This month, Christy George was named executive director of the Chicago host committee for the 2024 Democratic National Convention, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a fervent desire to place Chicago at the center of national attention.
George's trajectory in public service has prepared her for this challenge, having ascended to the position of first assistant deputy governor for budget and economic matters to Gov. J.B. Pritzker in 2021. Although George's primary responsibilities have involved leading business attraction and workforce development efforts, she played a crucial role in helping to craft Illinois' electric vehicle manufacturing strategy, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Her versatile background in public service, including serving as executive director of the Illinois Commerce Commission and various roles at the city of Chicago, has equipped George with the skills necessary to assume the responsibility of directing this significant event on the national stage.
Joining George in the endeavor is Keiana Barrett, who has been named as a senior adviser to the host committee. Barrett's extensive experience in diverse leadership roles, including her tenure as chief diversity and engagement officer for Sterling Bay and national press secretary for Rainbow PUSH, demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and celebrating Chicago's distinctive neighborhoods, as she shared in a statement. Kaitlin Fahey, former chief of staff for Sen. Tammy Duckworth, will transition to a general consultant role, continuing her involvement in the convention's operations. As Chicago Sun-Times noted, Fahey's consulting firm was integral in the initial phase of pitching the convention in Chicago, managing site visits, fundraising, and essential meetings.
