This year, Dr. Helen Y. West will be recognized as one of the Most Distinguished Women of Illinois 2025 by Continuing Academic Training (CAT) Children and Youth Services, Inc., a Chicago based non-profit. For Dr. West, the award is both humbling and deeply personal.
“I am among an elite group of women being honored,” she said.
Dr. West currently serves as Grants Manager at Olive-Harvey College where she helps provide vital support for students who might otherwise be unable to pursue their dreams. Through Career Grow Chicago, in partnership with the City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services, she helps remove barriers that stand in the way of success—covering tuition, books, transportation, and even childcare or eldercare for students balancing education with family responsibilities. Prior, she worked in Olive-Harvey’s STEM Center for Teaching and Learning and spent 21 years in the corporate world.
Her belief in access and exposure as keys to opportunity has shaped her proudest moments. Years ago, she accompanied Olive-Harvey students to the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students in San Antonio, Texas. There, students were introduced to research opportunities and mentors from across the nation. Today, one is completing a medical residency, and another is pursuing a doctorate in the sciences.
Dr. West’s work also reaches the West Side of Chicago where she grew up. She volunteered her time and expertise to
co-author a successful grant for the Austin People’s Action Center’s Phillip Jackson Freedom School. This grant secured state funding to enrich the lives of young people on the West Side.
“Too often, the West Side is overlooked,” she said. “I’m proud to give back to the community that raised me.”
From chasing after her sisters on their way to school as a little girl, to guiding students into life-changing opportunities, Dr. Helen Y. West has always believed in the transformative power of education. Congratulations Dr. West on being honored as one of Illinois’ Most Distinguished Women of 2025!