Karen Freeman-Wilson Named New Head of Chicago Urban League

Karen Freeman-Wilson has her next role lined up once her term as mayor of Gary ends on Dec. 31.

Freeman-Wilson was named president and CEO of the Chicago Urban League (Chicago, IL), an established organization that has worked for economic, educational and social progress for African Americans. She begins in January.

“Karen Freeman-Wilson has a depth of leadership experience and a demonstrated passion for the issues of equality and social justice that are central to the mission of the Chicago Urban League,” Eric S. Smith, chairman of the Chicago Urban League board, said in a statement announcing Freeman-Wilson’s appointment. “We are confident that she will be a strong, visionary leader who will continue to advance the organization’s excellent work toward serving the needs of African-American communities and advocating for equity.”

Freeman-Wilson has served in the public and non-profit sectors most of her professional life. She was the first woman to serve as mayor of Gary and the first African-American woman to serve as mayor in Indiana.

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