Mesa Directiva Electa
Elected Board of Directors

Steven J. Miller, Co-President

As the original owner of PIHCO’s first building, Steve has been an essential part of PIHCO’s story. In 2020, after learning about the idea of the co-op from a neighbor, he found its affordable housing goals to be commendable and decided to sell his building to PIHCO. He has lived on the property for over 55 years, first as a tenant, then as a landlord, now as a co-owner.

“When I first got to Chicago after coming out of the service, the people living in this building welcomed me like family. I wanted to pass on that welcome to [other] residents of Pilsen, and keep the family atmosphere."
Rocio Diaz-Maciel, Co-President

Coming Soon!
Aleen Olivares, Treasurer

Aleen is dedicated to fostering positive change in the world around her. She channels her energy to a nonprofit focused on environmental justice and contributes to Pilsen’s vibrant cultural community through Aztec dance, photography, a start-up vegan food business and as a fitness instructor and small business owner. She has over 10 years of experience in accounting and financial administration. Aleen is interested in preserving the community's cultural heritage and ensuring equitable access to culture for all.
“PIHCO has given me not only the opportunity to stay in Pilsen but also to help others stay and fight gentrification.”
Izayo Mazehualli, Secretary

Izayo is an interdisciplinary artist and cultural educator who shares Indigenous teachings through Aztec dance and martial arts. A lifelong resident of Pilsen, his family has been part of the neighborhood since the 1970s.

“My upbringing in Pilsen has deeply connected me to my cultural heritage. Co-founding an Indigenous Nahua community, working in environmental justice, and participating in an urban agriculture worker-owned cooperative have all deepened my commitment to community building. Service is the thread that weaves together my work, my community efforts, and my spiritual practice.”
Hector Duarte, Director

Artist Hector Duarte is a co-founder of PIHCO and helped paint the co-op mural "Fight to Stay" on PIHCO's first building. Hector was drawn to Pilsen in 1978 by the murals being painted here. In 1985 he moved to the neighborhood to contribute to that tradition; his murals reflect Mexican culture and deal with issues like identity and borders. He's raised three children in Pilsen and Michoacan, Mexico.

"Los mexicanos en Pilsen hemos creado un ambiente que refleja la vida de un pueblito con sabor mexicano. Debemos defenderlo, quedándonos aquí."
Karen Leon, Director

Karen Leon is a community-rooted entrepreneur and cultural advocate. She manages all aspects of a mariachi business in a traditionally male-dominated field, with a focus on talent development and event coordination. Karen also volunteers at local initiatives serving immigrant families, women, and youth, with a deep commitment to cultural preservation, community empowerment, and cooperative values.

"I feel lucky to be one of PIHCO's founding families....I firmly believe that stable, safe housing is essential to optimize all aspects of our lives: emotional, financial and family. Having a stable place to call home in turn allows you to better contribute to your community, your art, your passions, and all your talents.”
Laura Nussbaum-Barberena, Director

Laura's life has been split between Chicago, Central America, and Seattle. A cultural anthropologist, she is interested in using storytelling and community histories to support cooperative development. She is married to artist Carlos Barberena; the two moved from Nicaragua in 2008. Since then, they have developed deep ties to people in Pilsen.
“PIHCO to us is a continuation of the community organizing that characterizes Pilsen and so many Chicago neighborhoods.”
Chuck Stark, Director

Since moving to Chicago in 2011, Pilsen has been the only neighborhood Chuck has called home. His wife, Wendy Clinard, is a longtime Pilsen artist and dancer. They live in the second PIHCO building with their daughter and son. As an outdoor educator with the Chicago Park District and a high school teacher before that, Chuck has a deep respect for organizations that serve communities.

“I am honored to be part of something that is in clear and direct contrast to the greed and self-interest that tears people down. We are doing work to lift community up.“