Neighborhood Economic Development
How to Bring Impact Through Alliance in This Moment
On October 23, 2025, the Baumhart Center, in partnership with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and Loyola University Chicago’s Institute for Racial Justice, hosted Neighborhood Economic Development: How to Bring Impact Through Alliance in This Moment.
The event culminated a yearlong series exploring neighborhood-based economic development across Chicago, including immersive visits to Englewood, Rogers Park, and Little Village. Through conversations with local business owners, community leaders, and researchers, the series examined the opportunities and challenges facing Chicago neighborhoods and highlighted the importance of positive storytelling, entrepreneurial support, community investment, and cross-sector partnerships.
The culminating discussion brought together leaders from business, academia, and community development to reflect on lessons from the series and explore how stronger alliances can advance inclusive economic growth, support local businesses, shift harmful narratives, and help Chicago neighborhoods thrive.
Panelists included:
- Dr. Teresa Gonzales, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Loyola University Chicago — Moderator
- Dr. Kristen Broady, Senior Economist, Economic Advisor and Director, Economic Mobility Project, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
- Jaime Di Paulo, President and CEO, Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
- Steven Shaw, Community Engagement Director – State Government Affairs, Verizon and Baumhart Mentor
Event details
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Schreiber Center, 16 E. Pearson Street