2025 22ND Annual Friends & Family St. Patrick's Day Parade

2025 22nd Annual Friends and Family St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Date: Sunday March 16, 2024
Kick Off Location: 6633 W. Raven (Onahan School)

Assembly Time 10:00 am

Step Off 12:00 pm

Application for Participation

2025 NWSI PARADE COURT

2025 NWSI Grand Marshal: David G. Donovan

David G. Donovan, the 2025 NWSI Parade Grand Marshal, is a distinguished business professional and proud U.S. Navy veteran with a legacy rooted in service, heritage, and family. As the grandson of General William “Wild Bill” Donovan, a legendary figure in American history and intelligence, David carries forward a tradition of dedication and honor.

A Seattle University graduate with a background in Philosophy and French, David has enjoyed a successful career in investment, insurance, and administration. His Irish ancestry, tracing back to Skibbereen, County Cork, has been a cornerstone of his identity, inspiring a deep connection to his family’s cultural roots.

Now retired, David shares his love of history, philosophy, and sailing with his wife of nearly 50 years, Teresa. Together, they celebrate life with their three sons and seven grandchildren, who represent their family’s rich heritage spanning the United States and France.

David’s commitment to tradition, community, and cultural pride makes him an inspiring leader and a perfect choice to lead the 2025 NWSI Parade as Grand Marshal.

2025 NWSI HUMANITARIAN: FRANK CHRISTENSEN

Frank Christensen, 2025 NWSI Parade Humanitarian, embodies a lifelong commitment to leadership, advocacy, and service. As General President of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) since 2012, Frank has championed workers' rights, industry safety, and education.

A proud member of IUEC Local 2 in Chicago since 1979, Frank's career spans decades of impactful contributions, including serving as Local 2’s longest-serving Business Manager and playing pivotal roles in labor boards and committees. His dedication to safety led to groundbreaking initiatives like the Qualified Elevator Inspector program.

Frank's influence extends beyond the labor movement. His charitable work with organizations such as Chicago’s Toy Box Connection, Special Olympics, and Toys for Tots demonstrates his compassion for those in need. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the World Peace Prize, for his unwavering service and advocacy.

A devoted family man, Frank and his wife, Lynn, have been married for 41 years and share a large, loving family. His inspiring legacy of leadership and humanitarianism makes him a true beacon of hope and a deserving honoree of the 2025 NWSI Parade.

2025 NWSI QUEEN: CAITLIN CRAWFORD

Caitlin Crawford, the 2025 NWSI Parade Queen, is a shining example of dedication, leadership, and community spirit. A University of Missouri graduate with a degree in Business Administration and a Marketing focus, Caitlin has excelled in her career as a Senior Advisor at SVN Chicago Commercial and as Social Media Manager for A Tavola Chicago.

Beyond her professional success, Caitlin is deeply committed to her community. As President of the Norwood Park Train Station Foundation Board, she leads restoration efforts for the historic landmark. She also serves on the Norwood Park Chamber of Commerce Board, promoting local business growth. Her passion for mentorship and industry excellence shines through her involvement in NAIOP and iWIRE, while her volunteer work with animal shelters highlights her compassionate spirit.