NAWBO Chicago Board of Directors 2013-2014 Term

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2013-2014 TERM

July 1, 2013 Dear NAWBO Chicago, Our role is to help our members grow their businesses!! We are simply, as always, committed to getting even better. We are committed to Building a Foundation for Success! Together we will concentrate on ways to implement, develop and provide a focused approach to the following: • Best Practices of Successful Women Business Owners • High-level Educational Programs • Opportunities for Meaningful Networking and Relationship Building • Tools for Economic Success NAWBO has always been the most sought after women’s business association in the country and NAWBO Chicago one of its first, and most respected chapters. We want to continue to be an even better resource for women business owners by looking for new and innovative ways to help our members grow successfully.

Our goal is to create a strong team and spread out the responsibilities throughout the year with the many amazing activities, Signature Events and NAWBO Connects programming we offer to our members, while having fun in the process!

Thank you again for this opportunity to showcase our NAWBO Chicago Leadership Team.

Sincerely,

Lori Hilson Cioromski Lori Hilson Cioromski, NAWBO Chicago President TH Hilson Company 1761 S. Naperville Road, Suite 100 Wheaton, IL 60189 Office: (630) 665-3085 X. 121

LORI HILSON CIOROMSKI PRESIDENT BIOGRAPHY: Lori Hilson Cioromski—is the oldest child of TH Hilson Company’s founder Terry Hilson. She is the President & CEO of TH Hilson Company, a Midwest specialty chemical distributor headquartered in suburban Chicago. She recently celebrated her 27th year at the TH Hilson Company.

Under Lori’s leadership, the company has expanded its territory, developed new markets and formed a strong management team focused on the company’s commitment to service and growth. TH Hilson Company was recently the recipient of Cabot’s “2012 Distributor of the Year Award” and the 2010 & 2008 recipient of the EPS/CCA’s “Distributor of the Year Award”.

Lori recently received NAWBO Chicago’s “2012 Woman Business Owner of the Year”. She was also NAWBO Chicago’s “2011 Member of the Year Award” the recipient of the Emergency Fund’s “2011 Heart of the Community Award”, the 2010 “Enterprising Women of the Year” and the 2008 recipient of The Business Ledger‘s “Entrepreneur Excellence Growth Award”.

Lori is the President-Elect for the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Chicago where she was the Director of Charitable & Community Outreach. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Emergency Fund, a non-profit that helps prevent homelessness in the Chicago land area.

Lori received her bachelor of science in Marketing from Loyola University of Chicago, she enjoys horse back riding, golf, tennis, cooking, writing and spending time with her family and friends. Lori and husband Hubert have six children between the ages of 5 and 26.

TH HILSON COMPANY OVERVIEW: TH Hilson Company is a preferred distributor of specialty chemical raw materials to leaders in the Coatings, Adhesives, Personal Care, MWF/Lubricant, and Plastics markets, providing quality service and innovative solutions since 1973.

LORI HILSON CIOROMSKI CONTACT INFORMATION:

TH Hilson Company 1761 S. Naperville Rd. Suite 100 Wheaton, IL 60189 E-mail: Lori@thhilson.com Website: www.thhilson.com Office: (630) 665-3085 X. 121

The company is a privately-held business, operating in 17 states, with consistent sales growth over the past eight years.

TH Hilson Company is a 60% woman-owned business with headquarters in suburban Chicago, Illinois.

We have been a National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) member for almost 30 years and have implemented all guidelines set forth by the Responsible Distribution Process.

Our success is based on the strong relationships we have built with our clients, industry principals in our key markets, technical expertise of our sales team and commitment to service.

GOAL STATEMENT: It is my goal as President of NAWBO Chicago to bring programming and events to help our members continue to build a foundation for success! We are simply, as always, committed to getting even better. Together we will concentrate on ways to implement, develop and provide a focused approach including: Best Practices of Successful Women Business Owners, High-level Educational Programs, Tools for Economic Success and Opportunities for Meaningful Networking and Relationship Building.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

CHARISSE WITHERSPOON IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT BIOGRAPHY:

Charisse Witherspoon’s long-standing interest in the relationships between leadership, public service and public information took root when she became a Capitol Hill congressional intern while completing a journalism degree. In 2011, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn appointed her to the state Business Enterprise Council. Charisse is now Council chairperson of the procurement subcommittee. She also is a former board president of the Publicity Club of Chicago, the nation’s largest independent organization of communications professionals. Most recently, she served as the president of NAWBO Chicago for 2012-2013.

CHARISSE WITHERSPOON CONTACT INFORMATION:

Witherspoon Marketing Group, Inc. 6 E. Monroe St., Suite 1404 Chicago, IL 60603 E-mail: charissew@ witherspoonmarketing.com Website: www.witherspoonmarketing.com Primary: (312) 541-0200

Charisse has led marketing/diversity training initiatives in 18 states and continues to lead workshops on new and updated marketing strategies for business development. She hosted and produced an award-winning business issues/public service radio program for more than a decade on WGCI-AM and headed public relations for National Public Radio (NPR) affiliate WBEZ Radio (91.5 FM). Charisse also manages master illusionist Walter King, Jr. (“Spellbinder”) who has performed with superstars including Jennifer Hudson and Whitney Houston, as well as for business and educational events.

