ESTE EVENTO HA PASADO

Gloria Van Hof is the visionary founder of the Juneteenth Festival in McHenry County and a passionate historian dedicated to uncovering and sharing the rich, often untold stories of Black history in the region. With years of extensive research into the Underground Railroad in McHenry County and the broader significance of Juneteenth, Gloria brings both depth and heart to her work. At this year’s celebration, she will lead an engaging conversation that explores local connections to the Underground Railroad and the enduring legacy of emancipation. Her dedication to education, community building, and cultural preservation continues to shape this festival into a powerful space for reflection, joy, and collective learning.

Benton has been singing since the age of four. Her path has taken her to gospel and jazz. She has sung throughout the Chicagoland area at such notable venues as the Auditorium Theatre, the House of Blues, the Chicago Hilton, and the Hemmens Culture Center. While her vocals have been requested by such iconic gospel artists as Albertina Walker, her true love is leading and ministering to the hearts and souls of people through praise and worship. Currently, she is working on her own material as a gifted songwriter.

Founder | International Travel Chef | Culinary Educator Chef Joanne Thomas is the creative force behind Serenity Soul Corporation, known for delivering unforgettable dining experiences rooted in flavor, culture, and heart. With over a decade of professional culinary experience, formal training in culinary and pastry arts, and a passion for teaching, Chef Joanne has served clients across the globe—from intimate private dinners to luxury events. In addition to her work in the kitchen, Chef Joanne curates a signature retail collection of handcrafted spice blends, gourmet butters, fry batters and more—designed to bring bold, chef-driven flavors into every home kitchen. Her mission: to craft soulful food made from scratch and create moments that nourish both body and spirit.

Stev Walker is a dynamic performer, cultural leader, and passionate community engager. As the emcee of this year’s Juneteenth celebration, he brings warmth, energy, and a profound sense of history to every moment on stage. Stev is also the founder and visionary behind the Center for the Arts, Music & Culture—a vibrant creative hub he built to celebrate and uplift diverse artistic voices. An accomplished capoeirista, Stev will lead his troupe in powerful capoeira demonstrations, blending martial art, dance, music, and storytelling. But he’s not just watching from the sidelines—he’ll be inviting the audience to join in, encouraging participation and shared celebration. Whether introducing performances or jumping in with the crowd, Stev Walker embodies community, culture, and celebration at every turn.