Myths and Realities of Homelessness & Poverty: A Plan for Transforming Cities

Jane Ramsey is president of the Chicago-based Jewish Council on Urban Affairs, which combats poverty, racism and anti-Semitism in partnership with the city's diverse communities. Under her leadership since 1979, JCUA has become one of Chicago's most influential organizations speaking on behalf of human and civil rights issues, including immigration, homelessness and community displacement, community reinvestment, police misconduct, and government accountability. Jane Ramsey served for two years as director of community relations for Chicago Mayor Harold Washington. She has also served as a board member for the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, the Chicago Coalition to Protect Public Housing, and the Public Welfare Coalition, and as commissioner for Private Industry Council and the Women's Commission of the City of Chicago. Ramsey has a master's degree from The University of Chicago, School of Social Administration and a bachelor's degree in sociology from Washington University in St. Louis.