THE BOOK 2025
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE IN CHICAGO BUSINESS
Welcome to The Book CRAIN’S 2025
Throughout the year, Crain’s Chicago Business delivers a suite of data-driven lists and features designed to help you better understand this dynamic and ever-changing city. And as we transition to the new year, we gather those features together into one handy reference guide, knowing it will be an indispensable resource in the year ahead. That guide is what we now know as The Book.
What you’re holding is, however, much more than a compendium of lists. It’s your essential guide to everything you need to be successful in business in Chicago. In addition to the detailed dossiers on companies and leaders gathered by our data team throughout the year, The Book has everything you need at your ngertips to research how business works in Chicago.
This year’s edition highlights a revised and updated version of Crain’s Who’s Who in Chicago, a directory of the leaders, investors and innovators who make this city tick. In Who’s Who, you’ll nd useful biographical information on the people you need to know now to get big things done in Chicago. Included are executives and advocates making a difference in every corner of Chicago’s business, civic, cultural and philanthropic worlds. And given the profound changes that have taken place in the past year in Chicago’s executive landscape, the latest Who’s Who contains even more names and faces than before, making it an authoritative eld guide to power in Chicago — and the sort of information you simply cannot get anywhere else.
The Book also features our inaugural New Faces in New Places, a roundup of accomplished professionals who are stepping into new roles and shaping Chicago’s future.
In total, the information researched and curated here by our data, reporting and graphics teams tells a story of a city and a region doing extraordinary things in the face of extraordinary challenges. It’s our privilege, as journalists, to tell this story, and we thank you for making Crain’s Chicago Business your choice for news and information. We look forward to connecting with you in print, online and at our live events in 2025.
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WHO’S WHO IN CHICAGO BUSINESS
Who’s Who 2025 — our authoritative guide to power in Chicago — is here This year’s edition features more than 450 in uential leaders who are shaping Chicago’s business, civic and cultural spaces From media magnates to chefs, lawyers to educators, grantmakers to nanciers and everyone in between, these are Chicago’s movers and shakers
Research by Sophie Rodgers and Alice Mei
WHO’S WHO ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION
Jeff Alexander
President, Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association
Age: 67
Undergraduate education: New England Conservatory of Music
Professional and civic af liations: League of American Orchestras; Orchestras Canada; Symphony, Opera & Ballet Employers Electronic Media Association
Greg Cameron
President and CEO, Joffrey Ballet Age: 66 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Illinois State University
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Enrich Chicago; Forefront; UIC Chancellor’s Leadership Board; School of the Art Institute of Chicago Fashion Committee; UIC Visiting Committee; UIC College of Architecture & the Arts; Chicago Community Trust LGBT Committee; Terra Foundation’s Art Design Chicago; Choose Chicago
John Collins
Executive director and CEO, Goodman Theatre
Age: 45
Undergraduate education: Marquette University
Professional and civic af liations: League of Chicago Theatres; League of Resident Theatres; Chicago Loop Alliance
Bridget Coughlin
President and CEO, Shedd Aquarium Society
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Knox College
Graduate education: University of Iowa
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Economic Club; Chicago Network; Association of Zoos & Aquariums; American Association of Museums; International Council of Museums; Aquarium Conservation Partnership; Alaska Sea Life Center; American Association for the Advancement of Science
Brooke Flanagan
Executive director, Steppenwolf Theatre
Age: 49
Undergraduate education: College of Santa Fe
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Chicago Network; Arts Alliance Illinois; League of Chicago Theatres; Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events
Jean Franczyk
President and CEO, Chicago Horticultural Society
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Commercial Club; American Alliance of Museums; Directors of Large Gardens; American Public Gardens Association; Royal Society of Arts; Botanic Gardens Conservation International; University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy
Arny Granat
CEO, Grand Slam Productions
Age: 76
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Graduate education: Michigan State University
Professional and civic af liations: American Theatre Wing; League of Chicago Theatres; North American Concert Promoters Association; Country Music Association; Chicago Human Rhythm Project; Foundations of Music; Jewish United Fund; Little City Foundation; Friends of the Parks; Paws Chicago
Madeleine Grynsztejn
Director, Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: Tulane University
Graduate education: Columbia University
Professional and civic af liations: International Council of Museums; Association of Art Museum Directors
Chevy Humphrey
President and CEO, Grif n Museum of Science & Industry
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: University of Phoenix
Graduate education: Grand Canyon University; Northeastern University
Professional and civic af liations: Argonne National Laboratory; Deutsches Museum; Helios Education Foundation; Education Forward Arizona; Grand Canyon Education; Economic Club; Sandra Day O’Connor Institute; Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Choose Chicago
Perri Irmer
President and CEO, DuSable Black History Museum & Education Center
Age: 65
Undergraduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Tech Alumni Association; Illinois Tech African American Alumni Association; Chicago Bar Association; Ordre des Arts et des Lettres; Economic Club; Commercial Club; Fortnightly; Chicago Network; After School Matters; Obama Presidential Center
Michelle Larson
President and CEO, Adler Planetarium
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Montana State University
Graduate education: Montana State University
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Chicago Network; American Astronomical Society; American Physical Society
John Mangum
President and CEO, Lyric Opera of Chicago
Age: 49
Undergraduate education: University of California, Los Angeles
Graduate education: University of California, Los Angeles
Professional and civic af liations: Lyric Women’s Board
Jerry Mickelson
President, Jam Productions
Age: 74
Professional and civic af liations: North American Concert Promoters Association; YPO
Tony Petitti
Commissioner, Big Ten Conference
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Haverford College
Graduate education: Harvard Law School
Professional and civic af liations: United States Golf Association
Lou Raizin
President, Broadway in Chicago
Age: 70
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Jerry Reinsdorf
Chairman and owner, Chicago White Sox; Chairman and owner, Chicago Bulls
Age: 88
Undergraduate education: George Washington University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Major League Baseball Executive Council; Major League Baseball Advanced Media; MLB Network; Major League Baseball Enterprises; Major League Baseball Properties; Northwestern University; Commercial Club
Michael Reinsdorf
President and CEO, Chicago Bulls
Age: 56 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Arizona
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; World Business Chicago; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Choose Chicago; Lurie Children’s Foundation; After-School All-Stars; After-School Matters; Northwestern University; Museum of Science & Industry
Laura Ricketts
Owner, Chicago Red Stars; Co-owner and director, Chicago Cubs Baseball Club
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Michigan Law School
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Cubs Charities; Beyond Barriers; LPAC; President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition; Democratic National Committee; Obama Foundation; Opportunity Education Foundation; Economic Club
Thomas Ricketts
Chairman, InspereX; Co-owner and chairman, Chicago Cubs Baseball Club
Age: 59
Professional and civic af liations: Magni cent Mile Association; Light Up My Arts
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Cubs Charities; Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Meijer; Field Museum; Wood Family Foundation; Chicago Club; Economic Club; Executives’ Club
James Rondeau
President, Art Institute of Chicago
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Middlebury College
Graduate education: Williams College
Professional and civic af liations: Association of Art Museum Directors; Bizot Group; After School Matters; University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Felix Gonzalez-Torres Foundation Fellows Forum; Poetry Foundation
Roche Schulfer
Former executive director and CEO; Senior adviser, Goodman Theatre
Age: 73
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Professional and civic af liations: League of Chicago Theatres; League of Resident Theatres; Arts Alliance Illinois; Performing Arts Alliance; Arts & Business Council; Chicago Loop Alliance; Lifeline Theatre; Theater Wit
Julian Siggers
President and CEO, Field Museum of Natural History
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Institute of Archaeology at University College London
Graduate education: University of Toronto
Professional and civic af liations: International Council of Museums; American Alliance of Museums; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Chicago Council on Science & Technology
Kevin Warren
President and CEO, Chicago Bears Football Club
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Grand Canyon University
Graduate education: Arizona State University; University of Notre Dame
Professional and civic af liations: Warren Family Foundation
Danny Wirtz
Chairman and CEO, Chicago Blackhawks; Chairman, Wirtz Corp.
Age: 47 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Boston College
Professional and civic af liations: Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America; Embarc Chicago
Calvin Butler
President and CEO, Exelon Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Bradley University
Graduate education: Washington University in St. Louis School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: ComEd; Edison Electric Institute; Argonne National Laboratory; Emerson Electric; Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation; Institute of International Education; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Bradley University; James Madison Council of the Library of Congress
Wendell Dallas
President and CEO, Nicor Gas Age: 56 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Auburn University
Professional and civic af liations: World Business Chicago; Executives’ Club; Illinois Utilities Business Diversity Council; Northern Illinois Community Initiatives; United Way
Nicholas Fink
CEO, Fortune Brands Innovations
Age: 50
Undergraduate education: Institut d’Etudes des Relations Internationales
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies; NYSE Board Advisory Council; CNBC CEO Council; Wall Street Journal CEO Council; Ravinia
David Foulkes
CEO, Brunswick Age: 64 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Imperial College London
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Larry Gies
Founder and CEO, Madison Industries
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: YPO; University of Illinois Gies College of Business; Northwestern University; Gies Foundation; Chicago Jesuit Academy; Accelerate Institute
Juan Luciano
Chairman, president and CEO, Archer Daniels Midland
Age: 62 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Instituto Tecnologico de Buenos Aires
Professional and civic af liations: Eli Lilly; Wilmar International; Intersect Illinois; Rush University System for Health; Commercial Club
Pin Ni
President, Wanxiang America
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Zhejiang University
Graduate education: Zhejiang University
Professional and civic af liations: China General Chamber of Commerce; World Business Chicago; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; RAND Center for Asia Paci c Policy; Northwestern University; China Institute
Christopher O’Herlihy
President and CEO, Illinois Tool Works
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: University College Cork
Graduate education: University of Massachusetts
Professional and civic af liations: Masco; Field Museum
Michael Polsky
Founder and CEO, Invenergy
Age: 75
Undergraduate education: Kyiv Polytechnic Institute
Graduate education: University of Chicago; Kyiv Polytechnic Institute
Professional and civic af liations: World Resources Institute; University of Chicago; University of Chicago Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship; Art Institute
Gil Quiniones
CEO, Commonwealth Edison Age: 58
Undergraduate education: De La Salle University
Graduate education: Stevens Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: Gridwise Alliance; Civic Federation; Economic Club; President’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council; World Business Chicago
E. Scott Santi
Non-executive chairman and former CEO, Illinois Tool Works Age: 63
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: W.W. Grainger; Economic Club; Commercial Club; Northwestern University; Ravinia Festival Association; Museum of Science & Industry; Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association; Art Institute; Rush University Medical Center
Dominick Zarcone
President and CEO, LKQ Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Generac Power Systems; Mekonomen; Cristo Rey Jesuit High School; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Milwaukee
George Archos
Chairman and CEO, Verano Age: 45
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Charles Bachtell
CEO, Cresco Labs
Age: 46
Undergraduate education: University of Arizona
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: National Cannabis Roundtable; Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Economic Club; National Cannabis Bar Association; National Cannabis Industry Association; Illinois Cannabis Bar Association; Cannabis Equity Illinois Association; Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition; Ohio Cannabis Association; Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
Mary Dillon
President and CEO, Foot Locker
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Business Council; Retail Industry Leaders Association; KKR; Chicago Sky; Economic Club; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club
DELOITTE
Jason Hart
CEO, Aldi
Age: 54 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business
Janet Hayes
CEO, Crate & Barrel Holdings Age: NA
Undergraduate education: California State University, Chico
Professional and civic af liations: No Kid Hungry; Feeding America; Baby2Baby
Leslie Hindman
Co-director, Freeman’s Hindman Age: 70
Undergraduate education: Pine Manor College
Graduate education: Indiana University
Professional and civic af liations: YPO Gold; Chicago Network; International Women’s Forum; Economic Club; Goodman Theatre; Chicago Public Library Foundation; Joffrey Ballet; Commercial Club
Chris Kempa
CEO, True Value Age: 54 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Western Illinois University
Graduate education: Lake Forest Graduate School of Management
David Kimbell
CEO, Ulta Beauty Age: 58
Undergraduate education: DePauw University
Graduate education: Purdue University
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Retail Industry Leaders Association; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago; Chicago Lights
Ben Kovler
CEO, Green Thumb Industries Age: 46
Undergraduate education: Pomona College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Invest For Kids
Marcus Lemonis
Chairman and CEO, Camping World Holdings; Executive producer, “The Renovator,” HGTV
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: Marquette University
David MacNeil
CEO, WeatherTech Direct
Age: 65
Undergraduate education: Dominican University
D.G. Macpherson
Chairman and CEO, W.W. Grainger
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Stanford University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Museum of Science & Industry
Robert “Bob” Mariano
Founder, Mariano’s
Age: 74
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Food Marketing Institute; Rush University Medical Center; University of Chicago Booth School of Business; After School Matters
Brett Novey
CEO, PharmaCann
Age: 46 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence
Robert Pasin
CEO, Radio Flyer
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: YPO Gold; Chicago Public Media; Museum of Science & Industry; University of Notre Dame
Christine Schyvinck
Chairman, president and CEO, Shure
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Northwestern University; Presidents Forum; Niles Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Blessings in a Backpack; Lyric Opera; Executives’ Club; University of WisconsinMadison College of Engineering
Charles Tribbett III
Vice chairman and consultant, Russell Reynolds Associates
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Marquette University
Graduate education: University of Virginia
Professional and civic af liations: Northern Trust; Rush University Medical Center; Northwestern University; Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Richard Uihlein
CEO, Uline
Age: 79 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Stanford University
Professional and civic af liations: Galectin Therapeutics
John Venhuizen
President and CEO, Ace Hardware
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: Trinity Christian College
Professional and civic af liations: Mark Morton Memorial Foundation; Ace International Holdings; Ace Retail Holdings
H. Ty Warner
Chairman and CEO, Ty Inc.; Chairman and CEO, Ty Warner Hotels & Resorts
Age: 80
WHO’S WHO CONSTRUCTION, ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING
Christopher Averill
President, Pepper Construction Group
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: FMI CFO Forum
Michael Clune
Chairman, Clune Construction
Age: 75
Professional and civic af liations: Irish American Partnership; C.R.A.S.H. USA; Mercy Housing Lakefront; Rebuilding Together; Emeritus of Chicago House
Nosa Ehimwenman
President and CEO, Bowa Construction
Age: 43
Undergraduate education: Ohio State University
Graduate education: Purdue University
Professional and civic af liations: YPO
Xuan Fu
Managing partner, Skidmore
Owings & Merrill
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Beijing
University of Civil Engineering & Architecture
Graduate education: Ball State University
Professional and civic af liations: National Council of Architectural Registration Boards; AIA Chicago
Jeanne Gang
Founding partner, Studio Gang
Age: 60
Undergraduate education:
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Harvard Graduate School of Design
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Network; American Institute of Architects; Council on Tall Buildings & Urban Habitat; Economic Club; American Academy of Arts & Sciences; Habitat for Humanity Women Build; Great Rivers Chicago; Natural Resources Defense Council-Midwest
Jeff Geier
President and CEO, Power Construction Age: 56 (Crain’s estimate)
Gordon Gill
Partner, Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Toronto Metropolitan University
Graduate education: Harvard University; University of Texas at Arlington
Professional and civic af liations: American Institute of Architects; Ontario Association of Architects; Architectural Institute of British Columbia; Chicago Architecture Center; Harvard Graduate School of Design; School of the Art Institute; Urban Land Institute
James Goettsch
Chairman, Goettsch Partners
Age: 82
Undergraduate education: Iowa State University
Professional and civic af liations: American Institute of Architects; Chicago Architecture Foundation; Council on Tall Buildings & Urban Habitat; National Council of Architectural Registration Boards; Urban Land Institute; Mies van der Rohe Society; Chicago Yacht Club; Saddle & Cycle Club
Ralph Johnson
Design principal, Perkins & Will Age: 76
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: American Institute of Architects; IIT College of Architecture; Art Institute; Illinois Institute of Technology; University of Illinois; University of Wisconsin
Thomas Kerwin
Founding principal, bKL Architecture
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Ball State University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: American Institute of Architects; AIA Chicago; Urban Land Institute; Chicago Sports Commission; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Executives’ Club
Patricia McHugh
Chairman, McHugh Enterprises Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Iowa State University
Professional and civic af liations: Cristo Rey Jesuit High School
Lindsey Peckinpaugh
President and Chicago managing director, Perkins & Will Age: 48
Undergraduate education: Ball State University
Professional and civic af liations: Ball State University College of Architecture; Poetry Foundation
J. Stanley Pepper
Chairman and CEO, The Pepper Cos.
Age: 71
Undergraduate education: Monmouth College
Professional and civic af liations: American Contractors Insurance Group; Chicago Club; Economic Club; Commercial Club; Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation
Mamon Powers Jr.
Chairman and CEO, Powers & Sons Construction
Age: 76 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Purdue University
Professional and civic af liations: Indiana Society of Professional Engineers; Purdue University
John Russell
Regional president, W.E. O’Neil
Construction
Age: 65 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Builders’ Association; Chicagoland Associated General Contractors; American Institute of Architects; International Council of Shopping Centers; Lean Construction Institute; West Central Association Chamber of Commerce; Hire360; Chicago Architecture Center; West Loop Community Organization
Daniel Walsh
Co-chairman, The Walsh Group
Age: 76
Undergraduate education: John Carroll University
Graduate education: Loyola University School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Construction Industry Round Table; St. Ignatius College Prep; St. Vincent DePaul Center; Misericordia Heart of Mercy; Inner City Athletic Association; Loyola Medicine; Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
Matthew Walsh
Co-chairman, The Walsh Group
Age: 78
Undergraduate education:
University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: University League Club; University of Notre Dame School of Architecture; Construction Industry Round Table; American Road & Transportation Contractors; Walsh Foundation; St. Ignatius College Prep; Lurie Children’s Hospital
WHO’S WHO EDUCATION
Paul Alivisatos
President, University of Chicago
Age: 65
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of California, Berkeley
Professional and civic af liations: American Academy of Arts & Sciences; American Philosophical Society; National Academy of Sciences
Mary Ellen Caron
CEO, After School Matters
Age: 70
Undergraduate education: Rosary College
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago; Concordia University
Professional and civic af liations: Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago; Economic Club; International Women’s Forum; Children at the Crossroads Foundation; Mercy Circle; Chicago Alliance for Collaborative Effort
Stacy Davis Gates
President, Chicago Teachers Union
Age: 47 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Saint Mary’s College
Graduate education: University of Notre Dame; Concordia University
Professional and civic af liations: American Federation of Teachers; Illinois Federation of Teachers; United Working Families; Action Center on Race & the Economy
Janice Jackson
CEO, Hope Chicago
Age: 47
Undergraduate education: Chicago State University
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Urban League; Collaborative for Academic, Social & Emotional Learning; Chiefs for Change; Chicago History Museum; A Better Chicago; Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center; Math Circles of Chicago
Timothy Killeen
President, University of Illinois System
Age: 72
Undergraduate education: University College London
Graduate education: University College London
Professional and civic af liations: National Academy of Engineering; American Geophysical Union; American Association for the Advancement of Science; National University Singapore; Argonne National Laboratory; Commercial Club; University Club; Chicago Club
Robert Manuel
President, DePaul University
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: Allegheny College
Graduate education: Syracuse University; New York University
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Independent Colleges & Universities; Cristo Rey Network
Pedro Martinez
CEO, Chicago Public Schools
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Chiefs for Change; Council of the Great City Schools; Pahara Aspen; Aspen Institute; Economic Club
Marie Lynn Miranda
Chancellor, University of Illinois
Chicago
Age: 61 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Duke University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Children’s Environmental Health Initiative; Doris Duke Charitable Foundation; Environmental Defense Fund
Diana Rauner
President, Start Early
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Yale University
Graduate education: University of Chicago; Stanford School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Early Years Climate Action Task Force; University of Chicago Harris School Council; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Commercial Club; Illinois Early Learning Council
Mark Reed
President, Loyola University
Chicago
Age: 50
Undergraduate education: Fair eld University
Graduate education: University of Pennsylvania; Boston College; Fair eld University
Professional and civic af liations: NCAA Division I; Atlantic 10 Conference; Association of Jesuit Colleges & Universities; Association of Catholic Colleges & Universities; Loyola Academy; St. Joseph’s Prep
Juan Salgado
Chancellor, City Colleges of Chicago
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Illinois Wesleyan University
Graduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Professional and civic af liations: MacArthur Foundation; Advance Illinois; Obama Foundation; Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
Michael Schill
President, Northwestern University
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Graduate education: Yale University
Professional and civic af liations: American Academy of Arts & Sciences; Furman Center for Real Estate & Urban Policy at New York University
Zaldwaynaka “Z” Scott
President, Chicago State University
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Indiana University
Maurer School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: ComEd; Economic Club; Commercial Club; Chicago Network; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Shedd Aquarium; U.S. Coast Guard Academy; Institute for College Access & Success
Martin Torres
Deputy governor for education, Of ce of the Governor of Illinois
Age: 42
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Robert Aguilar
President, Cabrera Capital Markets
Age: 52 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Northern Illinois University
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Nicholas Antoine
Co-CEO and managing partner, Red Arts Capital
Age: 35 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Studio Museum in Harlem; PBS Chicago; Art Institute; Chicago Club
Dmitry Balyasny
Managing partner and chief investment of cer, Balyasny Asset Management
Age: 52 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Loyola University
Professional and civic af liations: Teach for America Chicago; Ayn Rand Institute
Shawn Beber
Senior executive vice president and group head, U.S. region, CIBC; President and CEO, CIBC Bank USA
Age: 51 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Western Ontario
Graduate education: University of Toronto
Professional and civic af liations: Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Illinois Holocaust Museum; Executives’ Club; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Law Society of Canada; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club
Norman Bobins
CEO, Norman Bobins Consulting Age: 82
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: CIBC Bank USA; Old World Industries; Halo; Pangea Properties; Hilco Global; WTTW Communications; Navy Pier; Brain Research Foundation; Field Museum; Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
Natalie Brown
CEO, Mesirow Financial Holdings
Age: 53 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Indiana University Kelley School of Business
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Executives’ Club; After School Matters; Big Shoulders Fund; LINK Unlimited Scholars; Indiana University Kelley School of Business
Martin Cabrera Jr.
CEO, Cabrera Capital Markets Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Northern Illinois University
Professional and civic af liations: St. Ignatius College Prep; World Business Chicago; Chicago Community Trust; Archdiocese of Chicago; Latino Donor Collaborative; Children First Fund
John Calamos Sr.
Founder, chairman and global chief investment of cer, Calamos Investments Age: 83 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: CFA Society; Commercial Club; Illinois Tech; National Hellenic Museum; Faith Endowment; Leadership 100; National Hellenic Society
John Canning Jr.
Chairman emeritus, Madison Dearborn Partners Age: 80
Undergraduate education: Denison University
Graduate education: Duke University
Professional and civic af liations: Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club; Northwestern Memorial HealthCare; Big Shoulders Fund
Paul Carbone
Co-founder and vice chairman, Pritzker Private Capital Age: 63
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
David Casper
Chairman, BMO Financial
Age: 68
Undergraduate education: Dartmouth College
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg Graduate School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: Sentry Insurance; Northwestern Medical Group; Start Early; Chicago Public Library; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Civic Federation
Victor Ciardelli III
President and CEO, Guaranteed Rate
Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Columbia College-Missouri
Professional and civic af liations: Guaranteed Rate Foundation
Anthony Coniaris
Partner, chairman and portfolio manager, Harris Associates
Age: 48
Undergraduate education: Wheaton College
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: CFA Society Chicago
Rita Sola Cook
President, Bank of America Chicago Age: 51
Undergraduate education: Governors State University
Professional and civic af liations: Art Institute; Museum of Science & Industry; Brook eld Zoo; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Chicago Community Trust; Chicago Network
Keith Crandell
Managing director, ARCH Venture Partners
Age: 64 (Crain’s estimate)
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Larry H. Miller & Co.; Morgan Street Holdings; University of Chicago; University of Chicago Medical Center; Art Institute; Misericordia Endowment Fund; Commercial Club
Undergraduate education: St. Lawrence University
Graduate education: University of Texas at Arlington; University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: 908 Devices; Quanterix; Twist Bioscience; Arbor Biotechnologies; Cytrellis Biosystems; Lightcast Discovery; Slingshot Biosciences; University of Chicago Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship; University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Illinois Venture Capital Association
Timothy Crane
President and CEO, Wintrust Financial
Age: 62 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: ProSight; Metropolitan Family Services; Chicago United; DePaul University; Economic Club; Bankers Club; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club
A. Steven Crown
General partner and co-president, Henry Crown & Co. Age: 72
Undergraduate education: Claremont McKenna College
Graduate education: University of California, Los Angeles
Professional and civic af liations: Endeavor Health; Economic Club; Farmers Investment; Aspen Skiing; Cleveland Clinic; Art Institute; Northwestern University; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; School of the Art Institute
Lester Crown
Chairman emeritus, Henry Crown & Co.
