As Delta Institute’s Chair of the Board, it is my honor, joy, and privilege to share the news with you that Crains Chicago Business has just recognized our CEO, Bill Schleizer, as one of their Notable Leaders in Sustainability for 2022!
The environmental, economic, and social problems facing Chicago and the greater Midwest are complex—and this is why Bill’s leadership at Delta has been such a great fit. Bill is particularly skilled at bringing together the best strengths and skills of Delta’s staff and partners to address these problems head on. His impact in advancing sustainability is far-reaching, ranging from local initiatives like helping develop the 2021 Chicago Waste Strategy to presenting internationally, such as his presentation in Tokyo on agricultural carbon markets or his speech in New Zealand on how communities are transitioning away from unsustainable industries.
Bill is passionate about making Delta Institute an inclusive organization, prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion during his tenure as CEO. He is committed to building and sustaining an organization that represents all communities and creates an atmosphere where all of us at Delta can bring our full selves to work so that we can direct our energy, diverse perspectives, and broad capacities to the task of renewing our region. That’s part of the reason why I’m so pleased that Crain’s has not only recognized Bill as a Notable Leader in Sustainability this year but also as one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives in 2019.
My work as an entrepreneur is deeply entwined with Delta Institute. I have spent more than a decade on ideas that have their origins on Delta Institute’s whiteboards and in conversations with Bill. As my relationship with Delta kicked off with co-founding the Delta Emerging Leaders Associate Board over a decade ago and I now approach the end of my final term as Delta’s Chair of the Governing Board, I’ve had the joy of knowing Bill this entire journey. Whether if his position at the time was a Programs Associate at Delta or its CEO, Bill has been a leader through and through. Delta is the organization it is today because of his commitment, his passion, and his care for Delta’s staff, boards, partners, and supporters.
Delta Institute is impactful as it is today because of Bill’s leadership. Our overarching mission and vision are indelibly shaped by Bill’s work—as am I. Please join me on congratulating Bill for this well-deserved recognition!
