Micah Ragland

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT MICAH RAGLAND

I am a public affairs professional, former politico, proud HBCU graduate and ardent supporter of social, environmental and economic equity advancements. As Vice President of Government Relations and External Affairs at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, I assist in leading the Bank\'s outreach with congressional offices, federal agencies, trade associations and state executive branches. Additionally, I help advise the Chicago Fed\'s leadership on the Bank\'s corporate engagement, economic education initiatives and external messaging. For many outside the Federal Reserve System, our work can feel complex. At its core, my role is to help others understand what we do and why it matters. My responsibility is to make sure that congressional offices, other Fed Reserve Banks and the Fed Board of Governors receive that information in a clear and useful way.We produce a tremendous amount of research on the labor market and the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Being able to share that information is essential for demystifying our work, especially to community leaders, who have a range of familiarity with our mission. Through direct engagement, like facility tours and community visits, I’ve seen how strong relationships can transform understanding. Over time, those interactions build clarity and trust, creating a two-way exchange where policymakers gain deeper insight into the economy while we gain perspective into the communities we serve. Strong relationships ensure our research, insights and expertise are understood, accessible and impactful.