A Salute to the 23rd NWSI Grand Marshal & Humanitarian

 Michael “Mick” G. O'Rourke has served as President and CEO of Signature Bank in Chicago, Illinois since 2006. Mr. O’Rourke has more than 30 years of experience in the banking industry, including serving as Executive Vice President of Associated Bank and previous positions at LaSalle Bank N.A. and American National Bank. Mr. O’Rourke is also the current Treasurer of the Western Golf Association/Evans Scholar Foundation, and serves as a director for several organizations, including St. Angela School, Granada Insurance, American Ireland Fund, and Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. He also has served as Chairman of the Board of St. Patrick High School and a director of the Illinois Banker Association and Navy Pier. He was previously a Director of Schawk, Inc. (SGK) and Lancer Insurance. Mr. O'Rourke has a bachelor's degree from Marquette University and a master's degree from Loyola University in Chicago. 

Will Attig, the Downstate Director for Senator Tammy Duckworth and a dedicated labor leader, has a story rooted in the lush hills of County Cork, Ireland. Growing up embraced by the Irish community, he learned early on the values of solidarity and kindness, inspired by his father’s humanitarian work bringing youth together through sailing.

After returning to Illinois and serving in the military, Will faced the challenges many veterans do. With the help of labor leaders like Mick Jaeger, a former Northwest Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade humanitarian, and programs like Helmets to Hardhats, Will built a career advocating for working-class veterans. Today, he’s a national advocate ensuring veterans have strong union jobs and even leads efforts to support Ukrainian veterans through the U.S.-Ukraine Veterans Bridge.

As the grandson of immigrants, Will’s journey is a testament to the enduring bond between Ireland and America. In these interesting times, his story reflects the unity, heritage, and the spirit of both nations coming together.