Connie Smith was one of the Uptown residents who signed up to become an Owner of Chicago Market at the Up & Under Fest on September 15! Learn more about her here....

Tell us your full name – as well as who else shares your fridge.

My name is Connie Smith and I share my fridge with Bara Sarraj.

What motivated you to become an Owner of Chicago Market?

I would like to see community improvements in Uptown. Uptown is a significant historical place in Chicago and I would like to see it revitalized again.

What type of work do you do?

I am a research analyst in higher education. I have a master's degree in sociology.

What else is really important to you…and why?

I volunteer for Flint Creek Wildlife where I rescue Birds who hit buildings and glass windows in Chicago. I am an avid bird-watcher and love animals. I love gardening; I have a plot at the Peterson Garden Project community garden and grow a variety of produce.

Is there something new you’d like to learn or pursue…either now or someday?

For 17 years I worked in higher education as a senior research analyst, so I would like to do more community-based work. I believe that I have the skills and abilities to significantly help improve urban areas. I currently have a lot of free time because I was one of 188 employees who where laid off from Northeastern Illinois University.

Do you have a favorite food or “signature dish”?

That's a loaded question! I really like all kinds of food, and I'm willing to try anything at least once.  I love to bake, grill and cook. And I love anything chocolate…

What’s your ‘one wish come true” for Chicago Market? It might be a product for our shelves, a program you’d like to see us offer, a location – you name it!

I'd like the market to utilize something akin to the Field to Market’s Supply Chain Sustainability Program.

What three words best describe you?

Energetic. Positive. Passionate.