Susanna Ernst has deep roots in the 45th Ward. An active and deeply invested resident of Jefferson Park for over 20 years, Susanna has a strong track record of leadership and service that connects her to the vibrant communities across the Ward and the entire City of Chicago. Through her work as a leader and volunteer in numerous northwest side non-profit organizations, Susanna is well poised to bring the community together as the first Alderwoman of the 45th Ward. 
 
Susanna’s history of community engagement speaks for itself. In 2001, she co-founded the Jefferson Park Neighborhood Association, going on to serve as president and leading the organization through its formative years. She went on to play key co-founding and leadership roles in the Northwest Chicago Historical Society, Jefferson Park Forward, and the 45th Ward Participatory Budgeting Committee. Additionally, she orchestrated the inclusion of the northwest side in Open House Chicago and brought the community together to provide input on ward redistricting through Change Illinois.
 
Her volunteer leadership experience and professional achievements have given Susanna strong skills in organizational budgeting, fundraising, strategic planning; policy development and analysis; historical research; the participatory budget process; public speaking and community education, and so much more.

​​Paid for by Friends of Susanna Ernst © 2022