Two decades ago, Chicago decided to start a tradition: At the end of each year, the magazine would honor a few people “who’ve taken it upon themselves to make the city a better place.” Since then, a total of 150 Chicagoans of the Year have been selected. Some are familiar faces (Oprah, class of 1994!), and others have worked behind the scenes, but all have accomplished incredible things. This year’s honorees are no different. They include a decorated Latino activist, an unconventional doctor who wants to build a medical ark in central Africa, a literary “genius,” a tough-as-nails nun who scares even Rahm, and an amazing team of Little Leaguers. On December 11, Chicago will celebrate this group’s achievements with a luncheon (see here for details) at the Ritz-Carlton, sponsored in part by Carson’s. So here’s to all of the Chicagoans of the Year of the past 20 years—and to all of you who care deeply about our city.

The Jackie Robinson West Little League Baseball Team

The Jackie Robinson West Baseball Team

Little League National Champions

Juan Andrade

Juan Andrade

President, United States Hispanic Leadership Institute

Rosemary Connelly

Sister Rosemary Connelly

Executive director, Misericordia

Stuart Dybek

Stuart Dybek

Author and poet

Amy Lehman

Amy Lehman

Founder and CEO, Lake Tanganyika Floating Health Clinic