Dr. Arthur D.Griffin (1929 - 2008)- Dr. Griffin was Pastor Emeritus of the National Historic Landmark First Baptist Congregational Church of Chicago where he served as Pastor for 46 years. He served as President or Chairman for numerous organizations including: the Chicago Baptist Institute, Chicago NAACP, Westside Federation, Interfaith Organizing Project, the Chicago Conference on Religion and Race, Chicago Opportunities Industrialization Center, Illinois Baptist State Convention, Bethany Hospital, and the Midwest Community Council. A lifelong learner, Dr. Griffin earned doctorates in Music, Theology, Humanities, and Divinity. He was a Fellow in the American College of Theologians, President of the Chicago Bible Society, and his book By Your Traditions provides staunch support of women in the ministry. In the 60's, Dr. Griffin was aligned with civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Eldee Young (January 7, 1936-2007) - Young was one third of the Ramsey Lewis Trio, with whom he won two Grammy Awards. One of the best and most sought after jazz bassists, Young had an distinguished career after the Trio split up playing with fellow Lewis Trio alum, Isaac Holt, in Young-Holt Unlimited, as well as, playing with music legends Dinah Washington, Dizzy Gillespie and others.

Phyllis A. Whitney (September 9, 1903-2008) - In 1988 The Mystery Writers of America honored Whitney with their Grand Master award for lifetime achievement. A fitting tribute to Whitney who authored over 70 books during her career and was called The Queen of American Gothics by the New York Times. Whitney, who lived to be 104, had her last book published at the age of 94. Whitney also served as the Chicago Sun's children's book editor from 1942-1946.

Rev. Milton Brunson (June 8, 1929-1997) - Founder and leader of the Thompson Community Singers, a world famous gospel choir, Brunson was also an ordained minister and leader of the Christ Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago. With the Thompson Singers, Brunson would perform at Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theatre. The choir also won a Grammy in 1996 for "Through God's Eyes." Their song "There is Hope" was #1 on the gospel charts for four months. In honor of his civic leadership, Milton Brunson Elementary School opened on April 21, 1999.

Louis "Studs" Terkel (May 16, 1912 - 2008) - For many, Studs Terkel is synonymous with Chicago. His book, The Good War, won the 1985 Pulitzer for New Work. His volume and quality of work across all media, especially his popular radio program on WFMT, have made him one of Chicago's most venerated voices. Learn more at www.studsterkel.org.

Walt Disney (December 5, 1901-1966) - Founder of Walt Disney Productions, Disney Theme Parks, and the legendary force behind many of today's most beloved characters and stories. His legacy includes Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Dumbo, Cinderella, Disneyland, and Disney World. For his work, Disney received 59 Oscar nominations, 26 Oscar Awards, and 7 Emmy Awards.