Age: 99
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: American Academy of Arts & Sciences; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Commercial Club; Northwestern University; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Lyric Opera
Susan Crown
Chairman, Susan Crown Exchange; Chairman and CEO, Owl Creek Partners Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Yale University
Graduate education: New York University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Tool Works; Northern Trust; BlueSpruce; Rush University Medical Center; Care USA; Brookings Institution; Aspen Valley Community Foundation
Marsha Cruzan
Regional leader, U.S. Bank Age: 68
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: Arizona State University Thunderbird School of Global Management
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Network; Executives’ Club; Economic Club; Commercial Club; IWF; Lyric Opera; Field Museum; Goodman Theatre; Lincoln Park Zoo; Rush University Medical Center
Jeff Diehl
Managing partner and head of investments, Adams Street Partners
Age: 54 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Craig Duchossois
Executive chairman, Duchossois Group
Age: 80
Undergraduate education: Southern Methodist University
Graduate education: Southern Methodist University
Professional and civic af liations: Edgewater Funds; Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation; University of Oxford; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Culver Educational Foundation; Illinois Institute of Technology; University of Chicago; University of Chicago Medicine
Terrence Duffy
Chairman and CEO, CME Group
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Professional and civic af liations: Mayo Clinic Greater Chicago Leadership Council; CME Group Foundation
John Ettelson
Chairman emeritus, William Blair
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Brown University
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: American Securities Association; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Northwestern Medical Group; Lincoln Park Zoo; Illinois Holocaust Museum; Francis W. Parker School; Cradles to Crayons
Paul Finnegan
Chairman, Madison Dearborn Partners
Age: 71 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: AIA Corp.; CDW; Government Sourcing Solutions; Procurated; Board of Dean’s Advisors at the Harvard Business School; Investment Committee of Bowdoin College; Teach For America; Chicago Council on Global Affairs
David Fisher
Chairman, president and CEO, Enova International
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: GoHealth; Friss Fraudebestrijding; Museum of Science & Industry
David Gau
President and head of operations, Pritzker Private Capital
Age: NA
Graduate education: University of Nebraska Omaha
Brent Gledhill
President and CEO, William Blair
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Miami University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; YPO; Economic Club; Securities Institute & Futures Market Authority; Chicago Public Education Fund; Harvard Business School; Shedd Aquarium; Civic Consulting Alliance
Antonio Gracias
CEO, Valor Equity Partners
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: Georgetown University
Graduate education: University of Chicago Law School
Professional and civic af liations: Tesla; Space Exploration Technologies; Marathon Pharmaceuticals; Aspen Institute; Commercial Club; Georgetown University School of Foreign Service; University of Chicago Law School; University of Chicago; Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago; Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative
Darrel Hackett
CEO, BMO Financial; President and CEO, BMO Bank
Age: 52
Undergraduate education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Graduate education: Stanford Graduate School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Federal Advisory Council to Federal Reserve Board; Clearing House; Executive Leadership Council; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Art Institute; Rush University Medical Center; Economic Club; Executives’ Club
Onjada
Haggard-Richardson
Managing director and global market manager, Citi Global Wealth at Work-Law Firm Group
Age: 56 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Spelman College
Graduate education: The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
Mark Heckler
Chicago region president, Fifth Third Bank
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Civic Federation; VanderCook College of Music; Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation
Roberto Herencia
Executive chairman and CEO, Byline Bancorp
Age: 65
Undergraduate education: Georgetown University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: First Bancorp; Banner; Polk Bros. Foundation; Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Junior Achievement; DePaul University
David Herro
Partner, deputy chairman, portfolio manager and chief investment of cer, international equities, Harris Associates
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Graduate education: University of WisconsinMilwaukee
Professional and civic af liations: Financial Analyst Federation; Big Shoulders Fund; Miami City Ballet; LEARN Charter School; Navy SEAL Foundation; Milwaukee REP
Mellody Hobson
President and co-CEO, Ariel Investments
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Professional and civic af liations: Starbucks; JPMorgan Chase; After School Matters; World Business Chicago; Lucas Museum of Narrative Art; George Lucas Education Foundation; Bloomberg Philanthropies; Center for Strategic & International Studies; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; American Academy of Arts & Sciences
Maria Holmes
Regional director, consumer and community banking, JPMorgan Chase
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: National Louis University
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Adam Hughes
CEO, Amount
Age: 43 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Founders Pledge; Breakthrough T1D
Justin Ishbia
Managing partner, Shore Capital Partners
Age: 47
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Graduate education: Vanderbilt University Law School
Professional and civic af liations: YPO; Vanderbilt University; Northwestern Memorial HealthCare; Museum of Science & Industry
Ashley Joyce
Chairman, Duchossois Capital Management
Age: 48
Undergraduate education: University of Colorado Boulder
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Crown School of Social Work, Policy, & Practice
Professional and civic af liations: Duchossois Family Foundation; Smithsonian National Board; University of Chicago; University of Chicago Medical Center
Kunal Kapoor
CEO, Morningstar
Age: 49 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Monmouth College
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: CFA Society Chicago; Nature Conservancy in Illinois
Christopher Kennedy
Chairman, Interface; Chairman emeritus, Top Box Foods Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Boston College
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Ariel Investments; Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation; Marine Biological Laboratory; Irish Fellowship Club; Legal Services Corporation
Christopher Keogh
Head of Midwest, Goldman Sachs Group
Age: 52 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Art Institute; A Better Chicago; Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Kip Kirkpatrick
Co-CEO, co-chairman and senior partner, The Vistria Group Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Supplemental Healthcare; Medulla; CareMetx; AbilityOne; Medex; Northwestern University; Rush University Medical Center; Art Institute; Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Cary Kochman
Global co-head of M&A and chairman of the Chicago of ce, Citigroup Age: 59
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois State Bar Association; GreenLight Chicago; Commercial Club
Theodore “Ted” Koenig
Chairman and CEO, Monroe
Capital
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Institute of Technology; Secured Finance Network; Association for Corporate Growth; Turnaround Management Association; HOPE Chicago; Northwestern Memorial Hospital; Naples Education Fund; Kelley School of Business at Indiana University; The Allendale School
John Koudounis
President and CEO, Calamos Investments
Age: 58
Undergraduate education: Brown University
Professional and civic af liations: World Business Chicago; Leadership 100; Bretton Woods; Chicago CEO COVID-19 Coalition; National Hellenic Museum; Metropolis of Chicago Foundation; SEAL Future Foundation
Sanjeev Krishnan
Managing partner, S2G Ventures
Age: 46 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: London School of Economics
Professional and civic af liations: Climate Imperative; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Evergreen Climate Innovations; Donald Danforth Plant Science Center; Impact Capital Managers
Anthony Maggiore
Managing director, Midwest and Canada middle market, JPMorgan Chase
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Professional and civic af liations: Goodman Theatre; World Business Chicago; Economic Club; Executives’ Club
Joseph Mansueto
Owner and chairman, Chicago Fire Football Club; Executive chairman, Morningstar
Age: 68
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Art Institute; Commercial Club; Northwestern Memorial Hospital
John McKinnon
Chairman and CEO, Wintrust Commercial Banking
Age: 80
Undergraduate education: Iowa Wesleyan College
Graduate education: University of Iowa Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club
Mindy Mercaldo
Head of U.S. branch network, Citibank
Age: 58
Undergraduate education: Franklin & Marshall College
Graduate education: Temple University Fox School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Citi Midwest Leadership Council; Citi Asian Heritage Network; Citi State PAC
Constantine “Dean” Mihas
Co-CEO and managing director, GTCR
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Antylia Scienti c; Biocoat; Cedar Gate Technologies; Corza; Curia; Experity; Maravai LifeSciences; Sotera Health; University of Illinois Chicago; Harvard University
Lee Mitchell
Managing partner, Thoma Bravo Age: 81
Undergraduate education: Wesleyan University
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: American Investment Council; Illinois Venture Capital Association; Coalition to Preserve California Business; Northwestern University; Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital; Metropolitan Planning Council; Northwestern University School of Education & Social Policy; Commercial Club
Robert Nelsen
Co-founder and managing partner, ARCH Venture Partners
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: University of Puget Sound
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Vir Biotechnology; Sana Biotechnology; Lyell; Prime Medicine; National Resilience; Insitro; Xaira Therapeutics; Hua Medicine
Michael Nelson
Managing partner and head of investments, Pritzker Private Capital
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Harvard Business School
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Jesuit Academy
Martin Nesbitt
Co-CEO, co-chairman and senior partner, The Vistria Group
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: Albion College
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: American Airlines; Chewy; Obama Foundation; Museum of Contemporary Art; RFK Human Rights Foundation
Michael O’Grady
Chairman and CEO, Northern Trust
Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: Harvard Graduate School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Field Museum; Museum of Contemporary Art; Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago; University of Notre Dame; Catholic Extension; Northwestern Medical Group; Archdiocese of Chicago; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club
Richard Price
Executive chairman, Mesirow
Financial Holdings
Age: 77
Professional and civic af liations: Executives’ Club; Economic Club; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Navy Pier; Ravinia Festival; Metropolitan Family Services; Civic Consulting Alliance; Big Shoulders Fund; Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
Matthew Pritzker
Chairman, Matthew Pritzker Co.
Age: 42
Undergraduate education: American University
Professional and civic af liations: After School Matters; Jesse White Foundation
Penny Pritzker
Chairman, PSP Partners
Age: 65
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Stanford University
Professional and civic af liations: Microsoft; DEPT; Icertis; Harvard Corporation; Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum; Aspen Strategy Group; Obama Foundation
Tony Pritzker
Co-founder, chairman and CEO, Pritzker Private Capital
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Dartmouth College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: PLZ Aeroscience; PathGroup; ProAmpac; Technimark; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; Hammer Museum; Harvard-Westlake School; Heal The Bay; Foster Care Counts
James Reynolds
Chairman and CEO, Loop Capital
Age: 70
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Business Leadership Council; Chicago Community Trust; Kellogg; Hope Chicago; World Business Chicago; Intersect Illinois; National Parks Conservation Association; Chicago Urban League
Larry Richman
Director, Mesirow Financial Holdings; Former chairman, CEO and president, CIBC Bank USA
Age: 72 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Bradley University
Graduate education: Indiana University Kelley School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Executives’ Club; Commercial Club; Chicago Club; Economic Club; Northwestern Memorial Hospital; Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management; Big Shoulders Fund; Western Golf Association
Collin Roche
Co-CEO and managing director, GTCR
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Williams College
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Allspring Global Investments; AssetMark; CAPTRUST; Foundation Source; R&T; Ultimus Fund Solutions; Worldpay; Freedom House; Harvard Business School; Williams College
John Rogers Jr.
Chairman and co-CEO, Ariel Investments
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Professional and civic af liations: Nike; New York Times Co.; Ryan Specialty Holdings; University of Chicago; Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice & Human Rights; American Academy of Arts & Sciences; Obama Foundation
Michael Sacks
Chairman and CEO, GCM Grosvenor
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: Tulane University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Kellogg School of Management; Northwestern University School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Obama Foundation; Northwestern University; Art Institute; Civic Committee; After School Matters; Ravinia Festival
Kathy Scherer
Chicago managing partner, Deloitte
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago & Northwest Indiana; Junior Achievement; World Business Chicago; Commercial Club; Chicago Network
J. Michael Shepherd
Interim president and CEO, Discover Financial Services
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Stanford University
Graduate education: University of Michigan Law School
Professional and civic af liations: University of California; Stanford Health Care; National Cathedral; Council on Foreign Relations
Tom Souleles
Vice chairman, Madison Dearborn Partners
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: IPL Plastics; Packaging Corp. of America; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Field Museum; National Multiple Sclerosis Society; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club
Chad Strader
Co-CEO and managing partner, Red Arts Capital
Age: 36 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Georgia Southern University
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Club; Economic Club; Council on Foreign Relations; Milken Institute; YPO; Big Shoulders Fund
Tim Sullivan
Vice chairman, Madison
Dearborn Partners
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: United States Naval Academy
Graduate education: University of Southern California; Stanford University
Professional and civic af liations: Advanced Personnel Management; Option Care; Performance Health; Solis Mammography; Intermedia Cloud Communications; Northwestern University; Northwestern Memorial Healthcare; U.S. Naval Academy Foundation; Big Shoulders Fund; Archdiocese of Chicago
Scott Swanson
President, PNC Bank-Illinois, PNC Financial Services Group
Age: 58
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Commercial Club; Executives’ Club; Economic Club; World Business Chicago; Adler Planetarium; Big Shoulders Fund; Catholic Charities; Chicago Symphony Orchestra; United Way of Metropolitan Chicago
Chris Sweetland
President, Illinois/Wisconsin region, Huntington National Bank
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Wabash College
Professional and civic af liations:
Neighborhood Housing Services; Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Mercy Housing Lakefront; Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives; Junior Achievement; Hesed House of DuPage County
Don Thompson
CEO, Cleveland Avenue
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Purdue University
Professional and civic af liations: Footprint; Royal Caribbean Cruises; Northern Trust; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education; World Business Chicago; Arthur M. Brazier Foundation; NFL
Maury Tognarelli
CEO, Heitman
Age: 63 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Professional and civic af liations: Pension Real Estate Association; Latin School of Chicago
Fredric Tomczyk
CEO, Cboe Global Markets
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Professional and civic af liations: Willis Towers Watson; Cornell University Athletic Alumni Advisory Council
Byron Trott
Chairman and co-CEO, BDT & MSD Partners
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Cox Enterprises; Enterprise Holdings; IMA Group; Sunrise Group Holdings; Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans; University of Chicago; Center for Strategic & International Studies; Conservation International
Mark Walter
CEO, Guggenheim Partners; Chairman, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: Creighton University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Field Museum; Northwestern University
Edward Wehmer
Executive chairman and founder, Wintrust Financial
Age: 70
Undergraduate education:
Georgetown University
Graduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Bankers Club; American Institute of Certi ed Public Accountants; Stepan; Commercial Club; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Archdiocese of Chicago; Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital; Northwestern Memorial HealthCare; Catholic Extension Society
Donald “Don” Wilson Jr.
CEO, DRW
Age: 56 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Lurie Children’s Hospital
Suzanne Yoon
Founder and managing partner, Kinzie Capital Partners
Age: 49
Undergraduate education: University of Iowa
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Bears; Economic Club; Private Equity Women Investor Network; Women’s Association of Venture & Equity; Chicago Network; National Philanthropic Trust; Shedd Aquarium; University of Iowa Center for Advancement; Chicago Public Library Foundation; HFS Chicago Scholars
Andrea Zopp
Managing partner, CAST US, Cleveland Avenue
Age: 67
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Relativity; Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago; Intelligent Growth Solutions; Black Ensemble Theater; Economic Club
WHO’S WHO FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Carlos Abrams-Rivera
CEO, Kraft Heinz
Age: 55 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Carnegie Mellon University
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Grant Achatz
Chef and co-owner, Alinea, Aviary, Next, Roister, St. Clair Supper Club
Age: 50
Undergraduate education: Culinary Institute of America
Professional and civic af liations: Tock; Save the Oceans, Feed the World
Rick Bayless
Chef and owner, Frontera Grill; Partner, Frontera Media
Productions
Age: 71
Undergraduate education: University of Oklahoma
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: International Association of Culinary Professionals; Chef’s Collaborative; James Beard Foundation Chef Bootcamp for Policy & Change; Green City Market; Impact Culinary Training; Frontera Farmer Foundation; Frontera Scholarship Fund
Kevin Boehm
Chairman and co-founder, Bian; Co-CEO and co-founder, Boka
Restaurant Group
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Restaurant Association; Independent Restaurant Coalition; 826CHI; Steppenwolf Theatre
Kevin Brown
CEO, Lettuce Entertain You
Enterprises
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Restaurant Association; National Restaurant Association; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; University of Chicago Medicine; Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University; Commercial Club
Steve Cahillane
Chairman, president and CEO, Kellanova
Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Consumer Goods Forum; Northwestern University; Smithsonian Institution; W.K. Kellogg Foundation Trust
Sean Connolly
President and CEO, Conagra Brands
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Vanderbilt University
Graduate education: University of Texas at Austin
Professional and civic af liations: SC Johnson; Conagra Brands Foundation; Northwestern Memorial Hospital; Economic Club; Vanderbilt University
David Flom
Managing partner, Chicago Cut Steakhouse Age: 51 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Denver
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Restaurant Association; Big Shoulders Fund; DePaul College Prep
Tim Flores
Co-head chef, Kasama Chicago Age: 34 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Wartburg College
Sarah Grueneberg
Head chef and owner, Monteverde
Age: 43
Undergraduate education: Art Institute of Houston
Professional and civic af liations: Southern Smoke Foundation; James Beard Foundation; Chicago Chefs Cook; Southern Foodways Alliance; Kitchen Possible; Alex’s Lemonade; Abundance Setting
Jason Hammel
Owner, Loulou, Marisol at the Museum of Contemporary Art; Owner and executive chef, Lula Cafe; Co-founder, Pilot Light Chefs
Age: 52
Undergraduate education: Brown University
Graduate education: Illinois State University
Gavin Hattersley
President and CEO, Molson Coors Beverage
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: University of South Africa
Stephanie Izard
Executive chef and owner, Girl & the Goat, Little Goat Diner, Duck Duck Goat, Cabra; Owner, Goat Group Catering
Age: 48
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Le Cordon Bleu
Rob Katz
Founder and co-CEO, Boka Restaurant Group
Age: 58
Professional and civic af liations: Uniting Voices Chicago
Christopher Kempczinski
President and CEO, McDonald’s
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: Duke University
Graduate education: Harvard Business School
Professional and civic af liations: Ronald McDonald House Charities; Procter & Gamble
Beverly Kim
Co-owner, Aneyla and Parachute
Age: 46
Undergraduate education: Kendall College at National Louis University
Professional and civic af liations: The Abundance Setting
Nick Kokonas
Co-founder, Alinea Group; Co-founder, Tock
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Colgate University
Genie Kwon
Co-head chef, Kasama Chicago
Age: 39 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Newbury College
Stephen Lombardo III
CEO, Gibsons Restaurant Group
Age: 50
Graduate education: University of South Africa
Professional and civic af liations: Worldwide Brewing Alliance; Beer Institute; Pen eld Children’s Center; Shedd Aquarium; Make-AWish Wisconsin
Undergraduate education: Georgetown University
Graduate education: Georgetown University
Professional and civic af liations: YPO
Tim McEnery
CEO, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants
Age: 48 (Crain’s estimate)
Jerrod Melman
Executive partner, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises
Age: 42
Undergraduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Windy City Smokeout; Israel Cancer Research Fund’s Revolving Tables
Molly Melman
Executive partner, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises
Age: 39
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Windy City Smokeout; Rowe Club
Richard Melman
Founder and chairman, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises
Age: 82
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Restaurant Association; National Restaurant Association; Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute; 100 Club of Illinois
R.J. Melman
President, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises
Age: 45
Undergraduate education: University of Kansas
Professional and civic af liations: Northwestern Memorial Hospital; YPO; Choose Chicago
Michael Osanloo
President and CEO, Portillo’s Age: 58
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business; University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Professional and civic af liations: National Retail Federation’s National Council of Chain Restaurants
Marc Schulman
President, Eli’s Cheesecake Age: 69
Undergraduate education: University of Denver
Undergraduate education: Purdue University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Magni cent Mile Association; Economic Club; Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Happiness Club; Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences; Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership; Lincoln Academy
John Shields
Co-owner and executive chef, Smyth + The Loyalist
Age: 47 (Crain’s estimate)
Alpana Singh
Owner, Alpana Restaurant Age: 48
Professional and civic af liations: Court of Master Sommeliers; Illinois Restaurant Association; Choose Chicago
Brendan Sodikoff
CEO, Hogsalt Hospitality Management Age: 46
Undergraduate education: Ecole Ritz Escof er
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Refugee Coalition
WHO’S WHO GOVERNMENT
John Atkinson
Chairman and managing director, Marsh; Chairman, Intersect Illinois Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Benedictine University
Professional and civic af liations: Cradles to Crayons; Loyola University Chicago Council of Regents
David Axelrod
Senior political commentator, CNN; Senior adviser, University of Chicago Institute of Politics Age: 69
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Harvard Institute of Politics; Misericordia Home; Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy
Ciere Boatright
Commissioner, Chicago Department of Planning & Development
Age: 41 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Hamilton College
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Community Land Trust; Roseland Medical District; ULI’s Women’s Leadership Initiative; Metropolitan Planning Council
Phil Stefani
President, Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants Age: 74
Professional and civic af liations: Stefani Children’s Foundation
Karen Urie Shields
Co-owner and executive pastry chef, Smyth + The Loyalist Age: 46 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Johnson & Wales University
Dirk Van de Put
Chairman and CEO, Mondelez International Age: 63 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Ghent
Graduate education: University of Antwerp
Professional and civic af liations: Consumer Goods Forum
Walter Burnett Jr.
Vice mayor and alderman, 27th Ward; Chairman, Committee on Zoning, Landmarks & Building Standards, City of Chicago
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Northeastern Illinois University
Professional and civic af liations: Committee on Housing & Real Estate; Committee on Finance; Committee on Budget & Government Operations; Committee on Special Events, Cultural Affairs & Recreation; Committee on Education & Child Development; NeighborSpace; Choose Chicago; Family Guidance Centers; St. Leonard’s Ministries; Haymarket Center
Anne Caprara
Chief of staff, Of ce of the Governor of Illinois
Age: 45
Undergraduate education: American University
Graduate education: George Washington University
Dorval Carter Jr.
President, Chicago Transit Authority
Age: 67
Undergraduate education: Carroll College
Graduate education: Howard University
Professional and civic af liations: National Research Council; Excellence in Government Fellows; American Public Transportation Association; Transit Cooperative Research Program Oversight & Project Selection Commission; St. Anthony Hospital; Equity in Infrastructure Project
Erick Williams
Owner and chef, Top This Mac & Cheese, Daisy’s Po-Boy & Tavern, Mustard Seed Kitchen; Owner and executive chef, Virtue Age: 50
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Restaurant Association
James Zallie
President and CEO, Ingredion Age: 62 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Pennsylvania State University
Graduate education: Rutgers University
Professional and civic af liations: Sylvamo; Executives’ Club; Economic Club; Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital
Sean Casten
U.S. representative, 6th
Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Middlebury College
Graduate education: Dartmouth College
Professional and civic af liations: Northeast CHP Initiative
Larita Clark
CEO, Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: American Institute of Certi ed Public Accountants; National Association of Black Accountants; Illinois CPA Society; Government Finance Of cers Association; Near South; Choose Chicago; Navy Pier; Leadership Greater Chicago; Chicago Network
Philip Clement
President and CEO, World Business Chicago
Age: 59
Undergraduate education: University of Southern California
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Twisted Alchemy; Chicago International Film Festival; Goodman Theatre
Melissa Conyears-Ervin
Treasurer, City of Chicago
Age: 49
Undergraduate education: Eastern Illinois University
Graduate education: Roosevelt University
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Development Fund; Commission for Advancing Equity in Banking; Mamas Caucus; Eastern Illinois University’s Lumpkin College of Business & Technology; Westside Justice Center; Elevated Chicago
John Daley
Commissioner, Cook County Board of Commissioners
Age: 78
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Finance Committee; Cook County Health & Hospitals System
Danny Davis
U.S. representative, 7th
Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 83
Undergraduate education: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Graduate education: Chicago State University; Union Institute & University
Professional and civic af liations: Committee on Ways & Means; Congressional Black Caucus; Congressional Equity Caucus; Congressional Progressive Caucus; Congressional Urban Caucus; Congressional Community Health Center Caucus; Congressional Sugar Caucus; Congressional Caucus on Black Men & Boys; Congressional Caucus on Re-entry; NAACP
James Derwinski
CEO and executive director, Metra Metropolitan Rail
Age: 56
Professional and civic af liations: Commuter Rail Coalition; American Public Transportation Association; Association of American Railroads; MxV Rail; Illinois High Speed Rail Commission
Kirk Dillard
Partner, Locke Lord; Chairman, Regional Transportation Authority
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Western Illinois University
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Supreme Court Historic Preservation Commission; Chicago Skyway Concession; Economic Club; Union League Club; DePaul University College of Law
Tammy Duckworth
U.S. senator, U.S. Senate Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Hawaii
Graduate education: George Washington University
Professional and civic af liations: Armed Services Committee; Committee on Foreign Relations; Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation; Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee; Senate Democrats’ Special Committee on the Climate Crisis; Environmental Justice Caucus
Richard “Dick” Durbin
U.S. senator, U.S. Senate Age: 80
Undergraduate education: Georgetown University
Graduate education: Georgetown University
Professional and civic af liations: Judiciary, Appropriations, and Agriculture committees
Timothy Evans
Chief judge, Circuit Court of Cook County Age: 81
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: John Marshall Law School
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Judicial Council; University of Illinois Chicago School of Law; Illinois Judges Association; Cook County Bar Association
Bill Foster
U.S. representative, 11th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives Age: 69
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory; Electronic Theatre Controls; American Association for the Advancement of Science; American Physical Society
Michael Frerichs
Treasurer, State of Illinois
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: Yale University
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of State Treasurers; National Association of State Auditors, Comptrollers, & Treasurers; College Savings Plan Network; National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators; Illinois State Board of Investment; Ceres Investor Network; Council of Institutional Investors; National Institute of Public Finance; Economic Club
Jesus “Chuy” García
U.S. representative, 4th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives Age: 68
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure; Illinois Latino Elected & Appointed Of cials Coalition; Future of Transportation Caucus; Congressional Progressive Caucus; Congressional Hispanic Caucus; Congressional Equality Caucus; Congressional Labor Caucus; New Americans Caucus
Christy George
President and CEO, Intersect Illinois Age: 38
Undergraduate education: Ohio Wesleyan University
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Alexi Giannoulias
Secretary of state, State of Illinois Age: 48
Undergraduate education: Boston University
Graduate education: Tulane University School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Feed Chicago; One Million Degrees; Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center
Austan Goolsbee
President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Yale University
Graduate education: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Don Harmon
President and 39th District senator, Illinois Senate Age: 58
Undergraduate education: Knox College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Heidi Heitkamp
Director, University of Chicago
Institute of Politics
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: University of North Dakota
Graduate education: Lewis & Clark Law School
Professional and civic af liations: McCain Institute; Howard G. Buffett Foundation; Renew Democracy Initiative; German Marshall Fund; One Country Project
Valerie Jarrett
CEO, Obama Foundation
Age: 68
Undergraduate education: Stanford University
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: University of Chicago Law School; Walgreens Boots Alliance; Ariel Investments; Ralph Lauren; Sweetgreen; Civic Nation; University of Chicago; Goldman Sachs; Bank of America Enterprise Executive Development Council; Microsoft
Brandon Johnson
Mayor, City of Chicago
Age: 48
Undergraduate education: Aurora University
Graduate education: Aurora University
Fritz Kaegi
Assessor, Cook County
Age: 52 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Haverford College
Graduate education: Stanford University
Professional and civic af liations: CFA Society, International Association of Assessing Of cers; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow
Robin Kelly
U.S. representative, 2nd Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 68
Undergraduate education: Bradley University
Graduate education: Northern Illinois University
S. Raja Krishnamoorthi
U.S. representative, 8th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Jason Lee
Senior adviser to the mayor, City of Chicago
Age: 39
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Harvard University
Lori Lightfoot
Former mayor, City of Chicago; Senior consultant, Charles River Associates
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Chicago Law School
Susana Mendoza
Comptroller, State of Illinois
Age: 52
Undergraduate education: Truman State University
Professional and civic af liations: Hispanas Organized for Political Equality; Aspen Institute; Economic Club
Eileen O’Neill Burke
State’s attorney, Cook County Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Chicago-Kent College of Law
Cristina Pacione-Zayas
Chief of staff, Of ce of the Mayor, City of Chicago
Age: 46
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Maria Pappas
Treasurer, Cook County
Age: 75
Undergraduate education: West Liberty State College
Graduate education: West Virginia University; Loyola University Chicago; Illinois Institute of Technology
Toni Preckwinkle
President, Cook County Board of Commissioners
Age: 77
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Counties; Pathway to Adventure Council (Boy Scouts); Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; Youth Guidance Becoming a Man
JB Pritzker
Governor, State of Illinois; Founder, Pritzker Group
Age: 59
Undergraduate education: Duke University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Venture Capital Association; Economic Club; ChicagoNext; 1871; Northwestern University; Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; World Business Chicago
Michael Quigley
U.S. representative, 5th
Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Roosevelt University
Graduate education: University of Chicago; Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: House Committee on Appropriations; Congressional Transparency Caucus; Congressional Equality Caucus; Sustainable Energy & Environment Coalition; Sierra Club; First Goal Foundation; Hockey On Your Block; Paws Chicago; Equality Illinois
Delia Ramirez
U.S. representative, 3rd
Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 41
Undergraduate education: Northeastern Illinois University
Brendan Reilly
Alderman, 42nd Ward, City of Chicago
Age: 52
Undergraduate education: Hobart College
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Smart Grid Advisory Council; Energy Foundry; Chicago Riverwalk Committee; State Street Commission
Jamie Rhee
Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation
Age: 56
Undergraduate education:
Michigan State University
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Airports Council International; U.S. Travel Association
Gateway Airports Council; World Travel & Tourism Council; Chicago/Gary Regional Airport; Choose Chicago; Midway Noise Compatibility Commission; O’Hare Noise Compatibility Commission; March of Dimes; SOS Children’s Villages Illinois; Japan America Society of Chicago
Jan Schakowsky
U.S. representative, 9th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 80
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: House Democratic Steering & Policy, Budget, Energy and Commerce committees; Congressional Task Force on Seniors
Bradley Schneider
U.S. representative, 10th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: House Committee on Ways & Means; House Foreign Affairs Committee; Jewish United Fund; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Waukegan Public Library Foundation; Coalition to Reduce Recidivism; Civic Leadership Foundation
Larry Snelling
Superintendent, Chicago Police Department
Age: 55 (Crain’s estimate)
Graduate education: DePaul University
Tom Tunney
Former vice mayor, City of Chicago; Owner, Ann Sather
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: Cornell University School of Hotel Administration
Professional and civic af liations: AIDS Garden Chicago; Chicago Sculpture Exhibit
WHO’S WHO GRANTMAKING
Ellen Alberding
Former president and CEO, Joyce Foundation
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: Brown University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Network; Prudential Retail Funds; Economic Club; Loyola University; Advance Illinois; National Park Foundation; Commercial Club; Chicago Public Education Fund
Gillian Darlow
CEO, Polk Bros. Foundation
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Stanford University
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Chicago Network; Economic Club; Chicago Public Education Fund; Civic Consulting Alliance; Skills for Chicagoland’s Future; Cook County Equity Fund Taskforce; Partnership for Safe & Peaceful Communities
Fred Eychaner
Chairman, Newsweb; President, Alphawood Foundation
Age: 80
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism
Professional and civic af liations: Art Institute; Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
Lauren Underwood
U.S. representative, 14th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives
Age: 38
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Johns Hopkins University
Professional and civic af liations: Black Maternal Health Caucus; Congressional Black Caucus; Congressional Equality Caucus; Gun Violence Prevention Task Force
Anna Valencia
Clerk, City of Chicago Age: 39
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Professional and civic af liations: Restore, Reinvest, Renew; Advocating Against Domestic Violence; Economic Club; Leadership Greater Chicago; Chicago Is With You Task Force; Chicago Network; Chicago Sunday Evening Club; Chicago Scholars; Hispanas Organized for Political Equality
Scott Waguespack
Alderman, 32nd Ward, City of Chicago
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: Colorado State University
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago-Kent College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Area Peace Corps Association
Sean Garrett
President and CEO, United Way of Metro Chicago
Age: 42 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Georgetown University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Commercial Club; Executives’ Club; Chicago Park District; Leadership Greater Chicago
Eva Giglio
Executive director, CME Group Foundation
Age: 38
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: North Park University
Professional and civic af liations: Leadership Greater Chicago; Share Our Spare
Sandra Guthman
Chair emerita, Polk Bros. Foundation
Age: 80
Undergraduate education: Wellesley College
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Network; Commercial Club; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago High School for the Arts; Harris Theater for Music & Dance; Navy Pier; WTTW/WFMT
Peter Handler
Interim CEO, Coleman Foundation
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Meghan Harte
Executive director, Local Initiatives Support Corp.
