Kendal Parker is senior director of Inclusive Engagement for UIC Advancement at the University of Illinois Chicago. He works with internal and external constituencies to maximize philanthropic capacity and support for the university’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Mr. Parker previously served as the director of the UIC CHANCE Program and has more than 20 years of experience developing and cultivating relationships resulting in initiatives that help to advance equitable outcomes in academic and community settings. He serves on the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Board of Directors and is a member of the 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc, and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce- Emerging Leaders. Parker received a bachelor’s degree in finance from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in Instructional Leadership from the University of Illinois Chicago.