Barrett MarySue

MarySue Barrett

Outgoing President, Metropolitan Planning Council

MarySue Barrett is a proven change-agent who connects bold ideas and diverse voices to solve complex challenges facing metropolitan Chicago, and cities and regions everywhere. Over her 25 years as President of the Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC), Barrett has brokered systemic solutions and inclusive alliances across business, government, civic, and philanthropy leaders. MPC’s recent accomplishments include Cost of Segregation findings and a Great Rivers Chicago 30-year vision.

Earlier, Barrett served in former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley’s Administration as Chief of Policy. She is frequently tapped as a media source, public speaker, and leader of task forces and transition committees. In 2020, Barrett participated in the City of Chicago’s Recovery Task Force, envisioning equitable post-COVID-19 strategies.