McDonald's next chief executive, Don Thompson, is not afraid to tell people where he came from: the 1300 block of North Cleveland Avenue, three blocks north of Cabrini-Green. The proof is in how many people know his story.
His roots, it appears, have kept him grounded and humble as he skyrocketed through the ranks of the Oak Brook-based fast-food chain and arrived at the table of the city's corporate elite. It also has made him relatable to the rank and file.