Haymarket Center — Chicagoland’s largest nonprofit provider of comprehensive care for people with substance use disorders — honored President Raymond E. Crossman, Ph.D., with its Visionary Award for his trailblazing work advocating for social justice.

Dr. Crossman received the award during its annual gala, held May 4 at the Hilton Chicago. He was among a group of award recipients whom Haymarket Center recognized as champions of community health and the organization’s work. The honorees also exemplified the ideals and commitment to supporting the community laid out by the organization’s founder, Father Mac.

“The work we do every day is not possible without the support of so many individuals who are devoted to helping us achieve our mission,” said Dan Lustig, Psy.D., president and CEO of Haymarket Center. “We are incredibly grateful to the honorees and everyone who stands by our side as we deliver and expand access to care for substance use disorders.”

With the Visionary Award, the organization recognized Dr. Crossman’s leadership in transforming and growing Adler University as an institution focused on social justice. He also  placed himself at the forefront of key conversations by becoming the first university president to publicly disclose his HIV status. He published the seminal book, “LGBTQ Leadership in Higher Education,” which highlights the importance and need for diverse leaders to meet today’s challenges in higher education..

Along with Dr. Crossman, Haymarket Center honored Illinois Deputy Governor for Health and Human Services Grace Hou with the Father Mac Appreciation Award for her commitment to expanding access to public health services through policy to Illinois’ underserved population. Philanthropists Michael and Carol Bilder received this year’s Humanitarian Award for their work in providing help to those suffering both physically and mentally from substance use disorders. The Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Tonja Pastorelle, who dedicated her time and effort to building baskets filled with health and beauty products, along with inspirational notes, that were given to Haymarket Center clients during a critical time in their recovery.