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Evelyn Diaz, Emerging Leaders Class of 2011, speaks about her experience in the program.

"I'm excited about the opportunity to interact and learn from smart and dynamic leaders from other disciplines."

—Suchi Bansal, Class of 2021; Senior Researcher, Ci3 at the University of Chicago
A collage of headshots on a blue background
Meet the Current Class For one year, 20 of Chicago's best and brightest from some of the city’s most prominent organizations are engaging in a rigorous program to further their knowledge of US foreign policy and global affairs and strengthen their leadership skills.

Notable Emerging Leaders

Emerging Leaders do extraordinary work in their communities. Below are some notable ELs from past years of the program.

Roseanna Ander

Founding Executive Director, The University of Chicago Urban Labs
Class of 2015

Sean Casten

Member of US Congress
Class of 2011

Evelyn Diaz

President, Heartland Alliance
Class of 2011

Bridget Gainer

Cook Co. Commissioner
Class of 2013

Rodrigo Garcia

Illinois Deputy Treasurer
Class of 2018

Raja Krishnamoorthi

Member of US Congress
Class of 2010

Ted Souder

Head of Industry – Retail, Google
Class of 2014

Kevin Willer

Partner, Chicago Ventures
Class of 2012

Kam Buckner

Member of Illinois House of Representatives
Class of 2017

Gillian Darlow

CEO, Polk Bros. Foundation
Class of 2012

Amy Francetic

Managing Director, Buoyant Ventures
Class of 2013

Jeanne Gang

Founder & Design Principal, Studio Gang Architects
Class of 2011

Joshua Hale

President & CEO, Big Shoulders Fund
Class of 2010

Michael Scudder

Judge, US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
Class of 2012

Morse Tan

Ambassador-at-Large, US Department of State, Office of Global Criminal Justice
Class of 2017