River Visionaries Shape a Lasting Legacy

As Friends of the Chicago River approaches its 50th anniversary in just a few years, two leaders whose vision and commitment shaped Friends came together recently for a special luncheon with Friends’ executive director, Margaret Frisbie, to reflect on Friends’ founding and enduring impact.

Robert Cassidy and Judith Stockdale revisited the spark that ignited a movement and the partnerships that helped Friends grow. In August 1979, Cassidy, an urban planner, set the stage with his Chicago magazine cover story, “Our Friendless River.” The article brought to life the incredible opportunity the river presented and offered a clear, actionable plan for its recovery. Cassidy’s call to action resonated widely, galvanizing civic leaders and community members, and ultimately triggering the creation of Friends of the Chicago River. He went on to serve as the organization’s first chair.

Judith Stockdale, then executive director of Openlands, helped Rob build the fledgling organization incubating it through Openlands and enabling Friends then all volunteer leadership to raise funds and launch early projects including the first river protection ordinance in Chicago in 1983. Friends flourished and, in 1988, successfully launched as our own independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

“It was incredibly meaningful to sit down with Robert and Judith and reflect on how Friends of the Chicago River began and how far we’ve come,” said Frisbie. “Their vision, courage, and commitment to collaboration laid the foundation for everything we do today. As we look ahead to our 50th anniversary, their leadership reminds us that powerful ideas, when paired with sustained partnership and action, can truly transform a river and shape a lasting legacy for generations to come.”