WITHERSPOON MARKETING GROUP, INC. COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Witherspoon Marketing Group is a Chicago-based, award-winning professional services firm that has provided measurable client-focused results through innovative relationship marketing and new business development since 1993.

Evaluated tools include eye-catching Web design, effective multicultural communications strategies, engaging special events and innovative customer services that are tailored to raise the bar for each client “partner”… large or small, public or private. Our motto, “our insight is your advantage” continues to be an inspiration to ourselves and others. And we remain energized by the challenges and opportunities entrusted to us as we provide cost-effective solutions in a competitive marketplace.

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal as chair of the Nominating Committee is to utilize the dedication of Committee members to support the development or continuation of a vibrant, inclusive and productive board of directors for NAWBO Chicago.

This includes, but is not limited to, helping our members recognize the benefits of participating in the leadership of our chapter. Also, as the immediate past president, I intend to provide more information to and from elected and appointed officials as I continue to encourage member participation in public procurements.

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EMILY SMITH PRESIDENT ELECT/SECRETARY BIOGRAPHY: Emily Smith joined CCRE in 2007 and has been a powerful advocate for tenants by providing them expert office tenant representation in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Her focus is helping small to medium size businesses.

After joining NAWBO Chicago in 2009 she was asked to help with several NAWBO initiatives. Emily “gets it,” and she virtually lives and breathes the NAWBO mission. She long ago surpassed the milestone of stepping forward, taking on a leadership role, and carrying out that commitment. For Emily, her previous Board title of Director of Membership only describes at a minimum the value that she represents to our NAWBO chapter. Whenever there is a leadership gap – whether due to resignation, an overlooked project deadline, a dropped ball, or the like – Emily constantly steps forward to pick up the slack and “save the day” by quickly generating creative ideas and solutions, securing sponsorships, and otherwise masterfully engineering successful events and programs. She takes on these projects quietly and without fanfare, driven only by the best interests of the organization.

Emily is very passionate about nonprofit organizations and regularly volunteers her time for endless causes. She is dedicated to teaching young girls about selfesteem and entrepreneurship. When she is not working or volunteering she loves spending time running, traveling, and spoiling her nieces and nephews.

CHICAGOLAND COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY OVERVIEW: Chicagoland Commercial--Tenant Advisory Division was established to assist commercial tenants with their search for facilities that meet their needs. Our professional team possesses the expertise and regional market knowledge to effectively advise corporate space users in the greater Chicagoland area.

We appreciate how disruptive any change in physical surroundings may be on your business, and we also know how stressful the decision making process and negotiations can be, especially if you are not familiar with the terms and considerations of the arrangement. Our goal is to represent you in all evaluations, negotiations, and agreements in order to maximize your benefits in the arrangement.

EMILY SMITH CONTACT INFORMATION:

Chicagoland Commercial Real Estate (CCRE) 222 W. Ontario Suite 300 Chicago, IL 60654 Email: Emily@ chicagolandcommercial.com Website: www.ccretenantadvisorydivision.com Primary: (312) 521-5173

Because of our experience and market knowledge, we know the right questions to ask, the small print to scrutinize, and the fair market value of the space. This leverage often results in lower costs, improved space efficiencies, and more options than Tenants would otherwise have identified. As an added bonus, the cost for our services is paid entirely by the Landlord; there are no charges to you.

Specialties: Analyzing your present and future facility requirements, Market analysis and alternatives identification, Review and selection of facility alternatives, financial analysis and Transaction negotiation, and Facilitate lease review with attorneys, Monitor build-out progress to ensure conditions are met, Post occupancy services GOAL STATEMENT: My goal for President Elect is to support Lori so she is able to achieve her goals as NAWBO Chicago President. I look forward to rolling out new programs and initiatives for our members to help them grow and further their businesses.

I will be working to forge long term relationships with affiliate organizations and corporate partners that can benefit our members.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

SUSAN A. OLDENBURG TREASURER BIOGRAPHY:

Sue is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Enrolled Agent (EA). She is a member of the AICPA and National Association of Tax Practitioners.

Sue currently serves on the Lake County Athena PowerLink Governing Board and has volunteered as a panel member. Sue served on the Illinois Small Business Development Center Advisory Board and was a program instructor. She is one of the founding Board of Directors of the Village of Gurnee Chamber of Commerce and served on the Lake County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. She also previously served as an officer and member in numerous other organizations.

A graduate of Columbia College of Missouri, Sue resides in Gurnee with her husband, Bill, and enjoys spending time with her son, Matt, and daughter, Andrea, when they visit, and with friends in the Gurnee area and Door County, Wisconsin at her lake home. Sue’s other interests are cooking, photography, reading, quilting, and running her business, and she plans to start golfing again.

OLDENBURG ACCOUNTANTS & ADVISORS COMPANY OVERVIEW: SUE OLDENBURG CONTACT INFORMATION:

Oldenburg Accountants & Advisors 159 North Greenleaf Street, Suite 1 Gurnee, IL 60031 Email: Sue@oaa-cpa.com Website: www.oaa-cpa.com Primary: (847) 263-0303 Cell: (847) 668-5862

Sue started Oldenburg Accountants & Advisors (OAA) in 1991 and serves a diverse group of small and mid-size business clients in various industries in the Northern Illinois area and beyond.

