Chicago United Announces New Board Leadership

CHICAGO, March 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicago United, an advocacy organization made up of racially diverse CEOs and executive level management who promote diversity and inclusion in corporate governance, the leadership pipeline and business partnerships, today announced new officers and members of its board of directors.

Chicago United members elected Joseph Gregoire, regional president, Illinois PNC Bank, as the new board chairman and Gordon Werkema, first vice president and COO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago as the new vice chairman.  Outgoing board chairman Douglas Goare, executive vice president, McDonald's Corporation, becomes immediate past chairman.  

Monica L. Walker, chief executive officer and chief investment officer-equity at Holland Capital Management, has joined as a new board member.

"Chicago United continues to make measurable progress in all of its mission areas," said Gregoire.  "Existing members remain committed and incoming members realize the value that the organization brings to the local business community.  I'm honored to serve as chairman of the board, and I pledge that we will continue to develop multiracial leadership in executive management, corporate governance and business development.

Chicago United will present its new Business Leaders of Color, a group of men and women of color in the Chicago area who are ready to serve on the boards of Fortune 1,000 companies.  Chicago United also expects to report continued progress of Five Forward Initiative, a blueprint for regional economic growth that calls for creation of minority-owned businesses of scale.

"The changes on the board represent new direction as we maintain a high standard of advocacy," said Gloria Castillo, president of Chicago United.  "Each year, our members face new challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion.  The board of directors is vital to helping our members navigate those challenges and seize the opportunities. I look forward to executing our vision under the leadership of the new board."

About Chicago United

Chicago United is an advocacy organization made up of racially diverse CEOs and executive level management who increase economic opportunity for all races by promoting multiracial leadership development in corporate governance, the leadership pipeline and business partnerships. Through a fierce brand of constructive conversation, Chicago United fosters inclusion and provides an opportunity for senior executives from all racial and ethnic groups to learn from one another, confront and break down racial barriers and achieve shared objectives. For more information please visit www.chicago-united.org.

SOURCE Chicago United