Mayor Richard C. Irvin announced yesterday new initiatives in innovation and information technology for the City of Aurora.
Nearly 100 business, government, civic and education leaders from Aurora gathered for Irvin’s announcement at the Illinois Math and Science Academy’s IN2 Center for Innovation and Inquiry.
"Developing innovative ideas and policies for Aurora will require strong data analysis coupled with best practices and creative and strategic thinking," said Irvin. "Successful innovation is greater than just technology alone. It requires the ability to generate ideas from across the board and the proven capacity to implement them."
NOTED PROFESSOR IS NEW INNOVATION CHIEF
To lead Aurora’s new innovation initiatives, Irvin has recruited former DePaul University professor, Dr. Adrienne Merced-Holloway, to serve as the City’s first Chief Innovation Officer.
"After working with Dr. Holloway on a number of significant projects, I know she is clearly focused on strategic planning and effective results," said Irvin. "As she works to enhance our strengths in Aurora through innovative ideas and practices, her expertise will be instrumental in connecting all facets of our community and driving innovation throughout the city."
An accomplished professional with decades of experience in community development and higher education, Holloway was most recently an assistant professor at the DePaul University Graduate School of Public Service where she taught government, community development and research methods courses across 4 degree programs. She received her Ph.D. in Political Science from Northern Illinois University, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Baruch College, City University of New York and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fordham University.
A small business owner and dedicated community volunteer, Holloway is the president of her own consulting firm and currently serves as Director of Mayor Irvin’s Transition Team, Vice-Chair of the Northern Lights Development Corporation and Board Member of the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry. She also recently completed 2 terms as Chair for the Aurora Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board.
Holloway will be an addition to Irvin’s previously announced Mayor’s Office staff. Her team includes the Community Services Department led by Chief Community Services Officer Dan Barreiro; and the Information Technology Department, which is now under new leadership.
NEW TECHNOLOGY CHIEF BRINGS GLOBAL EXPERIENCE
Recognizing the important role information technology will play in the City’s success, including efforts in innovation and economic development, Irvin has also recruited the former Vice President of Information Technology of global financial services company, Morgan Stanley, to lead the City’s technology initiatives.
As Chief Information Officer, Michael R. Pegues, brings more than 20 years of experience in IT delivery and management across diverse sectors, including Financial Services, Technology/Telecommunications and Government.
"Our Technology Department is integral to the success of operations at City Hall and the economic growth of our business community," said Irvin. "Michael has the global experience in technology and business that we need to advance. Not only is he a proven executive in the field, he is also a community advocate and veteran who is dedicated to service."
Under the direction of the Chief Innovation Officer, Pegues will be responsible for the management, oversight and direction of the IT Department, including the Management Information Systems Division and the Police Technical Services Division, which is comprised of public safety and the 911 center. Former Chief Technology Officer, Ted Beck, will collaborate with Pegues as the City’s new Chief Information Security Officer focusing on cybersecurity and citywide IT projects.
A veteran of the United States Army, Pegues most recently served as Vice President of Enterprise Security Solutions at Morgan Stanley’s Chicago office and Vice President of Enterprise Infrastructure of the company’s office in Budapest, Hungary. He left Morgan Stanley to join Irvin’s administration.
Pegues holds a Bachelor’s of Computer Science from DeVry University and an Executive MBA from Central European University. He is an alum of West Aurora High School.
"Howard Schultz of Starbucks said when you’re surrounded by people who share a passionate commitment around a common purpose, anything is possible," said Irvin. "I agree, and my goal is to build a team of professionals who are leaders in their respective fields and passionate about building Aurora together. Both Adrienne and Michael have been and will continue to be great assets to Aurora."
Pegues starts his new duties this week and Holloway begins on Monday.