For Immediate Release
February 28, 2025
Bryant Payne – Public Building Commission
Director of Communications
(312) 742-0878
The Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC) is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Commissioners to its esteemed board. Sean B. Harden, President, Chicago Board of Education and Robert Castaneda, Commissioner, Chicago Park District, will bring their expertise and leadership to the PBC as it continues its mission to deliver high-quality, community focused public infrastructure projects.
“Commissioner Harden and Commissioner Castaneda’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication to public service make them a valuable addition to our board,” Ray Giderof, PBC Executive Director, said. “Their expertise will help guide our projects and ensure we continue meeting the needs of the communities we serve.”
Harden is a trusted community leader and compassionate advocate for positive change. Over the past 20 years, he has held many leadership roles, including that of Chief Executive Officer and President of Harden Wright Consulting Group; Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Community Affairs for Chicago Public Schools; and Director of Workforce Solutions for the City of Chicago, where he helped thousands of individuals secure employment.
Castaneda is the Executive Director and co-founder of Beyond the Ball, a sport and play-based youth and community development organization located on the west side of Chicago, in South Lawndale/Little Village. Known locally and globally for his work in the sport for development field, he is frequently a featured speaker at numerous events in the U.S. and abroad.
The appointments mark a significant milestone in advancing the PBC’s mission of creating exceptional public spaces and infrastructure for city and county residents. As board members, Harden and Castaneda will play a pivotal role in shaping policies, reviewing project plans, and ensuring the PBC’s initiatives align with its mission to improve the quality of life for residents and strengthen the Commission’s ability to deliver innovative projects that meet the evolving needs of Chicagoans.
“We are honored to have these two esteemed individuals join the Board of the Public Building Commission of Chicago and look forward to them contributing to our efforts in delivering impactful projects for our communities,” Giderof said. “Together, we will continue to advance initiatives that promote growth, equity and sustainability, but also reflect the values and aspirations of the communities we serve.”
About the PBC: The Public Building Commission of Chicago manages construction and renovation projects for the City of Chicago and its sister agencies. Additional information about the PBC and its projects can be found at www.pbcchicago.com.