Champaign City Profiles

Champaign City Profiles
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  • GOVERNMENT

On this podcast we get to know some of the people who work for The City of Champaign. Employees share what they do in their jobs, what they do for fun, and how their efforts help make Champaign a great place to live.

  1. 10/13/2025

    ARCHIVE: Nancy Rabel - Deputy City Manager

    This week’s Champaign Spotlight features Deputy City Manager Nancy Rabel, who joins host Jeff Hamilton to share her journey from attorney and city administrator in her hometown of Canton, Illinois, to her current leadership role with the City of Champaign. Nancy discusses her responsibilities overseeing departments such as Public Works, Finance, and Neighborhood Services, as well as her efforts addressing community priorities like homelessness and city facility planning. She also reflects on the value of collaboration, community partnerships, and what it means to make a positive difference through public service.

    18 min

  2. 10/24/2024

    ARCHIVE: Andre Davis - Justice Victim Advocate

    In the latest episode of Champaign City Profile, we sit down with Andre Davis, a Justice Victim Advocate in our Equity and Engagement department. Andre, who retired as a lieutenant after 20 years with the Champaign Police Department, now helps victims of violence connect with vital community resources and serves as a liaison between victims, the police department, and the justice system. Champaign is one of the few cities with such an important role dedicated to supporting victims in their time of need.

    23 min

  3. 10/24/2024

    ARCHIVE: Javier Zenil Pena - Neighborhood Ambassador

    Ready for a closer look at the heart of our community? Join us in the latest episode of Champaign City Profiles. Meet Javier Zenil Pena, our dedicated Neighborhood Ambassador from the Neighborhood Services Department. He's on a mission to proactively assist residents, share information, and enhance community wellness and safety. From downtown weekends to neighborhood visits throughout the week, Javier and his team work tirelessly to connect with every corner of Champaign. Discover how Neighborhood Ambassadors collaborate with city departments to make Champaign an even better place to call home. And don't miss the scoop on the inspiring "43:43:43" campaign, aiming to boost neighborhood engagement citywide.

    36 min

  4. 10/24/2024

    ARCHIVE: Fire Chief Andy Quarnstrom

    In the latest episode of Champaign Spotlight, Communications Manager Jeff Hamilton chats with Fire Chief Andy Quarnstrom. Chief Quarnstromshared his remarkable career progression, explaining he held every rank within the Champaign Fire Department, thereby gaining deep insight into the challenges and responsibilities faced by firefighters.

    29 min

  5. 09/12/2023

    ARCHIVE: Suki Reid - Administrative Assistant

    In the latest installment of the Champaign City Profiles podcast, listeners gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the integral role played by Administrative Assistant, Suki Reid, at the City of Champaign. From assisting the liquor license process to scheduling the Mayor, Suki provides invaluable insights into the inner workings of the city's administrative operations. In this episode, Suki candidly shares her experiences and highlights the City's unwavering commitment to providing essential services, even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to keep the City of Champaign running smoothly.

    17 min

  6. 08/08/2023

    ARCHIVE: April Faulkner - Community Relations Specialist

    In the latest episode of Champaign City Profiles we talk with April Faulkner, Community Relations Specialist in the Equity and Engagement Department. She gives us some examples of what the E&E department does and how her role is to help drive the work forward. One project that she loves working on is our Welcoming Plan. The City works with other organization in the area to implement a set of strategic initiatives to welcome immigrants and better integrate foreign-born residents into our social, cultural, and economic fabric. Other topics talked about in this episode are the new Engage Champaign website, the CDAP program and working in collaboration with other City Departments.

    18 min

  7. 08/07/2023

    ARCHIVE: Thomas Yu - City Attorney

    The City is thrilled to present the latest addition to our Champaign Spotlight series with a new episode featuring City Attorney Thomas Yu. Join us as he shares insights about his experience in the legal profession and the extraordinary team he leads. Hear some behind-the-scenes stories that shaped our City’s history. Gain valuable perspective on the vital role the Legal Department plays in ensuring a smoothly run City government.

    23 min

  8. 08/07/2023

    ARCHIVE: Khalil Zaied - Public Works Director

    The latest episode of the City’s talk show Champaign Spotlight debuted March 31, 2023 and features a conversation with the City’s new Public Works Director – Khalil Zaied. Communications Manager Jeff Hamilton had the chance to sit down with Mr. Zaied to learn more about his background and previous work experiences. Mr. Zaied also explains the important and varied work of the Public Works Department and talks about the department’s dedicated employees who are always ready to get the job done – even in the worst weather.

    16 min
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About

On this podcast we get to know some of the people who work for The City of Champaign. Employees share what they do in their jobs, what they do for fun, and how their efforts help make Champaign a great place to live.

Information

  • Creator
    Champaign City Profiles
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Champaign City Profiles
  • Show Website
    Champaign City Profiles