Nelson Carlos
Carlos Nelson
Chief Executive Officer, Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation
As the Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation (GAGDC) since 2003, Carlos A. Nelson has been a driving force behind the organization's transformation into a robust community-focused entity. Under his leadership, the corporation has evolved from a solo endeavor into a dynamic team comprising nearly fifty dedicated staff members and numerous volunteers.
Carlos is deeply committed to the revitalization of low-to-moderate income communities in Chicago and South Suburban neighborhoods. Through comprehensive community development strategies and initiatives, he and his team work tirelessly to create and maintain healthy, safe, and sustainable neighborhoods where families can thrive.
With a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Master of Business Administration, Carlos made the bold decision to leave corporate America in pursuit of his passion for community development. Since then, he has assembled a team of passionate professionals dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of south side and southland residents and businesses.
Under Carlos' guidance, the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation's innovative strategies have garnered significant recognition, including winning the prestigious inaugural $10M Chicago Prize from the Pritzker-Traubert Foundation. As a result, Carlos’ vision culminated into the Landmarks Illinois and Community Neighborhood Development award-winning Auburn Gresham Healthy Lifestyle Hub.
In addition to his role at GAGDC, Carlos is actively involved in various committees, advisory councils, and boards, including the University of Illinois at Chicago’s African-American Advisory Council, the Local School Council for Richard J. Oglesby Elementary School, and the advisory boards of organizations like the Chicago Development Fund and Chicagoland Habitat for Humanity. He also serves on the boards of New Pisgah Community Service Organization, and the Greater Chatham Initiative.
Carlos' commitment to community service extends to his role as co-chair of the 006th Police District’s Business Subcommittee. He is a proud recipient of accolades such as the Norm Bobbins Emerging Leaders Award and the Chicago Defender Men of Excellence Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to community development and leadership.