As a member of the RAN ONE Accountants Network, Oldenburg Accountants & Advisors offers special expertise in management and business advisory services and has earned the respect of clients and colleagues alike for providing accurate tax and accounting products including bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, accounting system implementation, tax planning and preparation and CFO services.

In addition to serving the small to medium-sized business market, Oldenburg Accountants & Advisors serves individual tax clients with complex tax situations.

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal as the incoming Treasurer is to ensure accurate and timely reporting on the financial position and activities of the organization to the Board of Directors and to keep the Board informed of key financial events, trends, concerns, and an assessment of fiscal health; to complete required financial reporting forms in a timely fashion and make those forms available to the Board; to develop and monitor the annual budget of the organization and compare the actual revenues and expenses to the budget; and to oversee the development of financial policies. The purpose of financial reporting is to make sure that any decisions that need to be made can take into consideration accurate and up-to-date financial data.

Financial management is the primary focus of the Treasurer; the entire board shares accountability for the financial health of the organization.

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REETI NAIR COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR BIOGRAPHY:

Reeti Nair is the founder and principal consultant of Aligna®, Inc. Prior to Aligna, Reeti worked in various capacities at a Fortune 50 pharmaceutical company and a Fortune 100 human resource company. Ten years ago, Reeti decided to focus on helping additional organizations profit from her experience and skills in organizational transformation and wide variety of implementation challenges. Over the past few years, Reeti has carried out custom research, consulting and training on issues of communication, market positioning and brand, consumer buying behavior, and strategic plan implementation. Reeti employs innovation, creativity in problem solving, and an extensive experience in successful implementation of solutions. She draws on varied experiences and keen insights of work experience. Core to her engagement philosophy is a participative approach that balances strategic business direction with practical tips for immediate impact and implementation. Reeti has a Masters degree in Operations and Technology Management and an advanced degree in Physics.

ALIGNA COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Aligna, Inc. helps organizations leapfrog their competition by pushing the limits of performance in communication (why we are better) by focusing on the three Ps: people, processes, and products (what makes us better); and, goal implementation (how do we stay ahead).

Aligna® analysies examples include competitive analysis, market positioning, branding, organizational communication, goal formulation and implementation, and, process improvement. Aligna® is uniquely positioned to offer experience and expertise that leverages both the art and the science of organizational management.

REETI NAIR CONTACT INFORMATION:

Aligna, Inc. 1312 E. Prairie Avenue Des Plaines, IL 60016 Email: reetinair@alignainc.com Website:www.alignainc.com Work: (847) 768-0037 Cell: (847) 331-6472

GOAL STATEMENT:

My first goal is to provide effective internal and external communication processes in order to better promote NAWBO Chicago’s objective of building a foundation of success for members. External communications will aim to attract and retain members by inspiring and engaging members, prospective members and raise public awareness. The Communications team will work closely with Marketing, PR, and other key individuals to provide a seamless communications solution to more efficiently use organizational resources. In addition to the Communications programs, I look forward to harnessing and empowering the NAWBO Chicago community to enhance the Networking and Business Exchange Groups and transform it into a useful engine for the organization.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

SUSAN CHESLER CORPORATE AFFAIRS BIOGRAPHY:

Susan Chesler established Signs For Success, LLC in July 1995. The company operates as an Independent Full Service Sign Company with a specialty for designing, producing and installing vehicle graphics and full color wraps on buses, trucks, vans etc. Prior to 1995 Susan worked in the Insurance Industry for 15 years. Prior to opening her company she held the position of Director of Financial Markets for CNA Insurance Company in Chicago, responsible for developing, underwriting and marketing Professional Liability Products.

She is the past president of The Executives Guild, Early Risers Rotary Club and currently serves as Director of Corporate Affairs for NAWBO Chicago.

On a personal note, Susan has 2 children, Jake and Staci, 3 cats, volunteers for animal rescue organizations, loves to travel and spend time in the outdoors hiking and Jogging.

SIGNS FOR SUCCESS, LLC COMPANY OVERVIEW: SUSAN CHESLER CONTACT INFORMATION:

Signs For Success, LLC 1538 Madison Drive Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 Email: signsuccess@fsi.net Website: www.signsforsuccessllc.com Primary: (847) 800-4870

Designs, manufactures and installs all types of signs including but not limited to banners, trade show, product packaging, 3 dimensional letters, wall graphics, floor graphics, vehicle graphics, decals etc. We love working on projects that start with a concept and allow us to create them. No project is too small or large. We strive for and value long term relationships with all our clients.

GOAL STATEMENT:

We are very grateful for the support and loyalty we receive from our Corporate Partners and Sponsors. They provide the valuable resources we need to help our members meet their goals in achieving success.

We are focusing on new innovative ways to work with our Corporate Partners to expand our services and opportunities for our member.

Our goal in 2013/2014 is to develop close relationships with several new Corporate Partners to strengthen our programming and add new resources and create new ways to help our members build strong businesses.

