Meet victor p. Henderson

Candidate – Chicago Public School Board President

Family and Education First

Vic’s family has generational roots in Chicago Public Schools. Vic is committed to ensuring every CPS student has the opportunity to succeed because his family IS a CPS family. 

Education has always been central to the Henderson family. His children attended CPS schools including Whitney Young, Sutherland Elementary, Clissold Elementary, and Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep before graduating from universities such as the University of Michigan, Savannah College of Art & Design, the University of Colorado Boulder, and Southern University.

His parents and in-laws attended CPS schools, including DuSable High School and Dunbar Vocational.

Vic himself attended public school from kindergarten through 12th grade before going on to graduate from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and Georgetown Law, while his wife is a graduate of the University of Illinois and holds a Ph.D. in nursing.

A PROVEN LEADER

Victor P. Henderson brings a long and distinguished record of leadership, integrity, and results to his campaign for Chicago Public Schools Board President.

  • Former President, Chicago Bar Association (22,000 members)
    Led one of the city’s most respected professional organizations, bringing together diverse stakeholders and managing complex decisions—experience directly relevant to overseeing a large public system like CPS.

  • Outside Ethics Officer, Chicago Housing Authority (CHA)
    Provided independent oversight on ethics and compliance, helping ensure transparency, accountability, and public trust in a major public agency—core responsibilities of CPS leadership.

  • Counsel, U.S. House Ethics Committee (Capitol Hill)
    Advised on ethics rules and investigations at the federal level, reinforcing a strong understanding of governance, oversight, and responsible leadership.

  • Certified Public Accountant
    Oversaw major budgets and complex financial matters, bringing the discipline and expertise needed to ensure CPS resources are managed responsibly and effectively.

  • Former Executive Partner, Chicago Office of Holland & Knight
    Managed a major law office, overseeing operations, personnel, and strategy—experience directly applicable to running a large, complex system like CPS.

  • Former Chairman, Chicago Committee on Minorities in Large Law Firms
    Advanced equity and opportunity in the legal profession, reflecting a commitment to fairness and inclusion in leadership.

  • Former President, Illinois Equal Justice Foundation
    Led efforts to expand access to justice, demonstrating a commitment to serving communities and delivering meaningful outcomes.

  • Former International President, Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Inc. (60,000 members)
    Directed a large, international organization, building leadership capacity and managing broad networks.

  • Current Chairman, Groove Fund
    Oversees philanthropic efforts focused on community investment and impact.

Board Memberships & Community Involvement

  • Urban Prep Academies (Board Member)

  • Better Government Association (Board Member)

  • John Marshall Law School (Board Member)

  • Illinois Community College Board (Member)

  • Cook County Bar Association (Member)

  • Mt. Zion Baptist Church 

  • Oakdale Covenant Church

Victor has received numerous awards and recognitions for his service and leadership. He will bring this depth of experience—earned through years of leading organizations and delivering results—to Chicago Public Schools.