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: Vanderbilt University
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Housing Authority; ABC Pilsen
Pete Kadens
Chairman, The Kadens Family Foundation
Age: 46 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Bucknell University
Professional and civic af liations: NewLake Capital Partners; KushCo Holdings; Cannabis Trade Federation; Hope Chicago; StreetWise
Timothy Knight
President and CEO, Robert R. McCormick Foundation
Age: 59
Undergraduate education: Marquette University
Graduate education: DePaul University College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Mercy Home for Boys & Girls; Commercial Club
Keenya Lambert
President and CEO, Chicago Foundation for Women
Age: 43
Undergraduate education: Wheaton College
Graduate education: Columbia College Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Urban League; KIPP Chicago; Arts Alliance Illinois; Street-Level Youth Media
Julie Morita
President and CEO, Joyce Foundation
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine
Professional and civic af liations: American Academy of Pediatrics; National Foundation for Infectious Diseases; Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
John Palfrey
President, John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Age: 52
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Harvard Law School; University of Cambridge
Professional and civic af liations: City Club; Commercial Club; Economic Club; U.S. Impact Investing Alliance; Fidelity Non-Pro t Management Foundation; American Academy of Arts & Sciences
Andrea Sáenz
President and CEO, The Chicago Community Trust Age: 51
Undergraduate education: Scripps College
Graduate education: University of Pennsylvania
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago
Public Education Fund; Chicago Public Library Foundation; College Unbound; Economic Club; National Louis University; Commercial Club; Leadership Greater Chicago; Chicago Network
Michael Sitrick
President and CEO, DuPage Foundation
Age: 43 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Millikin University
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: DuPage County Estate Planning Council; Chicago Council on Planned Giving
Elizabeth “Beth” Swanson
CEO, A Better Chicago
Age: 50
Undergraduate education: Amherst College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; City Club; Leadership Greater Chicago; City Colleges; Illinois P-20 Council; Partnership for College Completion; Leadership Fellows Association
Elizabeth “Liz” Thompson
CEO, Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education Group
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Purdue University
Professional and civic af liations: Lamar Advertising; Chicago Public Media; Braven; Partnership for College Completion; Purdue University Thompson Scholars Program
Bryan Traubert
Chairman, Pritzker Traubert Foundation
Age: 69 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: The Citadel
Graduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Community Trust; Loyola University; Lyric Opera; Steppenwolf Theatre; Chicago Parks Foundation; WBEZ/Chicago Public Media; National Park Foundation; Noble Street Charter Schools; John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Lukas Walton
Founder and CEO, Builders Vision
Age: 38 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Colorado College
Helen Zell
Executive director, Zell Family Foundation
Age: 82
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association; Museum of Contemporary Art; Chicago Public Education Fund; StartEarly; Steppenwolf Theatre
Jose Almeida
CEO, Baxter International
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Instituto Maua de Tecnologia
Professional and civic af liations: Bank of America; Northwestern University
Peter Arduini
President and CEO, GE HealthCare Technologies Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Susquehanna University
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: Bristol-Myers Squibb; Advanced Medical Technology Association; National Italian American Foundation
Jim Boyle
CEO, Medline Industries
Age: 55 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Texas A&M University
Howard Chrisman
President and CEO, Northwestern Memorial HealthCare Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Graduate education: SUNY Upstate Medical University; University of Colorado Denver
Professional and civic af liations: Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Big Shoulders Fund
Polly Davenport
Ministry market executive, Ascension Illinois
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Graduate education: University of Alabama at Birmingham; Our Lady of the Lake University
Ngozi Ezike
President and CEO, Sinai Chicago Age: 52
Undergraduate education: Harvard University
Graduate education: University of California San Diego
Professional and civic af liations: American Public Health Association; Getting to Zero; Association of State & Territorial Health Of cers; Academy of Correctional Health Physicians; Catholic Charities; Economic Club; Dominican University Center for Igbo Studies
Robert Ford
Chairman, president and CEO, Abbott Laboratories Age: 50 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Boston College
Graduate education: University of California, Berkeley
Gerald “J.P.” Gallagher
President and CEO, Endeavor Health
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Graduate education: University of Pennsylvania
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Healthcare Leadership Council; YPO; Illinois Hospital Association; Catholic Charities; Troop 5 Wilmette
Robin Gay
Interim president and CEO, Howard Brown Health Age: 65 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine
Professional and civic af liations: American Dental Society; Illinois State Dental Society; Chicago Dental Society; Primo Center
Richard Gonzalez
Executive chairman, AbbVie Age: 70
Professional and civic af liations: Business Roundtable; Commercial Club
Dan Greenleaf
CEO, Duly Health & Care
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Denison University
Graduate education: University of Miami
Professional and civic af liations: Alliance Homecare; Gryphon Investors; University of Miami; Denison University; YPO
Allyson Hansen
CEO and executive director, Illinois Medical District
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of South Carolina
Graduate education: University of South Carolina
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Lighthouse; West Central Association Chamber of Commerce; Loyola University Chicago; Lyons Township High School; Menttium; First Presbyterian Church of La Grange
Dean Harrison
Executive chairman,
Northwestern Memorial HealthCare
Age: 68 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: St. Francis College
Professional and civic af liations: Northern Trust; Navy Pier; Illinois Health & Hospital Association; Ravinia; World Business Chicago
Olusimbo Ige
Commissioner, Chicago
Department of Public Health
Age: 45
Undergraduate education: University of Ibadan
Graduate education: University of Manchester
Professional and civic af liations: American Public Health Association
Thomas Jackiewicz
President, University of Chicago Health System
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Georgia
Graduate education: Columbia University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Hospital Association; American College of Healthcare Executives; Economic Club; Leadership Greater Chicago; National Health Care CEO Council on Gun Violence Prevention & Safety
Vijay Kotte
CEO, GoHealth
Age: 47
Undergraduate education: Emory University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Omar Lateef
CEO, Rush University System for Health; CEO, Rush University Medical Center
Age: 51 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Florida
Graduate education: Des Moines University
Professional and civic af liations: National Advisory Council of the Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality; U.S. Department of Health & Human Services; National Health Care CEO Council on Gun Violence Prevention & Safety; What’s Your Forte Foundation
Eric Lefkofsky
Founder and CEO, Tempus; Co-managing partner, Lightbank Age: 55
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Groupon; Mediaocean; Echo Global Logistics; InnerWorkings; Lefkofsky Family Foundation; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Art Institute; Museum of Science & Industry; World Business Chicago; Steppenwolf Theatre
Robert Michael
CEO, AbbVie Age: 54
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: University of California, Los Angeles
Erik Mikaitis
CEO, Cook County Health Age: 46
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Graduate education: DePaul University; Ross University School of Medicine
Dia Nichols
President, Advocate Health Care
Age: 50
Undergraduate education: South Carolina State University
Graduate education: Indiana University
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Healthcare Executives; National Association of Health Services Executives; American Cancer Society; World Business Chicago; Economic Club; Rotary International; American Heart Association
Ameya Pawar
President and CEO, Michael Reese Health Trust
Age: 44
Undergraduate education: Missouri Valley College
Sameer Vohra
Director, Illinois Department of Public Health
Age: 42
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: University of Chicago; Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Finance Authority; The Academy Group
Thomas Shanley
President and CEO, Lurie Children’s Hospital Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Carleton College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: American Pediatric Society; Children’s Hospital Association; Illinois Hospital Association; Children’s Hospital Coalition; Executives’ Club
Shawn Vincent
President and CEO, Loyola Medicine
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Appalachian State University
Graduate education: University of Georgia Terry College of Business
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Healthcare Executives; Illinois Health & Hospital Association; Vizient; Trinity Health Captive/Trinity Assurance; CHA Catholic Health Executive Institute; Trinity Health Specialty Pharmacy; Economic Club
Graduate education: Southern Illinois University School of Law; Southern Illinois School of Medicine; University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy
Professional and civic af liations: American Medical Association; Illinois State Medical Association; American Public Health Association; American Academy of Pediatrics; Spring eld School District Foundation
Jennifer Welch
President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of Illinois Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Chicago
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago-Kent College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Planned Parenthood Illinois Action PAC; International Women’s Forum
Tim Wentworth
CEO, Walgreens Boots Alliance
Age: 64 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Professional and civic af liations: Concordance; Opera Theatre of St. Louis
Eugene Woods
CEO, Advocate Health Care
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Pennsylvania State University
Graduate education: Pennsylvania State University
Professional and civic af liations: Best Buy; Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond; Healthcare Institute; Becker’s Healthcare; Johnson C. Smith University; Healthcare Leadership Council
Greg Case
CEO, Aon
Age: 61 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Kansas State University
Graduate education: Harvard Business School
Professional and civic af liations: Business Roundtable; Business Council; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Field Museum; CEOs Against Cancer; St. John’s University School of Risk Management
Marc Cohen
President and CEO, Hub International
Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: State University of New York at Albany
Jon Farney
President and CEO, State Farm Insurance
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Illinois State University
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Business Roundtable
J. Patrick Gallagher Jr.
Chairman and CEO, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Age: 72
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; International Insurance Foundation; American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters; Insurance Institute of America; Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Catholic Charities; Boys Hope Girls Hope; CEOs Against Cancer; Commercial Club
Stephen Harris
President, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Illinois
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Graduate education: University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Chicago Club; American Heart Association
Kim Keck
President and CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
Age: 60 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Boston College
Graduate education: University of Connecticut
Professional and civic af liations: Synergie Medication Collective; HarmonyCares; Evolent Health; BCS Financial
Joseph Lacher Jr.
President and CEO, Kemper Age: 55
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Professional and civic af liations: American Property Casualty Insurers Association; Kemper Foundation; Breakthrough T1D International; Breakthrough T1D Illinois; Field Museum
Dino Robusto
Chairman and CEO, CNA Financial
Age: 65 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: McGill University
Graduate education: University of Pennsylvania
Professional and civic af liations: The Institutes; American Property Casualty Insurance Association; Junior Achievement USA
Patrick Ryan
Chairman and CEO, Ryan
Specialty Holdings
Age: 87
Undergraduate education:
Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Ryan Specialty; Geneva Re; Northwestern University; American Academy of Arts & Sciences; Horatio Alger Association; Pathways. org; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab; Art Institute
Maurice Smith
President and CEO, Health Care Service Corp.
Age: 52 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Roosevelt University
Graduate education: Pepperdine University
Professional and civic af liations: Ventas; Civic Federation; Civic Consulting Alliance; Economic Club; Roosevelt University; World Business Chicago
Thomas Wilson II
Chairman, president and CEO, Allstate
Age: 67
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Financial Services Forum; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Get in Chicago
Jon Ballis
Chairman, Kirkland & Ellis
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Lehigh University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Legal Aid Chicago’s Justice Circle; Vision for Tomorrow Foundation
Sean Berkowitz
Partner, Latham & Watkins
Age: 57 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Tulane University
Graduate education: Harvard Law School
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Trial Lawyers; Chicago Inn of Court; A Better Chicago
Michael Boykins
Of ce managing partner, McDermott Will & Emery
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Graduate education: University of Wisconsin Law School
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Investment Counsel; Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago; Chicago Debates; Friends of the Chicago River
Richard Chesley
Co-U.S. managing partner and global managing partner, DLA Piper
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: University of Cincinnati College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: International Bar Association; American Bar Association; INSOL International; American Bankruptcy Institute; Turnaround Management Association; Erikson Institute
Robert Clifford
Founder and senior partner, Clifford Law Of ces
Age: 73
Undergraduate education: DePaul University
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Inner Circle of Advocates; Illinois Trial Lawyers Association; American College of Trial Lawyers; Chicago Bar Association; American Bar Association; Rand Institute for Civil Justice; Goodman Theatre; Naples Children & Education Fund; WTTW-TV/ Channel 11; DePaul University College of Law
Steve D’Amore
Chairman, Winston & Strawn Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Graduate education: DePaul University College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Symphony Orchestra; Gilda’s Club; Goodman Theatre
Lisa Duarte
Partner, Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres Age: 43
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Latino Caucus Foundation Leadership Academy; Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation; Museum of Contemporary Art; Choose Chicago; Economic Club
Jim Durkin
Partner, Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Illinois State University
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Misericordia-Heart of Mercy Home; Giant Steps; Breakthrough T1D Illinois; 100 Club
Zachary Fardon
Managing partner, Chicago of ce; Group leader, government matters practice, King & Spalding Age: 58
Undergraduate education: Vanderbilt University
Graduate education: Vanderbilt University School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Trial Lawyers; Youth Guidance; Vanderbilt University Law School
Thomas Fitzgerald
Chairman, Winston & Strawn
Age: 70
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: University of Notre Dame
Professional and civic af liations: Leadership Council on Legal Diversity; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; American Cancer Society Illinois Division
Renato Mariotti
Partner, Paul Hastings Age: 48
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: Yale Law School
Professional and civic af liations: Conservation Illinois
Craig Martin
Chairman, Midwest, and partner, Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: Harvard Law School
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Corporate Directors; American Law Institute; American Bar Association; Naples Roundtable; Richard Linn American Inn of Court; Aspen Institute; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Lyric Opera; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Randy Mehrberg
Co-managing partner, Jenner & Block
Age: 68
Undergraduate education: University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Association of General Counsel; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; University of Michigan; Edison Electric Institute; Economic Club; Lincoln Park Zoo; United Way of Greater Chicago; Millennium Park Foundation; HistoryMakers; Latin School
Michael Nemeroff
President and CEO, Vedder Price Age: 61
Undergraduate education: State University of New York at Binghamton
Graduate education: George Washington University
Professional and civic af liations: Oil-Dri; G100; Economic Club; Chicago History Museum; Uniting Voices Chicago; Commercial Club
Morris Pasqual
Acting U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Attorney’s Of ce
Age: 68 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Seton Hall University
Graduate education: Creighton University School of Law
Antonio Romanucci
Founding partner, Romanucci & Blandin
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago John Marshall Law School
Professional and civic af liations: American Association for Justice; Illinois Trial Lawyers Association; Chicago Bar Association; Justinian Society of Lawyers; National Crime Victims Bar Association; UIC School of Law; Adopt-a-Veteran
Teresa Wilton Harmon
Co-managing partner, Chicago, Sidley Austin
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Alabama
Graduate education: University of Alabama; University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: American Law Institute; University of Chicago Law School Council; Executives’ Club; Leadership Greater Chicago; United Way of Metro Chicago; Chicago Network; Northwestern Memorial Foundation
Melissa Root
Chicago of ce managing partner, Jenner & Block
Age: 46
Undergraduate education: Bowling Green State University
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Network; Economic Club; American College of Bankruptcy Lawyers; Chicago Symphony Orchestra; Cabrini Group Legal Aid
Gil Soffer
Chairman, Katten
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Brown University
Graduate education: Harvard Law School
Professional and civic af liations: American Bar Association; Chicago Bar Association; Racial Justice Diversity Committee for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Anton Valukas
Senior partner, Jenner & Block
Age: 81
Undergraduate education: Lawrence University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Trial Lawyers; National Association of Former US Attorneys; Chicago Inn of Court; Lawrence University; Commercial Club
Jon Van Gorp
Chairman, Mayer Brown
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Calvin University
Graduate education: Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Bottom Line; Carrington Charitable Foundation; Honor Foundation
WHO’S WHO LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORTATION
Brett Hart
President, United Airlines
Age: 55
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Chicago Law School
Professional and civic af liations: AbbVie; Northwestern Medical Group; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Obama Foundation; University of Chicago; President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges & Universities
John Holmes III
Chairman, president and CEO, AAR
Age: 48
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Aerospace Industries Association; Institute for Defense & Business; The Wings Club Foundation; Shedd Aquarium; Columbia College Chicago; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Lincoln Park Zoo; Primo Center for Women & Children
Scott Kirby
CEO, United Airlines Holdings
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: U.S. Air Force Academy
Graduate education: George Washington University
Professional and civic af liations: Airlines for America; CVS Health; Business Roundtable; Business Council; Air Force Academy Foundation
Vaughn Moore
Chairman and CEO, AIT Worldwide Logistics
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: World Freight Alliance; YPO; Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals; KB Partners; Anthos Group; American Cancer Society; Center for Enriched Living; Rams Club; Western Golf Association Evans Scholars Foundation
Ramon Ricondo
President emeritus, Ricondo & Associates
Age: 67 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Dan Webb
Co-executive chairman, Winston & Strawn
Age: 79
Undergraduate education: Western Illinois University
Graduate education: Loyola University
Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: American College of Trial Lawyers; International Academy of Trial Lawyers; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab; Dan & Laura Webb Endowed Professorship in Political Science at Western Illinois University; Dan & Laura Webb Pre-Law Scholarship Fund at WIU
Graduate education: Penn State University
Professional and civic af liations: American Association of Airport Executives; Transportation Research Board; American Society of Civil Engineers
Lior Ron
CEO, Uber Freight
Age: 47
Undergraduate education: Technion – Israeli Institute of Technology
Graduate education: Stanford University Graduate School of Business
Doug Trezise
President, Ricondo & Associates
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Douglas Waggoner
CEO, Echo Global Logistics
Age: 66
Undergraduate education: San Diego State University
Professional and civic af liations: Daylight Transport; Northwestern University
Transportation Center; Boy Scouts of America; Illinois Regional Training Center
David Yeager
Executive chairman, Hub Group
Age: 71
Undergraduate education: University of Dayton
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Lurie Children’s Hospital; Fenwick High School
Melissa Bell
CEO, Chicago Public Media; Co-founder, Vox.com
Age: 46 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Georgetown University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Chris Boothe
Chief operating of cer, Publicis Media, U.S. Age: NA
Undergraduate education: Miami University
Professional and civic af liations: 4A’s; AdCouncil; Chicago Advertising Federation; Off The Street Club; Paley Media Council
Becky Carroll
President and CEO, C-Strategies Age: NA
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; National Small Business Association; Forbes Business Council; Chicago Business Journal Leadership Trust; Loyola University Chicago Council of Regents; 1871; Chicago Area Public Affairs Group; Envision Unlimited; Equality Illinois; Noah’s Arc Foundation
Guy Chipparoni
President and CEO, Res Publica Group
Age: 64 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Illinois State University
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Advisory Board of U.S. Bank; Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority; Navy Pier Marketing Committee
Sean Compton
President, Networks, Nexstar Media Group Age: 50
Kevin Cross
President and general manager, NBCUniversal Local Chicago Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Columbia College Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Broadcasters Association; National Association of Black Journalists; Museum of Science & Industry; Magni cent Mile Association; buildOn; Good Sports
Richard Edelman
CEO, Edelman Age: 70
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Ad Council; Atlantic Council; Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose; Arthur W. Page Society; 9/11 Museum; Museum of Science & Industry; University of Chicago Medical Center; Gettysburg Foundation; World Economic Forum
John Idler
President and general manager, WLS-TV/Channel 7
Age: 58
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin Madison
Graduate education: University of New Haven
Professional and civic af liations: Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Economic Club; USO of Illinois; Executives’ Club; State Street Commission; American Red Cross
WHO’S WHO MEMBERSHIP, ADVOCACY AND CIVIC GROUPS
Renee Crown
Founding member, Women’s Board of Northwestern University
Age: 95 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Syracuse University
Professional and civic af liations: WTTW/ Channel 11 Public Television; Bernardin Center at Catholic Theological Union; Boys & Girls Club of Chicago; Lyric Opera
Ivo Daalder
CEO, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: University of Kent
Graduate education: Georgetown University; University of Oxford; Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: Council on Foreign Relations; Munich Security Conference; World Economic Forum; UIC Chancellor’s Leadership Board
Kate Jeffers
CEO, Chicago, Leo Burnett Group
Age: 49
Undergraduate education:
University of California, Santa Barbara
Graduate education: University of California, Los Angeles School of Law
Linda Johnson Rice
Chairman and CEO, Johnson Publishing Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Southern California
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Omnicom Group; Enova; Chicago Public Library; Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture; Northwestern Medicine; Art Institute; Chicago Lighthouse
Jennifer Lyons
President and general manager, CBS Chicago
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Iowa State University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois
Broadcasters Association; Mercy Home for Boys & Girls; Chicago Network; Iowa State University Greenlee School of Journalism & Communication
Sheila Oliver
Senior vice president and general manager, Fox 32 Chicago
Age: 62 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Professional and civic af liations: Minnesota Vikings; Sioux YMCA
Mark Denzler
President and CEO, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Illinois Wesleyan University
Professional and civic af liations: Edgar Fellows; Samuel Gove Hall of Fame; Coalition of State Manufacturing Associations; Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois; Illinois Wesleyan University; Economic Club; Illini Country Club
Maria Doughty
President and CEO, The Chicago Network
Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Emory University
Graduate education: Emory University School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: American Bar Association Commission on Women in the Profession; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Chicago Club; Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow; Roosevelt University; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence; Latino Policy Forum; Illinois Task Force on Employment & Economic Opportunity for Persons with Disabilities
Derek Douglas
President, Civic Committee and the Commercial Club of Chicago Age: 53
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Yale Law School
Professional and civic af liations: Argonne National Laboratory; Skadden Fellowship Foundation; Civic Consulting Alliance; Kids First Chicago; Western Golf Association/Evans Scholarship Foundation
Arne Duncan
Managing partner, Chicago CRED
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Joe Ferguson
President, The Civic Federation
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: Lake Forest College
Graduate education: Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Bar Association; Association of Inspectors General; Loyola University Law School; University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy; Openlands
Karen Freeman-Wilson
President and CEO, Chicago Urban League
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Richard Gamble
Interim president and CEO, Choose Chicago Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Loop Alliance
Dan Gibbons
CEO, City Club of Chicago
Age: 43 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Marquette University
Graduate education: University of Notre Dame
Professional and civic af liations: Navy Pier Associates Board; Chicago Fire Department Foundation; Ireland Funds Chicago Committee; Irish Fellowship Club of Chicago; Magni cent Mile Association
Tiffany Hamel Johnson
President and CEO, Chicago
United Age: 57
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Business Leadership Council; Leadership Greater Chicago 2024 Burnham Fellow; YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Francis W. Parker School; CAN-TV; Illinois Facilities Fund
John Hewko
General secretary and CEO, Rotary International
Age: 67
Undergraduate education: Hamilton College
Graduate education: Harvard Law School; Oxford University
Professional and civic af liations: Evanston Land Use Commission; Council on Foreign Relations; Western Reserve Academy; Ukrainian Catholic University
Jack Lavin
President and CEO, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
Graduate education: Harvard Law School
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Drug Court Professionals; Urban League of Northwest Indiana
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; City Club; Chicago Children’s Theater; Intersect Illinois; University YMCA; Adult Down Syndrome Center; Innovate Illinois
Dan Lurie
President and CEO, Metropolitan Planning Council
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Michigan
James Madara
CEO and executive vice president, American Medical Association
Age: 74
Undergraduate education: Juniata College
Graduate education: Hahnemann Medical College
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; American Society for Clinical Investigation; ResearchAmerica; Association of American Physicians; Commercial Club
Margaret Mueller
President and CEO, Executives’ Club of Chicago
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Chicago; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Professional and civic af liations: Lurie Children’s Foundation; First Women’s Bank; University of Chicago; YPO; Commercial Club; Chicago Network; National Association of Corporate Directors; Private Directors Association
Richard Pollack
President and CEO, American Hospital Association
Age: 69 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: State University of New York at Cortland
Graduate education: American University
Professional and civic af liations: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100; Special Medical Advisory Group to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Coalition to Protect America’s Health Care; National Academy of Medicine Action Collaborative on Clinician Well-Being & Resilience; National Academy of Medicine
Action Collaborative on Decarbonizing the U.S. Health Sector
Sylvia Puente
President and CEO, Latino Policy Forum
Age: 66
Undergraduate education:
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Leadership Greater Chicago; Economic Club; Chicago Network; Civic Federation; University Club; Illinois Latino Agenda; Advance Illinois; Lideramos; Early Learning Council; Restore, Reinvest, Renew
Robert “Bob” Reiter Jr. President, Chicago Federation of Labor
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: Eastern Illinois University
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: Cook County Health & Hospital System; Amalgamated Bank of Chicago; Chicago Reader; Institute for Community Journalism; United Way of Metro Chicago; Illinois Coalition of Immigrant & Refugee Rights; Choose Chicago; Chicago Sports Commission; Citizen Action; Civic Consulting Alliance
WHO’S WHO REAL ESTATE
Michael Alter
Principal owner, Chicago Sky; President, Alter Group
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Sky; Commercial Club; City Year Chicago; Leap Innovations; Be the Change
Tim Anderson
Founder and CEO, Focus
Age: 70 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: Mies van der Rohe Society; Lou Malnati’s Cancer Bene t; RISE International; Urban Development & Mixed-Use Council
Peter Baccile
President and CEO, First Industrial Realty Trust
Age: 61 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Cornell University
Graduate education: Duke University
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts; Real Estate Roundtable; Fisher Center for Real Estate & Urban Economics at the University of California-Berkeley
Curt Bailey
President, Related Midwest
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Colorado
Professional and civic af liations: World Business Chicago; Economic Club, Intersect Illinois; After School Matters; Start Early
Stephen Baird
President and CEO, Baird & Warner
Age: 72
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Realty Alliance; Leading Real Estate Companies of the World; YPO Gold; Chief Executives Organization; Chicago Public Media; Trust for Public Land; Morton Arboretum; Commercial Club; Lurie Children’s Hospital
Todd Bancroft
President and CEO, Draper & Kramer
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: University of Florida College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Florida Bar; Illinois State Bar Association; Chicago Loop Alliance
John Buck II
Chairman and CEO, The John Buck Co.
Age: 80 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: University of Texas; University of Pennsylvania
Professional and civic af liations: John Buck Company Foundation; Metropolitan Planning Council; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Lyric Opera; San Miguel Schools; Big Shoulders Fund
David Snyder
President and CEO, Economic Club of Chicago
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: American University
Professional and civic af liations: Polk Bros. Foundation; Harris Theater for Music & Dance; Commercial Club
Sam Toia
President and CEO, Illinois Restaurant Association
Age: 62 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: IRA Educational Foundation
Debra Cafaro
Chairman and CEO, Ventas
Age: 67
Undergraduate education:
University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: PNC Financial Services Group; Business Council; Baltimore Orioles; Chicago Red Stars; Pittsburgh Penguins; University of Chicago; Economic Club; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; American Academy of Arts & Sciences; Harvard Kennedy School Taubman Center for State & Local Government
David Carlins
CEO, Magellan Development Group
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Youth Program; Hire360; Refugee One
Bob Chapman
CEO, CenterPoint Properties
Age: 67 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Stanford University
Graduate education: Stanford Graduate School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: Cousins Properties
Anthony Chereso
President and CEO, The Inland Real Estate Group
Age: 62
Undergraduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Realtors; Institute for Portfolio Alternatives; Real Estate Roundtable; U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Better Business Bureau; Better Government Association; Conservation Foundation; Wellness House; DuPage Foundation
Robert Clark
Executive chairman, Clayco
Age: 65
Professional and civic af liations: YPO Gold; World Business Chicago; Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Economic Club; Forbes Real Estate Council; Urban Land Institute; Greater Chicago Food Depository; After School Matters
Shawn Clark
CEO, CRG
Age: 39
Undergraduate education: Clemson University
Steven Fi eld
CEO, Fi eld Cos.
