Chris Kessler serves as the Director of Policy at Openlands, advancing policy and regulatory reforms, increasing public funding for conservation, and broadening the base of advocates for nature in our region. With over 13 years of public policy experience, Chris brings expertise in advancing legislative initiatives, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and policy communication. Before joining Openlands, he served as a legislative and communications staffer for the Office of the Speaker in the Illinois House of Representatives where he developed and managed the Illinois House Democratic Caucus’ first-ever digital outreach program as their Digital Director. Chris has also worked as a political consultant on numerous successful statehouse campaigns where he was responsible for campaign management, message development, grassroots organizing, and more. Chris holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Passionate about protecting natural areas for future generations, Chris is known for cultivating relationships and bringing people together to shape conservation policy initiatives.
Favorite Place to Get Outside- Chris enjoys exploring all of our public lands and thru-hiked Pacific Crest Trail, which spans from Mexico to Canada in 2025. Chris serves on the Illinois Environmental Council Board of Directors.
LinkedIn: Chris Kessler
Contact Information
- Email: ckessler@openlands.org
- Phone: 312.863.6269
