Inspiring Leadership

Honoring Oak Brook’s visionary president

The Greater Oak Brook Chamber recently presented the 2025 Denny Hiffman Inspiring Leader Award to Oak Brook Village President Larry Herman. This honor recognizes President Herman’s continued dedication to supporting the local business community and his strategic vision for enhancing Oak Brook’s reputation as a leading corporate destination.

Named for renowned real estate veteran Denny Hiffman, founder and chairman emeritus of NAI Hiffman, the award recognizes a business leader who has significantly impacted the community through commerce, volunteer, and mentorship contributions. Last year’s winner of the award was DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin, and Oak Brook Village President Larry Herman now joins this impressive group.

In bestowing the recognition, Oak Brook Chamber of Commerce President and CEO David Carlin noted that President Herman is the first Village President to be raised in Oak Brook. Herman’s commitment to public service began at an early age with beginning roles at Butler Junior High and later even serving as a paid on-call firefighter for the Oak Brook Fire Department. Today, he is a licensed attorney, certified public accountant, chartered life underwriter, and chartered financial consultant.

Carlin lauded several of President Herman’s key initiatives, emphasizing the proactive revamping of the Village’s budgeting and accounting processes, which resulted in dramatic improvements to its financial position. He also recognized crime-fighting investments in drones, camera technology, canine units, and a forward-thinking public safety strategy that has strengthened community protection. Furthermore, Carlin highlighted ongoing efforts to turn around the problematic financial situation at the Sports Core.

In accepting the Inspiring Leader Award, Oak Brook Village President Herman said, “Being recognized as the 2025 Denny Hiffman Inspiring Leader is humbling because I’ve been led by those from Oak Brook’s past who created today’s future. As we envision our next chapter and turn ideas into action, I see Paul Butler’s legacy as the spark that fuels the strategy for the future. With a determined purpose and an eye on innovation, I’m excited to be leading what’s next for Oak Brook for both residents and the business community. I want to thank the Greater Oak Brook Chamber of Commerce for selecting me for this honor.”