Celebrating 130 Years

On July 1, 2025, CTPF will celebrate its 130th anniversary. Throughout 2025, CTPF will commemorate this milestone of serving members, constituents, community, and citizens of Illinois with distinction

130th Resolution

CTPF Trustees launched the anniversary year by passing a resolution on January 16, 2025, in honor of the Fund’s 130th Anniversary. The 130th Anniversary provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the rich history of the Fund. Established on July 1, 1895, the Fund was established as the first teachers’ pension system in Illinois and the second in the nation. The pension plan was seen as an important way to help attract and retain professional teachers and to ensure their financial stability and dignity in retirement. The Fund began with 8,000 members and today includes more than 96,000 who depend on CTPF for their financial security in retirement. Click here to read the full 130th Resolution.

130th Anniversary Celebration

On August 21, 2025, the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund (CTPF) marked its 130th Anniversary with a heartfelt celebration during the Board of Trustees meeting. The event honored the Fund’s legacy, its founders, and the educators who have shaped its journey.

State of Illinois Proclamation
The Illinois House of Representatives acknowledged CTPF’s 130th Anniversary with a special House Resolution.

Jane Addams Living Legacy Awards
Seven supercentenarians joined the inaugural class of the Jane Addams Living Legacy Awards. Jane Addams helped secure CTPF’s financial stability and championed shared responsibility and dignity in retirement. This award honors her legacy and recognizes our most senior members, supercentenarians who have reached or exceeded 105 years of age:

Mary Payne (105)

Beatrice Readus (105)

Mildred Losee (105)

Louise Early (105)

Laura Franklin (107)

Bea Lumpkin (107)

Edith Renfrow Smith (111)

Legacy Library Dedication

Executive Director Carlton W. Lenoir, Sr. led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Legacy Library. Once a storage space, the library now features a historical timeline, artifacts, and stories that enshrine CTPF’s journey from its founding in 1895 to today.

The recording of the full meeting, including the 130th Anniversary celebration, will be available on the Board of Trustees Meeting Materials and Video page.