The South East Chicago Commission (SECC) extends our sincere condolences for the loss of Mr. Roger Raymond Fross, a former board member who played a vital role in helping shape the SECC as a regional economic convenor.
Fross, a prominent Chicago attorney, served as a SECC board member for over 30 years. His leadership was instrumental when the SECC redirected its mission to the areas of business development and convening with other organizations to facilitate business growth and development and enhance the quality of life in the communities served by the SECC. This new strategy, adopted in 2018, also included the inception of our Annual Regional Economic Development Symposium and the new Arts & Cultural Capital Lab program to offer access to capital, technical assistance and support for local minority and women-owned businesses in the Hyde Park, Kenwood, Oakland, Washington Park, and Woodlawn communities.
“Roger’s dedication and commitment to Hyde Park and its surrounding communities will truly be missed”, said Diane Burnham, SECC Executive Director. “As a pillar for many years on SECC’s Board of Directors, Roger helped pave the path into the next generation of community and economic development programs. He was very meticulous in the overall governance of the organization. He was a true trailblazer and mission driven Board Member.”
In addition to his service on the SECC’s board, Roger also served on the Chicago Bar Association Committee on Juvenile Delinquents and Adolescent Offenders and the board of directors of the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club.
Fross was a managing partner at the law firm Lord, Bissell and Brook (now Locke Lord). He was an attorney in Chicago’s famous Shakman case, which led to a series of court-enforced decrees prohibiting political patronage in the hiring and firing of government employees.
The SECC is grateful for his professional career and service to the SECC Chicago. He leaves behind a loving wife, brother, and family.
Memorial gifts can be made to the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club at: https://hpnclub.networkforgood.com/projects/47074-hpnc-annual-fund-join-our-mission