Age: 76
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Real Estate Roundtable; YPO Gold; Home Builders Association of Greater Chicago; Lurie Children’s Hospital Foundation
Albert Friedman
Chairman and CEO, Friedman Properties
Age: 76
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: River North Business Association; Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Magni cent Mile Association; DePaul University; Northwestern Memorial Foundation; Choose Chicago
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Illumination
Michael Fassnacht
Chief growth of cer and president of the Chicagoland region, Clayco
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: University of Goettingen
Professional and civic af liations: Civic Consulting Alliance; Intersect Illinois; Current; World Business Chicago; Chicago Public Library Foundation; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Poetry Foundation
Matthew Fiascone
President, Habitat
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Bradley University
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Energy Conservation Authority NFP; National Multifamily Housing Council; Economic Club; Urban Land Institute
Andy Gloor
CEO, Sterling Bay Age: 53 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Miami University
Professional and civic af liations: Misericordia
Brian Goldberg
Founder and CEO, LG Group Age: 50 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Professional and civic af liations: Camp Out for Kids; Back on My Feet; Herban Produce; Pariah Foundation; Tourette Association of America; YWCA; Jewish United Fund
Michael Golden
Co-CEO, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Bates College
Professional and civic af liations: YPO; @ Gives Back; Maryville Academy
Scott Goodman
Founding principal, Farpoint Development Age: 66
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: Urban Land Institute; Economic Club; Near South Planning Board; Navy Pier Board; Hope Chicago
David Helfand
President and CEO, Equity Commonwealth Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Samuel Zell & Robert Lurie Real Estate Center at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania; Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences at Northwestern University; Lurie Children’s Hospital; Chicago Park District; Ounce of Prevention Fund
Mark Hoplamazian
President and CEO, Hyatt Hotels
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: Harvard College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: VF Corp.; American Hotel & Lodging Association; World Travel & Tourism Council; World Business Chicago; Aspen Institute; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club Public Safety Task Force; Skills for Chicagoland’s Future; Brand USA
John Latessa Jr.
President, advisory and transaction services, CBRE Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Graduate education: Wayne State University
Professional and civic af liations: Urban Land Institute; International Council of Shopping Centers; CoreNet Global
Fred Latsko
CEO, Latsko Interests
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
James Letchinger
Founder and CEO, JDL
Development
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Michelle MacKay
CEO, Cushman & Wake eld
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: University of Connecticut
Graduate education: University of Hartford
Daniel McCaffery
Chairman and CEO, McCaffery Interests
Age: 77
Undergraduate education: University of Alberta
Graduate education: University of Alberta
Professional and civic af liations:
International Council of Shopping Centers; Economic Club; Link Unlimited; Knapp Entrepreneurship Center; Loyola University Chicago; Urban Land Institute
Christopher Merrill
Co-founder, chairman and CEO, Harrison Street Real Estate
Capital
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Roanoke College
Graduate education: City, University of London Cass Business School
Professional and civic af liations: Pension Real Estate Association; James A. Graaskamp Center for Real Estate at the Wisconsin School of Business; Texas Christian University Center for Real Estate; Rush University Medical Center; First Tee of Greater Chicago; Salisbury School; Chicago Botanic Garden
Michelle Mills Clement
CEO, Chicago Association of Realtors; President and CEO, Commercial Brokers Association
Age: 45
Undergraduate education: Bradley University
Graduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: Association Forum; American Society of Association Executives; Bradley University; Commercial Real Estate Women; Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority
Eric Mogentale
Managing principal, Walton
Street Capital Age: 62 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Northwestern University Leadership Circle; Springboard Foundation; Kellogg Real Estate Advisory Council
John Murphy
Chairman and CEO, Murphy Development Group Age: 58 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: John Carroll University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Mt. Carmel High School; Building Owners & Managers Association; Executives’ Club; Urban Land Institute; buildOn
William Murphy
CEO, Cedar Street Age: 44
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin
Professional and civic af liations: James A. Graaskamp Center for Real Estate at the Wisconsin School of Business; Wisconsin Real Estate Alumni Association
Gregory Mutz
Chairman and CEO, AMLI Residential Age: 79
Undergraduate education: DePauw University
Graduate education: University of Michigan
Professional and civic af liations: National Multifamily Housing Council
Marguerite Nader
President and CEO, Equity LifeStyle Properties
Age: 56 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Marquette University
Professional and civic af liations: Ventas; National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts
Michael Newman
President and CEO, Golub
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: University of Colorado
Professional and civic af liations: National Multifamily Housing Council; Chicago Architecture Center
Victoria Noonan
Managing principal and Chicago market leader, Cushman & Wake eld
Age: 67
Undergraduate education: DePaul University
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology Kent College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Real Estate Executive Women; Roosevelt University Marshall Bennett Institute of Real Estate; Illinois Institute of Technology; Urban Land Institute Chicago Women’s Leadership Initiative; Chicago-Kent College of Law; SGA Youth & Family Services
John O’Donnell
CEO, Riverside Investment & Development
Age: 74
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Mark Parrell
President and CEO, Equity Residential Age: 58
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: Georgetown University Law Center
Professional and civic af liations: National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts; T. Rowe Price Mutual Funds; Greater Chicago Food Depository; University of Michigan
Weiser Center for Real Estate; Economic Club
Steve Poulos
Founder and CEO, Bridge Industrial
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin
Professional and civic af liations: Urban Land Institute
Quintin Primo III
Chairman and CEO, Capri Investment Group
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: Real Estate Executive Council; Pension Real Estate Association; Primo Center
Michael Reschke
Chairman and CEO, The Prime Group
Age: 69
Undergraduate education: Northern Illinois University
Graduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: Urban Land Institute
Hipolito “Paul” Roldan
President and CEO, Hispanic Housing Development; President, Tropic Construction; President, Affordable Community Energy
Age: 81
Undergraduate education: St. Francis College
Graduate education: Long Island University
Professional and civic af liations: Local Initiatives Support Corp.; Illinois Capital Development Board; Housing Partnership Network; Latino Policy Forum; Green Ribbon Committee; National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture; Marshall Bennett Institute of Real Estate at Roosevelt University
John Rutledge
Founder, chairman and CEO, Oxford Capital Group, Oxford Hotels & Resorts, Oxford Living, Oxford Residential
Age: 61
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chief Executives Organization; YPO; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Chicago Architecture Center; Lurie Children’s Hospital; University of Chicago Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship; Art Institute
Nicholas Ryan
Founder and executive chairman, Marquette Cos. Age: 71 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Rose Hulman Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: National Multifamily Housing Council; Institute for Community
David Schwartz
Chairman and CEO, Waterton Age: 60
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Graduate education: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Professional and civic af liations: National Multifamily Housing Council; Urban Land Institute; Pension Real Estate Association; University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine; U.S. Holocaust Museum & Memorial
Tom Scott
Founder and CEO, CA Ventures Age: 64
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: University of Illinois President’s Council; University of Illinois Alumni Association; University of Illinois Foundation; YWCA; Greater Chicago Food Depository; Chicago Training Center; Scott Family Foundation
Robert Sevim
President, Chicago region, Savills
Age: 49
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Chicago Club; Northwestern University; Greater Chicago Food Depository
Jeff Shapack
Founder and CEO, Shapack Partners
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Professional and civic af liations: World Business Chicago; TPIRC/SoCal Food Allergy; Economic Club; C.H.A.M.P.S. Male Mentoring; No More Violence
Christian Ulbrich
CEO, Jones Lang LaSalle Age: 57 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: University of Hamburg
Graduate education: Stanford University
Professional and civic af liations: Vonovia SE; World Economic Forum
Leon Walker
Managing principal, DL3 Realty Advisors Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Realty Club of Chicago; Civic Federation; Economic Club; Illinois Bar Association; Chicago Association of Realtors; University of Michigan; Roosevelt University; Greater Chicago Food Depository; Chicago Emerging Minority Developer Initiative
Brian Whiting
President, Telos Group Age: 59
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: FD Stonewater
Thaddeus Wong
Co-CEO, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Age: 55
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: @ Gives Back; Chicago Children’s Museum; Imerman Angels; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Haymarket Center
Paul Zeller
Chairman and founder, Zeller Age: 75
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Graduate education: University of WisconsinMadison
Professional and civic af liations: Urban Land Institute; Economic Club; Lambda Alpha International; Chicago Development Council; National Trust for Historic Preservation
Adam Alonso
CEO, Build Chicago
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Welcoming Center for Immigrants & Refugees; United Way; Casa Central; Illinois Action for Children; Corazón Community Services
Sally Blount
CEO, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago Age: 63
Undergraduate education: Princeton University
Graduate education: Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Professional and civic af liations: Abbott Laboratories; Joyce Foundation
Rosemary Connelly
Chairwoman, Misericordia Foundation
Age: 93
Undergraduate education: St. Xavier University
Graduate education: St. Louis University; Loyola University Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Misericordia Foundation; Together for Choice
Michael Crowley
President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago Age: 44
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Boys & Girls Clubs of America LGBTQ Employee Resource Group; University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy; Chicago History Museum
Blase Cupich
Cardinal, Archdiocese of Chicago Age: 75
Undergraduate education: University of St. Thomas
Graduate education: North American College; Gregorian University; Catholic University of America
Professional and civic af liations: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops; Catholic Extension Society; University of St. Mary of the Lake
Wendy DuBoe
Vice chair, Institute for Nonviolence Chicago
Age: 60
Undergraduate education: University of Michigan; London School of Economics & Political Science
Graduate education: Johns Hopkins University Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies
Professional and civic af liations: Loyola University Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise & Responsibility; Cook County Commission on Social Innovation; Commercial Club; Chicago Network
Ricardo Estrada
President and CEO, Metropolitan Family Services
Age: 58
Undergraduate education: Loyola University Chicago
Graduate education: University of Illinois Chicago; University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Commercial Club; Latino Corporate Directors Association; Economic Club; Leadership Greater Chicago; ComEd; Metra; Grand Victoria Foundation; Terra Museum of American Art; A Better Chicago
Jesse Jackson Sr.
President, Rainbow/Push Coalition
Age: 83
Undergraduate education: North Carolina A&T State University
Graduate education: Chicago Theological Seminary
Katherine Maehr
Executive director and CEO, Greater Chicago Food Depository
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: Macalester College
Graduate education: University of Wisconsin
Professional and civic af liations: Economic Club; Chicago Network; Illinois Commission to End Hunger; Illinois Commission on Poverty Elimination & Economic Security; Feeding America; Center for Nutrition & Health Impact; National Association of Nutrition & Aging Services Programs
Jamal Malone
CEO, Ada S. McKinley
Community Services
Age: NA
Undergraduate education: Michigan State University
Dorri McWhorter
President and CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Age: 51
Undergraduate education: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council; LanzaTech Global; Lifeway Foods; Skyway Concession; William Blair Funds; Common Impact; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Civic Consulting Alliance; Civic Federation; Lyric Opera
Lonnie Nasatir
President, Jewish United Fund/ Jewish Federation of Chicago
Age: 55
Undergraduate education:
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago-Kent College of Law
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois State Bar Association; Shomrim Society of Illinois; JPRO; Jewish Federations of North American; Jewish Agency for Israel
Joli Robinson
CEO, Center on Halsted
Age: 43
Undergraduate education: Dallas Baptist University
Graduate education: Dallas Baptist University
Professional and civic af liations: Presidential Leadership Scholars
Nicole Robinson
CEO, YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: DePaul University
Professional and civic af liations: South Side Giving Circle; Economic Club
Karen Tamley
President and CEO, Access Living of Metropolitan Chicago
Age: 57
Undergraduate education:
Graduate education: University of Notre Dame
Professional and civic af liations: Illinois Partners for Human Service
University of California, Berkeley
Professional and civic af liations: National Council on Independent Living; Chicago Network; Economic Club; International Women’s Forum; Disability Lead
David Awschalom
Director, Q-Next; Senior scientist, Argonne National Laboratory; Lieu Family professor, University of Chicago; Vice dean for research and infrastructure, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering; Director, Chicago Quantum Exchange
Age: 68
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Graduate education: Cornell University Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Quantum Exchange
Gregory Brown
Chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions
Age: 64
Undergraduate education: Rutgers University
Professional and civic af liations: Business Council; Prium; Council on Foreign Relations; Pro Football Hall of Fame; Big Shoulders Fund; Economic Club; Navy SEAL Foundation; Prostate Cancer Foundation; 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Bill Burns
CEO, Zebra Technologies Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Misericordia University; Pennsylvania State University
Graduate education: Temple University Professional and civic af liations: Oshkosh Corp.
Chris Gladwin
Chair and co-founder, P33; CEO and co-founder, Ocient; Chair and co-founder, The Forge Age: 60
Undergraduate education: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Graduate education: Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: P33; Smart Bet Charities; Illinois Institute of Technology; The Forge Charitable Adventures
Anders Gustafsson
Chairman, Zebra Technologies Age: 63 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Chalmers University of Technology
Graduate education: Harvard Graduate School of Business; Chalmers University of Technology
Professional and civic af liations: NetApp; International Paper; Shedd Aquarium; Commercial Club
Brad Henderson
CEO, P33
Age: 45
Undergraduate education: University of Chicago
Graduate education: University of Oxford Professional and civic af liations: Impact Engine; LongJump; mHub; Interfaith Youth Core; University of Chicago; University of Illinois; Rush University Medical Center; Chicago Council on Global Affairs; Chicago History Museum
Dag Kittlaus
Co-founder, former CEO, Siri; Co-founder, former CEO, Viv Labs; Co-founder, CEO, Riva Health
Age: 57
Undergraduate education: Indiana University
Graduate education: BI Norwegian Business School
Christine Leahy
Chairman, president and CEO, CDW
Age: 59 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Brown University
Graduate education: Boston College
Professional and civic af liations: Target; Northwestern Memorial Hospital; Junior Achievement; Economic Club; Chicago Network; Business Council; Brightpoint
Matt Moog
CEO, Wavetable Studios
Age: 54
Undergraduate education: George Washington University
Professional and civic af liations: Built In; PowerReviews, Firestarter Fund; YPO; Commercial Club; Economic Club; Leadership Greater Chicago
Karen Sauder
President of global clients and agency solutions, Google
Age: 56
Undergraduate education: University of Missouri-Columbia
Professional and civic af liations: Lurie Children’s Hospital; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Economic Club; Chicago Network; World Business Chicago
Jennifer Scanlon
President and CEO, USG
Age: 58
Undergraduate education: University of Notre Dame
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: Chicago Council on Global Affairs; National Association of Manufacturers; Economic Club; Executives’ Club; Joint Center for Housing Studies; Civic Committee of the Commercial Club; Shore Community Services; USG Foundation
Mark Tebbe
Chairman, ChicagoNext; Adjunct professor, University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Age: 63
Undergraduate education: University of Illinois
Professional and civic af liations: Enova International; Raise; Merrick Ventures; Economic Club; 1871; Field Museum; Aspen Institute; Chicagoland Entrepreneurship Center; HAVI; Big Shoulders Fund
Howard Tullman
General managing partner, G2T3V; General managing partner, Chicago High Tech
Investment Partners
Age: 79
Undergraduate education: Northwestern University
Graduate education: Northwestern University
Professional and civic af liations: Keeper Security; Snapsheet Claims; Anshe Emet Synagogue; Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law; City Club
Kevin Willer
Minority owner and vice chair, Chicago Red Stars; Partner, Chicago Ventures
Age: 50 (Crain’s estimate)
Undergraduate education: Boston College
Graduate education: University of Chicago
Professional and civic af liations: mHUB Chicago; U.S. Soccer Federation; Loyola University Chicago
Betsy Ziegler
CEO, 1871
Age: 53
Undergraduate education: Ohio State University
Graduate education: Harvard University
Professional and civic af liations: FastRadius; DeVry University; Rheaply; DBK Studio; Museum of Science & Industry; Choose Chicago; Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute; Camp Manito-wish YMCA; Economic Club
FAST 50 CRAIN’S LIST
FAST 50 CRAIN’S LIST
METHODOLOGY
Working with accounting rm Plante Moran, which examined nancial documents provided by the applicants for 2018 through 2023, we had the following Fast 50 ground rules:
◗ We only considered companies headquartered in the seven-county Chicago area and
founded on or before Dec. 31, 2017.
◗ We excluded franchisees, regulated banks, utilities, real estate developers, real estate investment trusts and some holding companies, such as those that primarily buy or sell other companies/large assets.
◗ Small companies — those reporting less than $15 million in 2023 revenue — were likewise not considered.
◗ We disquali ed companies that had more than one drop in revenue from 2018 to 2023.
June 12, 2024
AT A TIME WHEN COMPANIES across all industries continue to adapt to work from home versus in person, work-life balance continues to be a factor. The companies getting it right — the winners on our 2024 Best Places to Work list — blend thoughtful benefits, strategies and out-of-office policies to deliver best-in-class experiences for their employees. I Originally published: Sept. 16, 2024
1. Green Of ce Partner
Industry: Consulting
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 41
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 4%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 100%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 7
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
2. Bluedog Design
Industry: Consulting
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 41
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: NA
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 75%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 16
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
3. The Salem Group
Industry: Sta ng
Location: Oakbrook Terrace
Total U.S. employees: 73
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 3%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 20%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 9
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
4. WayFinder Logistics
Industry: Logistics and shipping Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 69
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 8%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 100%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 7
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
5. The Horton Group
Industry: Insurance
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 57
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 10%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 100%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 18
6. Skyline Construction
Industry: Construction
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 382
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 0%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 0%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 10
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 15
7. Stumm Insurance
Industry: Insurance
Location: Rosemont
Total U.S. employees: 57
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 10%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 100%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
8. The Lactation Network
Industry: Health care
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 112
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 2%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 99%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
9. Laughlin Constable
Industry: Advertising
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 87
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 13%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 10%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 14
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 20
10. Redmond
Industry: Construction
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 40
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 5%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 0%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? No
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 12
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 21
11. First Bank Chicago
Industry: Banking
Location: Northbrook
Total U.S. employees: 140
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 8%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 80%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
12. Builtech Services
Industry: Construction
Location: Schaumburg
Total U.S. employees: 94
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 5%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 50%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 8
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 10
13. Ryan Cos. US
Industry: Construction
Location: Chicago and Westmont
Total U.S. employees: 1,751
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 8%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: NA
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 10
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
BEST PLACES TO WORK IN CHICAGO 2024
1. Green Of ce Partner
2. Bluedog Design
3. The Salem Group
4. WayFinder Logistics
5. The Horton Group
6. Skyline Construction
7. Stumm Insurance
8. The Lactation Network
9. Laughlin Constable
10. Redmond
11. First Bank Chicago
12. Builtech Services
13. Ryan Cos. US
14. Corrugated Supplies
15. Clune Construction
16. Builders Vision
17. Radio Flyer
18. Magenium Technology
19. Ryan LLC
20. DMC
21. Program Productions
22. Gresham Partners
23. Allison
24. High Tide Logistics
25. The Trade Desk
26. Richard Group
27. Altair Advisers
28. Meitheal Pharmaceuticals
29. Skender
30. SQN Associates
31. Origami Risk
32. LG Group
33. Midtown-Metro
Achievement Centers
34. Norcon
35. BOS
14. Corrugated Supplies
Industry: Manufacturing Location: Bedford Park
Total U.S. employees: 620
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 1%
36. Arco/Murray National Construction
37. Kenway Consulting
38. Victory Park Capital
39. Liventus
40. Duff & Phelps Investment Management
41. Advanced Clinical
42. Spaulding Ridge
43. Gallant Building Solutions
44. Women Employed
45. Marsh McLennan Agency
46. Trading Technologies
47. Ebco
48. New Moms
49. Odelson Murphey Frazier & McGrath
50. Bailey Edward
51. AMOpportunities
52. Royal Cyber
53. Peterson Technology Partners
54. WestPoint Financial Group
55. Leahy-IFP
56. Centric Consulting
57. Setna iO
58. Glenstar
59. Clarity Partners
60. Nixon Peabody
61. Clayco
62. Capstone Financial Advisors
63. Prominence Advisors
64. Perkins Coie
65. Michael Best & Friedrich
66. Allwyn North America
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 0%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
15. Clune Construction
Industry: Construction Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 717
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 7%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 33%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain
67. Kovitz Investment Group
68. Weiss
69. Public Communications
70. BigTime Software
71. Loberg Construction
72. Provisio
73. Next Door & Window
74. Trustmark
75. Burwood Group
76. Muse Community + Design
77. KemperSports
78. NDH Advisors
79. Buckley Fine Law
80. Riveron
81. Juno Logistics
82. Duane Morris
83. Heartland Realty Investors
84. Goldberg Kohn
85. Kindle Communications
86. Sikich
87. Beacon Funding
88. Sassetti
89. Klein & Hoffman
90. Nicor Gas
91. Zoro
92. Nyhan Bambrick Kinzie & Lowry
93. Of ce Revolution
94. SEI
95. Objective Paradigm
96. Seyfarth Shaw
97. Vitality Group
98. Feldco
99. Coherent Economics
100. Hines
◗ Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 7
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
16. Builders Vision
Industry: Investment management and philanthropy
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 58
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 1%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 100%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain
Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 13
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
PsiQuantum Campus
We see our work through the eyes of the people who will use them every day. Through their eyes, we see places of innovation, industry, technology, healing, research and entertainment. The result? Powerful structures with impacts that reach far beyond these walls.
Fulton East at 215 N. Peoria
Macy’s Flagship Renovation
Cubes at Country Club Hills
Zurich North American HQ
Willis Tower Transformation Project
Cook County Central Campus Health Center
17. Radio Flyer
Industry: Manufacturing
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 79
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 11%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 84%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
18. Magenium Technology
Industry: Technology
Location: Downers Grove
Total U.S. employees: 76
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 5%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 75%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? No
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 10
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 15
19. Ryan LLC
Industry: Finance
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 2,657
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 8%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 97%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 18
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: PTO is not tracked
20. DMC
Industry: Technology
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 281
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 1%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 10%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 10
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
21. Program Productions
Industry: Sports broadcasting labor management
Location: Lombard
Total U.S. employees: 99
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 10%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 70%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 9
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 18
22. Gresham Partners
Industry: Finance
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 73
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 5%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 1%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? No
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 11
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
23. Allison
Industry: Marketing and communications
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 321
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 21%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 50%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 13
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? Yes
◗ If so, average annual number of PTO days an employee takes: 15
24. High Tide Logistics
Industry: Freight and logistics
Location: Lincolnwood
Total U.S. employees: 32
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 9%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 100%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? No
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 6
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? No
25. The Trade Desk
Industry: Technology
Location: Chicago
Total U.S. employees: 1,988
◗ Annual voluntary turnover: 7%
◗ Working remotely at least part time: 2%
◗ Do you have a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z (born 1997 or later) employees? Yes
◗ Does your organization provide formal DEI training? Yes
◗ How many employer-paid holidays do you o er each year? 14
◗ Does your organization o er unlimited PTO? NA
Notes: NA = Information not available. Research: Workforce Research Group. Editor: Ann R. Weiler. Copy editor: Danielle Narcissé.
How we compiled Crain’s Best Places to Work 2024
Methodology: Who’s eligible? Crain’s Best Places to Work program is open to all publicly or privately held organizations, either for-pro t or nonpro t. To be eligible for consideration, organizations must have at least 25 employees working in (or reporting to a manager in) the seven-county Chicago area of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will in Illinois and Lake in Indiana. Published employee totals are as of April.
Originally published: Sept. 16, 2024
What criteria were used? Workforce Research Group, a Texas-based independent workplace excellence research rm, conducted a two-part survey. The rst part of the assessment consisted of an employer questionnaire, used to collect information about bene ts, policies, practices and other general information. The second part was a con dential 77-question employee survey used to evaluate local employ-
ees’ workplace experience and culture. Workforce Research Group collected data from the companies in March and April.
How was it scored? Workforce Research Group combined the scores of the two surveys, with the employee responses making up 80% of the total, and conducted an in-depth analysis to determine the number of companies that met its standard of excellence.
BEST NEW RESTAURANTS
Chicago felt rich with restaurant openings over the last year. We focused on downtown options for the business diner and sampled four dinner spots and three lunch locales. For those getting creative with their entertainment budgets as restaurant prices continue to rise, we also scoped out a cocktail bar and wine tasting counter. I Originally published: May 6, 2024
Seville Chicago
La Grande Boucherie
Yokocho
Miru
GALLESE
Sifr
AND NEIL BURGER Bisous
The Cellar Door
MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES 2024
CHICAGO COMPANIES are never at a loss for innovation, whether it’s health care, food, fashion, shopping or technology.
Our annual list of the Most Innovative Companies includes members of the Fortune 500, such as AbbVie; privately held companies, such as Elkay Manufacturing, Hollister and RTC; and venture-backed startups, such as The Fynder Group.
How do we come up with the list? It’s based on an evaluation of the patents awarded to Chicago companies in 2023 performed by Ocean Tomo, an advisory, investment banking and consulting rm specializing in intellectual property.
Ocean Tomo, which is part of J.S. Held, averages the scores of the individual patents received by each company. To qualify, a company must have been awarded at least three patents. | Originally published: Oct. 21, 2024 1.
What it makes: Lab-grown protein for food and fashion Patents last year: 8
it makes: Pharmaceuticals Patents last year: 27
International What it makes: Wireless software Patents last year: 20
it makes: Plumbing products Patents last year: 4
it makes: Medical products Patents last year: 33
Raise Marketplace
it makes: Mobile commerce technology Patents last year: 4
it makes: Digital photo software Patents last year: 4
Sage Products What it makes: Medical products Patents last year: 11
it makes: Dairy products Patents last year: 5
The Fynder Group
Isco
AbbVie
Nature’s Fynd CEO Thomas Jonas
HIGHEST-PAID CEOS IN THE CHICAGO AREA CRAIN’S LIST
Ranked by total compensation; includes executives from public companies only
Data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, with additional research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | Includes executives and former executives of public companies based in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will counties, as well as select public companies outside the seven-county area that are included due to their size. Salary ratios are based on a CEO’s total compensation and the company’s median employee salary “Change in pension value” also includes nonquali ed deferred compensation. 1. Formerly Kellogg Co.
Originally published: June 10, 2024.
HIGHEST-PAID NON-CEOS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
Data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, with additional research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | Includes executives and former executives of public companies based in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will counties, as well as select public companies outside the seven-county area that are included due to their size. “Change in pension value” also includes nonquali ed deferred compensation.
Originally published: June 10, 2024.
BUSINESSES OWNED BY PEOPLE OF COLOR CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST EMPLOYERS IN THE CHICAGO AREA CRAIN’S LIST
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com) | Employment gures are as of Dec. 31, 2023. Crain's estimates are in gray Local employment gures include full-time employees in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will counties unless otherwise noted. Crain’s estimates are shown in gray e. Crain's estimate. 1. U.S. government's estimate. 2. Includes estimated distribution center employment gures from MWPVL International and Whole Foods employees. 3. In December 2022, Advocate Aurora Health merged with Atrium Health to create Advocate Health. 4. Includes employees of University of Chicago Medicine, the university's medical group. 5. Formerly NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health. 6 Company estimate. 7 Calculated from SEC lings. Re ects all Albertsons employees. 8 Includes part-time employees.
