SECC Announces Keynote Conversation for 7th Annual Southside Connection Symposium
The South East Chicago Commission (SECC), with presenting sponsor Allstate, proudly announces the featured keynote speakers for the 7th Annual Southside Connection Symposium to be held on Friday, October 10, 2025. This year’s theme, “Connect. Collaborate. Thrive.,” underscores the event’s focus on economic development, marketplace transformation, and community-driven investment in the South Side of Chicago.
The highly anticipated keynote conversation “Unlocking the South Side Advantage,” will feature three distinguished leaders whose experiences span business, government, and the faith community. Together, they will bring dynamic perspectives on how the South Side’s unique assets can fuel inclusive economic growth and prosperity.
Featured Keynote Speakers
- Dorri McWhorter, President & CEO, Executives’ Club of Chicago
A transformational executive and civic leader, Dorri McWhorter brings her expertise in business and industry to the conversation. Known for blending corporate strategy with social impact, Dorri has a proven track record of reimagining organizations and expanding opportunities including groundbreaking partnerships at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. Under her direction, the Executives’ Club is expanding its influence, reimagining its role in the civic-business ecosystem, and convening the conversations that shape the future of business. - John A. Roberson, Executive Vice President, Obama Presidential Center
John Roberson provides a critical perspective on the local impact of development. With oversight of the Obama Presidential Center, opening in 2026, John’s leadership bridges public and private experience—from managing the City of Chicago’s $16.2 billion operations to guiding strategic partnerships across civic institutions. His insights will reveal how transformative investments like the Presidential Center can strengthen neighborhoods and drive regional growth. - Rev. Dr. Charlie E. Dates, Senior Pastor, Progressive Baptist Church & Salem Baptist Church
A respected faith leader and advocate for economic justice, Dr. Charlie Dates highlights the essential role of the faith community in supporting commercial corridors. Through initiatives such as the “Spend in the Black” economic campaign and the creation of the Spend in the Black Commerce Corridor, he has advanced strategies to circulate wealth within Black-owned businesses and build sustainable community pride and economic resilience.
Together, these three thought leaders will explore how business innovation, civic investment, and community collaboration can converge to unlock the full potential of Chicago’s South Side. Their insights will help shape strategies for businesses, residents, and stakeholders to thrive in one of the city’s most vital regions.
The 2025 Southside Connection Symposium will take place Friday, October 10, 2025 at The David Rubenstein Forum. For details and registration, visit https://www.secc-chicago.org/symposium.
This year’s symposium is made possible through the support of Allstate, Comcast, The Smith Fund, Charity & Associates, Choose Chicago, CIBC, Chicago Community Loan Fund, The Study, Sophy Hotel, and CEI Media Group.