Tuesday, July 9, 2024 | View in browser
 EVANSTON, IL - After an external application process and several rounds of interviews, City Manager Luke Stowe today announced Cárina E. Sanchez and Stephen J. Ruger as Deputy City Managers. Both have extensive experience in government and have a longstanding history of creating and fostering positive change. Cárina is the first Latina to serve as permanent Deputy City Manager.
Cárina E. Sanchez
Cárina E. Sánchez is a highly experienced public leadership executive with an impressive track record of over 20 years. She is dedicated to driving positive change for communities. In 2017, she was appointed by the Mayor of Chicago as the Executive Director of the Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC), making her the first Latina to hold this position. During her tenure, she managed a diverse portfolio of 115 projects with total investments exceeding $1.3 billion citywide, generating over $190 million in earnings for nearly 19,000 construction workers.
Prior to this role, Cárina was the first Latina Deputy Clerk for the Chicago City Clerk's Office. She managed a $10 million operating budget, oversaw over 100 employees, and led the transition from seasonal sales of Chicago Vehicle Stickers to a year-round sales program. This change increased revenue for the city and reduced overtime, resulting in savings for taxpayers.
Cárina has held various positions in the Cook County Board President, the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, and the Illinois House of Representatives, demonstrating her dedication as a public servant.
She is a graduate of the University of Chicago, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Latin American Studies. She also holds a Master’s in Business Administration from National Louis University. Additionally, she has extensive volunteer experience and is active in her community. Cárina currently lives in Chicago with her husband, son, and Maltese rescue dog.
Stephen J. Ruger, ICMA-CM, CMC
Stephen J. Ruger is a seasoned local government executive with extensive experience in managing and leading multi-faceted city operations. Currently serving as the City Manager for Trinidad, Colorado, Stephen oversees the city's daily operations, financial management, and strategic planning efforts. Reporting directly to a seven-member elected city council, he supervises a team of 13 directors and over 160 employees, emphasizing empowerment, accountability, and innovation.
Stephen has served as a Consultant for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the City of Santa Fe, where he designed and delivered DEI training programs, significantly increasing diversity awareness among senior managers. As the Deputy City Manager for Rio Rancho, New Mexico, he supervised multiple departments, led the city's first DEI initiative, and managed the 2020 citizen charter review.
Stephen's tenure as the City Clerk for Aurora, Colorado, and Rio Rancho, New Mexico, further showcases his expertise in legislative processes, records management, and election oversight. His efforts in these roles led to significant improvements in administrative policies, customer service plans, and technological advancements.
Stephen holds a Master of Public Administration with a focus on city management and urban policy from the University of Kansas and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Wichita State University. He is an ICMA Certified Manager and a Certified Member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.
“I am confident that Mrs. Sanchez and Mr. Ruger are exceptionally qualified to excel in their roles due to their extensive experience and expertise in City Government. Their combined skill sets and knowledge will be instrumental in our ongoing commitment to serving the Evanston community with transparency, fairness, and dedication to meeting the needs of all community members,” said City Manager Luke Stowe.
-END-
Media Contact: Cynthia Vargas
cvargas@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8234
|
