We Propel Chicago

Forward

LGC brings bold, diverse leaders together to tackle the Greater Chicago Region’s toughest challenges. Through deep connections and collective action, our Fellows create meaningful change that strengthens our communities and shapes the future of the Chicago Region and beyond.

LGC Signature Fellows Program

LGC Signature Fellows Program Learn More

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Our premier civic leadership development program assembles a diverse group of Chicago’s most promising cross-sector leaders and leverages the city as our classroom to empower them with the knowledge and the network to tackle the region’s toughest challenges and drive meaningful change.

The Daniel Burnham Fellowship

The Daniel Burnham Fellowship Learn More

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Our accelerated civic onboarding experience brings together senior executive leaders and immerses them in the fabric of the city to quickly activate civic engagement and forge relationships that will impact Chicago’s workforce and the region’s economic progress.

Leadership Series

Leadership Series Learn More

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Our off-the-record discussion series sheds light on a spectrum of socioeconomic issues impacting the region and creates an empowered community that will drive positive change. Featuring a new theme and dynamic line up of speakers each year, Fellows and guests of Leadership Series Sponsors are exclusively-invited to attend.

Our Network
1,600civic leaders activated
1,600 civic leaders activated
More than590CEOs in corporate, philanthropic, and nonprofit organizations
590 CEOs in corporate, philanthropic, and nonprofit organizations
More than110current public officials and government leaders
110 current public officials and government leaders
Our Network’s Impact

Xchange Chicago: Tech Opportunities in Grand Crossing 

A first-of-its-kind, $20M workforce hub in Greater Grand Crossing, led by and developed in partnership with LGC Fellows, will train and hire IT apprentices, creating access to future careers in tech.

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From a Fellow
I came away empowered with enhanced tools to address our city’s challenges and a deep bench of new friends and dynamic leaders ready to activate to make our city even greater.Kelwin Harris (LGC Fellow since 2024)
Kelwin Harris (LGC Fellow since 2024)
I was honored to join a cohort of distinguished professionals who are committed to progress for our region and its residents — and it was also a lot of fun!Gil Quiniones (Daniel Burnham Fellow)
Gil Quiniones (Daniel Burnham Fellow)
The program is nothing short of amazing. The depth of the content, the caliber of the speakers and the diverse cohort have all contributed to an unparalleled learning journey.Marla Izbicky (LGC Fellow since 2025)
Marla Izbicky (LGC Fellow since 2025)
Valerie Jarrett

Fellow Spotlight Valerie Jarrett

CEO & Board member, The Obama Foundation
LGC Fellow since 1986

A former Senior Advisor to President Obama, the Honorable Valerie Jarrett has shaped policy, public engagement, and leadership development. She currently oversees the creation of a world-class cultural and civic institution for The Obama Foundation on Chicago’s South Side. Her extensive experience in both public and private sectors, along with her commitment to civic leadership, continues to inspire and empower others to drive positive change in their communities.

Calvin Butler

Fellow Spotlight Calvin Butler

President & CEO, Exelon
LGC Fellow since 2005

Calvin leads one of the nation’s largest utility companies, serving over 10 million customers across six states. His leadership drives Exelon’s strategic vision and operational excellence. As a recent appointee to Business Roundtable’s 2025 Board of Directors, he is also working with policymakers to bolster the competitiveness of the American economy. Calvin is one of the Black CEOs at S&P 500 companies actively paving the way for future leaders.

Sylvia Puente

Fellow Spotlight Sylvia Puente

Former President & CEO, Latino Policy Forum
LGC Fellow since 1997

Former Latino Policy Forum President and CEO Sylvia Puente is a visionary leader who transformed how the Latino community was involved in critical policy decisions and helped foster the next generation of leaders. In 2026, she was honored with the LGC Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes individuals who, through extraordinary leadership and service, have made a significant and lasting contribution to the Greater Chicago Region.

 

LGC PARTNERS

Our partners help strengthen the region’s premiere civic leadership pipeline through sponsorship, collaborations and volunteering. Learn more about the benefits of partnering with LGC.