Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) President Kari K. Steele delivered opening remarks on July 22 at the 2025 National Association of Flood and Stormwater Management Agencies (NAFSMA) Annual Meeting held in downtown Chicago.

The meeting drew more than 200 experts, government leaders, and policy makers nationwide for discussions on flood management, stormwater innovation, and climate resilience.

Referencing this year’s NAFSMA theme, “Leading Through Unprecedented Change”—she encouraged participants to “learn from each other, assist each other, and build solutions together—because as I always say: teamwork makes the dream work.”

President Steele highlighted the MWRD’s ongoing efforts to combat flooding and strengthen climate resilience through efforts that include:

• Over 220 stormwater management projects protecting more than 17,000 structures
• The Space to Grow™ program which transforms schoolyards into green infrastructure hubs
• The Tunnel and Reservoir Plan which is slated to hold 17.5 billion gallons of water upon completion

President Steele recounted a personal journey that began on the South Side of Chicago, where childhood memories were shaped by the heartbreak of basement flooding. Those early experiences fueled a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, leading her to a formative role as an intern at the MWRD’s Calumet Water Reclamation Plant, where she analyzed wastewater samples and discovered the critical role effective water management plays in protecting communities.

“There were so many thoughts in my mind: just live your life, or let your life make a difference,” she reflected. “Today, I’m proud to be serving my third term as President of the MWRD Board.”

President Steele also thanked participants for touring key MWRD projects, including the Thornton Reservoir and Robbins Stormwater Park, emphasizing collaboration across jurisdictions to address climate challenges and aging infrastructure. 

“We must invest in green infrastructure, embrace data-driven solutions, and build more resilient communities for all,” she urged.

The event also highlighted MWRD’s leadership role within the NAFSMA community: Dr. Catherine O’Connor, MWRD Director of Engineering, was recognized for her service as a member of the NAFSMA Board of Directors; and Kevin Fitzpatrick, MWRD Assistant Director of Engineering, and Holly Sauter, Managing Civil Engineer, participated as featured panelists, sharing insights from MWRD's flood mitigation and stormwater initiatives.