Mayor Rahm Emanuel appointed Olga Camargo, a respected financial executive, to The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority Board – which oversees McCormick Place and Navy Pier.
Camargo, who currently serves on the Chicago Plan Commission, will replace Frank M. Clark. Clark is stepping down from the Board to become the new President of the Chicago Board of Education. The Mayor also appointed Juan Linares, the Executive Director of the Latino United Community Housing Association (LUCHA), to replace Camargo on the Plan Commission.
“Both Olga and Juan bring strong backgrounds into their new roles that will serve the people of Chicago well,” said Mayor Emanuel. “McCormick Place has been a key component to Chicago’s economic strength and having strong leaders on the Board, like Olga, will ensure it continues to be a job creator for our city. Juan’s housing experience, and his commitment to thoughtful community development make him an excellent addition to the Plan Commission.”
Camargo is also currently Managing Partner at Toroso Investments, LLC, where she advises clients in the public and private sectors, as well as no-for-profit organizations and foundations.
In a brief statatement to Negocios Now, Camargo said:
“I’m truly appreciative of the opportunity to continue to serve the great City of Chicago and will work with the rest of MPEA board members to create more economic opportunities for everyone.”
Camargo has long been committed to public service. In addition to the Plan Commission, she serves on the Metropolitan Planning Council Board of Governors, and previously served on the City’s Affirmative Action Advisory Board as well as the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership.
Camargo received “El Amigo de Negocios Now Award” during the Gala “Who’s Who in Hispanic Chicago”, at Chicago Cultural Center, last month.
The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority Board consists of nine members: four appointed by the Mayor, four appointed by the Governor and a chair elected by the board members.
Linares also has a passion for public service. He’s a member of the Board of Commissioners for the Chicago Commission on Human Relations, is a professor at Northwestern University, and holds a leadership role in LUCHA.
At LUCHA, Linares helps preserve affordable housing in Humboldt Park, West Town and Logan Square and helps families rent affordable housing, obtain adequate insurance and beautify their neighborhoods. His appointment to the Plan Commission requires City Council approval.
