The Downers Grove Village Council met on Tuesday evening, Oct. 21, to honor community volunteer Lisa Rasin and recognize the role of pharmacists in public health. Lisa and the pharmacists were acknowledged together as examples of generous service that strengthen the Downers Grove community.
Mayor Robert T. Barnett opened the meeting by reading a proclamation, awarding Rasin as recipient of the Montrew Dunham Award, presented annually by the Downers Grove Historical Society. She was recognized for more than four decades of volunteer leadership and dedication to organizations throughout the village.
Rasin has given her time to many local organizations including Chamber 630, the YMCA, the Downers Grove Fish Pantry, and the Rotary Club, where she helped organize the annual Rotary Grove Fest. She has driven countless fundraisers, charity events and community initiatives.
“Lisa Rasin truly exemplifies community spirit, the power of giving back and the energy of leading by example,” Barnett said. “She has left a lasting impact on the village of Downers Grove.”
Barnett declared Oct. 19–25, 2025, as Lisa Rasin Week in the village. The recognition drew applause from attendees as Rasin received the award.
The council also proclaimed October 2025 as American Pharmacist Month, highlighting the profession’s growing role in public health care. Representatives and students from Midwestern University’s College of Pharmacy accepted the proclamation.
“Pharmacists are among the most accessible health care providers we have,” Barnett said. “They play a crucial role in informing, supporting and comforting patients.”
Cindy Quach, president of the university’s chapter of the American Pharmacists Association, thanked the council for the recognition.
What used to be a profession focused mainly on filling prescriptions has grown into something much bigger,” Quach said. “Today, pharmacists are giving vaccines, helping manage chronic conditions and answering patients’ tough questions about medications. This proclamation shines a light on the work pharmacists do every day; it’s an honor to celebrate this month with you.”
Barnett encouraged residents to learn more about Midwestern University, describing it as a “Downers Grove gem” and praising its contributions to the health care industry. The council adjourned shortly after 9 p.m. The next Village Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025.
