The Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry is proud to announce that retiring Elmhurst City Manager Jim Grabowski has been selected as the 2026 Good Works Award recipient. The award will be presented during ECCI’s 78th Annual Networking on the 9s Golf Outing on Friday, September 18, at Sugar Creek Golf Course in Villa Park.
Presented annually since 2000 at the Chamber’s signature golf outing, the Good Works Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and lasting contributions have strengthened the Elmhurst community. The award honors the memory of former Chamber President A.J. “Toche” Terrones, who led the Chamber for nearly a decade before his passing.
Grabowski joined the City of Elmhurst in July 2011, becoming only the third City Manager in the City’s history since 1953. Throughout his career, Grabowski has played a pivotal role in shaping Elmhurst’s continued success. Since becoming city manager he has guided the city through a period of strategic growth, financial stability and major community investments while building strong partnerships among residents, businesses, elected officials and community organizations across DuPage County.
Grabowski has served as an ex-officio member of the ECCI Board of Directors. Throughout his tenure, he has been a trusted advocate for the Chamber and a strong supporter of its mission, regularly participating in Chamber programs and events.
“Jim has always been someone the Chamber can count on. Whether serving on our Board, supporting Chamber events, or participating in the annual Golf Outing, he leads by example. As an avid golfer, it’s especially fitting that we recognize him at one of our signature events. Jim has built lasting relationships throughout the business community and has always valued bringing together business leaders, City leadership, and elected officials to strengthen our Chamber and our community.
We’re proud to recognize his many years of service and are honored to present him with the 2026 Good Works Award.”
The Chamber’s annual Networking on the 9s Golf Outing brings together business leaders, community partners, elected officials, and local organizations for a day of networking, camaraderie, and celebration. The presentation of the Good Works Award remains one of the event’s most meaningful traditions, recognizing individuals whose dedication extends beyond professional achievement to positively impact the broader Elmhurst community.
Past Good Works Award recipients include Kevin Kost (2025) of Edward Jones Investments, Eva Sanchez (2024) of See Your House Right Here, the late Gregg Markiewicz (2023) of The Stevens Group, Cathy Bajkowski (2022 and 2011) of CB Health Insurance, the Elmhurst Park District (2021), Elmhurst University (2020), Elmhurst Jaycees (2019), President Dan Roesch and Partner/General Manager Paul Koch (2018) of Larry Roesch Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM, Senior Vice President Ken Bartels (2017) of Community Bank of Elmhurst, the late Dare Messina (2016) of L.W. Reedy Real Estate, Pete DiCianni (2015) of DiCianni Graphics, William “Bill” Gooch Jr. (2014), Scott Levin (2013), Barb Savage (2012), Julie Miller (2010), Ralph Pechanio (2009), Frank Vitelli (2008), Paul DeMichele (2007), Jerry Sletten (2006), Frank Catalano Jr. and Debra Klosterman (2005), Howard Schreiber (2004), John Wartinbee (2003), Mayor Thomas D. Marcucci (2002), Betsy Hanisch (2001), and Tom Coffey (2000).
Established in 1918, the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry is a voluntary organization of business and professional leaders dedicated to promoting the civic and commercial progress of the community. The Chamber serves its more than 400 member businesses through networking opportunities, business education, advocacy, marketing, and programs that strengthen Elmhurst’s business community.