Fifth Third Bank is celebrating Black History Month and the significant contributions by African-Americans to Chicago’s civic, social, philanthropic and business development, by honoring three notable Chicagoans and giving away free tickets to the public to the DuSable Museum of African American History.

The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Street, Chicago, is the oldest museum of its kind in the U.S. dedicated to collecting, preserving and displaying artifacts and objects that promote understanding and inspire appreciation of the achievements, contributions, and experiences of African Americans through history, culture and art.

The public is encouraged to stop into any Fifth Third Bank to get up to four free tickets per household. Visit www.53.com for a list of Fifth Third Bank locations. Additional information about the DuSable Museum can be found online at www.dusablemuseum.org.

Fifth Third Bank will also honor three well-known African-American leaders from Chicago recognizing their vast contributions to community, philanthropy and the empowerment of youth. Those being honored (photo'd above) include Merri Dee, broadcast legend and AARP-IL President, Israel Idonije, Chicago Bears Defensive Tackle, and Melody Spann-Cooper, President, WVON-AM Radio. In addition to receiving crystal awards, each honoree will receive a $5300 scholarship in his/her name that will be awarded to a local high school senior to help with the first year of college.

“We are so proud to honor these notable Chicagoans by presenting scholarships in their names that will help someone achieve their academic dreams and follow in the footsteps of our honorees,” said Nicole Johnson-Scales, SVP, Community Development, Fifth Third Bank.