Jack Cullen, Executive Director of the Rock Island Downtown Alliance, received a 2026 Eddy Award in the category of Revitalization from River Action at the 24th Annual Fish & Fire dinner on April 30.
According to River Action, "Jack has proven to be the ideal leader in this pivotal moment of making so many investments in public services and public spaces in Downtown Rock Island. With a high degree of understanding of culture and business all at the same time, he has overseen everything from pocket parks to widespread streetscaping. Alliances and collective work like this demand immense effort, perseverance, strategy, generosity, integrity and bold ideas. He also adds something else in abundance—a good heart."
The Eddy awards recognize individuals and organizations that have gone “against the current” to get things done, and have accomplished outstanding riverfront activity or development -- well-designed and environmentally responsible.
Awards are presented in six categories: Art, Design, Education, Revitliazation, River Activity, and Lifetime Achievement.
"I am honored to accept this Eddy Award on behalf of the Downtown Alliance Board of Directors, our team and our partnership with the City of Rock Island, said Cullen. "At the Downtown Alliance, we're laser focused on being good stewards of the public and private funds we receive to deliver quality services and programs that enhance public spaces, encourage private investment and improve quality of life. Thank you to River Action for recognizing the impact of this important revitalization."
River Action’s Fish & Fire dinner brings together citizens, artists, policy makers, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, environmentalists, elected officials and philanthropists from all walks of life. The Eddy Awards are in their 17th year. See the list of winners.