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ROSALYN D. WESLEY DIVERSITY BIOGRAPHY: Rosalyn D. Wesley is a globally recognized leader in Human Resources management and organizational effectiveness. She has worked extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Latin America and Asia, and has leveraged her more than 30 years’ experience to lead global Fortune 500 corporations in the technology, consumer products, pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries in increasing their value and ROI to their stakeholders, employees and communities. She has a demonstrated track record in providing strategic solutions that help organizations recruit, select, develop and retain the best workforce and leadership talent. Rosalyn has been recognized for leading creative initiatives impacting key business metrics, including profitability, cost reductions, revenue, and productivity and employee turnover. Her keen business acumen enables her to help organizations lead and manage change, leverage diversity and inclusion, and integrate human capital strategies with strategic business objectives and goals. Rosalyn has been a critical partner to Executive leadership, who cite her understanding of the challenges, risks and opportunities associated with running a business as one her key competencies.

A mentor and coach to senior leaders and top performers, Rosalyn is also a highly sought after workshop leader and popular keynote speaker, known for her thought-provoking, high impact and dynamic presentations. She is the recipient of two U. S. Presidential awards for her work launching creative labor, workforce and workplace literacy initiatives, and has served on numerous nonprofit Advisory Boards and Boards of Directors. In April, 2013, she received an award and was recognized by the Illinois Diversity Council as one of Illinois’ Most Influential and Powerful Women.

TRISTAN REEVES, LLC COMPANY OVERVIEW: Tristan Reeves, LLC is a full service Human Resources consulting firm with a mission to help organizations be profoundly productive and profitable by leveraging and maximizing the strength, influence and capabilities of their people. The Company helps organizations in both public and private sectors engage employees in ways that effectively help them innovate, operate effectively and sustain their competitive edge in the marketplace. The range of expertise includes performance management, succession planning, communications strategies, employee relations, organizational and leadership development, mentoring, diversity and inclusion, HR practices and policies, mergers and acquisitions, change management, recruitment and retention.

ROSALYN D. WESLEY CONTACT INFORMATION:

Tristan Reeves, LLC 275 Kimberly Road North Barrington, IL 60010 Email: rdwesley@tristanreeves.org Website: www.tristanreeves.org Cell: (847) 980-5699

NAWBO DIVERSITY GOAL: Build and sustain a diverse, inclusive membership, and a culture and environment that welcome diverse members and encourage participation and collaboration throughout the organization.

A. Understand the current state of diversity among NAWBO members. Facilitate the identification of diverse business owners, with diverse businesses and encourage their membership in NAWBO. B. Partner with NAWBO’s Executive Director and expanded team to help identify, craft messages and increase NAWBO’s visibility in multiple demographics.

C . Ensure all programming and events meet the needs of a diverse membership.

D. Help facilitate an environment within NAWBO that encourages open and authentic communications.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

MICHELE KURLANDER GOVERNANCE/PARLIAMENTARIAN BIOGRAPHY:

MICHELE KURLANDER CONTACT INFORMATION:

Kurlander & Associates, LLC 155 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 620 Chicago, IL 60601 Email: Lawmichele@aol.com Website: www.kurlanderlaw.com Primary: (312) 925-9416

Education/employment: B.A., U. of Mich ‘66; LLM Northwestern Law School, ‘69; CT&T (‘69-‘70); Walsh, Case, Coale & Brown (‘70-‘89); Lindenbaum Coffman Kurlander Brisky & Grippo (‘89-05- firm won the Entrepreneurial NAWBO Corporate Partner of the Year award); Kurlander & Grippo ( 05-06); now, Kurlander & Associates. WBE certified ( WBENC); NAWBO etc. Joined 1988 (Board 1989-2001; 2011 to present); President of Chapter 1997-98; Chaired Education, Public Affairs, Regional Retreat committees; VP of Education & External Affairs; Chapter rep.- National Public Policy Council; on many committees, including one that helped Citizens Assembly draft and pass Ill. Women’s Business Ownership Act; Governing Board member of NAWBO Chicago PAC; A NAWBO rep to Illinois Women’s Economic Development Summit July ‘93 & member of the subsequent Women in Policy and Decision Making Working Group; NAWBO rep. on steering committee of WEWIL (Women Empowering Women In Illinois)—formed to foster joint action among Chicago area women’s organizations; helped task force draft Home Based Business amendment to Chicago Zoning Ordinance; counseled small business owners as “ACE” member of SBA’s SCORE; on steering committee & Board of Small Business United of Illinois; elected delegate to 1995 White House Conference on Small Business; member of 1996 Illinois Small business 100 (formed by DCCA to counsel it on small business issues); member of Women’s Entrepreneurship Working Group under Illinois Governor’s Commission on the Status of Women; Board member Chicago Abused Women’s Coalition (chaired gala); opined on women’s issues during 2000 presidential cycle as one of 100 member Lifetime TV “A Team 2000”; won 1999 SBA Women’s Advocate Award of the Year (Illinois & Region); Member of Illinois, Chicago, Women’s, and American Bar Associations; mother of three, grandmother of six, former marathoner; writes short stories, poetry, and travel articles.

KURLANDER & ASSOCIATES, LLC OVERVIEW:

An entrepreneurial, woman owned law firm representing entrepreneurs and their businesses of all sizes & many industries - in corporate, business, and real property law, plus estate planning.

