The city of Aurora’s African American Heritage Advisory Board is accepting nominations through Friday for the 2026 Scheketa Hart-Burns Leader of the Year Award, which recognizes outstanding service and commitment to the advancement of Aurora’s Black community.
Nominations are open to the public and will be accepted through Friday, Dec. 5, at: www.tinyurl.com/2026Leader.
The award is presented annually to an individual who exemplifies Black excellence, serves with distinction and demonstrates a dedication to improving the lives of Aurora residents, according to a press release about the award.
The award is named in honor of the late Ald. Scheketa Hart-Burns, 7th Ward, the first Black member of the Aurora City Council, who served for 31 years until her death two years ago.
She was a trailblazer for civic leadership, equity and community empowerment, the release said. Monday, Dec. 1, would have been her 71st birthday.
The person selected to become the 20th recipient of the Leader of the Year Award will be formally recognized during the 20th annual African American Heritage Dinner in Aurora on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, according to the release.