The Chicago Defender proudly recognizes Yvette Pittman as a nominee for the 2026 Women of Excellence Awards & Induction Ceremony, and for good reason.
Pittman, Senior Government & Community Relations Representative at Peoples Gas, has built her career on advocacy, access, and action. Whether resolving critical service issues or ensuring families are connected to vital resources, she shows up — consistently and compassionately — for the communities she serves.
A woman of faith, Pittman’s heart for service reaches into every space she occupies. Recently recognized as an MVP at Life Christian Center, she is not only an executive making a measurable impact — she is a wife, mother, mentor, friend, and devoted volunteer. Advocacy sits at the center of everything she does.
After speaking with her, it became clear why she was chosen for this honor. She is humble, resilient, and deeply committed to serving others — while also recognizing the importance of caring for herself. She is the kind of leader any team would value: willing to embrace uncertainty, take risks, and lead with vulnerability and strength.
Our conversation was both inspiring and revealing.
How does it feel to be honored as a 2026 Chicago Defender Women of Excellence nominee?
“It honestly felt a little surreal,” Pittman said with a smile. “When I got the email, my first reaction was, ‘Is this really for me?’ But once it sank in, I felt incredibly humbled.” To be recognized by the Chicago Defender (an institution that has chronicled the legacy of trailblazing Black women for decades) is not something she takes lightly.
“When I think about Women of Excellence, I think about trailblazers. Movers and shakers. Women who are making things happen. So to be counted among them (and among those who came before me) is truly an honor. It feels like being welcomed into a powerful sisterhood.”
What problem did you see in your work that compelled you to lead differently?
“One of the challenges I saw,” she explained, “was that some people viewed Peoples Gas as the enemy. I wanted to help change that perception.” Her solution was simple, yet powerful: be present. “I believed the best way to shift that narrative was to be in the community — to pour into the community, to partner with the community, and to show that we care.”
Education became central to her approach. Pittman recognized that many residents were unaware of available resources and assistance programs. She made it her mission to increase awareness — particularly for seniors and vulnerable residents who often just needed someone to listen.
“A lot of times, people need advocacy. They need someone to walk them through the process,” she said. “My role is multifaceted — I handle constituent issues from elected officials, everything from gas bills to safety concerns — but at the core, it’s about helping people feel heard.”
Leadership requires sacrifice. What have you had to push through?
“For me, it’s maintaining work-life balance,” she admitted. “Service doesn’t fit neatly into 9-to-5 hours. It spills into evenings and weekends.” She shared that she once aspired to be a social worker — and that servant’s heart remains.
“Leadership requires sacrifice. Sometimes that means going the extra mile outside of what’s expected. But it’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make.” With grown children and a supportive husband who understands her calling, Pittman has found a rhythm — though she acknowledges the importance of rest and boundaries.
How do you measure success in your work and what outcomes matter most to you?
“Results,” she said confidently. “I measure success when something gets resolved.”
She shared a story of a senior widow who had received a disconnection notice shortly after her husband passed away. The issue, at its root, was administrative — the account had been removed from her late husband’s name but had not yet been reassigned.
“She didn’t just need an answer. She needed someone to walk her through the process with compassion,” Pittman explained. By partnering with internal departments and community organizations such as CEDA and Catholic Charities, Pittman helped resolve the issue and restore peace of mind.
“When I can help someone keep their service on (when I can advocate on their behalf), that’s a win. Gas powers furnaces, stoves, and dryers. It’s not a small thing. It’s essential.” Her approach is grounded in empathy. “I always want people to leave feeling seen, heard, and cared for.”
What work still feels unfinished, and why does it matter?
“The work is ongoing,” Pittman reflected. “It started before me, and I hope it continues long after me.” For her, service is fluid. It lives in boardrooms and in neighborhoods. It’s both corporate responsibility and community care.
“Whatever I do, I do it as unto the Lord,” she said. “There were moments when I questioned why I was nominated — but then I reminded myself: you’re a King’s kid. Walk in it.” She hopes that recognition like this inspires the next generation to serve boldly and lead with heart.
When you’re not working, how do you usually relax and recharge?
“My daily devotion and prayer,” she answered without hesitation. “That recharges my mind and spirit.”
Beyond faith, she finds joy in travel, family, reading nonfiction, and recently — golf. “I’ve always said I was just out there for fun, but now I’m taking lessons,” she laughed. “We have to enjoy life. God wants us to enjoy this journey.”
From Europe to South Africa, Pittman seeks out experiences that broaden her perspective and bring balance to her full, multifaceted life.
Yvette Pittman’s story is one of steady, quiet leadership — the kind that does not seek applause but earns respect. Her advocacy reminds us that excellence is not just about titles, but about service.
As the Chicago Defender continues to celebrate women who lead with impact, Pittman stands as a testament to what happens when compassion meets action. And in a world that often moves too fast to notice, she chooses to pause, listen — and resolve.
