Veteran city planner joins Office of Civic Engagement

Arnold Randall Jr., a veteran of local government and former commissioner of the City of Chicago's Department of Planning and Development, has been named a director in the University of Chicago's Office of Civic Engagement.

In the new position, Randall will help plan and coordinate a range of public projects undertaken by the University, working as a liaison between the University and the City, neighbors and other concerned parties.

"The University is responsible for many projects that can have an impact on our neighborhoods and our city, ranging from new buildings and renovations to transportation and landscape," said Ann Marie Lipinski, Vice President for Civic Engagement. "Arnold understands both the government and community process for seeing these projects through and making sure they are successful for not just the University, but for all concerned. We are delighted to welcome him to our team."

Randall, a resident of the Woodlawn community, served as commissioner of the City's Department of Planning and Development from 2007 until January of this year, when he joined the Chicago 2016 Olympic effort. He also served the city as the mayor's Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Development, and before that as Deputy Commissioner of Planning and Development. He previously spent nine years at the Chicago Park District in management and planning roles, eventually becoming the director of Legislative and Community Affairs.

He earned his B.A. in political science from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and pursued graduate studies at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for me to return to the University and put my planning experience to work for a great institution," Randall said. "I look forward to digging into some of the exciting projects already underway, and building the relationships that will help us plan for the future."

Randall began in his new role Monday, Oct. 19.