GOAL STATEMENT:

(a) To formalize and finish modernizing the Chapter’s governing documents to make them reasonably flexible , working now and into the future; continue the ongoing project of reviewing the bylaws (including comparing to national and other chapters); recommend and implement changes; and create a “Policies and Procedures” document ( required under recent bylaw amendments), for matters more properly not set in the relative “stone” of the bylaws. (b) To create a form of bylaws distributable regularly to board members, so current and incoming members gain ( and update) a continuing working knowledge of the governing documents.

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HAZEL A. KING LIAISON TO PAST PRESIDENTS BIOGRAPHY: Hazel A. King is founder and president of H.A. King & Associates, Inc. An experienced, award winning business owner, King is a sought after speaker before business and professional organizations.

H.A. KING & ASSOCIATES COMPANY OVERVIEW:

H.A. King & Associates, Inc. is a Chicago-based management consulting firm. Organized in 1986, the SBA 8a graduated firm has provided administrative support and human resource management services as a contractor to federal agencies for many years and is now doing the same in the private sector. Over the years, the company also has managed the business communications needs (including marketing and public relations) for a variety of small and medium size businesses. In addition, King is a strong supporter of entrepreneurship education as a result of nearly 20 years involvement with the Illinois Institute for Entrepreneurship Education.

King has served on a number of boards and organizations supportive of minority and women owned business issues. For example, King was a gubernatorial appointee to the Illinois Women’s Business Ownership Council for many years; a Presidential appointee to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Regulatory Fairness Board, and an Illinois delegate to the 1995 White House Conference on Small Business.

H.A. King & Associates, Inc. and its principal, Hazel A. King have been recognized for outstanding professional achievement on numerous occasions by a wide variety of audiences. Representative awards include: •

1994 Woman in Business Advocate – U.S. Small Business Administration

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1996 Women’s Business Advocacy Award – Women’s Business Development Center

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2006 DePaul University Entrepreneurship Program – Outstanding Supporter of the Year,

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2006 Director’s Choice Award – U. S. Small Business Administration, Illinois District

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2013 Member of the Year, National Association of Women Business Owners, Chicago Chapter.

HAZEL A. KING CONTACT INFORMATION:

H.A. King & Associates 636 N. Orleans, Suite 3S Chicago, IL 60654 Email: Haking5170@aol.com Website: wwwa.hakingonline.com Primary: (312) 664-8150

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal is to: Keep the Past Presidents engaged and supportive of activities of the organization. Working with the President and the Board, develop specific tasks in which the Past Presidents can continue to provide leadership and service to the organization.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

JENNIFER MASI MARKETING BIOGRAPHY:

JENNIFER MASI CONTACT INFORMATION:

Torque Ltd. 167 N. Racine Ave. Suite 2 Chicago, IL 60607 Email: jmasi@torquelaunch.com Website: www.torquelaunch.com Work: (312) 850-8241 Cell: (773) 718-1567

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Jennifer Masi has been working in Chicago as an art and creative director since 1990. She has won more than forty awards for design and production excellence. For the last 6 years she has been the owner of Flutter a boutique graphic design and branding agency. Flutter specializes in unique, one-of-a-kind print and website communication solutions. Among her clients are Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago Waldorf School, Soaring Solutions, WeCare Card, Palmer Consulting, Indigo Studio, Ellen’s on Elm, Robin Thomas Design and Bright Hope. Jennifer has fast experience in branding, print and website communications as well as publication and catalog work. Her publication clients include Spiegel, Vance Publishing, Randall Publishing, Family Ventures and TLN. She has worked on both trade and consumer magazines such as Gear Technology, Confetti, Becoming Family, Modern Salon, Salon Today, Discover Spiegel and Significant Living Magazine.

For the last year Jennifer has also been working as a Creative Director for Torque, a creative branding and marketing firm. Her clients include, BOMA Chicago, NMPG, Solutia, NSource and Return to Youth. Flutter is WBE Certified.

TORQUE LTD. COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Torque provides brand strategy and digital marketing campaigns for healthcare, consumer products and real estate. We are a creative branding and marketing firm founded in 1992.

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal as the director of marketing on the board is to lead NAWBO Chicago in developing a recognizable voice and presence in the market place. Tangible deliverables will be a new website, extensive brand standards guide and systems for all marketing materials and communications being used by NAWBO Chicago.

KIRSTEN ZOUB MEMBERSHIP BIOGRAPHY: Kirsten Zoub is a Serial Entrepreneur, Business and Personal Transformation Coach, Speaker, and Group Facilitator at Dasein. For the last 27 years Kirsten has successfully started and run businesses in a variety of fields such as freight brokering, art publishing, real estate, health and wellness, and entrepreneurial training. She now uses her wealth of experience to empower and serve a diverse population of business owners and sales executives including top level CEOs. Kirsten was born and raised in Germany where she completed her education in business and English. Additionally, she has been studying and teaching personal transformation for over two decades and is professionally trained and certified as an Herbalist, Reiki Master and Massage Therapist. Kirsten is married to Andy, and mother to Cameron fourteen and Anaïs twelve.

DASEIN OVERVIEW: Dasein offers business and personal transformation coaching that is designed to focus on company and revenue growth, along with the attainment of high quality of life. We specialize in helping organizations and individuals overcome blocks that keep them stuck, in order to move to the next level of clarity, focus, direction and growth.

