The Business Leadership Council

Congratulations to our very own BLC members—Bowa Construction, Ujamaa Construction, Brown & Momen, and Powers & Sons Construction—for helping bring the Obama Presidential Center to life from the ground up.

This landmark project stands as a testament to the countless hands, countless hours, and shared commitment required to build something meaningful for Chicago and the South Side community. Their craftsmanship, leadership, and dedication have left a lasting fingerprint on a project that will inspire generations to come.

We are proud to celebrate their contributions to this historic achievement and the legacy they have helped create.

Happy Juneteenth!

As we honor the resilience, sacrifice, and achievements of those who came before us, we also look ahead with purpose. The future will be shaped by our willingness to collaborate, support one another, and invest in the growth of our own communities and businesses.

Let today serve as a reminder that our greatest opportunities are created when we build together. The work continues, the possibilities are endless, and the future is ours to shape.

Congratulations to our very own BLC member, Wheeler Coleman, and the entire EC-United team on celebrating 10 years of excellence!

Over the past decade, EC-United has built a reputation as a trusted technology partner, delivering innovative solutions, fostering strong partnerships, and creating lasting impact for clients nationwide.

We are proud to celebrate this milestone and look forward to all that EC-United will accomplish in the years ahead. Here’s to 10 years of success—and the next chapter of growth and innovation.

This week, the Business Leadership Council is proud to support the 2026 Rainbow PUSH Annual Conference, Fulfilling the American Promise.

From June 10–13, leaders, advocates, business professionals, and changemakers from across the country will come together for meaningful conversations centered on equity, opportunity, leadership, and progress.

We are especially proud to see our very own BLC CEO, Keiana Barrett, take the stage tomorrow to lend her voice and expertise to these important discussions.
In addition to impactful panel discussions and networking opportunities, attendees can participate in live podcast interviews and engage with some of the nation’s leading voices across business, civic engagement, and public service.

Conference registration remains free and open to the public. Join the conversation and be part of a gathering dedicated to fulfilling the American Promise.

Congratulations to our very own BLC Founder, Board Member, and finance and business titan, John W. Rogers Jr., on being recognized as an XCEL Award honoree.

As Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Ariel Investments, John has built a legacy defined by vision, leadership, and opportunity. His impact extends far beyond finance, helping shape the future of business while opening doors for generations to come.

We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and his enduring contributions to the business community.

Global conversations. Chicago leadership. Lasting impact.

The Business Leadership Council is proud to recognize several BLC members who were part of the Chicago delegation that traveled to Rome with Mayor Brandon Johnson to meet Pope Leo XIV, through an engagement facilitated by World Business Chicago.

Representing Chicago’s business, civic, and community leadership on an international stage were:

• Charles Smith, Vice Chair of World Business Chicago and CEO of CS Insurance Strategies
• Kristopher Anderson, Director at United Airlines
• Joshua Davis, President & CEO of The Will Group
• Yusef Jackson, President & CEO of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition
• Charles Johnson, President of SodexoMagic

From Chicago to Rome, these leaders continue to demonstrate the power of relationship-building, global engagement, and visionary leadership. We congratulate them on representing our city and contributing to conversations that extend far beyond borders.

Signature Recognition for Meaningful Impact.

BLC Brilliance!!

Congratulations:
Kelly Powers Baria, Executive Vice President of Powers & Sons Construction
Otto Nichols III, Executive Vice President of Clayco
Kelsey Taylor, President of Engage Civil
Joshua Davis, President and CEO of The Will Group
and
Aaron Patterson, President of Infrastructure Engineering
for being named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ Most Notable Leaders in Architecture, Engineering & Construction 2026.

The future of the built environment is being designed, engineered, and constructed right here—and we’re proud to see it. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and the lasting impact you continue to make across our region.

In Loving Memory of Spencer Leak Jr.

A look back at a life defined by service, leadership, and community impact. Spencer carried forward a legacy of care, compassion, and commitment that touched countless lives.

Thank you for the years of dedicated service. Thank you for your care, your concern, and your unwavering support. Your impact will be felt for generations to come. Rest in peace.