RVC Alumnus Named 2025 Citizen of the Year

RVC Alumnus Named 2025 Citizen of the Year

• Alumni
• 09/16/2025

At the annual Greater Rockford Chamber dinner on August 14, Rock Valley College Distinguished Alumnus Jim Pirages was honored with the 2025 Citizen of the Year Award, a recognition reserved for those whose "legacy of service and lifetime of impact" have left an indelible mark on the Rockford Region.

The award celebrates individuals whose long-term leadership, vision, and selfless contributions have helped make Rockford a better place to live and work. For Jim, the honor reflects more than four decades of professional excellence, community service, and an unwavering commitment to his hometown.

A Rockford native, Jim's journey began at Rockford West High School before he continued his education at Rock Valley College, Rockford College, and ultimately Southern Illinois University Law School. After earning his law degree, he returned home and built a 45-year career in labor and employment law, representing employers throughout northern Illinois and beyond. In his practice, Jim has guided countless HR professionals, business leaders, and nonprofit executives through complex workplace issues always with integrity and fairness at the forefront.

Jim's dedication extends far beyond his profession. A proud RVC alumnus and a member of the RVC Alumni Hall of Fame since 2005, he has served on the RVC Foundation Board since 2013, offering not only strategic insight but also hands-on support. Whether helping shape fundraising campaigns, reviewing bylaws, or rallying others to give back, Jim leads with a servant's heart supporting RVC with his own resources before asking others to join him.

His impact reaches across the region as well. Jim has lent his leadership to the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, and numerous other organizations dedicated to building a stronger community. Known for his humility and "roll-up-your-sleeves" approach, Jim has quietly but powerfully shaped the civic, cultural, and educational fabric of Rockford.

RVC Foundation Executive Director Brittany Freiberg describes him as "the kind of individual every community hopes for: a trusted professional, a tireless volunteer, and a devoted parent who leads by example. We are proud to call him an alumnus, a board member, a donor, and a treasured friend."

The Citizen of the Year Award is a fitting honor for Jim Pirages, whose Rockford roots run deep and whose lifelong dedication continues to make the region a better place to live and work.

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