Commissioner's Biography

Suzanne Malec-McKenna was nominated by Mayor Daley in August 2007. Malec-McKenna brings more than 15 years of experience in environmental issues including sustainable development and ecological preservation and restoration.

Malec-McKenna has served for nearly 14 years in the Department of Environment most recently as Deputy Commissioner of Natural Resources and Water Quality. Prior to joining City government she worked as an Urban Forestry Manager for the Openlands Project.

"Suzanne has worked tirelessly in her previous role to protect and preserve our green spaces, water and other natural resources," said Mayor Daley. "As we move forward, I am confident that Suzanne will continue the work that has put Chicago well on its way to being the most environmentally-friendly city in the nation."

Malec-McKenna has worked on key projects for the department including Greencorps Chicago; Chicago Center for Green Technology; the Calumet Initiative and various water conservation and protection efforts.

"I am truly honored to serve the people of the City of Chicago in this position," said Malec-McKenna. "I look forward to working with former Commissioner Sadhu Johnston, other City Departments and Sister Agencies, and Aldermen as we make Chicago the Greenest City in America."

Malec-McKenna serves on various boards and committees including the Chicago Wilderness Coalition; the Mayor's Urban Agriculture Sub-Committee; the University of Illinois at Chicago's Institute for Environmental Science and Policy; and the State of Illinois' Natural History Survey.

Malec-McKenna graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor's degree in Ornamental Horticulture, and graduated from Northwestern University with a master's degree in managerial communications. She is currently seeking her Ph.D. from Northwestern in communication studies.