Tollway Leaders Honored by WTS Greater Chicago
The Illinois Tollway celebrates leaders recognized by WTS Greater Chicago at its awards gala for advancing innovation, inclusion and excellence in transportation.
“These awards reflect the extraordinary leadership and dedication of our team and the impact they’re making across the transportation industry,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “From expanding access to opportunity to delivering transformative infrastructure, our leaders continue to set a standard for excellence and inclusion.”
Chief of Diversity and Strategic Development Marlene Vick received the Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award for her work expanding opportunities for small, diverse, women- and veteran-owned businesses.
Through programs like the Illinois Tollway Technical Assistance Program, Vick has helped hundreds of firms compete for transportation contracts, while initiatives like the Earned Credit Program are connecting underrepresented communities to careers in construction. Her leadership continues to turn the Tollway’s commitment to equity into measurable results.
“I’m grateful to WTS for this honor and the legacy it represents,” said Vick. “The Rosa Parks Award is a reminder that using your voice matters – and that each of us has the power to make a meaningful impact.”
The Tollway’s Engineering Department was also honored with the Honorable Ray LaHood Award, recognizing its leadership in delivering one of the nation’s largest infrastructure programs.
Led by Chief Engineering Officer Manar Nashif, the department is advancing the 16-year, $15 billion Move Illinois capital program and the $2 billion Bridging the Future plan. These efforts are modernizing the Tollway system, improving mobility and supporting economic growth across the region.
The department’s impact extends beyond infrastructure. A strong culture of mentorship and inclusion has helped elevate women into key leadership roles across Engineering and Planning — strengthening both the organization and the industry’s future workforce.
“We’re honored to be recognized by WTS, an organization that plays a vital role in advancing women in transportation and fostering collaboration across the industry,” said Nashif. “That spirit of connection and shared learning is evident in our work – and in the strong presence of women leaders throughout the Tollway Engineering Department.”
Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse – recipient of 2025 Chicago and International WTS Woman of the Year awards – also returned to the WTS stage to introduce the 2026 Chicago Woman of the Year, Harvind Singh.
Rouse highlighted Singh’s unconventional path from television and radio into transportation leadership, as well as her intentional approach to building opportunity. Singh leads an entirely women-led executive team, demonstrating the power of representation at the highest levels.
Together, these recognitions reflect the Illinois Tollway’s commitment to delivering not only critical infrastructure, but also lasting opportunity – strengthening the transportation industry for the future.
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