Chicago State Foundation

This Women’s History Month, we honor the life and legacy of the late alumna Karen Yarbrough, a trailblazing leader whose impact on Chicago and Illinois politics will never be forgotten.

Karen Yarbrough devoted decades to public service, breaking barriers and uplifting communities through her leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to equity. From the Chicago City Council to the Illinois General Assembly, and ultimately as Cook County Clerk from 2018 until her passing in 2024, she led with strength, compassion, and purpose. Today, we honor her contributions and celebrate a woman who truly helped shape the political landscape of Illinois.

This week in Women’s History Month, we celebrate women in STEM. Alumna Jacqueline Stevens is a dedicated chemist, scientist and mentor who is helping shape the next generation of STEM leaders.

Driven by a passion for learning and giving back, Jacqueline joined CSU as a Laboratory Coordinator for the NSF QuBBE program and in 2024 was promoted to Program Coordinator. In this role, she helps guide the planning, management, and implementation of QuBBE initiatives while ensuring the program continues to expand opportunities for students in emerging STEM fields.

Through the QuBBE Quantum Sensing Summer Program, Jacqueline helps introduce students to innovative areas of science they may have never encountered before—opening doors to discovery, confidence, and future careers in STEM.

Her commitment to education, mentorship, and scientific advancement embodies the spirit of Women’s History Month—lifting as she climbs and inspiring the scientists of tomorrow.