Ellen Lorden

Ellen Lorden currently serves as a key leader within the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Finance Department, specializing in Risk Management to safeguard the district’s assets and ensure fiscal stability. Her role involves developing and implementing comprehensive risk mitigation strategies, with a focus on safeguarding the district’s financial resources and operational integrity. Ellen’s expertise in analyzing risk exposures enables her to identify potential vulnerabilities, particularly within complex financial and operational frameworks, and to develop proactive solutions that align with CPS’s strategic objectives.

One of her key projects involves overseeing the district’s insurance programs, including managing liability exposures associated with large-scale events and operational activities. She works closely with underwriters to obtain critical documentation for insurance applications, such as the Special Events policy, ensuring that coverage aligns with the district’s needs while maintaining cost efficiency. Additionally, Ellen plays a vital role in quality control of the incident management system, ensuring accurate data collection and reporting to facilitate effective risk assessment and response planning. Her skills in CRM, project coordination, and community outreach are instrumental in fostering stakeholder engagement and ensuring transparent communication across departments.

With a background rooted in client service and strategic communication, Ellen excels at translating complex risk data into actionable insights for district leadership. Her ability to persuade internal and external stakeholders to support risk management initiatives has been pivotal in strengthening CPS’s resilience. Her comprehensive approach combines analytical rigor with personable engagement, making her a trusted partner in safeguarding the district’s assets and advancing its mission to provide a safe and effective learning environment.