LGC Impact
Leadership Greater Chicago (LGC) is the region’s premier convener, connector and mobilizer of bold leaders to effect transformative civic impact across Greater Chicago.
LGC is a community of nearly 1,500 Fellows (Signature and Daniel Burnham). Since 1983, we are proud to have developed more than 1,300 of the region's most promising leaders through our Signature Fellows Program. This intensive 10-month program provides the foundation for a lifelong commitment to civic engagement.
LGC is the only organization in the region that dares to bring together high-performing individuals of diverse backgrounds from the private, nonprofit, and public sectors to tackle the area’s most pressing issues. This proven formula has generated decades of rich conversation, created lifelong relationships, and developed thought leaders, that combined have shaped the civic landscape of our region. This can only be achieved when all three sectors are at the table.
These leaders tackle issues that seem insurmountable – economic development, education, our city’s fiscal crisis and criminal justice – all in an effort to create positive change.
And that’s why organizations from City Hall to the leading institutions that shape the fabric of Chicago continue to commit to developing the next generations of civic leaders to serve beyond their organizational walls; employees give back with their talent to transform our region and make Chicago a better place for all.
In 2019, we launched The Daniel Burnham Fellowship, a strategic partnership accelerator designed for top executives to urgently impact the region's workforce and economic progress in their roles as change leaders and decision makers. Through cross-industry learning and connections with renowned subject matter experts, participants gain broadened perspectives and build strategic connections to drive social innovation that is equitable and inclusive. To date, the Fellowship has welcomed 120 high-ranking leaders and resulted in collaborations for COVID-19 relief efforts (funding, public policy, food distribution), community investments, hiring coalitions, and diversity, equity and inclusion initatives.
We estimate LGC has invested more than $5 million to build capacity in the private, nonprofit, and public sectors. Our commitment to making a significant impact on Chicago and beyond has never been greater, or needed more.
The success of LGC belongs to many who care for this region, like YOU! We appreciate the support of employers, sponsors and nominators for our ongoing success, and the generous investment in civic leadership development. As we enter our 40th year, we invite you to convene, connect and mobilize with us to benefit both our city and our citizens. We look forward to your partnership in the next chapter of LGC.