GOAL STATEMENT: My goal for membership is to facilitate the growth of the organization through conscious yearlong enrollment and retention efforts, as well as outstanding member service. It is my vision that we achieve this through an intentional personalized yearlong mentoring process. It is my aim to “enthuse” new and seasoned members to be an educated external sales force for NAWBO, as they are sharing the benefits of membership with other women business owners by inviting them to events and sharing events on their social networks.

I hope to work in partnership with Programs and Communication to provide our members with beautifully scripted and designed invitations for every NAWBO event making it easy to invite guests or potential new members.

KIRSTEN ZOUB CONTACT INFORMATION:

DASEIN 666 Dundee Rd., Suite 1601 Northbrook, IL 60062 E-mail: Kirsten@daseintraining.com Website: www.daseintraining.com Primary: (773) 858-1882

Additionally, I would like to see the membership committee grow to a minimum of 15 – 20 active members, with 3 -4 representatives from every Chicagoland area so that the membership committee is always represented at each BXG meeting, NAWBO Connects meeting and events, ready to be a resource for our members.

Besides spreading the “love” amongst new members I wish to implement a system for consistent outreach to seasoned members to find out what is happening in their businesses, understand how well they are using their NAWBO membership, and to inquire if they have suggestions to improve their membership experience.

By implementing above objectives I am expecting that the membership committee will do their part to grow memberships by at least 25% - 30% annually.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

SUSAN L. DAWSON POLITICAL/EXTERNAL AFFAIRS BIOGRAPHY:

Susan L. Dawson earned her Juris Doctorate from the Loyola University Chicago School of Law in 2000, with a concentration in corporate/ business law and taxation. Susan has spent her career representing businesses, business owners, and entrepreneurs. She has a wide range of experience, having worked with clients on the local, national and international levels. Susan delivers a commitment to service which surpasses clients’ expectations, meeting tight deadlines and responding to pressing matters as they arise. Susan is also heavily involved in the community, dedicating significant time and effort to supporting a number of non-profit entities in and around the Northwest Suburbs.

Areas of practice include: Corporate and Business Law, Employment Law, Commercial Real Estate WALTZ, PALMER & DAWSON, LLC COMPANY OVERVIEW:

SUSAN L. DAWSON CONTACT INFORMATION:

Waltz, Palmer & Dawson, LLC 3701 Algonquin Road, Suite 390 Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 Email: sdawson@wpdlegal.com Website: www.wpdlegal.com Work: (847) 253-8805 Cell: (847) 754-1401

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Waltz, Palmer & Dawson, LLC is unique, women-owned law firm that provides the same level of high-quality legal services as a larger downtown firm with the convenience and customer service you would expect from a small firm. We pride ourselves in providing unparalleled service to our clients, quickly responding to and addressing their needs while using our extensive experience to advise clients on their best course of action.

Practice areas include: Business law, Wills and Trusts, Divorce/Family Law, Criminal, Real Estate, Probate, Employment Law, Intellectual Property and Commercial Litigation GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal for Political/External Affairs is to create stronger strategic alliances. Using the NAWBO Mission Statement as a basis, I hope to build a stronger bridge to the PAC as well as to other groups who share our vision. I want to forge relationships and create a system of working together to strengthen our collective voices. By leveraging our platform and identifying opportunities to get NAWBO Members in front of policymakers and opinion-makers, we can generate change in the current business culture. Together we can find a way to be heard.

HOLLY KAHAN DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING BIOGRAPHY:

Holly Kahan established HollyBarry House Ltd of Chicago in 1995 as a “Relationship Marketing” outgrowth of her advertising/marketing company, The HBH Agency. Prior to that, Holly worked in the world of advertising and graphics her entire adult life. The mother of three (and now grandmother of six), she did design work and commercial silk screening from her home while raising her children. In 1983 she joined a suburban advertising agency and developed & managed accounts in 12 states.

During that time, Holly and husband Barry were a presenting couple in the Chicago Jewish Marriage Encounter movement as well as for the organization’s Teen Encounter weekends for 12 years. From 1996 until 2004, Holly was a trained coach and classroom leader for Landmark Education’s Team Management Leadership Program. Additional volunteer involvements have included her synagogue (Am Shalom), Women’s American ORT, and the Breast Cancer 3-Day walk.

Among Holly’s passions are photography, gourmet cooking, beading, and making people feel special. Her greatest passion, however, is husband Barry whom she met just prior to starting high school. They just celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary June 18th.

