Nominations Open NOW for 2026 Scheketa Hart-Burns Award in Aurora

URGENT UPDATE: The city of Aurora is calling for nominations NOW for the prestigious 2026 Scheketa Hart-Burns Leader of the Year Award. Nominations are open to the public and will be accepted until Friday, December 5, 2025. This award honors outstanding service and unwavering commitment to advancing Aurora’s Black community.

Individuals who exemplify Black excellence and make significant contributions to the lives of Aurora residents are encouraged to be nominated at www.tinyurl.com/2026Leader. The award is named in memory of the late Ald. Scheketa Hart-Burns, the first Black member of the Aurora City Council, who served for an impressive 31 years until her passing in 2021.

This year’s award holds special significance as December 1 would have marked Hart-Burns’ 71st birthday, a poignant reminder of her trailblazing legacy in civic leadership, equity, and community empowerment.

The recipient of this year’s award will be formally recognized during the 20th annual African American Heritage Dinner on February 27, 2026, where community members will gather to celebrate the achievements and contributions of individuals dedicated to improving the fabric of Aurora.

Don’t miss this opportunity to honor those who continue Hart-Burns’ mission of uplifting the community. Visit www.tinyurl.com/2026Leader to submit your nominations today! Share this urgent news to ensure that deserving individuals receive the recognition they deserve.