Chicago, IL — The Jewish Council on Urban Affairs is thrilled to learn that Cydney Wallace, Vice President of JCUA’s Board of Directors, has been appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson to serve on the Chicago Board of Education.

Cydney has been a dedicated member of JCUA since 2016, playing an integral role in advancing social justice in Chicago and Illinois. As a core leader in JCUA’s Community Safety Committee, Cydney worked tirelessly on the campaign to implement civilian oversight of the Chicago Police Department, partnering with the Grassroots Alliance for Police Accountability (GAPA) and the Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) coalitions. Her efforts were instrumental in the creation of the Community Commission for Public Safety & Accountability (CCPSA).

In addition to her work on community safety, Cydney co-founded JCUA’s Jews of Color Caucus, fostering a supportive space for Jews of Color within the organization and beyond. She also leads training sessions for JCUA members and partners on racial justice, antisemitism, and other social justice issues.

Cydney has served on JCUA’s Board of Directors since 2019 and assumed the role of Vice President in 2023. Her leadership, vision, and commitment to justice have strengthened JCUA’s work and impact across the city.

“It’s always been my belief that every student, regardless of where their school is or their economic status, should be offered the same educational opportunities,” Cydney Wallace. “I’m excited to get to work alongside the other Board members to ensure our school system meets the needs of its students, teachers, families, staff, and the greater community.”

Cydney was raised on the South side of Chicago, where she attended James H. Bowen High School. She lives in Chicago Lawn with her family. Her eldest daughter graduated from CPS last year, and her three youngest children are currently in CPS high school and elementary school.

JCUA congratulates Cydney Wallace on this appointment and looks forward to her continued leadership in strengthening education throughout the city.