Originally published: Feb. 26, 2024.
LARGEST PRIVATELY HELD COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered in the Chicago area; ranked by revenue
LARGEST PRIVATELY HELD COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST PRIVATELY HELD COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered
LARGEST PRIVATELY HELD COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered in the Chicago area; ranked by revenue
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | This list is ranked by 2023 revenue; Crain's estimates are in gray Employee headcounts are as of 12/31/2023. Most information is from the companies. Figures estimated by Crain’s are produced using various sources of information about the companies and their industries. The list includes companies based in the Chicago area: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will counties. State Farm and certain other large companies outside those counties are also included. e Crain's estimate. 1 Company estimate. 2 From American Lawyer 3 From PR Week. 4 Crain's includes this company, which is headquartered outside of the Chicago area, because of its size. 5. From Moody's; for 12 months ending June 2023.
Originally published: April 22, 2024.
LARGEST PUBLICLY TRADED COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered in the Chicago area; ranked by revenue
LARGEST PUBLICLY TRADED COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered in the Chicago area; ranked by revenue
Sam Ganga is the National Consulting Sector Leader for Consumer & Retail at KPMG. He works closely with clients to understand their challenges and needs and determine sector trends that in uence their business and present opportunities for solutions. A programmer by trade and two-time entrepreneur, Ganga also serves as KPMG’s data/AI and cloud leader for the Products Line of Business, which includes consumer and retail, industrial manufacturing, life sciences, and energy, natural resources and chemicals. In this role, he focuses on addressing industry and business challenges by using data, cloud, cyber and “everything related to technology” effectively.
With all the discussion about the potential of GenAI, what is the biggest technology challenge facing consumer and retail companies?
Our clients have been kicking the tires on generative AI for some time now. There are portions of the technology that work great and portions that may require a workaround. An interesting transition I see among C&R businesses, however, is a move from targeting small problems or AI pilot projects with minimal value, to a more strategic consideration -- how AI could help run the business more ef ciently. How can it improve inventory forecasts, for example, or reduce employee attrition? C&R business leaders now are beginning to focus on the value of outcomes as the driver for generative AI initiatives. This means the challenge today has become less about the technology – which will get there – and
Unlocking AI insights
more about the quality of the data used to train AI models. If you do not trust the data, you will not trust the insights generated by those models.
How should companies go about treating data as a strategic asset?
Building out your data as a strategic asset is a business muscle, not a technology muscle, that calls for accountability from the business. The organization must take responsibility for high quality data and the technology teams, the data teams, need to support them. If you approach this like it is a technology problem, you are not going to get high quality, rich data. You are just going to get good technology not good data. Many of the CFOs and CEOs I talk to ask why they are not seeing the value of the tens and sometimes hundreds of millions of dollars their organizations have spent on creating highquality data. The value is not to generate high quality data. The value is to generate insights to change the way you run your business.
The organizations that get it right are the ones where business is taking ownership of creating a data product the company can use, whether it is nance, supply chain, procurement or any part of the business. It is the fuel that is going to help them be more competitive in the future.
How does the data strategy connect, in the case of retailers, with their in-store strategy to give consumers a consistent experience?
Retailers have been dealing with a large volume of pointof-sale data, which many of them monetize by selling it to
consumer goods companies. A much richer potential use of that data is harvesting it to predict or to personalize their own relationship with shoppers. If I know when you are going to come in and buy cheese, milk or even a piece of apparel, for example, I can have the right inventory at the right place at the right time. Retailers are beginning to step it up around hyperpersonalization. If I know your preferences, what you like and, more importantly, your dislikes, and I know your buying patterns, I can cultivate loyalty by sharing incentives with you.
What happens to the existing technologies and systems that companies have in place?
Because the data coming out of an ERP system is not clean – maybe they are not using the same customer's ID, for example, or vendor ID across their systems –organizations currently must do additional work to get their data suitable for AI consumption. Right now, unfortunately, for every dollar a retailer spends on data and insights, I estimate that about 30 cents goes towards creating insights and 70 cents goes towards busy work around creating highquality data. That’s not that sustainable.
But think about a world where data is pure at its source. I believe this is going to be a transitionary period where organizations are turning their focus toward team, data and source and away from systems and process that involve all this busy work. Will we ever be at a point where retailers have absolutely clean data? Probably not. But cleaning up the data should be 20-30% of the work you
do, not 70-80%. We must start ipping the equation today.
What does this tell us about the future of GenAI in consumer and retail?
I think GenAI has the potential to fundamentally change the way retailers run the business around merchandising, supply chain, their workforce, pricing and promotions. These are all areas that are screaming for higher degrees of ef ciency. A merchandiser, for example, will still need to make that decision as the human in the loop, but their ability to make better decisions, more frequently, will be signi cantly impacted by the use of AI. Right now, merchandisers are using data, but they are also working off their gut. If fact, it is estimated that 60% of merchandising decisions are based on intuition, so and there can be a big discrepancy between the highest performing merchandiser and the lowest performers. If business leaders could get all of them to use trusted insights from Gen AI, they could close that gap. That is a good example of the power of this technology.
Gen AI today is focused on incremental value. Tomorrow, the winners in this entire race are going to be organizations who gure out how to create exponential value. Exponential value gets unlocked when companies are not simply using AI, but reimagining how they run their business based on AI.
LARGEST PUBLICLY TRADED COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered in the Chicago area; ranked by revenue
1. Represents implied market cap; may include shares/units that do not
of the Chicago area, because of its size.
LARGEST PUBLICLY TRADED COMPANIES CRAIN’S LIST
Headquartered in the Chicago area; ranked by revenue
Data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, with additional research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | Originally published: May 13, 2024. Includes public companies in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry, and Will counties with annual revenue of more than $50 million and a market listing. Deere & Co. and RLI Corp. are outside the seven-county area, but Crain’s makes exceptions for them because of their size. All nancial gures are from the most recent 10-Ks, unless otherwise noted. 1. Represents implied market cap; may include shares/units that do not participate in earnings distributions.
LARGEST WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES CRAIN’S LIST
Originally published: Sept. 30, 2024.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Meet the accomplished professionals stepping into new roles and shaping Chicago’s future.
Dannielle Appelhans CEO
Cour Pharmaceuticals
In September, Cour Pharmaceuticals founder, President and CEO John Puisis stepped aside for the promotion of Chief Operating Of cer Dannielle Appelhans. She joined Cour as COO in 2023 and has led research and development, technical development, clinical operations, and quality and technical operations, playing a pivotal role in shaping recent corporate strategy, the Chicagobased biotech company and Northwestern University spinout said. As part of the leadership change, Appelhans was also appointed to the company’s board of directors. Appelhans previously served as CEO of Rubius Therapeutics and since 2022 has been on the board of directors of Generation Bio. She also has held leadership roles at Novartis and Novartis Gene Therapies.
Melissa Bell
CEO
Chicago Public Media
Chicago Public Media, the nonpro t that oversees the Chicago Sun-Times and public radio station WBEZ, tapped Melissa Bell, former publisher of Vox Media, to be its next CEO. Bell in September succeeded Matt Moog, who came under re for a round of layoffs and programming cuts at WBEZ in his four years in the post. Bell co-founded Vox, known for its explanatory journalism, in 2014 and later became publisher of Vox Media, which includes brands The Verge, Vox, SB Nation and Eater. The announcement of her hiring noted the role she played in Vox’s merger with New York Magazine and the newsrooms under it. Before Vox, Bell was director of platforms and wrote a consumer tech column for The Washington Post.
Bill Bay President
American Bar Association
Thompson Coburn partner Bill Bay was tapped as the next president of the Chicago-based American Bar Association in August. He previously served as chair of the ABA House of Delegates and chair of the ABA section on litigation. Bay, a litigator of more than 30 years, works out of Thompson Coburn’s St. Louis of ce. His clients include nancial institutions, manufacturers and postsecondary institutions. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and his law degree from the University of Michigan Law School.
Chris Baker
CEO
Zeller Realty
Chris Baker was named CEO of Chicagobased commercial property owner Zeller Realty in June. He succeeded Bob Six, who had been with the company since 2001 and stepped down after nearly four years as top executive. Baker, who joined Zeller in 2013 and had been president since 2019, took over a company with a national portfolio spanning more than 10 million square feet, including of ce buildings in Chicago and the suburbs. Previously, he worked for Los Angeles-based investment rm Ares Management and at Chicago-based real estate lender Wrightwood Capital before it was acquired by Ares. He also served in the U.S. Air Force’s Space Program as a mission manager for the launch of military and NASA satellites.
Katrina Bell-Jordan President
Northeastern Illinois University
Northeastern Illinois University named Katrina Bell-Jordan as its president in July after about a year in the position on an interim basis. Prior to being named interim president, Bell-Jordan held positions as assistant professor in the Department of Communication, Media & Theatre, as well as chair of that department. She was also associate dean and then interim dean of the school’s College of Arts & Sciences. “After nearly 27 years at Northeastern, I am proud to support its mission as a Hispanic-serving institution and minority-serving institution, and I am honored to have the opportunity to lead as president,” she said in a statement upon her appointment.
Edward Best
Co-chair, Capital Markets Practice Group Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Edward Best led a team of lawyers decamping for Willkie Farr & Gallagher in August after the capital markets chief spent 38 years at Chicagobased law rm Mayer Brown. Best, with 10 attorneys joining him, said keeping his team intact was crucial to making the move. He co-chairs the capital markets practice group at New York-based Willkie and has committed to work at the rm for at least ve to seven years. With the most recent hires, Willkie has grown its Chicago of ce to nearly 100 lawyers since launching here in 2020. Best’s practice focuses on offerings by banks, insurance companies and specialty nance companies. He also advises companies in the nancial sector on mergers and acquisitions.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Lee Bey
Architecture critic
WLS-TV/Channel 7
Lee Bey, architecture critic for the Chicago Sun-Times, took on the same role at ABC 7 Chicago in September, contributing to the city’s expanding design coverage. Bey, who continues his work at the Sun-Times, is a seasoned Chicago writer who’s written numerous works on architecture, including the book “Southern Exposure: The Overlooked Architecture of Chicago’s South Side.” In addition to his writing, he previously served as chief of staff for architecture and urban planning in the Mayor Richard M. Daley administration. In 2019, he became an editorial writer for the Sun-Times.
Ciere Boatright Commissioner
Chicago
Department of Planning & Development
In October 2023, Mayor Brandon Johnson tapped Ciere Boatright to lead the department, and a few months later she was unanimously approved by the City Council. She promised to leverage her experience as a developer to move projects through the city’s often-arduous approval process more quickly and work to bring new development to the wards. Her nomination drew praise from developers, former planning chiefs and members of the council’s Committee on Economic, Capital & Technology Development, who sent her nomination to the full council. Boatright, who left construction and development rm Clayco to take the city job, has also worked with the Chicago Neighborhoods Initiative on the revitalization of the Pullman neighborhood on the city’s Far South Side.
Daniel Camardo
President
Immedica North America
Immedica Pharma, a rare disease-focused pharmaceutical company based in Stockholm, made Chicago its U.S. headquarters in 2024 and brought on former Horizon Therapeutics executives to lead business development here. Daniel Camardo was named president of Immedica North America in September. Camardo was an executive vice president at Horizon and held executive roles at Clarus Therapeutics and Astellas Pharma. He was most recently a strategic adviser at CLC Biopharma and CEO of Athersys. Immedica said Camardo has more than 25 years of industry leadership experience, “from small emerging biotech to mid-size rare disease and large multi-national companies and has contributed to the successful launch of multiple blockbuster medicines.” He’s responsible for establishing a commercial infrastructure for Immedica in North America.
Emily Chase
Executive vice president, UChicago Medicine; chief operating of cer, University of Chicago Medical Center UChicago Medicine
The University of Chicago Medicine in June announced promotions that the academic health system says coincide with its growing footprint in the Chicago area. Among the changes: Emily Chase was named UChicago Medicine’s executive vice president and the University of Chicago Medical Center’s chief operating of cer. Chase, a registered nurse, was previously vice president of UChicago Medicine’s Comer Children’s Hospital. Since 2020, she has been the medical center’s chief nursing of cer and senior vice president of patient care services. Chase also was interim president and CEO of UChicago Medicine’s Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey from June 2022 to March 2023.
Vamsi Bonthala Board member
World Business Chicago
World Business Chicago, the city’s publicprivate economic development arm, in June announced additions to its board of directors. They include Vamsi Bonthala, CEO and co-founder of real estate investment company Arbor Lodging Group. The changes to include more business leaders signi es “the business community’s unwavering commitment to Chicago’s economic resilience and growth,” according to World Business Chicago. Bonthala, who’s led Arbor Lodging since 2006, is also a board member of the Economics Leadership Council at the University of Michigan and on the board of Swarm Engineering, according to his LinkedIn pro le. He was previously an associate at Kirkland & Ellis and Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft.
Phil Clement CEO
World Business Chicago
World Business Chicago, whose mission is to sell the city to companies as a place to set up shop or grow, chose a veteran chief marketing of cer — and a relative unknown in Chicago civic circles — when it named Phil Clement as CEO in April. Clement was chief marketing of cer at Milwaukee-based Johnson Controls from 2020 to 2023 and CMO at Aon from 2005 to 2017, where he became an adviser to CEO Greg Case, who is also a World Business Chicago board member. Mike Ellis, who hired Clement at Johnson Controls, praised his ability to build partnerships, “creating a network that’s a win-win for everyone. He’s able to weigh and assess and understand all sides of a partnership equation.”
Interviewed by Brooke Bilyj for Crain’s Content Studio
Alesia Coe
Vice president and chief nursing of cer
UChicago Medicine
The University of Chicago Medicine in June announced promotions the academic health system says coincide with its growing footprint in the Chicago area. Among the changes: Alesia Coe was named vice president and chief nursing of cer. Coe, a registered nurse, replaces Emily Chase as the medical center’s chief nursing of cer. She was previously vice president of adult inpatient/ emergency services and associate chief nursing of cer at UChicago Medicine. She joined UChicago Medicine in 2018 and previously was Cook County Health’s system associate nurse executive for inpatient services.
Tara Conger
CEO
Tandem HR
Westchester-based Tandem HR decided to stay in-house when it named Tara Conger its new CEO in February. She had been the full-service HR company’s president for the previous two years, and before that, was chief operating of cer for less than a year. In a short time, Conger, a 17-year veteran in the human resources industry, established herself as an in uential player within the company, leading Tandem through strategic changes in customer service and company culture. As president, the company said, she spearheaded strategic operational enhancements that resulted in more employee engagement and bolstered the company’s customer service and technology portfolio. Tandem, founded in 1998, handles HR for midsize, often family owned companies throughout Illinois, in other Midwestern states and Texas.
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Bringing a bold vision for the future of education
BROOKE ELLIOTT
The Josef and Margot
Lakonishok Professor in Business and Dean of Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Driven by vision and values, W. Brooke Elliott was the clear choice to lead Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the new dean. A tenured professor and, previously, executive associate dean of academic programs, Elliott is the rst woman to hold this position.
How would you describe your leadership philosophy?
Empathetic, bold, collaborative and transparent. I believe in building a community where individuals can be their authentic selves and feel empowered to showcase their skills. By demonstrating empathy, you can create a sense of con dence in others that empowers them to accomplish things they never would have imagined.
As the rst woman in this role, what example do you hope to set?
Being a woman in this position sets an example that anyone can accomplish what they set out to accomplish. No matter who you are, no matter what you bring, we see you, we hear you and we value you. That can mean you’re a dean like me who loves to wear T-shirts and Air Jordans. Whoever you are, that’s who we want you to be, and we want you to show up like that every single day.
What has been your proudest accomplishment so far at Gies?
I became associate dean of online programs in January 2020, right before everything shut down for the pandemic. We had been in the online education market for several years with the iMBA, but we had a choice: to maintain the size and scale we were at, which wasn’t consistent with our mission to expand access to education — or think outside the box to meet the unprecedented demand. We rallied around our mission and went from
Trisha Crissman
President and CEO
CommonSpirit Health
CommonSpirit Health, one of the country’s largest nonpro t Catholic health care systems, named Trisha Crissman as president and CEO of CommonSpirit Health at Home. She assumed the role in September after serving as interim president of the Chicagobased nonpro t’s home health business since October 2023. Loveland, Ohio-based CommonSpirit Health at Home operates 83 locations in 13 states. It provides home-based health, hospice and infusion services. Crissman was previously vice president and chief operating of cer of CommonSpirit’s Home Health & Hospice Division. Before joining CommonSpirit in 2015, Crissman held leadership positions at personal care services company AccentCare and home care company Great Lakes Caring. Crissman also serves on the board of the National Alliance for Care at Home.
WITH BROOKE ELLIOTT
serving 600 learners in a course to serving 1,400. It’s a testament to what a great team can accomplish.
What is your vision for the future of Gies?
My vision is for Gies Business to be the world’s most inspiring business school, where innovation thrives, everyone feels welcome and purpose drives every action. We’ll build on our strong foundation of excellence, sharing our story of leadership and promising an exciting future. Learners will entrust us with their education; we will foster a safe and inclusive environment; and alumni will embody and amplify Business on Purpose. We’ll focus on delivering high-quality, accessible education, taught by our world-class experts. We will embrace rapid change by designing an innovative and agile business model that positions Gies to thrive for the next 100 years.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Steve
D’Amore Chairman
Winston & Strawn
Winston & Strawn named its rst new chief in more than 17 years in 2024. Veteran litigator and Chicago native Steve D’Amore began his rst day as chairman of the law rm in June, ushering in new leadership with plans for expansion both domestically and in Europe, where the rm has of ces in Paris and London. He’s spent his entire career at the rm he now helms, beginning in 1993 as a second-year law student and later leading the litigation department going about 10 years. Winston is the city’s fth-largest law rm by local lawyers with 250 attorneys here, according to Crain’s research. The rm has about 900 U.S. attorneys and reported more than $1.1 billion in 2023 revenue.
Deval Daily
Chief operational transformation of cer UChicago Medicine
The University of Chicago Medicine in June announced promotions the academic health system says coincide with its growing footprint in the Chicago area. Among the changes: Deval Daily was named chief operational transformation of cer. Daily joins UChicago Medicine from Rush University Medical Center, where she was chief administrative of cer for multiple service lines and was most recently its vice president of operational excellence. At UChicago Medicine, Daily oversees the operational excellence and quality performance improvement teams at the health system and works on operational integration and strategic initiatives systemwide. UChicago said Daily has more than a decade of experience in managing departments and enhancing performance, reducing costs, optimizing revenue capture and increasing productivity.
Vahe Dombalagian
Managing partner
Madison Dearborn Partners
Private-equity investor Madison Dearborn Partners named a new leader a little more than a year after placing two CEOs at the helm of the Chicago-based rm. Vahe Dombalagian was promoted in September to lead the rm in a newly created role of managing partner. Madison Dearborn also promoted eight other leaders to partner to support Dombalagian and “to best position MDP for continued long-term success,” the rm said in a statement. Madison Dearborn said Dombalagian would remain an active investor with a continued focus on the rm’s nancial services strategy. Dombalagian and the partnership group succeed Tom Souleles and Tim Sullivan, named co-CEOs in May 2023. Souleles and Sullivan were named vice chairmen of the rm.
Jim Durkin Partner
Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres
Jim Durkin, former minority leader in the Illinois House of Representatives from 2013 to 2023, joined Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres as a partner in the public nance and government affairs and regulatory practice, the rm announced in March. The position allows Durkin to draw on his experience in the Legislature, where he’d served since 1995, to advise local governments on economic development and nances. He retired from political of ce in 2023. Before holding elected of ce, Durkin was an assistant Illinois attorney general and an assistant Cook County state’s attorney, working as a felony trial prosecutor. Durkin represented the west suburban 44th District from 1995 to 2003 and, following redistricting, represented the 82nd District from 2006 to 2023.
Bill Daley
Senior adviser Crux
Former White House insider and Chicago mayoral candidate Bill Daley joined Crux as a senior adviser in June. New York-based Crux operates a platform facilitating transactions of the transferable clean-energy tax credits created by the Biden administration’s In ation Reduction Act. The company launched in 2023, has more than $10 billion in clean-energy credits available for sale and has raised more than $27 million in strategic and venture capital. The scion of a legendary Chicago political family, Daley was chief of staff to President Barack Obama and commerce secretary under President Bill Clinton. He also spent years as an executive at JPMorgan Chase, was vice chairman at Wells Fargo and served on several corporate boards, including for Abbott Laboratories and Boeing.
Steve Edwards
Executive vice president for external affairs and civic engagement Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
Steve Edwards, perhaps best known as a former on-air host for WBEZ-FM/91.5, in August became the Chicago Fed’s executive vice president for external affairs and civic engagement and serves as a member of the bank’s executive committee. Edwards came to the bank from Koya Partners, where he was managing director for the executive search consultancy. Before that, he was chief content of cer and interim CEO of Chicago Public Media, which includes the city’s NPR station WBEZ, and was executive director of the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics. Earlier in his career, Edwards was host of “The Afternoon Shift” and “Eight Forty-Eight” on WBEZ.
W. Brooke Elliott
Dean
Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign named W. Brooke Elliott dean of the Gies College of Business. In August she replaced Jeffrey Brown, who led the school for nearly a decade. Elliott, who was a faculty member for more than 20 years and executive associate dean of academic programs at Gies, holds degrees from Indiana University and the University of Washington. She was a tenured professor in accountancy and the EY Distinguished Professor in Accounting. “Professor Elliott’s dedication to and vision for the college’s future, along with the passion she brings to her current work, made her the clear choice to lead Gies College of Business,” said John Coleman, vice chancellor for academic affairs and provost.
Michael Fassnacht
Chief growth of cer Clayco
After Michael Fassnacht left the CEO job at World Business Chicago, his next stop was construction and development rm Clayco, a role that he said “enables me to continue advocating for Chicago.” The veteran advertising executive, who previously was the city of Chicago’s chief marketing of cer, became Clayco’s chief growth of cer as well as its president of the Chicago region in February. Clayco, among the 20 largest privately held companies in Chicago, according to Crain’s Data Center, has about $6 billion in annual revenue and about 3,000 employees handling everything from design to construction, with projects ranging from residential and of ce buildings to EV battery factories and airports such as O’Hare. Fassnacht remains on the WBC board.
Christy George CEO
Intersect Illinois
Fresh off her role leading day-to-day efforts to prepare to host the Democratic National Convention, Christy George was tapped in September to lead Intersect Illinois, the state’s private-sector partner in recruiting and retaining businesses. George previously was part of Gov. JB Pritzker’s economic team, working on deals such as the Gotion battery plant in Manteno and the Lion Electric bus factory in Joliet. She replaced Dan Seals, who left in July. In her new role, George oversees a staff of about 30, which is expected to grow, and a budget of about $7.5 million. George worked at City Hall as an attorney and assistant budget commissioner during Rahm Emanuel’s two terms as mayor before going to work for Pritzker.
Dan Guill
CEO
Athletico Physical Therapy
After a six-month search for a CEO, Athletico Physical Therapy in June tapped Dan Guill to head the orthopedic rehab company. Guill most recently served as CEO of assisted living company Enlivant, which ceased operations at senior living facilities in November 2023. Prior to Enlivant, he served in various operating and nancial roles at Fortress, Performant and Thomas Weisel Partners. “I was drawn to Athletico because of its mission-driven culture and strong reputation for delivering the highest quality care in the industry,” Guill said in a statement. Oak Brook-based Athletico operates more than 900 locations in 24 states and the District of Columbia.
Luis Gutierrez
Senior adviser
Reyes Kurson, Roosevelt Group and Iluminara Public Affairs
Former U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez last spring joined a law rm and related governmentrelations companies headed by veteran City Hall insider Victor Reyes: Reyes Kurson, Roosevelt Group and Iluminara Public Affairs. As senior adviser, he joined the companies that are engaged in public affairs and lobbying in Chicago and Spring eld as they expand their activity in Washington, D.C. Gutierrez was a political reformer who got his start as a Chicago alderman, joining the City Council in 1986 as an ally of then-Mayor Harold Washington. He became the city’s rst Latino member of Congress in 1993 and held ranking positions on the Judiciary and Financial Services committees. Gutierrez retired from Congress in 2019.
David Hargraves CEO
Pharma Logistics
When David Hargraves was named CEO of Libertyville-based Pharma Logistics in January 2024, he succeeded Michael Zaccaro, who founded the company 27 years ago. Hargraves is a veteran of Charlotte, N.C.-based group purchasing giant Premier, where he was senior vice president of supply chain. Before that, he served as vice president of clinical supply chain at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. As Hargraves took the reins, Zaccaro became a member of Pharma Logistics’ board. “As we embark on this next phase of growth, I intend to carry forward Mike’s spirit of entrepreneurship, devotion to excellence and dedication to delivering value to our customers while upholding the highest ethical and regulatory standards,” Hargraves said in a statement.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Jim Hart Board member
World Business Chicago
World Business Chicago, the city’s publicprivate economic development arm, announced additions to its board of directors in June. They include Jim Hart, president of management consultancy Burwood Group. The changes to include more business leaders signi es “the business community’s unwavering commitment to Chicago’s economic resilience and growth,” according to World Business Chicago. Hart, who’s been with Burwood Group since 1998, is also a member of the Economic Club of Chicago. He previously served on the board of trustees of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System and was on the board of directors of Medinah Country Club, according to his LinkedIn pro le. He also serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago and Genesys Works Chicago.
Rodger Howell
CEO
Houlihan Capital
Financial advisory and investment banking rm Houlihan Capital brought on Rodger Howell, who formerly worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers and PRTM Management Consultants, to lead the company after its three founders retired and turned ownership of the rm over to its employees. Before joining Houlihan in June, Howell’s previous roles include serving as chairman of Xurrux; partner in strategy and operations and enterprise pro tability lead with PwC; and as a partner with PRTM Management Consultants. Chicago-based Houlihan Capital, founded in 1996, has about 40 employees and focuses on companies with revenue ranging from $10 million to up to $200 million.
Dr. Robert S.D. Higgins
President and chief academic of cer, Rush University; senior vice president, Rush University System for Health Rush University System for Health
Dr. Robert S.D. Higgins’ appointment marked a return to the Chicago academic medical system after serving as president of Boston’s Brigham & Women’s Hospital. From 2003 to 2010, Higgins was the Mary & John Bent professor and chair of Rush’s cardiovascular-thoracic surgery department and was responsible for the thoracic surgery residency program within Rush Medical College. Now, after assuming his new role in April, his job is to be responsible for the whole of Rush University and, as chief academic of cer, leading academic and clinical integration across the three-hospital health system. He is also a leader in heart and lung transplantation, minimally invasive cardiac surgery and mechanical circulatory support.
William Huffman
CEO
Nuveen
Nuveen, the investment manager for retirement income and planning rm TIAA, named William Huffman as CEO. Huffman, who has been with Nuveen since 2008, had been president of Nuveen Asset Management and head of equities and xed income. He succeeds Jose Minaya in the CEO position. “We will continue to succeed by reinforcing our position as a market leader in xed income, delivering enhanced public market and alternative capabilities to clients, and investing in our wealth and institutional businesses in key segments including insurance and retirement,” Huffman said in a statement announcing the news in June. “An increased international presence will enable Nuveen to serve clients in new ways, building on the strong foundation of our diverse and stable business.”
Susan Howe
CEO
Weber Shandwick Collective
When CEO Gail Heimann retired after nearly three decades with the Interpublic Group of Cos. network, Susan Howe, the network’s president, succeeded Heimann as CEO. Howe, a Northwestern University alumna, stepped into the top role in November after more than 20 years at Weber Shandwick, including three years as president. During her tenure, she helped develop strong relationships with many of the collective’s top clients, including Anheuser-Busch InBev, Nestlé and Kellanova. The network includes multiple specialist shops, including its namesake, and was named to Ad Age’s 2024 Agency A-List.
Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige Commissioner
Chicago Department of Public Health
A public health expert with nearly two decades’ experience, Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige came to Chicago from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a New Jersey-based health care- and equity-focused nonpro t, where she was managing director of programs. Before that, Ige was assistant commissioner of the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, where she oversaw a team of 500 people and an annual budget that topped $1 billion. After assuming her new role in Chicago in December 2023, among her challenges here: managing funding and staf ng shortfalls and establishing “Treatment Not Trauma,” a plan touted by Mayor Brandon Johnson to send therapists and social workers to 911 calls instead of police of cers and reopen city-run mental health clinics.
Jiseon Lee Isbara
President
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Jiseon Lee Isbara in February was named to lead the School of the Art Institute of Chicago after serving as provost of Otis College of Art & Design in Los Angeles. A practicing artist and the rst minority woman to head SAIC, she brings a wealth of knowledge in education, art and leadership to her new position, the school said in its announcement. She taught and served in leadership positions during her 16-year tenure at Otis College. Isbara earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Colorado State University and MFA and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees from Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea, where she was born.
Demetrius Ivory Chief meteorologist
WGN-TV/Channel 9
When Demetrius Ivory was promoted in February, he had some of the biggest shoes ever to ll in Chicago media: replacing retiring Chicago legend Tom Skilling. When news of Ivory’s promotion was announced, Skilling heaped praise on his successor during a Feb. 1 evening broadcast, calling Ivory “a truly nice human being and a heck of a meteorologist.” The retiring weatherman went as far as to lightly rebuff Ivory’s insistence that he would keep his old boss’ number on hand if he had any questions, reassuring him: “You are the nished product.” Ivory joined the station in 2013, and before taking the chief meteorologist job, he had been heading the 4 p.m. broadcast at the Nexstar-owned station.
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Emerging stronger from crises
Lori Lightfoot, JD Senior Consultant
Charles River Associates
With a wealth of experience navigating complex investigations and high-stakes litigation, former Chicago mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, JD, brings unique insights to clients through her new role as senior consultant at Charles River Associates. Lightfoot, a former federal prosecutor, joined the consulting rm’s Forensic Services Practice in March of 2024, where she advises companies and the counsel who represent them in investigating, responding to and emerging stronger from crises and disputes.
What makes Charles River a good t for you?
I wanted to work with a strong forensic practices group doing high-stakes investigations, because that’s my bread and butter. I hired an expert from Charles
River, so I already knew a number of people in the practice group. As I learned more about the services they offered, it was clear that this was the right t for me.
What are your top goals in this new role?
My goal is to introduce Charles River to as many people in my network as possible, particularly leaders in the C-suite who have a need for forensic investigative resources, cybersecurity, antitrust, damage assessments or due diligence. Charles River has a lot of smart, best-in-class experts, and I’m excited about the strengths they bring to the table.
What are the most important crisis management lessons you’ve learned that will help you advise clients?
You have to build a team that’s up to the task of navigating through an unexpected crisis. That’s the most important thing: the team. As a leader, you can envision a path forward, but you need people who can actually execute. Collaboration is where you get the best results by creating
Mark Jackson Athletic director
Northwestern University
Northwestern University named Mark Jackson, former head of Villanova University’s athletic department, as its next athletic director, effective Sept. 1. Appointed to the Villanova post in 2015, Jackson oversaw an athletic department that won two men’s basketball national titles and more than 30 conference championships during his tenure. He was named a winner of the Under Armour AD of the Year Award in 2020 by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics. Before Villanova, he served as senior associate director of athletics and chief innovation of cer at the University of Southern California and held a similar role at Syracuse University. He also worked in professional sports with the Oakland Raiders and the New England Patriots.
WITH LORI E. LIGHTFOOT, JD
an atmosphere where people feel comfortable pushing against assumptions.
What skills do you bring to Charles River that are critical when handling investigations in the public eye?
You’ve got to be able to communicate — because if you don’t communicate, the void gets lled, and then you’re behind the curve in owning the narrative. Transparency is critical. Even if you’re saying, “Look, we don’t have a lot of information,” you’ve got to get out there and say just that. You’ve got to gure out your message, and you’ve also got to think about your spokesperson. The messenger matters as much as the message, so having a credible one is incredibly important.
Interviewed by Brooke Bilyj for Crain’s Content Studio
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Kate Jeffers CEO
Leo Burnett Chicago
Leo Burnett Chicago appointed Kate Jeffers as CEO, effective in May. She came from spending more than 20 years with Venables Bell & Partners, most recently as president and partner. At Leo Burnett she oversees clients including Bank of America, Beam Suntory, WK Kellogg, Molson Coors, Nintendo and Tillamook. Jeffers, who relocated to Chicago for the new job, had joined San Francisco-based agency Venables Bell as an account director before working her way up to the chief operating of cer role in 2019 and president in 2020. During her time there, Jeffers helped oversee Venables Bell clients such as Audi of America, Chipotle, Intel and Reebok, and led the launch of the agency’s AI consultancy and multiple equity investments in AI startups.
Ken Johnson Chair
Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization
Xeris Biopharma executive Ken Johnson was named to lead the board of the Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization, known as iBio, in January. As senior vice president of global development and medical affairs at Chicago-based Xeris, he brings more than 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and academia to his new role as the trade association’s board chair. Johnson replaced Marilyn Vetter, who served as iBio’s board chair for the previous two years. Previously, Johnson has held senior management positions at Merck, Circassia Pharmaceuticals, Durata Therapeutics, Horizon Therapeutics, Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, NeoPharm, Searle/ Pharmacia and Bristol-Myers Squibb. IBio represents 91,000 jobs in Illinois’ life sciences sector at member companies, universities, service providers and venture rms.
Ashley Duchossois Joyce Chairwoman
Duchossois Capital Management
Ashley Duchossois Joyce has been honing her leadership skills for years through charities and nonpro ts in Chicago and beyond. With a master’s degree in social work from the University of Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Colorado, she worked as a therapist before joining her family’s charitable arm, the Duchossois Family Foundation, full time in 2015. At Metropolitan Family Services, one of Illinois’ largest human services agencies, she was named board chair in early 2020. Last spring, Joyce took over leading Duchossois Capital Management, her family’s investment rm, as her father, Craig Duchossois, became executive chairman emeritus. The privately held rm invests in companies including Frontier Waste Solutions and Churchill Downs.
Craig Julien CEO
Luminare Health
Health Care Service Corp. subsidiary
Luminare Health named Craig Julien as CEO last spring, promoting him from president. Prior to joining the Lake Forest-based company, Julien was CEO of Northbrook-based third-party administrator HealthSmart and also held senior leadership positions at TriZetto, Kenexa Technologies, Ceridian and CNA Insurance. Luminare is a health bene ts administrator that helps self-funded employer health plans and other plan sponsors to manage health care costs. Its clients nationwide insure nearly 1 million members, the company said. “Our extensive experience, coupled with our ability to provide unique solutions and deliver tangible fact-based results, sets us apart in this industry,” he said in a statement. Julien replaced former CEO Nancy Eckrich.
Todd Kaplan
Chief marketing of cer for North America
Kraft Heinz
Kraft Heinz hired former Pepsi marketer Todd Kaplan as chief marketing of cer for North America in July, as the food giant looks to fuel new growth for Kraft Mac & Cheese, Velveeta, Philadelphia Cream Cheese and other legacy brands while innovating to meet the demands of health-conscious consumers. Kaplan’s duties include oversight of the food giant’s in-house agency, The Kitchen. Also under his purview are the company’s strategic ventures with plant-based food maker NotCo and Just Spices, a spice blend marketer in which Kraft Heinz holds a majority ownership stake. Kaplan left PepsiCo after a 17-year career, most recently as CMO of the Pepsi brand, where his accomplishments included overseeing a well-received redesign of the cola.
Kathy Kelly CEO
Kindred Hospitals
Kindred Hospitals of Chicago, a specialty acute care hospital operator, named a new CEO responsible for four local sites. Kathy Kelly assumed the top role in June and is responsible for all strategic planning, nances, operations and personnel. Before joining Kindred, Kelly was vice president and health system executive at ICU Medical, a San Clemente, Calif.-based medical device company. She holds degrees from Illinois State University and Roosevelt University and is a member of the Chicago Healthcare Executive Forum and the American College of Healthcare Executives. Kindred’s four hospitals are in Edgewater and Ravenswood, as well as suburban Northlake and Sycamore. Combined, the hospitals operate more than 400 beds, admit 2,400 patients a year and employ 550 workers.
Mary Langowski
President of U.S. health care
Walgreens Boots Alliance
Named Walgreens Boots Alliance’s new health care chief in February, Mary Langowski is tasked with optimizing and re ning the Deer eldbased company’s health care strategy. A seasoned health care technology veteran and a lawyer by training, Langowski most recently served as CEO of Solera Health, a value-based health care technology startup in Phoenix that Walgreens has invested in. She is credited with helping Solera launch new product lines and develop an improved economic model to support its growth. Before Solera, Langowski was executive vice president and chief strategy and corporate development of cer at CVS, where she helped lead its evolution into a health care company and its acquisition of insurance giant Aetna.
Klaus Mäkelä
Music director
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
When he begins his ve-year contract as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s music director in 2027, Klaus Mäkelä will be 31 — the youngest person to lead the ensemble in the CSO’s 133-year history and one of the youngest ever to lead a top orchestra in the United States. The Finnish conductor succeeds Riccardo Muti, the veteran maestro who has led the CSO since 2010. Mäkelä will conduct the orchestra a minimum of 14 weeks per season, which includes 10 weeks of subscription concerts around Chicago and international and domestic tours. Mäkelä made his debut with the CSO in April 2022 to both critical and audience acclaim, generating excitement that the organization hopes it can turn into sustained nancial success.
Lori Lightfoot
Senior consultant
Charles River Associates
Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot in March joined consulting rm Charles River Associates as a senior consultant in its forensic services practice. “Lori exemplies our commitment to being a trusted partner to clients in navigating today’s most challenging business and regulatory environments,” Charles River Vice President Kris Swanson said in a statement, adding that Lightfoot joined a team advising clients on matters involving allegations of fraud, misconduct and matters of regulatory compliance. Lightfoot stepped back from public life following her primary loss in 2023. The rst Black, openly gay woman to hold the mayor’s of ce in Chicago, she later announced she would teach a class on leadership and health policy at Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Morgan Malone
Executive director
City Bureau
When City Bureau named Morgan Malone to a leadership role in January, it was a shift in structure: She is the nonpro t’s rst singular person in the executive director position. Until now, the co-founders of the Bronzevillebased civic journalism lab shared the job. A growing staff and expanding programs called for the change, leaders said, and in her new job, Malone will help “de ne the next era of City Bureau.” She came from being managing director of strategic initiatives and operations at Farpoint Development, playing a major role in the $8.2 billion redevelopment of Michael Reese Hospital. She also has experience overseeing administrative duties for projects at O’Hare and Midway airports and in community organizing and civic engagement.
Dan Lurie
President and CEO
Metropolitan Planning Council
The Metropolitan Planning Council in September tapped a political veteran of the Obama White House and Chicago’s City Hall as its new president and CEO. Dan Lurie took the top job at the planning and policy organization in September. He served as chief policy adviser for former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and deputy director for policy for then-Vice President Joe Biden. He’s also held leadership roles at the National Endowment for the Arts, the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development, the think tank New America and the Chicago Transit Authority, according to MPC. Most recently, he founded the Municipal Governance Initiative to address the state capacity crisis threatening local governments’ ability to solve social problems .
John Mangum
President and CEO
Lyric Opera of Chicago
The Lyric Opera of Chicago in July tapped John Mangum as its next president and CEO. Mangum came to Chicago with leadership and arts administration experience. He’d served since 2018 as director and CEO of the Houston Symphony, overseeing an operating budget of around $30 million and presenting nearly 170 concerts annually. Prior to Houston, he led the Philharmonic Society of Orange County as its president, was director of artistic planning with the San Francisco Symphony from 2011 to 2014 and held a similar position at the New York Philharmonic. He has a doctorate and master’s and bachelor’s degrees from UCLA. Mangum replaced Anthony Freud, who had led the Lyric Opera of Chicago since 2011.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Renato Mariotti Partner
Paul Hastings
Former federal prosecutor Renato Mariotti joined law rm Paul Hastings as a partner in Chicago in July. Mariotti, who has appeared in The New York Times and as a legal expert on CNN and other TV news shows, previously spent nearly two years as a partner at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner and is a former assistant U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois. His work focuses on complex litigation, including private-equity and hedge fund litigation, derivative-related claims and cyber theft, and he represents a long list of Chicago clients. Mariotti ran as a Democrat for Illinois attorney general in 2018 following the retirement of longtime state Attorney General Lisa Madigan. He lost the primary to current state Attorney General Kwame Raoul.
Alycia Mason CEO
Wavemaker
GroupM’s Wavemaker hired Alycia Mason as its U.S. CEO, effective at the end of July. She reports to GroupM North America CEO Sharb Farjami and oversees all of the media agency’s operations and client relationships in the U.S. Mason comes from McDonald’s, where she most recently was eld vice president, overseeing operations across 1,000 restaurants. She also was chief U.S. customer experience of cer for the fast-food giant from March 2022 to February 2023, where she led the company’s digital transformation efforts across its apps, delivery services and in-restaurant kiosks. Mason rst joined McDonald’s in 2018 as a vice president of digital experience and media and before that served in various executive roles at agencies including Publicis Groupe’s Starcom and GroupM’s Mindshare.
Samir Mayekar Board member
Millennium Bank
Samir Mayekar, a former deputy mayor of Chicago and head of the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, joined the board of directors at Millennium Bank in August. Mayekar’s experience navigating the ins and outs of city government will help the Des Plaines-based bank known for making loans to members of minority communities who are launching businesses. He also was a staffer on Barack Obama’s presidential campaign and served in the White House before getting an MBA at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and launching NanoGraf. Mayekar said he hopes to use his position on the board as a means to boost investment in communities on the South and West sides.
Tobin McDaniel
President
NinjaTrader
NinjaTrader named Tobin McDaniel its rst president in August. McDaniel joined the Chicago-based online futures brokerage from SoFi, where he was head of the company’s Invest business specializing in online stock trading. “My goal is to use my experience in consumer ntech, where I have been very focused on expanding access,” said McDaniel. “I want to take that experience and help NinjaTrader accelerate this journey so we make our products more intuitive, to raise the quality of what we offer, bring more people in and keep them in the space.” Before SoFi, McDaniel was a managing director at Charles Schwab, chief of staff for Schwab’s chairman and director of retail strategies.
Dr. Thomas McGinn
Chief physician executive of cer
CommonSpirit Health
CommonSpirit Health, one of the country’s largest nonpro t Catholic health care systems, appointed its rst-ever chief physician executive of cer. Dr. Thomas McGinn was promoted from executive vice president for physician enterprise in September. He also adds the title of senior executive vice president. In his new role, McGinn reports directly to CEO Wright Lassiter III and serves as a partner to CommonSpirit’s chief nursing and operating of cers. The role gives McGinn oversight over all clinical activities at CommonSpirit facilities, including both inpatient and outpatient settings. CommonSpirit is based in Chicago but notably does not operate any hospitals in Illinois. Instead, it operates facilities across 24 states including Indiana, Texas and California.
Robert Michael CEO
AbbVie
After more than a decade of leading pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, Richard Gonzalez stepped down to be succeeded by Chief Operating Of cer Robert Michael in July. Gonzalez became executive chairman of the North Chicago-based company, and Michael joined the board of directors. Michael has been with AbbVie since its 2013 split from Abbott Laboratories, where he’d worked since 1993. As AbbVie’s vice president of nancial planning and analysis from 2012 to 2013, Michael established and led the company’s rst nancial planning organization. He later held various roles at AbbVie before becoming chief nancial of cer in 2018 and vice chairman of nance and commercial operations in 2021. A year later, he was named vice chairman and president and became COO in 2023.
Lisa Miner Executive editor Daily Herald
The Daily Herald signaled a change in leadership when newsroom veteran and Managing Editor Lisa Miner was promoted to executive editor in May, replacing longtime editor Jim Baumann. In the new job, she continues to oversee news operations while also leading budgeting, strategic planning and collaboration between all departments. She’s also the Herald’s liaison to Northwestern University’s Local News Accelerator, which focuses on improving the sustainability of news organizations in Chicago. Miner joined the suburban news publication in 1984 as a city staff reporter, soon moving to the features department, where she was a reporter and editor. Miner cut her teeth in journalism while interning at the Arizona Daily Star and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Lanesha Minnix
Global chief legal of cer
Walgreens Boots Alliance
When it named Lanesha Minnix as its next global chief legal of cer, Walgreens Boots Alliance capped a urry of executive announcements as new CEO Tim Wentworth solidi ed his leadership team. Minnix, who assumed the role in April, came to Deereld-based Walgreens after serving as general counsel and corporate secretary at Ecolab, a St. Paul, Minn.-based food safety company. Before that, she was senior vice president and chief legal of cer at Flowserve, an Irving, Texas-based supplier of industrial and environmental machinery. At Walgreens, Minnix oversees the company’s global legal, compliance, corporate governance and corporate security functions. She holds a law degree and an MBA from the University of Tulsa and a bachelor’s degree in marketing from St. Louis University.
Julie Morita President and CEO
Joyce Foundation
The Joyce Foundation named Julie Morita as its new president and CEO effective Oct. 1, following a nationwide search. Morita previously served as executive vice president of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a healthfocused nonpro t headquartered in New Jersey. She replaced longtime Joyce CEO Ellen Alberding, who announced in 2023 she would step down after 22 years in charge. Morita also previously spent nearly two decades with the Chicago Department of Public Health, including serving as commissioner. At the Johnson Foundation, she helped lead programming, policy, research and communications activities. The Joyce Foundation oversees some $65 million in annual grant distributions, with assets of $1.3 billion, and is Chicago’s sixth-largest foundation, according to Crain’s research.
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NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Carol Moseley Braun Chairman
United States African Development Foundation
Former Illinois senator and onetime U.S. ambassador Carol Moseley Braun in April was sworn in as the new chairman of the United States African Development Foundation, an aid organization in Washington, D.C. Moseley Braun was nominated by former Senate ally Joe Biden, and her election to the post was promoted by another former Senate colleague, Dick Durbin. She knows her way around diplomatic channels, having served as ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa after her single U.S. Senate term ended in 1999. She’s been a visiting professor at Northwestern University and served on the boards of the DuSable Black History Museum and the World War I National Museum of American History in Washington.
Michael Mutterer
President and CEO
Silver Cross Hospital
After serving as Silver Cross’ interim leader for eight months, following the unexpected death of top executive Ruth Colby, Michael Mutterer was named the permanent president and CEO in June. Before that transition, Mutterer was senior vice president of the nonpro t hospital in New Lenox. He joined Silver Cross as vice president of patient care services and chief nursing of cer in 2020 and is credited with guiding the 348-bed hospital’s nursing and clinics teams during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mutterer spearheaded the launch of Will County’s rst and only Level 3 neonatal intensive care unit in 2022 and was instrumental in opening a 16-bed observation unit and 16-bed cardiovascular unit in 2021.
Karen Murphy
Chief operating of cer and executive vice president of stadium development Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears in March tapped one of their own to advance the team’s new stadium efforts. Karen Murphy, previously senior vice president of business strategy and chief nancial of cer, was promoted to the newly created position of executive vice president of stadium development and chief operating of cer. She’s been with the organization for 25 years, starting as a controller in 1999. The Bears said Murphy would work alongside President and CEO Kevin Warren to “drive forward the club’s long-term vision and strategic objective of developing a new stadium.” Warren called Murphy “an exceptional and innovative leader and a positive force for both the Chicago Bears and the National Football League.”
Nneka Nwosu
Vice president of marketing
WLS-TV/Channel 7
Nneka Nwosu was promoted to vice president of marketing at WLS-TV/Channel 7 in September. In her new role at ABC 7, she oversees local programming, marketing and design. Nwosu has been with the network since 2022 as assistant news director of ABC 7 Eyewitness News. In her previous position, she oversaw the I-Team investigative unit, content and staff. She has also led the production team during live candidate debates and has contributed to the station’s special programming efforts. Nwosu previously held positions at WCVB-TV in Boston and WTNH-TV in New Haven, Conn., before joining the Chicago station. She is a graduate of Princeton University and also holds a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University.
Jim Murray
President and chief operating of cer; interim CEO VillageMD
VillageMD, the nationwide chain of doctors’ of ces majority owned by Walgreens Boots Alliance, in April named Jim Murray to lead operations across the enterprise, which includes clinics under the Village Medical brand, as well as dozens under Summit Health and CityMD. “Jim will help advance us to (the) next level of clinical, nancial and operational performance,” Chicago-based VillageMD’s then-CEO Tim Barry said in a statement at the time. Barry stepped down in December, and Murray replaced him as CEO on an interim basis. Murray’s previous roles include executive positions at St. Louis-based health insurance and care management provider Centene, managed care services provider Magellan Health and Humana.
José Ochoa
President and CEO
National Museum of Mexican Art
When the Pilsen-based museum named José Ochoa as its president and CEO in January 2024, he became the rst new leader of the National Museum of Mexican Art in more than three decades. Ochoa was the founding executive director of the Chicago High School for the Arts and previously was superintendent of cultural arts for Nashville, Tenn., where he oversaw the city’s dance, music, theater and visual arts departments, as well as two museums. The National Museum of Mexican Art, the rst Latino museum to be accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, said it will look to Ochoa to elevate its presence nationally as well as increase its impact in the Chicago area.
Cristina Pacione-Zayas
Chief of staff to Mayor Brandon Johnson City of Chicago
When Mayor Brandon Johnson named Cristina Pacione-Zayas as his new chief of staff in April, she became the rst Latina to hold the position. Pacione-Zayas, who joined the mayor’s team as his rst deputy chief of staff in June 2023, served in the Illinois Senate from December 2020, representing the 20th District on the Northwest Side, until she left for the City Hall job. Before the Statehouse, she was associate vice president of policy at the Erikson Institute, a downtown graduate school in child development. Previous positions include education director at the Latino Policy Forum, a culture of calm coordinator for Chicago Public Schools and community schools director at Enlace Chicago.
Diane Pathieu
Morning traf c anchor
WLS-TV/Channel 7
ABC 7 Chicago chose its replacement for longtime traf c reporter Roz Varon. Diane Pathieu, a reporter and ll-in anchor who’s been with the station for 12 years, took the role as morning traf c anchor, ABC 7 announced in July. Pathieu joined the ABC 7 morning team for weekday newscasts from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m., according to the announcement. Her traf c reports are also included in the 7 a.m. streaming newscast. A native of the Rogers Park neighborhood, Pathieu joined the station in 2011 after previous stints in local TV news in Milwaukee and Dubuque, Iowa. According to her LinkedIn pro le, she graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a degree in broadcast journalism in 2001.
Monish Patolawala
Chief nancial of cer
Archer Daniels Midland
ADM hired a 3M executive to oversee its nances and help restore its credibility with shareholders. Monish Patolawala became ADM’s chief nancial of cer in August. Patolawala’s appointment brought to an end a six-month period of interim leadership in ADM’s nance department. Ismael Roig, ADM’s president of Europe, Middle East and Africa and the animal nutrition unit, had been serving as interim CFO after former CFO Vikram Luthar was placed on administrative leave and agreed to resign amid an accounting investigation that sent the agricultural commodities trader’s shares plunging. Before 3M, where he was executive vice president and chief nancial and transformation of cer, Patolawala served as CFO of GE Transportation.
Jennifer Prenner
Chief marketing of cer
Rivian Automotive
Jennifer Prenner was named chief marketing of cer for Rivian Automotive in February, as the California-based EV maker — whose factory is in downstate Normal — prepared for major expansion, with newly hired executives from tech companies and the auto industry, including from Apple and Porsche. Prenner came from Facebook parent company Meta, where she was vice president of global marketing with responsibility for its portfolio of virtual reality and augmented reality products. Prior to her three-year stint at Meta, Prenner was Amazon’s global head of marketing, growth and customer engagement for the company’s Fire TV business. With more than 20 years of business experience, her job is to lead Rivian’s marketing worldwide, including customer loyalty and reaching new audiences.
Elle Ramel
Director, gender equity of ce
World Business Chicago
The city’s economic development marketing group launched its new gender equity of ce with a Chicago nonpro t leader at the helm. Elle Ramel joined World Business Chicago in July after working since 2020 at Gender Equality in Tech (or Get) Cities, a philanthropic initiative backed by Melinda French Gates that’s dedicated to increasing gender representation in the tech industry. Previously, Ramel directed redevelopment of the Michael Reese Hospital site for Farpoint Development and worked on economic development under former Mayor Rahm Emanuel. While Ramel brings her tech expertise to the table, the gender equity of ce aims to take a broader look at gender equity across other industries like nance, life sciences and quantum computing, she said.
Nicholas Randall
President and CEO
FreightCar America
Nicholas Randall was relatively new at FreightCar America when he was named CEO, having joined the Chicago-based rail car maker about a year before his appointment. Randall came to FreightCar America from vice president roles at Precision Castparts in Cleveland and Timet in Pittsburgh, and previously worked for Howmet Aerospace in Pittsburgh and Alcoa in Georgia, Pittsburgh and the U.K. As CEO of FreightCar as of May, he replaced James Meyer, who became executive chairman of the company’s board after a nearly seven-year stint leading the company. “Nick upholds the highest standard of operational excellence and shares the same values and vision for the company that have guided us in recent years,” Meyer said in an announcement.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Lou Rassey
Co-CEO and managing partner
McNally Capital
In February 2024, McNally Capital, a Chicago-based private-equity rm, named Lou Rassey as its co-CEO and managing partner. The position is a new one for McNally, which focuses on buying lower-middle-market companies in the aerospace and defense, industrial products, and services and business services industries. Rassey most recently worked as CEO at Chicago-based Fast Radius, the software company that he co-founded in 2017. “It’s clear that bringing Lou on in this leadership role will further accelerate our progress,” said Ward McNally, who founded McNally Capital in 2007 and will serve as co-CEO with Rassey. McNally’s portfolio companies include national security advisory Xcelerate Solutions and HVAC and plumbing mechanical contractor Smith & Oby.
Tom Ricketts
Board member
World Business Chicago
The city’s public-private economic development arm in June announced additions to its board of directors, including Chicago Cubs Executive Chairman Tom Ricketts. The changes to include more business leaders signi es “the business community’s unwavering commitment to Chicago’s economic resilience and growth,” according to World Business Chicago. Ricketts, who with his siblings has served as the board of directors of the MLB team since 2009, also co-founded and is chairman of Incapital, an investment bank with underwriting and distribution expertise, according to his LinkedIn pro le. He has a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Chicago and an MBA from UChicago’s Booth School of Business.
Dr. Monica Reed
President and CEO
UChicago Medicine AdventHealth
About a year after University of Chicago Medicine and AdventHealth nalized their joint venture, the health systems in February named Dr. Monica Reed to oversee strategic development and growth of the venture that includes four hospitals, in Bolingbrook, Glendale Heights, Hinsdale and La Grange, and 50-plus care sites. Previously, she held senior leadership roles at Florida-based AdventHealth, including chief learning of cer and chief medical of cer for the Central Florida Division, CEO of the Central Florida Division South Market and CEO of AdventHealth Celebration. She holds a medical degree from the Loma Linda University School of Medicine and a master’s degree in consulting and coaching for change from the University of Oxford Saïd Business School and HEC Paris.
John Rogers Jr. Management
Committee chair
Economic Opportunity Coalition
John Rogers Jr., Ariel Investments’ chairman, co-CEO and chief investment of cer, joined the Economic Opportunity Coalition, a group focused on aligning public and private investments to grow opportunities in underserved communities, as chair of its management committee in July. The coalition, launched by Vice President Kamala Harris in 2022, is housed at the Rockefeller Foundation, a New Yorkbased philanthropy. Ariel Investments was one of 24 founding members of the coalition. Chicago’s Next Street, which focuses on growing small businesses, also was one of the founders. Companies partnering with the EOC have collectively purchased more than $10 billion in products and services from small and historically underutilized businesses.
