Gov. Pritzker Announces Two Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Capital Development Board

Araceli Garza will serve as a Member of the Capital Development Board.* Garza is an accomplished licensed architect and real estate developer with a robust background in both the public and private sectors. As the founder and principal of Obra Real Estate, she is dedicated to creating culturally relevant, community-focused projects. Her work emphasizes affordable, sustainable housing solutions that honor the unique needs and identities of the communities she serves. Before founding her firm, Garza was the Managing Director of Studio ARQ. She is affiliated with several professional organizations, including being a HACIA Executive Fellow, a 2022 Inner City Capital Connections graduate, and a participant in the Women’s Business Development Center. Garza earned a Bachelor of Architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology and a Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design and Real Estate Development from Columbia University.

Illinois Workforce Innovation Board

Mboka Mwilambwe will continue to serve as a Member of the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board.* Mwilambwe was elected as Mayor of the City of Bloomington in 2021 and has since endeavored to collaborate with local partners to develop and retain a strong workforce. He has served as the Interim Director of Equal Opportunity Ethics and Access at Illinois State University, where he led investigations into harassment and discrimination issues, and ensured compliance with mandated state and federal reports. Mwilambwe also served as the Assistant Director for Student Development for University Housing Services. He has been recognized by his peers and was awarded the Star Award for Promotion of Diversity and for Outstanding New Program. Mwilambwe earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Science in Education from Illinois State University.

* Appointments pending confirmation by the Illinois Senate.

###