National Academy of Public Administration National Academy of Public Administration
Grace Hou
Fellow

Ms. Grace Hou

Member Since 2024

Biography

Grace Hou has had a distinguished career in public service and community development. Since 2023, she has been serving as the Deputy Governor in the Office of Governor JB Pritzker. Prior to this role, she was the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services from 2019 to 2023. From 2012 to 2019, Grace was the President of Woods Fund Chicago, where she led efforts to support social justice and community organizing. Her earlier roles include serving as the Assistant Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services from 2003 to 2012, and as the Executive Director of the Chinese Mutual Aid Association from 1998 to 2003. Grace's career began with positions as a Community Relations Specialist in the Office of the Illinois State Treasurer from 1997 to 1998, and as a Development Manager at the Chinese American Service League from 1995 to 1997.

History of Employment

Position Division Organization Start End
Deputy Governor Office of Governor JB Pritzker 2023 Present
Secretary Illinois Department of Human Services 2019 2023
President Woods Fund Chicago 2012 2019
Assistant Secretary Illinois Department of Human Services 2003 2012
Executive Director Chinese Mutual Aid Association 1998 2003
Community Relations Specialist Office of the Illinois State Treasurer 1997 1998
Development Manager Chinese American Service League 1995 1997

Expertise

Primary Sector

State

Primary Functions

Advocacy Grants Management Nonprofit / NGO leadership State Government

Areas of Expertise

Board Governance Budget and Finance Civic Engagement Criminal Justice/Justice Disability Rights Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Government Operations/Innovation Health Care Housing Immigration Intergovernmental Affairs and Coordination Labor Relations/Unions Nonprofit/Philanthropy Poverty Social Equity Social Services
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