We’re pleased to introduce three new members of JCUA’s Board of Directors: Daniel Weyl, Lesley Roth, and Sam Schoenburg.

Daniel Weyl is a human rights professional who has dedicated his career to advancing social justice both in the United States and globally. Dan co-founded and serves as a principal at Four Corners Global Consulting Group, a women and queer-owned social impact consulting practice that partners with nonprofits, philanthropies, and academic institutions to promote meaningful social change. Outside of work, you’ll find Dan playing guitar, going on a walk, following politics, and gathering with friends. Hailing from New Jersey, Dan has called Chicago home since 2010 when he moved here to join the Avodah service corps. He now lives in the Albany Park neighborhood with his husband.

“For me, my Jewish identity and my commitment to social justice are intertwined. I’m thrilled to be joining a community of activists, organizers, and leaders who are similarly called to advance a vision of justice that is grounded in Jewish values. JCUA has such a rich history of mobilizing people and resources in pursuit of transformative change in our region and it’s an honor to have an opportunity to contribute to this vital work as a board member.”

In her 20-year career, Lesley Roth has been responsible for public engagement, project management, project design and direction, client contact and public process facilitation on a variety of architecture, urban design and urban planning projects. She has experience in a full range of architecture and planning project types and scales and is adept at leading complex, multi-disciplinary project efforts. Her diverse experience includes both domestic and international thought leadership and practice experience. Lesley is passionate about contributing to the community through her work and engagement with diverse communities to build capacity, foster empowerment, and cultivate relationships. Her involvement and active participation in multiple professional organizations and associations demonstrate this commitment.

“I’m excited to join the JCUA Board because of the organization’s focus on social justice and anti-racist principles. I am excited to be able to share my professional expertise with the organization to continue to have positive impact in our diverse communities across Chicago.”

Sam Schoenburg is an attorney who works at the firm Goldman Ismail Tomaselli Brennan & Baum. Sam is also an elected Police District Councilor for Chicago’s 19th Police District, and was honored to be one of JCUA Votes’ first class of endorsed candidates. Before then, Sam joined JCUA’s Community Safety Committee and helped volunteer for passage of the Empowering Communities for Public Safety Ordinance. As a District Councilor, Sam serves on the citywide Nominating Committee that nominated members of the permanent Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability for the first time. As an attorney, Sam represents clients in pro bono class action civil rights litigation and has served as co-chair of the Cabrini Green Legal Aid Associate Board. Sam lives with his husband, Nigel, in Lakeview. He grew up in Springfield, Illinois, and attended OSRUI for five great summers as a kid.

“When I was relatively new to Chicago, I looked for ways to deepen my connection to Judaism and to work for local progressive change. I couldn’t have found an organization more aligned with those goals than JCUA. JCUA has introduced me to such a wonderful community and helped fuel my sense of purpose. I’m excited to give back to an organization that has made me feel so at home.”