Leadership Series
What is the LGC Leadership Series?
The LGC Leadership Series brings together cross-sector leaders for thought-provoking discussions on Chicago’s most pressing issues. Presented in partnership with Chicago Public Media, sessions feature top experts, policymakers and community leaders tackling challenges and opportunities shaping the region.
Previous sessions have included:
- The Future of Work in Chicago: Examining workforce trends and the impact of automation.
- Violence Prevention & Public Safety: Strategies for reducing crime and strengthening communities.
- The Power of Public-Private Partnerships: How collaboration fuels economic development.
- Health Equity & Access: Addressing disparities in healthcare across the city.
- Sustainability & Climate Action: Building a more resilient and green Chicago.
2026-27 LGC LEADERSHIP SERIES | Beyond the Moment: Reimagining the Future Together
Chicago stands at a pivotal moment. As institutions evolve, public trust is tested, and communities confront both persistent challenges and emerging opportunities civic leadership requires more than responding to the moment — it demands imagining a stronger future.
The 2026-27 LGC Leadership Series is grounded in the belief that the future of our Region will be shaped by leaders who can bridge divides, cultivate trust, foster innovation, and work collectively across sectors to create lasting impact.
Throughout the series, participants will explore the critical questions facing our city — from democracy and economic transformation to arts and culture, neighborhood investment, and the exercise of civic power. Each session is designed to deepen understanding, spark meaningful dialogue, and inspire action that strengthens the social, economic, and civic fabric of the Greater Chicago Region.
Together, we will examine not only the challenges before us, but also the opportunities for collaboration, courageous leadership, and collective imagination that can move Chicago forward.
- TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 | 8:00AM – 10:30AM
- Democracy: What’s at Stake?
- MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 | 8:00AM – 10:30 AM
- Economics: Are We Ready for Tomorrow?
- THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 | 11:00AM – 1:00PM
- Trust: Who Has It Now and Why Does It Matter?
- TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 | 11:00AM – 1:30PM
- Cultural Capital: Arts Driving Opportunity
- TUESDAY, MARCH 16 | 8:00AM – 10:30AM
- Community: When Collaboration Meets Catalytic Investment
- THURSDAY, MAY 20 | 8:00AM – 10:00AM
- Power: Civic Leadership in Action
Sponsor the LGC Leadership Series
Sponsoring the LGC Leadership Series is a unique opportunity for organizations to engage in a premier civic leadership initiative, while gaining insight into the most pressing socioeconomic issues facing our region and access to Chicago’s most influential changemakers. Benefits of sponsoring include:
- Gain exposure to top leaders in business, government, philanthropy, and nonprofits.
- Acquire knowledge that will deepen your team’s connection with the city and the region.
- Engage with a diverse network of decision-makers shaping Chicago’s future.
- Position your organization as a champion of progress, inclusion, and innovation.
- Join ongoing efforts and take an active role in closing the gaps in the Greater Chicago region.
Your sponsorship fuels these critical conversations to ensure that Chicago’s leaders have the resources to create lasting change. In return, you’ll receive exclusive recognition, networking access, and opportunities to engage with LGC Fellows and speakers.
Let’s build a stronger, more connected Chicago together.
I attended today’s Leadership Series and it has been absolutely incredible. This is what LGC is all about.Manika Turnbull (LGC Fellow since 2015 and Daniel Burnham Fellow)
