E. Hoy McConnell, II
Since 1999, Hoy McConnell has served as Executive Director of BPI, a 40-year old public interest law and policy center focused on social justice and quality of life in the Chicago region. Recognized as one of Chicago's most tenacious and versatile advocates for the public interest, today BPI's work features efforts to preserve and expand affordable housing, transform public housing, and improve Chicago's public schools. BPI's staff of lawyers and policy specialists uses legal and policy research, advocacy, organizing, litigation, and collaboration with nonprofit, business, community, and governmental organizations to accomplish its mission. Mr. McConnell has served as a member of BPI's Board of Directors since 1981 and as President from 1990-96.
Mr. McConnell serves on the Steering Committee of Change Illinois!, a statewide coalition of civic, business, professional, nonprofit and philanthropic organizations aligned to restore ethics and integrity to Illinois government. He was Co-Chair of Housing Illinois, a network of housing organizations, lending institutions, developers, foundations, public agencies, and municipal leaders working to increase the acceptance and availability of affordable housing in the Chicago area and throughout Illinois.
Before becoming BPI's Executive Director, Mr. McConnell led a distinguished career in the advertising agency business. At the Leo Burnett Company from 1996-1998, he was Senior Vice President, Account Director. At D'Arcy Masius Benton & Bowles Worldwide (DMB&B), he served as Managing Director of DMB&B/Chicago from 1983 until 1996, leading the 160-person office, which steadily grew under his direction with annual billings of $175 mil. He also served as a member of the DMB&B Worldwide Board of Directors.
Immediately prior to joining BPI, Mr. McConnell served as an independent marketing and communications consultant to several international corporations and as a pro bono advisor to the Commercial Club of Chicago, where he directed communications and outreach efforts for Chicago Metropolis 2020, a long-term strategic plan for the Chicago region.
Mr. McConnell received his undergraduate degree in American Studies magna cum laude from Yale University in 1963 and his MBA from the Harvard Business School in 1965.
* Member, Visiting Committee, Harris School of Public Policy Studies, University of Chicago
* Business and Professional People for the Public Interest (BPI): Board of Directors, 1981-present; President, 1990-96
* The Cradle Society: Board of Directors, 2000-2008
* The Wayfarers' Club: 2000-present
* Yale Club of Chicago: Board of Directors, 1995-1999
* Harvard Business School Club of Chicago: Board of Directors, 1990-92
* The Ohio State University, Graduate School of Business: Guest Lecturer, 1992-99
* American Association of Advertising Agencies (4As)/Chicago Council: Director, 1980- 89; Chairman, 1988-89
* Evanston Youth Hockey Association: Board of Directors, 1980-89; President, 1981-85
* Off the Street Club: Board of Directors, 1980-89
* United States Naval Reserve: Lieutenant, Public Affairs Co. 9-2, 1966-72
