Since joining in April 2019, Debbie has played a crucial role on the Housing and Community Development (HCD) team, primarily focused on the public engagement for technical assistance projects, such as the Preserving Affordability Together (PAT) and Corridor Development Initiative (CDI). Debbie is currently working with Kendra to develop a robust stakeholder engagement roundtable program, building collective knowledge and experience for practitioners in the Chicagoland area.
Debbie is a member of the 25th Ward Zoning Advisory Board, a Board member for Active Transportation Alliance as well as a co-chair for both the 78 Community Advisory Council and the Ping Tom Park Advisory Committee. Not only is she a regular contributor on Chinatown issues, she's an all-around active community member.
As we've all seen on Zoom, Debbie is a devoted dog mom to @shilohthebeaglemix, an adopted Beagle Mix who is a certified therapy dog and dog actor. Debbie lives in South Loop with her husband and dog. The whole family is preparing for a new (human) addition who is due in May! A warm congratulations from the Comms Team, Debbie!
Q&A with Debbie
What are three items on your life bucket list?
To see the Northern Lights from a Nordic country, author a book and backpack in Asia + visit my extended family and learn more about my ancestors, experience Christmas in the Philippines
Coastal, mountains, or great lakes?
I love the Midwest but it is awfully flat, so my vote is for coastal (and mountains). My favorite place in the USA is Acadia National Park. Plus, nothing beats the coast when there's good seafood involved. I do prefer the East Coast over the West Coast though.
New York or Chicago style pizza?
While I can eat any pizza, my favorite is a good deep dish sausage pizza - only from Lou Malnati's though.