The Obama Presidential Center: A monument to hope and history

Members of the press were given an exclusive first look on June 3 at the highly anticipated Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park, offering a rare behind-the-scenes preview of one of Chicago’s most significant cultural landmarks before it opened to the public June 4. Rising 225 feet above the South Side, the striking eight-story Museum Building serves as the centerpiece of the campus and will house an immersive museum experience chronicling the presidency of Barack Obama and the history that shaped it.

The media event featured remarks from Michael Strautmanis, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer; Valerie Jarrett, CEO Obama Foundation; Tina Tchen, Executive Vice President of Programs; John Roberson, Incoming Executive Vice President; Dr. Louis Bernard, Director of the Museum; and Kelly Powers Baria of Powers & Sons construction company.

Strautmanis welcomed members of the media and expressed excitement about sharing the Obama Presidential Center with the public for the first time. He described the Center as a reflection of a core Obama belief—that ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things—and noted that its creation was shaped by years of collaboration with neighbors, community leaders, the City of Chicago, and supporters from around the world. He also introduced the team of leaders who helped bring the project to life and encouraged guests to explore the museum and grounds while learning more about the Center's mission and vision.

Jarrett described the Center as "a home for hope." She explained that President Obama never wanted a traditional presidential library focused solely on his administration. Instead, he envisioned a living center that places his presidency within the broader story of American progress, honoring the generations of ordinary people whose collective efforts made historic change possible. Jarrett emphasized that the Center is designed not only to preserve history but also to inspire future leaders through immersive experiences, educational programs, and community engagement. She said the goal is for every visitor to leave feeling connected to the power of civic participation and motivated to create positive change in their own communities.

Tchen highlighted the Obama Foundation’s global leadership initiatives, which began years before the Center was completed. She noted that the Foundation has trained and connected thousands of emerging leaders through programs such as the Obama Scholars Program, the Obama Foundation Leaders program, My Brother’s Keeper Alliance, Girls Opportunity Alliance, and local youth initiatives, like After School Matters, in Chicago.

The eight floors of the museum showcase immersive environments, historic artifacts, media and interactive elements that encourage both participation and reflection. Guests can record and share their own stories with the Obamas, feel the fabric of the First Lady’s couture gowns, run your hand over a replica of the Presidential Medal of Freedom (the highest honor awarded to civilians by the U.S.), enjoy never-before-seen views of Jackson Park from the Sky Room, take a photo in front of the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, and so much more.

The museum experience culminates on the eighth-floor Sky Room, a space Jarrett described as her favorite part of the Center. Visitors can take in sweeping views of Chicago while standing behind the iconic five-foot concrete letters of "You Are America," an installation inspired by President Obama's speech commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches. Created from ultra-high-performance concrete by South Bend-based Shaffner Heaney Associates/Envel, the artwork honors those who helped advance progress while encouraging future generations to continue the work.

As President Obama has said: “I hope those words will now serve as a beacon, of courage and hope, not just for this community, but for the next generation of Americans looking to chart their own course.”

A library branch, an NBA-worthy basketball court, gift shop, expansive “Women’s Garden”, children’s play areas, seniors walking paths, food courts and more will complete the Center experience.

A masterpiece in every sense of the word, no matter what side of the aisle you’re on.

(Obama Presidential Center, 6001 S. Stony Island, Chicago, Obama.org)