17th Annual Woodlawn Community Summit to Advance Collaboration, Opportunity, and Community Impact
Chicago, IL — The Woodlawn Community Summit Advisory Committee, in partnership with the University of Chicago Office of Civic Engagement and the South East Chicago Commission, will host the 17th Annual Woodlawn Community Summit: Deep Roots, Strong Future on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
With tremendous momentum surrounding the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, Woodlawn is currently the epicenter of major decisions and investments in Chicago. The annual Summit will convene residents, business leaders, elected officials, faith leaders, nonprofit organizations, youth, and community stakeholders for community-led conversation, collaboration, and strategic engagement focused on strengthening Woodlawn and advancing opportunities for long-term community prosperity.
“This Summit reflects the strength of Woodlawn’s civic spirit and the determination of its residents to shape their own future,” said Jessica Sivels, Vice President and Community Accountability Officer at Associated Bank. “Each year the Summit creates a space where community voices, institutional partners, and public leaders come together to exchange ideas, build trust, and identify practical solutions that move the neighborhood forward.”
Under the theme “Deep Roots, Strong Future,” the Summit’s opening session will feature a dynamic roundtable and panel discussion examining policy, economic development, and community priorities at the federal, state, city, and neighborhood levels.
Special guest panelists include:
- Kimberly DuBuclet, State Representative, Illinois
- Jeanette Taylor, 20th Ward Alderman, City of Chicago
- Desmon Yancy, 5th Ward Alderman, City of Chicago
- Sherman “Dilla” Thomas, Brand Ambassador and Chief of Social Media, DuSable Museum
The discussion will address strategies for strengthening local economic opportunity, supporting small businesses, and fostering sustainable development while preserving the cultural identity and legacy of the Woodlawn community.
The Summit will also feature a community awards ceremony honoring local community leaders and champions, including Dorothy Leavell of The Chicago Crusader. Small group breakout sessions will be held thereafter. These sessions are designed to address high priority, community-specific concerns, and practical resources and solutions available to residents.
“The Woodlawn Community Summit continues to be one of the most important forums for community dialogue on Chicago’s Mid-South Side,” said Ticina Williams, Summit Committee Liaison, South East Chicago Commission. “It brings together residents, institutions, and public officials to share information, build partnerships, and align around a vision that ensures Woodlawn remains a thriving and inclusive community.”
The Woodlawn Community Summit will begin at 9:00 am on March 21, 2026 at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. For more information and registration, please visit: wcs2026.eventbrite.com
About the Woodlawn Community Summit
The Woodlawn Community Summit is a collaborative initiative that brings together residents, youth leaders, businesses, elected officials, and community organizations to promote the comprehensive growth and well-being of the Woodlawn neighborhood. Through dialogue, partnership, and shared action, the Summit works to strengthen civic engagement and expand opportunity across the community. www.woodlawnsummit.com
About the South East Chicago Commission
The South East Chicago Commission facilitates and supports economic development within the Southeast lakefront communities of Hyde Park, Kenwood, Oakland, Washington Park, and Woodlawn. The Commission fosters collaboration among businesses, institutions, and community partners to advance investment, job creation, and long-term economic vitality. www.secc-chicago.org
