Great Cities Institute’s 30 Years of Impact
Event Summary
On December 1, 2025, the Great Cities Institute (GCI) celebrated its 30 Years of Impact, marking three decades of commitment to urban research, policy, and community engagement. The milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the vision that led to GCI’s founding and to honor the ongoing work that continues to shape cities and communities.
Founded in 1995 as part of UIC’s Great Cities Initiative, GCI emerged from a bold commitment to addressing urban challenges through research, collaboration, and public engagement. That same year, then-Governor Jim Edgar proclaimed December 1 as Great Cities Day in Illinois, recognizing cities as centers of knowledge, creativity, and economic growth while acknowledging persistent challenges related to housing, employment, education, and public health. The resolution underscored the importance of comprehensive, integrated approaches to improving urban life—principles that have remained central to GCI’s mission.
Over the past 30 years, GCI has served as a driving force in advancing urban policy and fostering partnerships among academia, government, businesses, and community organizations. Through research, convenings, and direct engagement, the Institute has addressed critical issues in Chicago and beyond, reinforcing UIC’s role as a university deeply connected to its urban environment.
The anniversary celebration reflected on the legacy of the Great Cities concept while looking ahead to future urban innovation and community-centered research to address pressing challenges facing cities.
Videos from this event will be made available soon.
Event Details (as held):
- Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
- Program: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Reception: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: UIC Student Center East (750 S. Halsted St)