Arnold L. Randall is a respected civic and conservation leader with more than three decades of experience guiding major public institutions in the Chicago region. He is currently the Executive Director of the Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, where he advances the Foundation’s mission to support land conservation, artistic vitality, and collections for the people of Chicago and the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The Foundation supports more than 200 organizations throughout the Chicago region.
Prior to joining the Foundation, Arnold served for 13 years as General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, where he made notable strides in making the preserves more transparent, accountable, and strategic. He led a period of significant transformation that increased the acreage under active restoration tenfold, expanded public access through new and revitalized amenities, and created an environment that welcomed more diverse visitors into nature. His leadership supported the launch of the award-winning Next Century Conservation Plan and guided more than one hundred million dollars in capital reinvestment throughout the preserves.
A lifelong Chicagoan, Arnold has dedicated his career to public service. Before his time with the Preserves, he served as Commissioner of the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development, where he supported economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and landmark preservation. He also held leadership roles at the Chicago Park District, including Director of Planning and Development and Director of Legislative and Community Affairs, where he helped strengthen programs, facilities, and neighborhood partnerships across the city.
Arnold is recognized as a thoughtful and collaborative leader, and he credits many of his leadership principles to his years of service in the Illinois Army National Guard. He served both in cavalry and infantry units in numerous capacities including platoon leader, executive office and company commander. His military experience deepened his understanding of the country’s diversity and values, and at the same time illustrated how people from varied backgrounds and experiences come together to serve in protecting our country and our rights.
Arnold’s leadership and public service commitment also extends to his participation on a number of boards, including the Public Building Commission of Chicago, the Chicago Botanic Garden, the National Recreation and Parks Association.
Arnold holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