Eric Rhodes
President
Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital
Eric Rhodes was named president of Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove in June. He succeeded Allison Wyler, who was named president of Advocate’s Central Chicagoland Area and president of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. Rhodes came to Advocate from Ascension St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, where he was named president in August 2021, when the hospital was part of Amita, the partnership between Ascension and Adventist Health. Before St. Francis, he was chief operating of cer at an HCA Healthcare hospital in Richmond, Va., and COO at Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Milwaukee and Ozaukee hospitals. He also worked at Amita’s Health Mercy Medical Center in Aurora and St. Joseph Hospital in Elgin.
Dr. Mark Rosenblatt CEO
University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics
UI Health named interim CEO Dr. Mark Rosenblatt to the role on a permanent basis in July. Rosenblatt is the G. Stephen Irwin dean of the College of Medicine and was previously a professor and physician surgeon in the UIC Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, a professor of pharmacology in the College of Medicine and associate vice chancellor for physician affairs in the Of ce of the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs. Rosenblatt replaced Michael Zenn, who stepped down in March 2023 after serving in the role since 2018. UI Health operates a 445-bed hospital in the Illinois Medical District, as well as more than 30 outpatient clinics and 11 federally quali ed health centers across Chicago and the state.
Paris Schutz
Political correspondent
WFLD-TV/Channel 32
After nearly two decades at Chicago PBS station WTTW-TV/ Channel 11, Paris Schutz joined Chicago’s Fox af liate as a political correspondent and host of the station’s weekly news roundup in April. Schutz, who was a college intern before joining WTTW in 2005 as a production assistant, landed a position as a full-time political reporter in 2012 after breaking a story on speed cameras during Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s tenure. He later anchored the station’s agship news program “Chicago Tonight” and was moderator of the weekly news roundup show “Week in Review.” At Fox 32, he helped ll the void left after political editor Mike Flannery retired. Schutz is a graduate of Syracuse University with a degree in television, radio and lm.
Jamie Sprayregen
Vice chairman
Hilco Global
Jamie Sprayregen, famed bankruptcy lawyer and Kirkland & Ellis partner, left the Chicago law rm to become a vice chairman at nancial services holding company Hilco Global, it was announced in March. Once regarded as “the godfather of restructuring,” Sprayregen founded Kirkland’s restructuring group. During his rst 16 years at Kirkland, he handled several prominent bankruptcy cases, including that of United Airlines’ parent company, Trans World Airlines, Chiquita Brands and Tower Automotive. He left Kirkland in 2006 for Goldman Sachs Group but returned a few years later. At Hilco he oversees the Northbrook-based rm’s nancial services platform in collaboration with David Kurtz, vice chairman and chief strategic of cer who joined the rm in 2023, and John Chen, vice chairman and chief operating of cer.
Charles Smith
Vice chair
World Business Chicago
Mayor Brandon Johnson in January named insurance executive Charles Smith to replace Mellody Hobson as vice chair of World Business Chicago, the agency tasked with championing the city on the world stage, connecting business leaders with the mayor’s of ce, and recruiting companies to the city and retaining them. Smith, founder and CEO of CS Insurance Strategies and a member of Crain’s 40 Under 40 class of 2015, has become a conduit to the business world for Johnson: The mayor turned to Smith as he negotiated with the business community over the new paid-leave policy. Smith also heads the Business Leadership Council, a business group led by Black executives, and sits on the board of the Shedd Aquarium.
Jason Stenta
Chief commercial of cer
Walgreens Boots Alliance
The Deer eld-based pharmacy giant brought in a new chief commercial of cer with experience at UnitedHealth Group’s Optum and CVS Health. Jason Stenta began the new role in October, reporting to Mary Langowski, who was appointed Walgreens’ president of U.S. health care in February. As chief commercial of cer, he’s tasked with leading Walgreens’ commercial growth strategy, driving development and commercialization of health care services and enhancing partnerships with insurance plans, health system providers and life sciences companies, Walgreens said in a statement. He has nearly 20 years of health care experience, most recently serving as senior vice president of payer sales at health services company Optum and, before that, in leadership roles at Walgreens rival CVS Health.
Jack Snyder
Managing director, head of U.S. wealth distribution
Antares Capital
Antares Capital named nancial services executive Jack Snyder to head its new private wealth business in January. As managing director and head of U.S. wealth distribution, Snyder works to boost the rm’s assets under management, the company said. “Private wealth is an important driver of our growth strategy,” Vivek Mathew, head of asset management at Antares, said in a statement announcing Snyder’s appointment. Snyder had previously been at First Eagle Investments in New York, where he was in charge of sales of the rm’s retail products in wirehouse and registered investment adviser channels. Chicago-based Antares manages more than $67 billion in capital. It is a portfolio company of pension fund CPP Investments.
Rolla Sweis
CEO
La Rabida Children’s Hospital
Rolla Sweis, a longtime Advocate Health Care executive, was named CEO of La Rabida Children’s Hospital in April. Sweis, a pharmacist by training, joined the Jackson Park children’s hospital from Advocate Christ Medical Center, where she was most recently chief operating of cer. Prior to Advocate Christ, Sweis was vice president of operations for Advocate’s south Chicago-area hospitals, including Christ Medical Center, South Suburban Hospital and Trinity Hospital. The Chicago-area native began her career as a clinical pharmacist at Advocate’s South Suburban Hospital and holds degrees from the University of Illinois Chicago and Lewis University in Romeoville. She replaced Brenda Wolf, who retired at the end of 2023 after 35 years at the South Side hospital.
NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES
Rob Twyman
CEO
Outfox Hospitality
Rob Twyman took the helm of Outfox Hospitality, the newly formed parent of Foxtrot Market and Dom’s Kitchen & Market, in February, overseeing growth in Chicago and into new markets. Twyman’s résumé includes 27 years in leadership roles at Whole Foods. In a statement, Dom’s co-founder Jay Owen called him a “visionary. . . .We are con dent he is the right leader to guide Outfox Hospitality to new heights as we lead the evolution of the future of food, snacking and rede ning your neighborhood market.” With the appointment, Foxtrot co-founder Mike LaVitola and Dom’s co-founders Owen and Bob Mariano continue in adviser and board roles. Twyman took over from Liz Williams, who was named Foxtrot CEO in 2023.
Nykia Wright
CEO
National Association of Realtors
Nykia Wright, a former Chicago Sun-Times CEO who took the reins of the National Association of Realtors on an interim basis, was named to the job permanently in August. Wright said she hopes to direct the organization’s work to highlight the nation’s struggle with housing affordability. Another goal is to communicate that agents “aren’t only builders of transactions, they’re builders of communities” by helping to grow homeownership and other initiatives, she said. Wright left the SunTimes in early 2023 after ve years and took the temporary post at the NAR in November amid a sexual harassment scandal and a legal battle over agent commissions. The nation’s biggest trade association, the NAR has of ces in Chicago and Washington, D.C.
Javier Varela
Chief operations of cer
Rivian Automotive
Javier Varela was hired as Rivian Automotive’s chief operations of cer to help the electric-vehicle maker scale output as it prepares to roll out a lower-cost model geared for the mass market. Varela, former COO and deputy CEO of Volvo Cars, in August replaced Frank Klein, who stepped down after about two years as the operating chief. Varela is responsible for Rivian’s operations, procurement, manufacturing and logistics and will focus on helping the company — whose factory is in downstate Normal — reach its goal of gross pro t by the fourth quarter of this year. The Irvine, Calif.-based company, backed by big-name investors including Amazon, is the next biggest stand-alone, pure-play maker of battery-electric vehicles in the U.S. behind Tesla.
Allison Wyler President
Advocate Health Care’s central Chicago area and Lutheran General Hospital
Allison Wyler was promoted in January after serving as president of Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove since 2021, following leadership positions at Advocate hospitals including Lake County’s Good Shepherd and Condell Medical Center in Libertyville. The youngest Advocate hospital leader ever, she’s a member of Crain’s 40 Under 40 class of 2023. She’s now responsible for safety and health outcomes, market growth and nancial performance across Advocate’s Chicago-area facilities, with a focus on employee engagement, recruitment and retention. Under her leadership at Good Samaritan, turnover and job vacancy rates dropped 50% and engagement scores, which had fallen to the bottom quartile among hospitals nationwide, rose to the top, she said.
Arunesh Verma
President
Fresenius Kabi
Injectable medicine and biosimilar maker Fresenius Kabi named Arunesh Verma president of Lake Zurich-based Fresenius Kabi USA in July. He succeeded John Ducker, who retired after 35 years with the company. Verma most recently led North American operations of global pharmaceutical company Cipla. He started his career as a sales representative with Novartis and has held leadership roles at Cipla, Torrent Pharma, Sandoz and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories. With the new job, Verma became a member of Fresenius Kabi’s global executive leadership team, reporting to CEO Pierluigi Antonelli in Fresenius Kabi’s global headquarters in Bad Homburg, Germany. Fresenius Kabi employs more than 4,000 people in the U.S. at 10 locations, including manufacturing sites in Melrose Park, New York and North Carolina.
Andrea Zopp
Legal adviser
Chicago Bears
Chicago’s NFL franchise in April added some legal muscle to its team when it named Andrea Zopp, a veteran litigator well connected in Chicago business and political circles, to an advisory role in the Bears’ push for a new stadium — and new stadium nancing. Zopp, managing partner of venture-capital rm Cleveland Avenue, works alongside Bears CEO Kevin Warren and Chief Legal Of cer Krista Whitaker as the team scopes out its options, drawing on her knowledge of the inner workings of city government and her connections to Chicago’s C-suites. Zopp was the rst woman and rst African American named as a rst assistant state’s attorney in Cook County before moving on to corporate roles, including at Sara Lee, Sears and Exelon.
UNDER
by Organic Headshots
Our 40 Under 40 honorees are leading established business giants and startups, addressing corporate challenges and meeting social service needs, building neighborhoods and bolstering communities. Meet the next generation of leaders guiding Chicago into the future. | Originally published Oct. 14, 2024
Co-founder
Executive director, DNC host committee; incoming CEO, Intersect
Executive director, CME Group Foundation
Founder and CEO,
Photography
Elsa Andrianifahanana Partner, Jones Day
Minhal Baig Filmmaker
Elizabeth Buchanan President, North America NielsenIQ
Mark Cassata Executive vice president, CBRE
Rony Castor Group creative director, OKRP
David Chaimovitz
Founder and CEO, Setna IO
Taylor Corbitt
Vce president of global litigation, Allstate
Mike DeLaRosa CEO, Rush Specialty Hospital
Felipe Diaz-Arango Head of strategy and inclusion, Paco Collective
Anthony Driver Executive director, SEIU Illinois State Council; president, Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability
Jennifer Fried
and CEO, Flow Medical
Christy George
Illinois
Eva Giglio
Spencer Gore CEO, Bedrock Materials
Emily Groden
Evergreen
Laura Herrera
Chief marketing and revenue of cer, Grif n Museum of Science & Industry
Garrett Johnson
Managing director and head of ultra high net worth and alternatives banking, BMO Wealth Management
Josh McDonald
Senior marketing manager of avored alcohol beverages, Molson Coors
Chris Horney
Managing director, Murphy Real Estate Services
Mitchell Ji
Senior vice president of corporate nance, UL Solutions
Senior director of U.S. franchisee sourcing and recruitment, McDonald’s
Anthony Hrusovsky Chief investment of cer, Mavrek Development
Michael Kaplan Vice president of affordable housing, Related Midwest
Paige
President, Shapack Partners
Nina Idemudia CEO, Center for Neighborhood Technology
Megan Lally CEO and co-owner, Highdive Advertising
Klaus
Zell music director designate, Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Mäkelä
Katie Jahnke Dale Partner, DLA Piper
Ashli Nelson
O’Neil
Tammy Pearce Associate, Graef
Dwayne Pickett Vice president of clean hydrogen market development, Constellation
Ryan Poles General manager, Chicago Bears
Anna Posey Co-owner and pastry chef, Elske
Bobby Reddy Jr. Co-founder and CEO, Prenosis
Cory Rothschild Senior vice president of national retail, Cresco Labs
Dane Sauer Senior director and wealth adviser, Mercer Advisors
Daniel Serota Vice president of government and public affairs, Aon
Matt Singley Founder and CEO, ReloShare
Dr. Garth Walker Chief medical of cer, Rush Health
Daniel Wang Group leader, Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago
Eric White Partner, Winston & Strawn
If there’s one thing the COVID-19 pandemic taught us, it’s the value of adapting and mapping the path ahead. In health care, tech, architecture, nonpro ts and more, these leaders are charting the way. Some are looking forward to transitions, laying the foundation for continued success. Others are making the investments needed to confront the challenges faced by our city and region. The through line for all: The status quo is not an option. I Originally published: Feb. 12, 2024
Dr. Ngozi Ezike President and CEO, Sinai Chicago
Xuan Fu Managing partner, Skidmore Owings & Merrill
Valerie Jarrett CEO, Obama Foundation
Dorri McWhorter President and CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Penny Pritzker Chairman, PSP Partners
Laura Ricketts Co-owner and director, Chicago Cubs Baseball Club; minority investor, Chicago Sky; co-owner, Chicago Red Stars
Jennifer Welch President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of Illinois
Betsy Ziegler CEO, 1871
Ellen Alberding Former President and CEO, Joyce Foundation
Debra Cafaro Chairman and CEO, Ventas
Francesca Cornelli Dean, Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management
Bridget Coughlin President and CEO, Shedd Aquarium
Susan Crown Chairman and CEO, Owl Creek Partners; founder, Susan Crown Exchange
THE FIELD MUSEUM GRATEFULLY
ACKNOWLEDGES ITS LEAD CORPORATE PARTNERS FOR 2024:
ABBOTT
ABBVIE
AON
BANK OF AMERICA
BEARS CARE
BMO
THE BOEING COMPANY
CITADEL
CLEVELAND-CLIFFS INC.
CNA INSURANCE
COMPSYCH CORPORATION
DISCOVER
DLA PIPER U.S. LLP
EXELON
FEDERAL SIGNAL
FORD PHILANTHROPY
GCM GROSVENOR
GRAINGER
ITW
JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.
MAGELLAN CORPORATION
MCCARTHY BERTSCHY & ASSOCIATES INC.
MICHAEL BEST & FRIEDRICH LLP
NASCAR
NICOR GAS
NORTHERN TRUST
PEOPLES GAS
PEPSI BEVERAGES COMPANY
PLASTICADE
RIO TINTO
SUNCAST CORPORATION
UNITED AIRLINES
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
U.S. BANK
WALGREENS
WINTRUST FINANCIAL CORP.
Their generous support of $25,000 or more enables the Museum to fulfill its mission to connect all of us to the natural world and the human story.
Many partners go far beyond financial support by volunteering with our scientists. The Field Museum stewards a collection of more than 40 million specimens with an incalculable value to science. In 2024, our corporate partners helped catalog, transcribe, and digitize thousands of specimens in our Botany and Insects Collections making them available to researchers around the world. We are Chicago’s natural history museum and we celebrate our corporate partners who help make our work possible.
Email partnerships@fieldmuseum.org to find out how your company can get involved.
2024 NOTABLES
NOTABLE WOMEN IN LAW
The 141 lawyers who make up our latest class of Notable Women in Law practice across a wide range of specialties, counseling clients from small businesses to giant multinationals, from families to corporate boards. They serve as mentors and guiding lights for other women in their rms and bring their expertise to their communities and nonpro ts outside the of ce. They’re steering multibillion-dollar deals, earning high-dollar awards and securing outcomes that can’t be measured in money. And they’re all making their mark on the law. | Originally published: Feb. 19, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. This list is not comprehensive. It includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by editors. To qualify for this list, nominees must live and work in the Chicago area, serve in a senior role at a law rm with at least 10 professional staff and have practiced for a minimum of ve years. Their work with clients or pro bono projects must have a measurable impact; they must demonstrate leadership in professional organizations and civic or community initiatives; and they must serve as a role model or mentor to other attorneys and promote inclusive practices in the workplace. Some of the pro les in this feature were written with the assistance of generative AI based on provided information. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
Debra Bogo-Ernst Chair, national class-action litigation group, Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Matea Bozja Partner, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Valerie Breslin Montague Partner, Nixon Peabody
Samantha Breslow Partner, HMB Legal Counsel
and of ce managing partner, Dentons
Karin Berg Partner, Blank Rome
Carolyn Blessing Partner, Locke Lord
Julie Bauer Of counsel, pro bono litigation, Winston & Strawn
Nicki Bazer Partner, Franczek
Diane Bell Of ce managing partner, Ice Miller
Heidi Azulay Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
Amanda Amert Chair, ERISA litigation group, Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Amy Andrews Partner, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila
Dana Armagno Operating shareholder, Vedder Price
Jennifer Ashley Partner, Salvi Schostok & Pritchard
Leah Bruno Partner
Cindy Caillavet Sinclair Partner, Latham & Watkins
Colaianni Co-chair, medical negligence practice area, Smith LaCien
Bryna Dahlin Partner, chair of cannabis industry group, Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff
Jennifer Dillon Senior partner, Schiller DuCanto & Fleck
Meridith Cannon Member, Clark Hill
Rachel Cannon Partner, Steptoe
Susan Capra Partner, Clifford Law Of ces
Linsey Cohen Managing partner, Gould & Ratner
Kimberly M. Copp Partner and gaming industry group co-chair, Taft Stettinius & Hollister
Blair Dawson Member, McDonald Hopkins
Partner, Kirkland & Ellis
Tiana Demas Partner, Cooley
Jennifer DePriest Managing partner, Chicago of ce, Reed Smith
Tara Devine Managing partner, Lake County of ce, Salvi Schostok & Pritchard
Molly S. DiRago Partner, Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders
Amy Doehring Managing partner, Chicago of ce Akerman
Donahue Partner, K&L Gates
Carla
Christa Cottrell
Amber Cox Partner, Laner Muchin
Megan Cunniff Church Partner, MoloLamken
Lauren
Lisa Duarte Equity partner, Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres
NOTABLE WOMEN IN LAW
Elizabeth Ebersole Partner, Baker McKenzie
Jessica Fairchild Founding partner, Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres
Leslie Fineberg Managing partner, Nottage & Ward
Tacy Flint
Appellate partner, Sidley Austin
Jeanne Gills Partner, Foley & Lardner
Barbara Grayson Partner, private wealth group Midwest chair, Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Partner,
Natalie Harris Partner, Baron
Christine Fernandez Owen Partner, Norton Rose Fulbright
Meg George Partner, Akerman
Laura Ferrell Partner, Latham & Watkins
Deborah Gersh Partner, Ropes & Gray
Kelly Greco Shareholder, Polsinelli
Melissa Grim Partner, Honigman
Stacie Hartman Partner, Steptoe
Maggie Hickey Partner, ArentFox Schiff
Linda Fine Managing partner, Buckley Fine Law
Katherine “Katie” Gillespie Partner, Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton
Kerryann Haase Minton Managing partner, Chicago of ce, Michael Best & Friedrich
Janet Hoffman Senior counsel and pro bono counsel, Katten
Sana Hakim
K&L Gates
Harris Healey
Robin Hulshizer Partner, Latham & Watkins
Sheryl Jaffee Halpern Principal, Much Shelist
Michelle Kantor Member, McDonald Hopkins
Suzanne Karbarz Rovner Partner, Levenfeld Pearlstein
Camille Khodadad Principal, Much Shelist
Jennifer Kuzminski Partner, HMB Legal Counsel
Lema Khorshid Managing member, Fuksa Khorshid
Laura Labeots Partner, Lathrop GPM
LaVon Johns Partner and business transactions team lead, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila
Andrianna “Annie” Kastanek Partner, Jenner & Block
Colby Kingsbury Partner, Faegre Drinker
Jade Lambert Partner, King & Spalding
Emily Johnson Member, McDonald Hopkins
Jaime Jones Partner, Sidley Austin
Jennifer Kenedy Partner, Locke Lord
Erin Kirchner Partner, Cooley
Stacey Kern Partner, Eversheds Sutherland
Caitlin Kovacs Partner, Benesch
Brienne Letourneau Partner, White & Case
Jessica Levitt Acuna Partner, Swanson Martin & Bell
NOTABLE WOMEN IN LAW
Jessica Lingertat Managing partner, Gould & Ratner
Virginia Marino Partner, Crowell & Moring
Yvette Loizon Partner, Clifford Law Of ces
Nichole Lopez-Tackett Finance partner, Ropes & Gray
Lindsey Paige Markus Principal, Chuhak & Tecson
Beth McCormack Equity partner, Beermann
Katriina McGuire Chicago of ce managing partner, Thompson Coburn
Leslie Minier
Chief diversity partner, Katten
Desirée Moore Partner, Venable
LaKeisha Marsh Partner, Akerman
Anna Meresidis Partner, Jenner & Block
Guinevere Moore
Managing member, Moore Tax Law Group
Layla Lumpkin Partner, Thompson Hine
Megan Mathias Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson
Carolyn Metnick Partner, Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton
Mary Margaret “Mimi” Moore Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
Laura Lydigsen Partner, co-chair of intellectual property department, Crowell & Moring
Courtney Mayster Managing partner, Much Shelist
Tricia Meyer Founder and managing attorney, Meyer Law
Cynde Munzer Partner, Blank Rome
Tonya Newman Partner, litigation and disputes practice group chair, Neal Gerber Eisenberg
Nancy Olson Partner, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Katharine O’Connor Partner, McDermott Will & Emery
Marcia Owens Partner, Honigman
Megan Poetzel Partner, Jenner & Block
Kristen Prinz Founder and managing partner, Prinz Law Firm
Trisha Rich Partner and co-chair, legal profession team, Holland & Knight
Amanda Oliver Partner, Weiss-Kunz & Oliver
Camille Olson Partner, Seyfarth Shaw
Shelby Parnes Shareholder, Vedder Price
Paulita Pike Managing partner, Chicago of ce, Ropes & Gray
Julie Proscia Partner, Amundsen Davis
Vaishali Rao Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson
Sonya Rosenberg Partner, Neal Gerber Eisenberg
Marissa Ross Ingley Shareholder, Littler Mendelson
Amy Rubenstein Partner, Dentons
Michelle Olson Shareholder, Vedder Price
Caitlin Podbielski Partner, Ice Miller
Megan Ratia Partner, Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg
Kathleen Ruhland Partner, DLA Piper
NOTABLE WOMEN IN LAW
Christina Sajous Bullock Partner, Baker McKenzie
Carolina Y. Sales Partner, Robbins DiMonte
Lisa Sauer Member, Clark Hill
Kathleen Sheil Scheidt Partner, Ice Miller
Lei Shen Partner, Cooley
Julie Sirlin Pleshivoy Partner, Taft Stettinius & Hollister
Mary Smith Vice chair, Veng Group
Natalie Spears Partner, Dentons
Samera Syeda Ludwig Partner, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton
Kate Tellez Partner, Steptoe
Eileen Sethna Partner, Levenfeld Pearlstein
Julia Skubis Weber Partner, Baker McKenzie
Katie St. Peters Partner, Kirkland & Ellis
Morgan Stogsdill Equity partner, Beermann
Liisa Thomas Chicago of ce managing partner, Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton
Paige Tinkham Partner, Blank Rome
Molshree Sharma Partner, Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux
Kimberly Smith Partner, Katten
Monica Sullivan Partner, Nicolaides Fink Thorpe Michaelides Sullivan
Vanessa Tiradentes Partner, Gould & Ratner
Amanda Todd Partner, Sidley Austin
Malaika Tyson Shareholder, McAndrews Held & Malloy
Andrea Verney Kerstein Of ce managing partner, Locke Lord
Paula Wegman Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson
Amy Van Gelder Partner, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Nicole Wrigley Unit partner, Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff
NOTE WORTHY
39% of U.S. lawyers were female in 2023, according to the ABA National Lawyer Population survey. In 2013, that number was 34%.
NOTABLE LEADERS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Our latest Notable Leaders in Sustainability work in organizations of all sizes, from multibillion-dollar multinationals to local nonpro ts, in sectors involving construction and deconstruction; agriculture and composting; energy, landscaping, nance and more — all with the aim to help make our world greener. | Originally published: April 29, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. Their pro les were written from the nomination materials submitted. This list is not comprehensive. It includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by editors. To qualify for the list, nominees must serve in a senior leadership role or lead sustainability initiatives at an organization and make a measurable impact on the environment through their efforts. They must live and work in the Chicago area and demonstrate leadership through involvement in professional organizations and civic and community initiatives. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
Mohammad Abbasi Lead consultant, WSP
Haven Allen CEO and co-founder, mHUB
Kevin Augustyn Senior vice president, Morningstar DBRS
Rodrigo d’Escoto Jr. Founder and CEO, Re ection Window + Wall
Annalise Dum Vice president of sustainability, JLL
NOTABLE LEADERS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Jennifer Dunn Professor of chemical and biological engineering, Northwestern University
Eric Heineman CEO, Windfree Solar
J. Vern Long CEO, World Coffee Research
Adam McMillen Director of sustainability, IMEG
Cody Ferrantino Program manager, sustainability and impact, Home Chef
Susan Heinking Senior vice president, Pepper Construction
Linda Mallers President and CEO, MaetaData
Kelly Meissner Vice president, corporate ESG and sustainability, Ventas
Adam Flickinger Planning director, Friends of the Chicago River
Lauren Kaszuba Chief operating of cer, WasteNot Compost
Shanu Mathew Senior vice president, Lazard Asset Management
Chris Meister
Executive director, Illinois Finance Authority
Mike Goffman Founder, Recyclean
Alaina Harkness Executive director, Current
Stacey Libra Co-founder and principal landscape architect, Indigo Ecological Design
Michelle McClendon Senior project executive and public sector market leader, Gilbane Building
John Mitchell
Associate partner, Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture
Patty Lloyd Director of sustainability, Leopardo Construction
Matthew McGrane Senior project architect, LBBA Architects
John Mlade Director of sustainable and healthy environments, Wight
José Antonio Morán Partner, Baker McKenzie
Dawn Nowicki Vice president of marketing and ESG, MRP Solutions
Chris Perzan Vice president, environment and sustainability, Navistar
Mauricio Rincon
Managing director of capital solutions, Opportunity International
Shavion Scott
Managing director of urban resilience, Center for Neighborhood Technology
Saagar Patel Principal, Stantec Consulting Services
Florian Pfahler
CEO and founder, Hannah’s Bretzel
Jamie Ponce Executive director, Civic Infrastructure Collaborative
Rory Rubin Founder and CEO, S.I. Container Builds
Thru Shivakumar
CEO and co-founder, Cohesion
A.J. Patton
CEO and founder, 548 Enterprise
Emily Purcell Sustainable design lead, CannonDesign
Tom Ryan Vice president of facilities and logistics, Art Institute of Chicago
Amy Rynell Executive director, Active Transportation Alliance
Frank Soldano Vice president of architecture and planning, Related Midwest
Alana Spencer Vice president of sustainability, Clayco
Roberto Perez CEO and founder, Hilco Redevelopment Partners
Robert Render President and CEO, Lakeside 360 Partners
Elena Savona Senior director of federal partnerships, Elevate
Syed Suhail Regional digital services manager, Trane
NOTABLE LEADERS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Sumayyah Theron Founder and CEO, Avant-Garde Sustainable Solutions
Bea Thompson Business representative, IBEW Local 134
Julie Wolf Chair of the Environmental & Energy Commission, Village of Wilmette Catherine Zimmerman Vice president, global environment, health, safety and sustainability, Ingredion
Anthony Tindall Solid waste coordinator, Cook County Department of Environment & Sustainability
Nancy Tuchman Dean, School of Environmental Sustainability, Loyola University Chicago
Vikrant Viniak Senior managing director, North America sustainability services lead, Accenture
NOTABLE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LEADERS
From amenity- lled of ce buildings to shelters for the unhoused and property technology startups to rms established a half-century ago, the work of our honorees exempli es the breadth of the Chicago area’s commercial real estate industry. | Originally published: July 29, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. Their pro les were written from the nomination materials submitted. This list is not comprehensive. It includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by editors. To qualify for the list, nominees must be employed by a construction, architecture, engineering or commercial real estate company and show work on signi cant projects. They must live and work in the Chicago area and demonstrate leadership through involvement in professional organizations and civic and community initiatives. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
Jimmy Akintonde CEO and president, UJAMAA Construction
Kate Ansorge Managing director of real estate solutions, IFF
Bonnie Boden Executive vice president, Transwestern
Courtney Brower Vice president of development, Focus
Heather Cain Associate principal, Perkins Eastman
Salvatore Caldarone President, Realogic
Andrew Davidson Executive managing director, Transwestern
Mark Goeden Vice president of construction, Related Midwest
Kimberlee Carr Chief operating of cer of real estate, Tawani Property Management
Mat Dougherty President, McShane Construction
Lee Golub Managing principal, Golub
Peter Kelly Executive vice president, Lincoln Property
Lisa Konieczka Executive vice president, CBRE
Anthony Chereso President and CEO, Inland Real Estate Group
Charles Fisher Director of global CRE risk analytics, JLL
Dave Hall CEO, Clune Construction
Molly Laurain Managing partner, Seven
Hannah Cho Senior director of design and construction, Irvine
Rona Fourte Vice president and global head of supplier diversity, CBRE
William Himmelstein CEO, Tenant Advisory Group
Wes LeBlanc Principal, Gensler
Rob Damrat Managing director, Link Logistics
David Friedman President, Conor Commercial Real Estate
Courtney Jones Principal, Chicago Homes Realty Group & Property Management
Todd Lippman Vice chairman, CBRE
NOTABLE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LEADERS
Christine Lofton President, Insight Project Management
Molly McShane CEO, McShane Cos.
