Lori Healey, influential Chicago civic leader, dies at 65

Lori Healey, a transformative leader in Chicago’s civic and political landscape, has died at age 65 after battling pancreatic cancer. Healey served as chief of staff to former Mayor Richard M. Daley, where she played a pivotal role in major city projects, including overseeing the bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics and coordinating the 2012 NATO Summit. She was also CEO of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (McPier), where she supervised the construction of Wintrust Arena and the Marriott Marquis, and more recently led construction of the Obama Presidential Center as a top executive at the Obama Foundation. Colleagues and leaders, including former Mayor Daley and Valerie Jarrett of the Obama Foundation, praised her brilliance, leadership, and lasting impact on Chicago’s development and public service culture. Healey was widely recognized for her ability to mentor others and connect with people from all walks of life. Her passing is seen as a profound loss for the city and those who benefited from her vision and commitment.