Arne Duncan

Arne Duncan notably led Chicago Public Schools (CPS) as Chief Executive Officer from June 2001 to December 2008, implementing an ambitious reform agenda that garnered national attention. During his tenure, Duncan oversaw the opening of over 100 new schools, expanded after-school and summer programs, and significantly improved teacher quality. These efforts led to notable increases in student test scores, graduation rates, and college admissions, securing over $150 million in scholarships for CPS students. His leadership at CPS followed a period as deputy chief of staff starting in 1999.

Earlier, from 1992 to 1998, Duncan ran the non-profit Ariel Education Initiative, which mentored inner-city children and funded their college education, and he was instrumental in establishing the Ariel Community Academy, a public elementary school recognized among Chicago’s top elementary schools. His achievements in Chicago led President Barack Obama to nominate him as the ninth U.S. Secretary of Education in 2009, a role he held until 2016. As Secretary, Duncan spearheaded major national initiatives, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which allocated $100 billion to save teaching jobs and increase Pell grants.

Continuing his commitment to urban development and violence reduction, Duncan co-founded Chicago CRED (Creating Real Economic Destiny), an organization dedicated to reducing gun violence in Chicago by engaging individuals at the highest risk of being shot or shooting someone. Through these efforts, Duncan leverages his proven leadership and policy expertise to drive impactful change and foster equitable opportunities for communities.