HOLLY BARRY HOUSE LTD. OF CHICAGO COMPANY OVERVIEW:

HollyBarry House Ltd. of Chicago is a “Relationship Marketing” company that psychologically impacts business relationships by focusing on expressions of acknowledgement. What we provide are gift items to create and reinforce those relationships. Unlike ad specialty items which serve to promote the sender, our focus in on the recipients and that they are left feeling appreciated and valued. The company provides service nationally and works with marketing departments, office managers, administrative professionals, executive assistants, and business owners on client development and retention. Human resources directors and managers turn to HollyBarry House Ltd. for employee life cycle events, onboarding, recognition & retention

HOLLY KAHAN CONTACT INFORMATION:

HollyBarry House Ltd. of Chicago 393 Vine Avenue Highland Park, IL 60035 E-mail: HollyB@HollyBarry.com Website: www.HollyBarry.com Work: (847) 432-4580 (all messages page cell phone)

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal for programming is Cross-Generational Integration. I wish to create programs that are specifically significant for Millennials, Gen Xers, Gen Yers, Baby Boomers and the like. Each group has differing interests, methodologies, sensitivities and skills. We have much to learn from one another. I hope to work in concert with the Diversity Committee in creating programs that allow for educating one another to better expand all of our businesses. Different programs will appeal to differing age demographics. I want a celebration of youth—their technical abilities, and communication skills. I want a celebration of elders—their wisdom and experience. We all want success. We all want life balance. We can enable both with and for one another.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

PHYLLIS MALITZ PUBLIC RELATIONS BIOGRAPHY:

Phyllis has more than 25 years of experience providing accounting, tax, and business consulting services to clients in the Chicago area and throughout the U.S. Her clients include real estate professionals; health care, technology, and manufacturing companies; other closely held businesses; and individuals with diverse tax needs and situations. She is experienced in tax compliance, planning, and entity selection; representation with state and federal taxing authorities; strategic advisory services; accounting and assurance services; succession planning; tax services for individuals, estates and trusts; cost segregation; R & D tax credits; forecasting and feasibility studies; divorce consulting; and CEO coaching.

Phyllis has a passion for her clients, and approaches them with a comprehensive, proactive evaluation of their business and personal financial situation. She acts as a trusted adviser and takes a holistic approach in helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals.

PHYLLIS MALITZ CONTACT INFORMATION:

SS&G 8707 Skokie Blvd., Suite 400 Skokie, IL 60077 Email: PMalitz@SSandG.com Website: www.SSandG.com Work: (847) 676-2000 Direct: (847) 229-6215

In 2007, Phyllis merged her 20-year-old practice, Phyllis Malitz & Associates, Ltd., into SLSF, which is now part of SS&G. She has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and was awarded an Ernst & Young scholarship for the WBENC Executive Program at Dartmouth Tuck School of Business. Phyllis is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and the Illinois CPA Society. She is active in the Skokie Chamber of Commerce and previously sat on the ICPAS State and Federal Taxation committees. She has written for various professional publications, including the Journal of Accountancy.

Phyllis focuses on pioneering and mentoring women in business.

She received the AICPA and ICPAS’ 2011 Woman To Watch Award in the Experienced Leader category, and has been honored by the U.S. Small Business Administration as an Accountant Advocate of the Year for Illinois. She was also recognized in a feature story by Winning Workplaces. Phyllis’ NAWBO activities include the NAWBO Boardroom Exchange, and she is involved in several community and nonprofit organizations.

SS&G COMPANY OVERVIEW:

SS&G, Inc. (www.SSandG.com) is a full-service certified public accounting, business advisory, and management consulting firm encompassing assurance, tax, employee benefits, and restaurant financial services.

GOAL STATEMENT:

I will bring my industry experience and leadership skills to give solid advice to the board of directors while helping to promote NAWBO Chicago’s great people, programming and events.

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DIANE VALLETTA DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROJECTS BIOGRAPHY:

Diane grew up in a small Connecticut town, entered college as a PreMed major, graduated with a degree in English Literature and an MBA in Marketing Management, and began her career as a writer in the Marketing Department of a Chicago-based insurance company. When entrepreneurism took hold, she founded Valletta Associates, a marketing communications consulting firm. Suddenly isolated in a home-based sole proprietorship, she craved the companionship reminiscent of the “water cooler sessions” of her days in the corporate world, and the camaraderie of kindred professional spirits. After three years of urging from close friend Hazel King, Diane attended her first NAWBO meeting in 1986.

Passionate about the power of communications, Diane served for over 15 years on the chapter board and for six years on the National NAWBO board as Director of Communications. She has also been active on NAWBO committees related to public affairs, technology and programming. She was an elected delegate to the 1995 White House Conference on Small Business, served three terms as Chicago NAWBO’s representative to national NAWBO’s Public Policy Council, and serves currently on the NAWBO Chicago PAC Board. She has served as volunteer editor of the Chicago NAWBO newsletter since 1987 and for many years as editor of National NAWBO’s membership and leadership publications.

VALLETTA ASSOCIATES COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Valletta Associates is an Evanston-based marketing communications firm offering writing and editorial services to a varied clientele of primarily service sector businesses. Every project is approached by “walking in the shoes of the reader” and offering useful information to help the reader solve a problem, make a buying decision or take action. Services include identity and capabilities brochures, website and blog content development, lead generation tools, client information materials, newsletters/e-newsletters, training and procedures manual development, special reports and annual reports, manuscript editing, speech writing, and its most unique niche – Award Nomination Packages.

Clients of Valletta Associates have won nearly 300 awards at local, regional, national and international levels.

DIANE VALLETTA CONTACT INFORMATION:

Valletta Associates 1508 Elmwood Ave, Loft #6 Evanston, IL 60201 Email: diane@VallettaAssociates.com Website: www.VallettaAssociates.com Work: (847) 425-1224 (primary) Cell: (773) 428-3706 (use only as a fallback)

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goals as a board member have long been two-fold: (1) to help get the word out about NAWBO so that a greater percentage of Cook County’s nearly 200,000 women entrepreneurs are inspired to join; and (2) to help ensure that NAWBO is perceived as relevant and valuable for members by communicating the benefits and opportunities of membership. As Special Projects Director, I will endeavor to serve in whatever ways I can be effective.

