About Us
The Lakefront Progressive Network (LPN44) is the democratic organization of the 44th ward. It is the goal of LPN44 to offer our neighbors across the city of Chicago a clear path to civic engagement. Through community service projects, bi-monthly socials and voter education series, LPN44 offers a wide range of activities to choose from. Whether you are looking to get involved in politics, help make Chicago a better city or just meet some great like-minded people, LPN44 is the democratic organization for you!
Meet our board of directors.
Aimee Ramirez, LPN44 Board President
Aimee has been active in the 44th Ward Democratic Organization since 2003 and began serving on the Board of Young Chicago Lakefront in 2006. Her interest in politics began early on, following her mom to volunteer on campaigns in Puerto Rico from age 13. Upon moving to Chicago to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Loyola University Chicago, Aimee began her search for ways to channel her passion for politics. “The 44th Ward has always been welcoming of volunteers and active in the community” she says, “I’ve been very fortunate to find a community as entertaining, engaged, and diverse as Lakeview.”
In addition to serving as LPN44’s Board President, Aimee has worked at the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office for the past three years and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Policy Studies at DePaul University. When she is not working or studying, she enjoys learning new skills and hobbies. Most recently she’s taken up scuba diving, yoga, and jewelry making. Aimee says: “If I ever get tired of politics and public policy, I may move far far away, open a scuba diving and yoga resort in some obscure island, and make jewelry for the rest of my life”.
In the mean time, she is excited to help 44th Ward residents remain or become informed voters to ensure Illinois, Chicago, and Cook County are run by efficient, progressive democrats with will help move this state forward.
Julie Khan, LPN44 Board Vice President
Being active in politics most of her adult life, Julie has volunteered for numerous local, state and federal elections. After moving to Chicago in 2005 Julie became overwhelmed in getting to know the Chicago political scene. She turned to LPN44, then Young Chicago Lakefront, to get to know the local scene better. Through the many volunteer and social activities Julie became active within the organization and later joined the board. “LPN44 gave me an opportunity to actively do something to better the city. I know that our work directly helps Chicago elect responsible progressive leaders who care about their constituents. I am grateful to have found LPN44 and wish to share this wonderful resource with other people who share in the same vision of this city.”
Julie has spent her days working for the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office for over three years. When she is not working with the board or hanging out with friends, chances are you will find her stretched out on a yoga mat.
Jamie Crain, LPN44 Board Secretary
Jamie Crain is a Senior Account Executive at Jasculca/Terman and Associates, Inc., where she handles public affairs and strategic communications. Prior to joining JT, Jamie served as Deputy Campaign Manager for Dan Seals’ successful 2010 Primary Election campaign. She also worked for Illinois Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan’s House Democratic Staff for almost three years.
She has managed several political campaigns across the state for the Democratic Party of Illinois. She is also currently the 1st Vice President of Illinois Democratic Women. Jamie earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Northern Illinois University and a Master’s Degree in Political Science from University of Illinois at Springfield.
Max Bever, LPN44 Board Political & Social Chair
Max Bever is the Community Outreach Director for Alderman Tom Tunney in the 44th Ward. A graduate of Loyola University Chicago with a degree in Political Science and English, Max lives in the Edgewater neighborhood. He previously worked for the Illinois Governor’s Press Office.
In his free time, Max is a talented playwright and an ensemble member of the local theater troupe MidTangent Productions.
Joan Pinnell, LPN44 Board Member
After growing up closeted blue in a red state, Joan’s political coming out was leaving Kansas in 2006 to serve as graphic designer for then Chicago’s People for the American Way office. Hailing from the aesthetic side of advocacy, it took participating in countless voter registration drives, acting as Polling Place Administrator in numerous elections and designing for politically charged nonprofits such as Greenpeace to unleash her passion for policy. In 2009, Joan put graphic design on pause in order to gain policy credibility with a Masters in Leadership and Policy Studies from DePaul University.
When she’s not studying, Joan serves as Director of Chicago-based 501c3 Creative Pitch. Providing unused art supplies to underfunded art instructors teaching low-income students keeps her connected to the fine arts and her community. As an LPN44 Board member, Joan is thrilled to continue serving locally, while furthering her political education. She says, “LPN44 is an opportunity for action, participation & progress. Like art, it provides a means by which we can unite to improve upon—even beautify—our current state.”
