Alice McLean is a seasoned leader with a passion for bridging communities and driving impactful change. As Special Advisor to the CEO, as well as Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer, of the Emerald South Economic Development Collaborative, Alice plays a key role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, while providing vital support to the Board of Directors. In addition, she serves as the Director of University and Community Relations at the Obama Foundation, where she fosters partnerships that advance the Foundation’s mission of empowerment and civic engagement.

Alice’s career is marked by a series of pivotal roles, including serving as the Director of Special Projects in the Office of the President at the University of Chicago. In this capacity, she spearheaded the successful bid to bring the Obama Presidential Center to Chicago's South Side, a landmark initiative that will continue to shape the city for generations to come.

A graduate of Northwestern University, Alice holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science and earned her Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy. Her work reflects a deep commitment to the intersection of education, public service, and community development.