Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced several key personnel updates within his administration. These appointments span various departments, including the Mayor's Office, Intergovernmental Affairs, and the Department of Finance.
In the Mayor's Office, Khari Humphries has been named Deputy Mayor for Education and Youth. Humphries brings over 25 years of experience in nonprofit work, social services, affordable housing, and community engagement. Previously, Humphries served as the 1st Deputy for this portfolio and spent nearly a decade as Senior Manager of Community Life at the Community Builders, Inc.
Penny Smith is now serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff for the City of Chicago. With more than 20 years in nonprofit and leadership development, Smith previously led the Policy and Leadership Department at Erikson Institute as executive director.
Jung Yoon has taken on the role of Chief of Policy for Mayor Johnson. Yoon was formerly Assistant Deputy of Policy and played a significant role in launching Green Social Housing. Yoon has extensive experience in policy, research, and organizing roles with organizations such as Grassroots Collaborative and SEIU Healthcare.
In Intergovernmental Affairs, John Arena is appointed Director of State Legislative Affairs. Arena is a former Alderman for Chicago’s 45th Ward and co-founder of the Chicago Progressive Reform Caucus.
Emily Melbye will lead as Director of the City Council Intergovernmental Affairs team. Her previous roles include working with Alderman Daniel La Spata and serving as Chief of Staff for State Representatives Will Guzzardi and Ann Williams.
Michael Belsky joins as Comptroller in the Department of Finance. Belsky has a robust background in municipal finance, having served as Executive Director at the Center for Municipal Finance at University of Chicago's Harris School of Public Policy.
In communications roles within the Mayor’s Press Office, Erin Connelly is appointed Communications Director. Connelly has extensive experience in strategic communications across campaigns and nonprofits nationwide.
Cassio Mendoza assumes the position of Press Secretary after previously serving as Deputy Press Secretary for Western Pennsylvania during the Harris for President campaign.
These appointments reflect Mayor Johnson's commitment to strengthening his administration with experienced professionals across diverse fields.