Ali ElSaffar, Oak Park Township Assessor in Cook County, was recently awarded the 2025 Marshall Theroux Memorial Award in recognition of his long career in property assessment, contributions to the industry, and dedication to community service. ElSaffar received the award at the Illinois Property Assessment Institute’s 67th Annual State Conference held in Normal, Illinois. The Theroux Award is the highest honor bestowed on a member of the Illinois property assessment industry.

Nominees for the annual Marshall Theroux Memorial Award are submitted from around Illinois. The winner is determined by the Board of Directors of the Illinois Property Assessment Institute. ElSaffar was nominated for the award by more than a dozen colleagues.

ElSaffar has over 25 years of experience in property assessment. He holds the Certified Illinois Assessing Officer professional designation from the Illinois Property Assessment Institute. ElSaffar has served as Oak Park Township Assessor since 2001. ElSaffar also serves as president of the Cook County Township Assessors Association and as an instructor for the Institute.

“Ali has acted as a coach and mentor to countless township assessors and deputies,” noted Elk Grove Township Assessor Connie Carosielli. “He has taken them under his wing and helped to guide them in the correct, upstanding, and ethical way to run an office and set a standard for the behavior of a public official.” Berwyn Township Assessor Jacqueline Pereda said “Ali is an outstanding professional whose dedication, humility, and mentorship have profoundly impacted my career. His thoughtful approach, patience, and ability to navigate complex situations with professionalism have been an inspiration. He never hesitates to lend a helping hand, always prioritizing the well-being of colleagues and the communities we serve.”

“Multiple county and township assessors from around the state were nominated for the Theroux Award,” said Josh Barnett, Executive Director of the Illinois Property Assessment Institute. “Ali is known across Chicagoland and Illinois as a leader in our field and a mentor to countless assessment professionals. It was our pleasure to bestow the Theroux Award to such a deserving person.”