Verónica Ocasio, a proud daughter of Chicago's Humboldt Park community, is a passionate advocate with a deep commitment to community service. Raised by her Puerto Rican single mother, Verónica learned the value of giving back from a young age, attending rallies for equality and social justice with her mother.
After graduating from Roberto Clemente High School and earning a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Verónica faced the challenges that students of color often encounter. Motivated to make a difference, she began her professional journey as a Child Care Supervisor for the Children's Home & Aid Society of Illinois. She later became a bilingual Child Care Welfare Specialist at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
Verónica's dedication led her to the Workforce Investment Act initiative at Youth Service Project and eventually to a Master's program in Urban Planning and Public Policy at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She received the prestigious Hipolito and Teresa Roldan Fellowship, delving into planning, development, and public policy.
Known for her impactful work in housing and economic development, Verónica's efforts attracted the attention of Congressman Luis Gutiérrez. She joined his staff and played a key role in securing $200 million in investment opportunities for the Humboldt Park area.
As District Director for Congressman Gutiérrez, Verónica directed the public service office, fostering deep connections with constituents. Her comprehensive understanding of community needs led her to serve as Chief Operating Officer for the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, raising funds to restore the Historic Humboldt Park Stables.
Verónica's commitment extends globally, participating in humanitarian trips to Haiti and the Dominican Republic. She has served as Chief of Staff at New Life Covenant Church, a mega-church in Humboldt Park with over five campuses, overseeing day-to-day operations and community partnerships.
In 2022, Verónica assumed the role of Director of Education and Programming at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture. Simultaneously, she embarked on a doctoral journey in non-profit organizational leadership. A dedicated wife to Billy Ocasio and mother of three boys—Ismael (27), Gabriel (20), and Antonio (18)—Verónica's steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on communities underscores her collaborative spirit, robust work ethic, and principled leadership.
