Jesse White Honored with Downtown Chicago Building Renaming in Tribute to His Lifelong Service
A Living Legacy Stands Tall in the Heart of Chicago
In a heartfelt ceremony filled with admiration and pride, a prominent state-owned building in downtown Chicago has been renamed to honor one of Illinois’ most beloved and longest-serving public officials — Jesse White, the former Illinois Secretary of State. The renaming marks a rare tribute bestowed upon a living individual and serves as a powerful symbol of the positive impact one person can have on generations.
A Monument to Integrity and Service
Located at 115 South LaSalle Street, the newly named Jesse White State of Illinois Building will now carry the name of a man who redefined public service through decades of unwavering commitment. The renaming ceremony brought together state leaders, community members, and family to reflect on White’s extraordinary journey and celebrate his 91st birthday, which he recently marked with the same humility that has defined his career.
Illinois Governor and legislative leaders unanimously supported this tribute, making it official after votes passed both the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate without opposition.
A Trailblazer in Public Office
Jesse White’s public service story is one for the history books. Born in Alton, Illinois, and raised in Chicago’s Near North Side, White holds the distinction of being Illinois’ first African American Secretary of State and the longest-serving one in the state’s history, holding office from 1999 to 2023.
Over the years, he became known not only for his leadership but also for his commitment to transparency, fairness, and integrity in government. During a period when Illinois faced multiple political challenges, White emerged as a voice of ethical governance, winning public trust across party lines.
His efforts included improving customer service, enhancing traffic safety laws, and pioneering organ donation awareness — all while setting a standard for responsiveness in public office.
More Than a Politician – A Champion for Youth and Community
Beyond his time in elected office, Jesse White has devoted his life to uplifting Chicago’s youth and communities. In 1959, he founded the Jesse White Tumblers, a world-renowned gymnastics team created to provide positive alternatives for inner-city children, particularly African American youth. The team became a cultural and athletic symbol of hope, discipline, and opportunity, performing across the globe.
White also served as a school teacher, a Cook County Recorder of Deeds, and a state legislator, proving that public service extended beyond titles. He is also a former minor league baseball player for the Chicago Cubs and a U.S. Army paratrooper, showcasing a life filled with purpose across multiple spheres.
A Rare Honor While Still Living
What makes this recognition all the more significant is its timing. Too often, great public servants are honored posthumously. Jesse White’s supporters insisted on ensuring he received this recognition while he is still here to witness the love and gratitude of the people he served.
“I never imagined that a building in downtown Chicago would carry my name,” White said with visible emotion. “It’s an honor beyond description. I only hope this inspires future generations to serve with dignity and excellence.”
His legacy already includes an elementary school named after him in Hazel Crest, a street sign near his childhood home, and now this central building that houses nearly 2,300 state employees, including those from the offices of the Secretary of State and Attorney General.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias praised White’s humanity and example, calling him “what it means to be a very, very good human being.” Jesse White’s daughter, Glenna White Jones, echoed those sentiments, stating, “He’s touched more lives than people realize — not just as a leader, but as a mentor and father figure to many.”
White continues to work with the Jesse White Tumblers and supports various community initiatives. Even in retirement, his focus remains unchanged: making the world better, one life at a time.
A Legacy That Will Endure
The Jesse White State of Illinois Building now stands not only as a place of work for thousands of state employees but also as a permanent reminder of what dedicated public service looks like. From the classrooms of Chicago to the halls of Springfield, and from the baseball diamond to international gymnastics arenas, Jesse White has proven that leadership rooted in service, humility, and compassion can change lives.
As Chicagoans walk past 115 South LaSalle Street, they’ll now see more than just a name etched in stone — they’ll see the legacy of a man who helped build a better Illinois.