Founders Commission

04/06/2026

As the NCAA Men's Final Four culminates tonight in Indianapolis with the national championship game, the work and legacy of Rockford, Illinois, has also been on full display throughout March Madness. Founded in 1987, Rockford-based Prographics has again handled the NCAA's large format printing services for the Final Four. And Spalding Sporting Goods, founded in 1876 by Rockford area native and sports icon Albert Spalding, has long delivered basketball equipment for the NCAA and so many other premier sports brands and properties.

The Rockford region's storied history across all genres of sports, entertainment, arts, business and beyond proudly continues.

02/13/2026

Always great to have DIAMONDS emcee and Founders Commission board member Nicole Briscoe back home. 👏🏼 Rockford IceHogs‼️

The Roscoe native returned to the area to lead the event and share her pride in the community where she grew up.

02/05/2026

Since 1834, the Rockford region has been shaped by curiosity and ingenuity. From our neighborhood streets and factories, to the world’s biggest arenas and stages, to fashion and aerospace runways, to the Moon, Mars and beyond – our community’s achievements transcend generations and genres. To celebrate and honor our heroes, nominations are open for Founders Commission's Rockford regional Hall of Fame.

NOMINATE TODAY: www.FoundersCommission.org/halloffame

12/15/2025

Thanks to Andy and the entire ROCK'N Vodka team for the hospitality this weekend at the brand's latest bottle signing experience with Rick and Daxx Nielsen! 💎💎

Fave Cheap Trick song?

📸: ROCK'N Vodka / Susan Moran

12/09/2025

DIAMONDS debuted in 2023 as a gala program that shines a light on the Rockford region's most successful people and stories. Since its inception, we've partnered with local business, individuals and nonprofits to grow DIAMONDS from a single event to also include post-secondary scholarships, annual donations to partner nonprofit organizations that serve the region, and seed funding for the Rockford area's Hall of Fame.

Apply for a Scholarship: https://www.founderscommission.org/scholarships

Nominate a Hall of Famer: https://www.founderscommission.org/halloffame

💎: Fred VanVleet | VanVleet Family Foundation | Michelle Williams | LCDR Michael Andrews | CAPT Deborah Davis McIvy | Nicole Briscoe

11/15/2025

10/04/2025

Filmmakers everywhere, you have until Friday, October 10, to submit your short films for screening consideration at the fourth annual 815HORTS Film Festival. Submit today!

www.815HORTS.com

09/28/2025

Rockford region high school seniors, the 2025-26 DIAMONDS Scholar Application Cycle is officially open! For those pursuing post-secondary education at the junior college, four-year school or trades, apply today to be considered for a 2026 DIAMONDS Scholar scholarship.

APPLY + INFO: www.FoundersCommission.org/scholarships