Feb. 28, 2007 | 11:30 AM EST

Jennifer Gets Her Own Day

Photo by: Photoshot / Landov
Jennifer Gets Her Own Day | Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson has come a long way from seventh place on American Idol. After scoring a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her Dreamgirls role, Illinois governor Rob Blagojevich declared February 26, 2007 "Jennifer Hudson Day" in honor of the Chicago native. "Jennifer's Academy Award win is a testament to her amazing talent and determination and all of Illinois is proud to honor her talent and achievement," Blagojevich said in a statement. "We all look forward to watching her career unfold." ?

And on Tuesday's episode of Idol, the show gave her a special shout-out to congratulate their "own Jennifer Hudson" on her Oscar. Talk about sweet revenge!