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BOARD DIRECTORS 2013/14

MELISSA LAGOWSKI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BIOGRAPHY:

Melissa Lagowski is a professional event planner and the principal behind Big Buzz Idea Group. In her 22 years of corporate and non-profit event planning experience, she has launched and executed large fundraisers, conceived and initiated several innovative and lucrative new programs, coordinated a variety of dinners/awards functions, hosted a community concert series, designed trade show exhibits and organized numerous conferences/workshops. Her services include event promotion, party planning, wedding coordination, risk management, sponsorship development, volunteer recruitment/management, entertainment, vendors, logistical details and security.

MELISSA LAGOWKSI CONTACT INFORMATION:

Big Buzz Idea Group 3332 W. Foster Ave., #121 Chicago, IL 60625 Email: Melissa@bigbuzzideagroup.com Website: www.BigBuzzIdeaGroup.com Primary: (847) 677-8273

Big Buzz Idea Group is certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and a Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB). Big Buzz is part of the State of Illinois Small Business Set-Aside Program (SBSP), and Melissa is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.

Melissa graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. Her program emphasis was public relations and event planning. She lives just outside of Chicago with her husband, Craig, and their two children.

BIG BUZZ IDEA GROUP COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Big Buzz Idea Group is a one-stop premier Chicago event planning company dedicated to delivering superior value without sacrificing quality, ensuring unparalleled event services on budget and on time. Big Buzz Idea Group transforms vision into reality by utilizing more than 50 years of collective event management insight, relationship-building and organizational development to our client’s strategic advantage.

The process begins with event-specific goal-setting to chart an effective course to achieve the desired outcomes and benefits. Our abiding commitment to deliver and succeed assures our client’s peace of mind while insulating them from the inevitable pressures of event management.

Big Buzz’s ability to adopt our partner’s mission and passion for each event as if it were our own is what sets us apart from other event planning companies. Our standards are set to far exceed client expectations by promising accessibility and adaptability throughout each project. Dedication of this caliber demands creativity, open-minded collaboration, superior service, outstanding production and flawless execution, all of which create an indelible impression while enhancing our client’s image.

GOAL STATEMENT:

My goal is to support the leaders and members of NAWBO Chicago in continually framing and improving our foundation and direction so that all women business owners in the Chicago area find value in the organization. I believe in the power and passion of our board and committee members, and I want to continue to connect our members with the resources and information they need to grow their businesses and themselves for further success.

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LEADERSHIP SLATE 2013-2014 TERM MISSION

The National Association of Women Business Owners propels women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS

President________________________ Lori Hilson Cioromski Immediate Past President__________ Charisse Witherspoon President-Elect /Secretary__________________ Emily Smith Treasurer_____________________________ Sue Oldenburg DIRECTORS

Communication ___________________________ Reeti Nair Corporate Affairs _______________________ Susan Chesler Diversity ___________________________Rosalyn D. Wesley Governance/Parliamentarian __________ Michele Kurlander Liaison to Past Presidents __________________ Hazel A. King Marketing _____________________________ Jennifer Masi Membership____________________________ Kirsten Zoub Political/External Affairs_________________ Susan Dawson Programming ____________________________Holly Kahan Public Relations__________________________Phyllis Malitz Special Projects _________________________ Diane Valletta COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Advisory Board____________________________ Linda Forman_________ reports to the Membership Director Affiliates _________________________________ Gail Zelitzky _______ reports to the External Affairs Director Awards & Appointments _______________________ Open__________reports to the Special Projects Director Business Exchange Groups ______________________ Open_________ reports to the Communication Director Corporate Partner Development ______________ Merle Kalisky _____ reports to the Corporate Affairs Director Finance Committee ________________________ Linda Forman __________________ works with the Treasurer Membership Benefits ______________________ Michele Katz___________________ reports to the President Membership Development & Retention ________ Rhonda Pokoj _________ reports to the Membership Director Networking Committee _____________________Linda McCabe _____ reports to the Communication Director Next Generation Outreach _________________ Jennifer Wolfe ______ reports to the External Affairs Director Social Media Communications ______________ Joy Panos Stauber_________ reports to the Marketing Director Website Committee _________________________ Nick Farina _______________reports to the Communication

and Marketing Directors BXG LEADERS

DuPage BXG _______________________________ Jan Long North Shore BXG _________________________ Kirsten Zoub Lakeview BXG_________________________ Jessica Merino Lincoln Park BXG_____________________ Erin Kelly Herrera Ravenswood BXG _____ Joy Panos Stauber and Angi Semler 19

NAWBO Chicago Area Chapter 3332 W. Foster Ave., #121 Chicago, IL 60625 Voice (312) 224-2605 Fax (847) 679-6291 Website: www.nawbochicago.org CONNECT & SHARE

D E S I G N & D I G I TA L P U B L I S H I N G

Joann Sondy tel: (773) 327-4538 topace@creativeaces.com www.creativeaces.com Cover Image Š City of Chicago