Gov. Pritzker Announces One Appointment to Boards and Commissions

Brian Richardson, CEO of nonprofit StartOut and an adjunct professor at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management, is continuing on the commission pending Illinois Senate confirmation.

Submitted by the Office of Governor JB Pritzker

Oct 25, 2026 8:30 AM Save

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SPRINGFIELD – Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointment in his administration:

Illinois Torture Inquiry and Relief Commission

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Brian Richardson will continue to serve as a Member of the Illinois Torture Inquiry and Relief Commission.* Richardson currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of StartOut, a national nonprofit organization where he leads a dynamic platform for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and innovators. In addition to his role at StartOut, Richardson also serves as Adjunct Professor with Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. Previously, Richardson served as Lamda Legal’s Midwest Regional Director, advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those living with HIV. Earlier in his career, Richardson served as Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health. Richardson earned his Bachelor of Arts in Geography from University of Chicago and his Master of Business Administration from University of California Berkley.

*Appointment pending confirmation by the Illinois Senate.