CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Parkland College Foundation has named Chris Saunders, founder of Green Street Realty and CRS Hospitality, as the 2025 V. Dale Cozad Entrepreneur of the Year. He will be honored at the 14th annual Entrepreneur of the Year Banquet, held Thursday, June 5, at the I Hotel and Conference Center in Champaign.
A reception begins at 5 p.m., followed by dinner and the program at 6 p.m. The event raises funds for the Parkland College Entrepreneurial Network, which supports scholarships for aspiring business leaders.
Saunders, a former University of Illinois track and field All-American, began his career in education and student services before launching a real estate career in 2004. What started with a single-family home in Urbana has grown into a portfolio of over 5,500 student housing beds, 1,500 multifamily units, and more than 300,000 square feet of commercial space across Champaign.
In hospitality, his CRS Hospitality group owns and operates 13 popular local venues, including Seven Saints, Billy Barooz, and The Ribeye. Saunders is also involved in several business ventures, such as Culver’s franchises in Nebraska, Sub 4 Development, and a local hardware store.
Beyond business, Saunders has remained committed to his community, residing in Urbana with his wife, Jodi, and their four children.