We are thrilled to celebrate Dr. Ángel Vélez, our beloved CHI21 Surge Fellow, on his recent appointment by Mayor Brandon Johnson to the Chicago Board of Education. This momentous achievement fills our entire Surge community with pride and joy.

Dr. Vélez will represent South Side communities from Canaryville to Auburn Gresham, bringing his deep commitment to educational equity and community advocacy to one of the most important decision-making bodies in Chicago education. As a board member, he'll help oversee the district's $10.2 billion budget and shape policies impacting hundreds of thousands of students across the city.

The entire Surge Institute family is cheering you on as you begin this important work. Chicago's students are fortunate to have your voice and leadership guiding their educational future.

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