The Chicago Urban Forestry Advisory Board (CUFAB) is tasked with investigating and offering recommendations on tree-related issues in alignment with the City's Our Roots Chicago Initiative. 

Board members were selected based on recommendations from the Bureau of Forestry, CDOT, CDPH, and the Mayor’s Office, along with feedback from participants in the Tree Equity Working Group. The appointees are well-respected technical and community tree experts known for their work throughout Chicago. Board members will serve in staggered four-year terms, with half of the initial board serving two-year terms. 

The following individuals are appointed to the CUFAB:

• Rolando Favela, environmental professional and Tree Ambassador representing the Southwest Side 
• Nuri Madina, Director of Community Development for Blacks in Green 
• Daniella Pereira, Vice President of Conservation at Openlands
• Cindy Schwab, arborist leading the industry in DEI and workforce development initiatives
• Jim Semelka, regional tree expert and previous President of the Illinois Arborist Association
• Jessica Vogt, academic arborist from DePaul University

In addition to the full board members, the following City officials serve as ex oficio CUFAB members:

• Gia Biagi, Commissioner, Department of Transportation
• Andrea Cheng, Commissioner, Department of Water Management
• Maurice Cox, Commissioner Department of Planning and Development
• Rosa Escareno, General Superintendent and CEO, Chicago Park District
• Malcolm Whiteside, Deputy Commissioner, Bureau of Forest, Department of Street and Sanitation
• TBD, Chair, Environment Committee, City of Chicago