Last week, the State of Illinois hosted a moving ceremony to officially rename 115 S. LaSalle the Jesse White State of Illinois Building. The event brought together Governor JB Pritzker, State Senator Willie Preston, Representative Gary Benton, and a crowd of civic leaders and community members to celebrate a man whose life has been defined by purpose, leadership, and public service.
Jesse White’s story is one of resilience and impact. After college, he signed with the Chicago Cubs, but just days before spring training, he was drafted into the Army and served with the 101st Airborne Division. He later returned to the Cubs’ farm system, batting an impressive .291. In 1959, he founded the Jesse White Tumblers, a youth gymnastics team that has provided mentorship and structure to more than 18,500 young people.
He spent over three decades in education as a teacher and administrator before making history in 1999 as Illinois’ first African American Secretary of State. Over his 24-year tenure, the longest in state history, he modernized driver services, introduced new technology, improved customer service, and championed organ and tissue donation, launching the state's first legally binding donor registry.
The renaming of 115 S. LaSalle is more than symbolic. It is a tribute to a life dedicated to uplifting others. As the new hub for state operations, this building will serve the people of Illinois every day. And now, with Jesse White’s name on its front, it stands as a lasting reminder of the values he’s embodied throughout his career.
We are proud to have played a major role in preparing this building for its next chapter. Our team led several key enhancements:
Installation of exterior signage with bold stainless steel lettering displaying Jesse White State of Illinois Building
Reconstruction of the main entrance, including new stainless steel, ADA compliant auto operated vestibule doors
Full modernization of the elevator systems, delivering ADA compliant cabs and controls throughout all 37 floors
Preparation for a custom tribute mural celebrating Illinois culture and Jesse White’s lifelong impact on youth and community
We are honored to have contributed to the transformation of this historic structure into a space that reflects the spirit of service and progress. A building that now carries not just a name, but a legacy. As Jesse White often says, and as this building will now remind all who walk through its doors:
Do something good for someone every day.
Click below to watch the full ceremony from ABC 7 News Chicago.
