Ciera Whitaker
Community Engagement
Dr. Ciera Whitaker is a civic leader, strategist, and engagement professional with more than 16 years of experience advancing economic development, strengthening small business ecosystems, and supporting mission driven organizations across Chicago’s South Side. Her work is rooted in service, community empowerment, and building strong pathways for sustainable impact.
Dr. Whitaker spent 16 years with the South Shore Chamber of Commerce, where she served in key leadership roles, including Program Director. Throughout her tenure, she led entrepreneurship initiatives, business support programs, and community centered strategies that supported hundreds of small businesses and contributed significantly to South Shore’s economic development landscape.
In addition to her professional work, Dr. Whitaker serves as a Councilwoman for the 6th District Police District Council, where she focuses on public safety, accountability, and strengthening relationships between residents and law enforcement. As the district’s Community Engagement Liaison, she works to elevate community concerns, promote transparency, and advance collaborative solutions that support a safer, more connected district.
Whitaker’s leadership extends statewide as Second Vice President of the Young Democrats of Illinois, as well as locally through her roles as Local School Council Vice Chair at Jane A. Neil Elementary, Local School Council Chair at Simeon Career Academy, and Alumni Board of Advisors of the Chicago State University Foundation.
She is also the Founder & Chief Engagement Officer of New Wave Strategy LLC, where she advises nonprofits and organizations on strategic planning, operational systems, compliance, and workforce development programming.
Dr. Whitaker holds two master’s degrees, an MBA and a Master’s in Criminal Justice and an honorary doctorate recognizing her leadership, service, and civic contribution.
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