Year

Best Neighbor Award | Tom and Nancy Bussan

Open Arms Award | Mount Prospect Junior Women’s Club

Home Town Award | Joey Carbone

There Ought to Be More Like This Award | Nick Acerenza

Invigorated Youth Award | Sam Cannizzaro

Star Spangled Banner Award | Joe Scanlon

Community Partner Award | Nicholas & Associates, INC

 2019 Year

Home Town Award | 56 Music Fix - Chris Bozonelos, Dave Olson, Kelley McCarron

Best Neighbor Award | Tom Hellstern

Community Partner Award | Nothing Bundy Cakes - Cindy Adams

Champion for Youth Award | Sandy Levy, Social Worker at River Trails School District 26

Open Arms Award | Bridget Anderson, Teacher at Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization

Star Spangled Banner Award | Les Durov

Beautify Mount Prospect Award | Carol Ohrn

Unsung Hero Award | Mount Prospect Public Works Department

2018 Year

Stand & Deliver Award | Laura Kushner-Gammons, Principal at Euclid School

Champion for Youth Award |Sarah Hogan, Assistant Principal at Euclid School

Unsung Hero Award | Mike Zarnek

Open Arms Award | Pastor Bo Graham, St. Paul Lutheran Church 

There Ought to Be More Like This Award | Erin Robinson, Found of Made by Mary

Home Town Award | Jacob Tagge, USPS Mail Carrier

Star Spangled Banner Award | Loren Helwink

Beautify Mount Prospect Award | Sherry Grobe, Monarch's Facebook Group

Community Partner Award | Robert Bosch Tools

Invigorated Youth Award | Vito Vitale, Boy Scout Leader

2017 Year

In 2017 the "Village of Mount Prospect" was the Shining Star, as we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Village's incorporation.

2016 Year

Stand & Deliver Award | Jeri Oroni

Best Business Partner Award | B & E Accounting & Tax CPA P.C., Richard Sassan

Good-Better-Best Neighbor Award | Don Bender

Living Legend Award | Former Mayor and State Representative Carolyn Krause

Champion for Youth Award | Tom Ciesielski

Unsung Hero Award | Pastor Shannon Martinez

Open Arms Award | Amanda Santoro

There Ought to Be More Like This Award | Ken & Bertha Monahan

Youth Service Award | Joseph Sonnefeldt

2015 Year

Stand & Deliver Award | Karen Gubbins

Best Business Partner Award | StayFit PT, Diana Sahakian

Good-Better-Best Neighbor Award | Bob and Louise Kubycheck

Champion for Youth Award | Jeremy Morton

Open Arms Award | Jeanne Foster

There Ought to Be More Like This Award | Janice Farley

Home Town Award | Russ Bechtold

Rising Star Award | Nolan Hahn

Volunteers' Volunteer Award | Jack and Eloise De Carlo

Star Spangled Banner Award | John "Dutch" DeGroot

2014 Year

Stand & Deliver Award | Keir Rogers

Best Business Partner Award | American Chartered Bank, Susan Dozier

Good-Better-Best Neighbor Award | Ken Gordon

Living Legend Award | former Mayor Gerald "Skip" Farley

Champion for Youth Award | John Camardella

Unsung Hero Award | Clare Toffenetti and Mary Welk

There Ought to Be More Like This Award | Jeff Prostko

Home Town Award | Joe Pentz

Rising Star Award | Alexandra Wilson

Volunteers' Volunteer Award | Paula St. Louis and Tom Shute

Star Spangled  Banner Award | Jerry Clauser

Toast of the Town Award | Mount Prospect Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)