Welcome William R. Hoover

Friends of the Chicago River is pleased to welcome William "Bill" R. Hoover to its Board of Directors. Hoover serves as Executive Director of the Paragon Global Initiative Foundation, an organization that invests early in people and innovations at the intersection of sustainability, technology, business, and career development—with a strong emphasis on community engagement and workforce transformation, including in the marine industry.

A resident of Chicago’s Kenwood neighborhood, Hoover brings a wealth of civic and professional leadership experience to the board. He has been involved with Chicago Sister Cities International, the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, where he has helped advance initiatives that support young professionals and international collaboration.

"Friends couldn’t be more pleased to have Bill join our board," said Margaret Frisbie, Friends Executive Director. "His unique experience as a business person, entrepreneur, and advocate for youth will increase our ability to achieve our mission and reach our vision for a river system that is healthy, biodiverse, climate resilient, and welcoming for everyone"

Hoover holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Business Management from DePaul University and is a member of the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, where he served as chair of the Banking and Finance Committee from 2017 to 2019.