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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION HONORING EMILIA DIMENCO FOR HER DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP
WHEREAS, Emilia DiMenco has served with distinction as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC), one of the oldest, largest, and most impactful women’s business assistance centers in the United States; and;
WHEREAS, under Ms. DiMenco’s visionary leadership, the WBDC has expanded its reach and deepened its impact, providing critical support to women-owned, minority-owned, and other underserved businesses through entrepreneurship training, financial education, procurement opportunities, and access to capital; and
WHEREAS, Ms. DiMenco was instrumental in forging a powerful partnership between the WBDC and Cook County to create the Cook County Small Business Source, an initiative that has supported thousands of small businesses across the County, particularly those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing business advising services, grants, and long-term resources to ensure their growth and sustainability; and
WHEREAS, through the Small Business Source, Cook County has centered equity in its small business program and ensures that resources are distributed fairly and effectively across the County -a testament to Ms. DiMenco’s commitment to inclusive economic development; and
WHEREAS, Emilia DiMenco has also served as a dedicated and valued member of the Cook County Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC), where her insights and experience have contributed to the betterment of Cook County programs and policy; and
WHEREAS, her tenure has been marked by a tireless dedication to advancing women and minority owned businesses, strengthening public-private partnerships, and fostering a resilient, inclusive economy throughout Cook County and beyond; and
WHEREAS, Emilia DiMenco is now stepping down from her role as President of the Women’s Business Development Center, leaving behind a legacy of impact, empowerment, and institutional strength that will continue to benefit generations of small business owners; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby do what you are suggesting or endorsing with this resolution; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by President Preckwinkle and the Cook County Board of Commissioners that Emilia DiMenco and hereby recognize and honor for Emilia for her exemplary leadership, her partnership with Cook County, and her steadfast commitment to economic equity and opportunity; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be presented to Emilia DiMenco as a token of the County’s gratitude and in recognition of her outstanding service to Cook County and its residents.
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