Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) President Kari K. Steele hosted “Black Women in Water: Making Waves, Changing Tides” on Aug. 3 as part of the 2025 Black Women’s Expo at McCormick Place. The event highlighted the leadership, expertise and lived experiences of Black women shaping the water industry and protecting communities across Cook County.

President Steele moderated the session and was joined by Commissioner Yumeka Brown, Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis and Principal Civil Engineer Lolita Thompson. 

“As a chemist, government official, and lifelong Chicagoan, I know firsthand how important it is for Black women to be visible in water careers, government, and public service,” said President Kari K. Steele. “We created this session to uplift voices that often go unheard, especially in conversations about our environment and infrastructure. Representation isn’t just important — it’s transformative.”

Commissioner Yumeka Brown spoke about her grassroots approach to community engagement and her work expanding access to MWRD programs on the South and West Sides.

“Our mission is not just about water — it’s about people,” said Commissioner Brown. “Through partnerships, education and youth involvement, we’re empowering residents to become part of the solution. Whether it’s rain barrels, flood prevention surveys, or our youth programs, the work starts in our neighborhoods.”

Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis reflected on the intersection of climate advocacy and identity.

“As a Black, trans environmental advocate, I’ve seen how often communities like mine are left out of the conversation,” said Commissioner Brady-Davis. “At the MWRD, we are committed to building trust and relationships — not just policies — by showing up, listening, and co-creating solutions with our neighbors.”

Engineer Lolita Thompson also shared her personal journey into the water field, discussing her engineering role at the MWRD and how she overcame obstacles to become a leader in her field.

An emerging leader in the face of climate change, resource recovery, and protection for the environment and local water quality, the MWRD is considered a utility of the future, managing stormwater, protecting area waterways and treating more than 1.2 billion gallons of wastewater each day and transforming into clean water for 5.2 million people living in Chicago and 128 surrounding municipalities. As a policy-making entity, the Board of Commissioners is responsible for establishing policies and procedures which meet the MWRD’s objective of protecting the water environment for the citizens of Cook County, while also providing financial oversight for the agency tasked with a $1.7 billion budget in 2025. 

After the discussion, guests participated in a trivia session using an interactive water wheel. Attendees also visited tables with activities and resources ranging from green infrastructure demonstrations to take-home guides on stormwater management.