Jim Pettinger CEO, Realogic
Victoria Malkin Regional president, Cushman & Wake eld
Christopher Merrill Chairman and CEO, Harrison Street
John Redmond CEO, Redmond
Neil Sheehan Principal, Sheehan Nagle Hartray Architects
Cindy Malone Senior vice president and director of sales for National Commercial Services, Chicago Title Insurance
Dan O’Brien Executive vice president and partner, Hilco Real Estate
Joseph Root Founder, Root Realty
Robert Smietana President and CEO, HSA Commercial Real Estate
Bradley Malouf President and partner, Redmond
Justin Pelej Executive vice president of development and principal, Focus
Jeff Shapack CEO, Shapack Partners
Angelica Marks Associate vice president for real estate operations, University of Chicago
Jake Pepper Executive vice president, Pepper Construction
John Sharpe Principal, Lee & Associates of Illinois
Claudette Soto President and CEO, Baso
Dan Spiegel Senior vice president and managing director, Coldwell Banker Commercial
Phil Stafford Chief operating of cer, Chicago, Colliers
Michael
P. Sullivan Jr. CEO, Peak Construction
Karyn
President, Spark
Carrie Szarzynski Senior managing director, Hiffman National
Greg
Tait Vice president of leasing, Irvine
Ted
Weldon President, Weldon Development Group
NOTE WORTHY $7.27 The average rent per square foot for Chicago-area warehouses in the rst quarter of 2024, an increase from $5.13 per square foot in the rst quarter of 2017 (Statista)
Wanaski
NOTABLE LEADERS IN ACCOUNTING, CONSULTING & LAW
The 88 members of this group are leaders in their rms and industries. They’re managing of ces large and small, representing companies public and private. Some handle multibillion-dollar matters; others make their mark among nonpro ts. With specialties including health care, technology, manufacturing, nance and real estate, these Notable leaders are touching practically every aspect of business in Chicago. | Originally published: Sept. 9, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. Their pro les were written from submitted nomination materials. This list is not comprehensive and includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after an editorial review. To qualify for the list, nominees must be serving in a leadership role at an accounting, consulting or law rm; show work on signi cant projects or cases; and have practiced in their profession for a minimum of 10 years. They must live and work in the Chicago area and demonstrate leadership through involvement in professional organizations and civic and community initiatives. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
Bobby Achettu Principal, Sikich
Rebecca Weinstein Bacon Partner, Bartlit Beck
Jessie Blank Managing director, Slalom Consulting
Sergio Acosta Co-chair, white-collar crime and government investigations practice, Akerman
Devon Beane Partner, K&L Gates
David Agay Chair, strategic advisory and restructuring, McDonald Hopkins
Patrick Bedell Partner, BatesCarey
Mary Rose Alexander Chicago of ce managing partner, Latham & Watkins
Sean Berkowitz Partner, Latham & Watkins
Andrew Avsec Chicago of ce managing partner, Crowell & Moring
Monique “Nikki” Bhargava Partner, Reed Smith
Kelly H. Buchheit Director of audit and assurance quality control, ORBA
David P. Buckley Jr. Co-founder and managing partner, Buckley Fine Law Vice chair, consumer markets, PwC
Marc Carmel Chicago managing member, McDonald Hopkins
Daniel Chavez Partner, PwC
Erin Clifford Partner and director of marketing and business development, Clifford Law Of ces
Cassie Crist Principal, Sikich
Caragh DeLuca Partner, PwC
Daniel Farris Co-partner-in-charge, Chicago, Norton Rose Fulbright U.S.
Sean Gallagher Partner, Bartlit Beck
Adam Fayne Transactional department vice chair and cannabis law co-chair, Saul Ewing
Robert Gerber Managing partner, Neal Gerber Eisenberg
Robert Clifford Founder and senior partner, Clifford Law Of ces
Kevin Cole Chicago of ce managing partner, EY
Matthew Devine Partner, White & Case
Corey Fox Partner, Kirkland & Ellis
William Dorsey Partner, Blank Rome
Jessica Freiburg Managing partner, Sassetti
Sameer Ghaznavi Co-partner-in-charge, Chicago, Norton Rose Fulbright U.S.
Hanna Conger Partner, Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff
James Drury III Chairman and CEO, James Drury Partners
Mary Fuller Chicago of ce managing partner, Citrin Cooperman
Carol Gilden Partner, Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll Christopher Grohman Partner, Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff
NOTABLE LEADERS IN ACCOUNTING, CONSULTING & LAW
Helana Robbins Huddleston Partner, CohnReznick
Travis Hunter Jr. Chicago of ce managing partner, KPMG
Dale Jordan Principal, BDO USA
Corrie Kaczmarek Senior director, Slalom Consulting
Ray Koenig III Attorney, Clark Hill
John Koenigsknecht Partner, Crowell & Moring
Jorge Leon Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich
Adam Levitt Founding partner, DiCello Levitt
Chad Husnick Partner, Kirkland & Ellis
Neill Jakobe Partner, Ropes & Gray
Stacy Janiak Deputy CEO, Deloitte Global
Michael Kelber Partner, Neal Gerber Eisenberg
Sholape Kolawole Chicago of ce leader, EY-Parthenon
Amy Keller Chicago of ce managing partner, DiCello Levitt
Arla Lach Chicagoland market managing principal, Grant Thornton
Craig C. Martin Chairman, Midwest, Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Michael Martinez Chicago of ce managing partner, K&L Gates
Michael Kidd Consulting partner, Mowery & Schoenfeld
Michelle Lehmann Director and head of audit and assurance, ORBA
Tim McEnery Managing director and senior consultant, Verus
NOTABLE LEADERS IN ACCOUNTING, CONSULTING & LAW
Matthew Meltzer Partner and co-founder, Meltzer Hellrung
Richard Nicolaides Jr.
Managing partner, Nicolaides Fink Thorpe Michaelides Sullivan
Benjamin Panter Member, McDonald Hopkins
Daniel Saeedi Partner, Blank Rome
Sarah Millar Partner, Faegre Drinker
Mark Mirsky Partner, KRD
Juan Morado Partner, Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff
Jill O’Brien Partner, Laner Muchin
William O’Neil Chicago of ce managing partner, Winston & Strawn
Anita Ponder President, CEO and general counsel, Ponder Diversity Group
Ronald Safer Founding partner, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila
Keyonn L. Pope Partner, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila
Gregory E. Ostfeld Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Michelle Reid-Powell President and CEO, The Cara Group
Leah Schleicher Partner, Neal Gerber Eisenberg
Jeffery Mowery Managing partner, Mowery & Schoenfeld
Kenneth Ottaviano Partner, Blank Rome
Mitchell Roth Principal and co-chairman, Much Shelist
Scott Seaman Partner, Hinshaw & Culbertson
Russell Shapiro Partner, Levenfeld Pearlstein
Life sciences in the AI age
Noah K. Tilton is a partner in Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP’s Electrical & Computer Technologies group, who draws on his industry experience as a software developer and in-house patent counsel to provide strategic intellectual property guidance to clients innovating in cross-disciplinary elds. Noah’s recent work includes developing software tools and integrations to enhance patent practice.
Eric M. Brusca, Ph.D., is partner and chair of the Biotech & Life Sciences practice at Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP. For clients producing advancements in biologics and vaccines, Brusca’s legal experience in securing patents and insightful patent assessments are rooted in graduate training and research in microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology.
What should businesses expect from AI advancements in the next few years?
We are still at the beginning of the beginning of the AI age. As the old saw goes, it is dif cult to make predictions, especially about the future. Nonetheless, what does seem clear is that exponential growth in AI capabilities will continue into the near future, and companies should expect opportunities to partake in –and, in some cases, to direct – this innovation.
In the life science sector, AI is now being used to
supercharge research into patient diagnoses, drug discovery and personalized medicine, just to name a few. As in other industries, AI in the life sciences is not a replacement for human agency, but rather a set of powerful analytical tools that augment and inform human research and innovation. However, the bene ts of AI will primarily ow to those companies and researchers that are willing and able to embrace the mindset of AIpowered innovation, and that integrate AI into processes in development and production.
What speci c effects is AI having on the life sciences sector?
AI is profoundly affecting the life sciences sector by signi cantly accelerating the pace of innovation and scienti c discovery. For example, AI is transforming life science products and manufacturing by enhancing ef ciency, optimizing supply chains and improving product quality. In many companies, AI and machine learning (ML) models are directly integrated into R&D workstreams. AI and ML models are being used to improve genome sequencing and pattern analysis and to improve gene editing by improving accuracy and predicting ef cacy. In medical devices, AI algorithms are used to analyze patient data for personalized treatment plans.
Further, AI-powered systems are being used to analyze imaging and sequence data and detect anomalies with high accuracy, leading to earlier matching of patients to treatments for conditions like cancer. In drug discovery, companies are leveraging AI to predict molecular behavior (e.g., predictive modeling of protein folding and drug-
target binding characteristics) and identify promising drug candidates much faster than traditional methods. This allows for accelerated development timelines and reduced costs. Additional uses of AI and ML models include predicting cellular functions and disease mechanisms and predicting behaviors of organisms. Life sciences companies are also employing AI for better data management and insights, enabling more tailored healthcare solutions.
What speci c legal challenges do life sciences businesses face in securing intellectual property rights for AI technologies?
The use of AI in life sciences brings to bear a number of practical and legal issues that businesses should seek to understand. One is that the most advanced AI systems are, on their own, effectively rudderless. In much the same way that the lunar module required an astronaut to stick the landing, without the application of domain knowledge and decisionmaking abilities of human operators, AI’s potential remains untapped.
Likewise, companies should work closely with knowledgeable and experienced IP counsel to reveal and capture AI inventions. A non-exhaustive list of issues for consideration in connection with patenting AI systems is as follows: (1) contours of the AI system including its inputs, outputs and enabling algorithms; (2) conventional state of the art and how the AI system provides improvements thereto; (3) desired scope of IP protection (i.e. which speci c components of the system to protect); (4) provenance and rights with respect to training
datasets; (5) whether outputs have the potential to infringe existing IP rights or run afoul of laws related to the regulation of AI systems; (6) identi cation of inventors (i.e. under current U.S. law, only natural persons can be named as inventors on patent applications); (7) reproducibility of results (Can the basic functioning of the invention be explained to a patent examiner, judge or jury; or is it merely a “black box"?) and (8) how should strategy be adjusted based on which foreign jurisdictions the IP protection is desired.
Discussion of these issues and others, depending on the facts of each case, will drive the broader patenting strategy. For example, in 2024, the USPTO issued updated guidance for the subject matter eligibility of AI-based inventions. Issues of patent eligibility under 35 U.S.C. § 101 have long been among the most fraught in the patent law, especially for software-based inventions. The emergence of AI and subsequent regulatory action band-aids have only served to amplify the debate and raise the stakes. Thus, it is more important than ever for companies to seek out practitioners and teams that have deep experience with underlying AI technologies and navigating technical branches at the USPTO in which AI inventions are examined.
Jeffrey Sharp Managing partner, Marshall Gerstein & Borun
Misha Tseytlin Partner, Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders
Scott Williams Partner, Sidley Austin
Melissa Siebert Chair, Emerging Data Privacy Trends Practice, Cozen O’Connor
Sheri Warsh Partner, Levenfeld Pearlstein
Edward R. Winkofsky Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Gil Soffer Chair, Katten
Lynne Sterrett Vice chair, Deloitte Global
Peter Sullivan Chairman, Hinshaw & Culbertson
Micah Wheat Partner, Plante Moran
Michael Wilder Shareholder, Littler Mendelson
Edward G. Willer Partner, Corboy & Demetrio
Jeffrey Wissink Principal, CohnReznick
NOTABLE BLACK LEADERS
The 100+ people honored in Crain’s Notable Black Leaders represent all industries and communities: C-suite executives and investors handling multimillion-dollar budgets and billion-dollar deals, advisers helping our neighbors pursue higher education and secure social services, and attorneys leading law rms and advocates leading the way toward change. From magnates to mentors, they’re working to enrich their companies, our communities and our city. | Originally published: Sept. 23, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. This list, which is not comprehensive, includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by editors. To qualify for the list, nominees must serve in a senior leadership role at their company or organization; have at least 10 years of experience in their eld; and demonstrate signi cant accomplishments within their industry, professional organizations, and civic and community groups. They must live and work in the Chicago area. Their pro les were written from the nomination materials submitted. Some of the pro les in this feature were written with the assistance of generative AI based on provided information. Honorees can appear in only one Notables feature per calendar year. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
Phil Alphonse Senior partner and co-head of knowledge and learning solutions, The Vistria Group
Robert Blackwell Jr. Founder and chairman, Quant16
president of risk management and corporate compliance of cer, Mather
Brad Bogan Vice president, McDonald’s
Brima Vice president and construction executive, Turner Construction
President and CEO, Hyde Park Hospitality
Nicole T. W. Brown Senior director of programs, Cubic Transportation Systems
Nicholas Bruce Senior vice president, Wintrust Bank
Andre Brum eld Principal, Gensler
Nicole C. Bullock Founder and CEO, Nicole Cares Foundation
Timnetra Burruss Chief deputy commissioner, Cook County Board of Review
Samia Amamoo Vice
Danielle Austen Founder and CEO, Fluent360
Pamay Bassey Chief learning and diversity of cer, Kraft Heinz
Jeffery Beckham Jr. CEO, Chicago Scholars
Junisa
Marc Brooks
Euler Bropleh Managing director, VestedWorld
Sirmara Campbell Chief human resources of cer, LaSalle Network
Shamil Clay Director of marketing and communications, Chicago Public Library
Felicia Donaldson Partner, Plante Moran
Cherita Ellens President and CEO, Women Employed
Keidra Chaney Program director, Disability Culture Lab
Alesia Coe Vice president of patient care services and chief nursing of cer, UChicago Medicine
Kimberly Dowdell Principal, HOK
Dr. Ngozi Ezike President and CEO, Sinai Chicago
Melissa Clark Senior vice president and chief nancial of cer, Primera Engineers
Wheeler Coleman CEO and executive partner, Executive Consultants United
Rosie Drumgoole CEO, Chicago Cares
Brandon Fair Vice president of corporate real estate, United Airlines
Larita Clark CEO, Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority
Melissa Connelly CEO, OneGoal
Jessyca Dudley CEO, Bold Ventures
Jyl Feliciano
Global vice president of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, Highspot
Veronica Clarke President and CEO, TCA Health
Morgan Diamond Director of workforce development, Discovery Partners Institute
Aisha El-Amin Executive associate vice provost for student success and belonging, University of Illinois Chicago
Toi Fields
Senior vice president and head of IT business management, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago
NOTABLE BLACK LEADERS
Melvin Flowers
Global legal lead, governance and risk and global data privacy, Accenture
Juatise Gathings
Co-founder and managing partner, Just Act Partners
Toinette Gunn President and CEO, Link Unlimited Scholars
Vanessa A. Harris
Executive director and president, Strategy for Access Foundation NFP
Tiffany S. Fordyce Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Reggie Gaudino Director, Cannabis Research Institute, Discovery Partners Institute
Myetie Hamilton CEO, Leadership Greater Chicago
Dr. Robert S.D. Higgins
President and chief academic of cer, Rush University
Kendra J. Freeman
Vice president, programs and strategic impact, Metropolitan Planning Council
William Gill
Interim artistic director, Joel Hall Dancers & Center
Christa Hamilton President and CEO, UCAN
Darrious Hilmon
Executive director, Chicago Access Network Television
Jessica Ashley Garmon
Chief operating of cer and chief general counsel, The Will Group
Graham Grady Partner, Taft Stettinius & Hollister
Kelwin Harris Chief civic engagement of cer, Cook County Assessor’s Of ce
Nakisha Hobbs CEO and founder, It Takes a Village
Cristal Gary President and CEO, Meridian Health Plan of Illinois
Cornelius Griggs President and CEO, GMA Construction Group
Shon Harris President, LiveWire Construction and BlackRock Construction
Debra Howard-Frye
Senior vice president, Thresholds
Shalisa Humphrey Principal, EY
Gianne James Senior vice president, First Insurance Funding
Bo Kemp CEO, Southland Development Authority
Kimberly A. Lightford Majority leader, Illinois Senate
Dr. Olusimbo Ige Commissioner, Chicago Department of Public Health
LaVon Johns Partner, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila
Jeanette Kilo-Smith Head of diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging, Zurich North America
William Lowry President, Nyhan Bambrick Kinzie & Lowry
Janice Jackson CEO, Hope Chicago
Vernon Johnson Managing director of inclusion and diversity, CIBC
Alan King Partner, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila
Jamal Malone CEO, Ada S. McKinley Community Services
Ayesha Jaco Executive director, West Side United
Precious Jacobs-Perry Partner, Jenner & Block
Jonathan Jones Director of diversity, Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council
Farissa Knox President, Coact Agency
Sizwe Kamara Executive director, Midwest region, Morgan Stanley
Amanda Kranz Managing director, Accenture Song
Yani Mason CEO, Girls Inc. of Chicago
Jordan Matthews Partner, Jones Day
NOTABLE BLACK LEADERS
Linda McGillBoasmond
Owner and president, Cedar Concepts
Cheron McNeal Chief human resources of cer, Goodman Theatre
Donna Miller Commissioner, Cook County
Renauld Deandre Mitchell Partner, Moody Nolan
David Nichols
Americas consulting innovation leader, EY
Jamila
Parham-Cullers CEO and founder, The Tech Unicorn
Dia Nichols President, Advocate Health Care
Andrew Parker Executive vice president, head of global treasury management, Banc of California
Anthony McWhorter Vice president of nance, La Rabida Children’s Hospital
Kay Monelle Director, K-12 programs, Discovery Partners Institute
Otto Nichols Executive vice president and shareholder, Clayco
Channyn Parker CEO, Brave Space Alliance
Kenya K. Merritt Deputy mayor of business, economic and neighborhood development, Of ce of the Mayor
Pierre Monice President, MacNeal Hospital
Gwendolyn Oglesby-Odom Enterprise vice president, Advocate Health
Gerald Pauling Partner, Seyfarth Shaw
Dawn Milhouse Co-founder and executive director, Milhouse Charities
Byron Morgan Director of surveillance, Hollywood Casino Aurora
Sam Pambah Principal, KPMG
Bryan Perry Vice president and general counsel, Northern Illinois University
Mary Person Senior vice president, Clayco
Nicole Robinson CEO, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago
Tracey Scott CEO, Chicago Housing Authority
Andrew Stroth Founder, Truth Hope & Justice Initiative
J. Todd Phillips Founder and CEO, Parson Partners
Joli Robinson CEO, Center on Halsted
Zaldwaynaka Scott President, Chicago State University
Michael Sutton CEO, Infrastructure Engineering
Clayton Pryor Chief mission of cer, Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago
Cassaundra Rouse Executive director, Illinois Tollway
Janine Seale Co-founder and CEO, Out Of Of ce
Tameca Reed Senior managing director of client portfolio management, 1834, a division of Old National Bank
Kimberley Rudd President, Rudd Resources
Charles Smith Vice chair, World Business Chicago
LaShonn Swain
Senior vice president and head of retail, Wintrust Bank
Shundrawn Thomas Founder and managing partner, The Copia Group
Brian Registe Chief nancial of cer, QuesTek Innovations
Mamadou-Abou Sarr Co-founder and president, V-Square Quantitative Management
Whittney Smith Deputy director and general counsel, Lawndale Christian Development Corp.
Derrick Thompson Jr. Partner, Taft Law
NOTABLE BLACK LEADERS
The Rev. Marco A. Tinor
Executive vice president and chief operating of cer, By The Hand Club For Kids
Deborah Whitaker Director of business development and diverse supply chain, Hire360
Victoria Young Wilson President, Naturally Urban Environmental
Joanna Trotter
Executive director of global philanthropy, Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul markets
JPMorgan Chase
Eric White Partner, Winston & Strawn
Ami Wynne Partner and Chicago of ce managing partner, Morgan Lewis & Bockius
Uduimoh Umolu
CEO and co-founder, Jon Basíl Tequila
Jihan Walker Partner, Jones Day
Debra Wesley President, Sinai Community Institute
Rashada Whitehead
National managing principal of culture, immersion and inclusion, Grant Thornton
Troy Williams Manager of Amateur City Elite and youth baseball programs, Chicago White Sox
April S. Williams-Luster Senior manager of community affairs, Discover Financial Services
NOTABLE LEADERS IN HEALTH CARE
From giant hospital systems to small businesses, our latest group of leaders represent all facets of the Chicago-area health care sector. | Originally published: Nov. 4, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. This list, which is not comprehensive, includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by editors. To qualify for the list, nominees must work for a health care or related company or organization; have at least 10 years of experience in their eld; and demonstrate signi cant accomplishments within their industry, professional organizations, and civic and community groups. They must live and work in the Chicago area. Their pro les were written from the nomination materials submitted. Some of the pro les in this feature were written with the assistance of generative AI based on provided information. Honorees can appear in only one Notables feature per calendar year. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
Rany Aburashed
Corporate chief medical of cer and chief of sub-specialty services, Insight Health System
Mark Anderson
Executive vice president for medical affairs, University of Chicago
Joe Dant Chief growth of cer, Endeavor Health
Christine Achre Founder and CEO Community Health, Solutions Group
Asima Ahmad Co-founder and chief medical of cer, Carrot Fertility
Amina Ahmed Director of the Rush MD Anderson Cancer Center, Rush University System for Health
Tesa Anewishki President and CEO, Loretto Hospital
Robert Barish Vice chancellor for health affairs, professor of emergency medicine, University of Illinois Chicago
Melissa Dennis Chief medical of cer, Partum Health
Melanie Fernando Chief operating of cer, Aetna Better Health of Illinois
Shelly Berkowitz Founder and executive chairwoman, BrightStar Care
Guillermo Amezcua Americas regional president, Baxter International
Jay Bhatt Managing director, Center for Health Solutions & Health Equity Institute, Deloitte Services
Lorna Finnegan
Professor and dean, Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, Loyola University Chicago
Theresa Fothofer
President and CEO, Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley
NOTABLE LEADERS IN HEALTH CARE
Gerald “J.P.” Gallagher President and CEO, Endeavor Health
Kim A. Keck
President and CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
Kathleen McShane Therapist and founder, Begin Within Therapy Services
Obianuju “Uju” Okoye Founder and CEO, Visualize Healthcare
Pete Govorchin President, City of Hope Chicago
Brian Klassen Director, Road Home Program, Rush University Medical Center
Jessica Merar Director, The Dragon y Foundation Chicago
Heidi Ortolaza-Alvear CEO, IWS Family Health
Thomas Jackiewicz President, University of Chicago Health System
James Madara CEO and executive vice president, American Medical Association
Erik Mikaitis CEO, Cook County Health
Debbie Pavick Chief clinical of cer, Thresholds
Alexa James CEO, National Alliance on Mental Illness Chicago
Anne Martino Chief marketing of cer, Endeavor Health
Michele Mitchell Executive medical director, Oak Street Health
Scott Pickands Executive vice president of construction, Reed Construction
Maureen Karwowski Vice president of clinical services, Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley
Patricia McClure-Chessier Chief health care executive leader, Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System
Guriqba “Bal” Nandra Medical director and founder, IV Solution Ketamine Centers of Chicago
Tulio Rodriguez Director of hematology, bone marrow transplant and cellular therapy program, City of Hope Chicago
Mark Rosenblatt
G. Stephen Irwin executive dean, University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine; CEO, University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics
David Smith
CEO and founder, Third Horizon
Sara Sortal
Senior vice president, solutions and implementation, Synapse Health
NOTABLE NONPROFIT BOARD LEADERS
Jaya White Partner, Quarles & Brady
Meet 81 business leaders who lend their professional skills and connections to champion nonpro t missions and enrich our communities. | Originally published: Dec. 2, 2024
METHODOLOGY: The individuals featured did not pay to be included. This list, which is not comprehensive, includes only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by editors. To qualify for the list, nominees must have at least ve years of experience serving on the board of a charitable organization that serves the public and has active fundraising campaigns. They must have advanced the cause of their nonpro t organization and raised its pro le in the community, and they must live and work in the Chicago area. Their pro les were written from the nomination materials submitted. Some of the pro les in this feature were written with the assistance of generative AI based on provided information. Honorees can appear in only one Notables feature per calendar year. For more information, please email ChicagoRecognitions@crain.com.
John Atkinson
Chairman, Intersect Illinois; managing director and chairman, Marsh
Peter J. Birnbaum
President, The Jesse White Foundation; president and CEO, Advocus National Title Insurance; chief Justice, Illinois Court of Claims
Salman Azam
Executive board member, Downtown Islamic Center; general counsel and chief compliance of cer, Dialysis Care Center
Steven Blonder Board chair, The Ark; principal, management committee member, Much Shelist
Baidas
Board nominating and governance committee chair, Howard Brown Health; consultant, self-employed
Kathleen Boege
Board member, Chicago Public Library Foundation; executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary, Wintrust Financial
R. Baryl
Board chair, Auditorium Theatre; vice president, Loop Auto Parks
Craig Bondy Board member, Communities In Schools of Chicago; founder and CEO, Bondy Capital
Debbie Berman
Board chair, AntiDefamation League; board member, Jewish United Fund; partner, Jenner & Block
Christine Brambila Co-chair of programs and impact committee, Carole Robertson Center for Learning; senior program of cer of children’s mental health, Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation
Austin
Thomas
NOTABLE NONPROFIT BOARD LEADERS
Melvin L. Brooks
Chairman, Habilitative Systems; managing partner, The Cochran Firm Chicago
Sandya Dandamudi Vice chair, executive committee, DuSable Black History Museum & Education Center; president, GI Stone
Bonnie Fong Board chair, Chinese American Service League; retired vice president of investment banking, Goldman Sachs
Robert “Rob” Hallberg
Executive board chair, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago; managing director, commercial banking, BMO
Tracy Burcham
Chairman, board of governors, Shriners Children’s Chicago; vice president, JPMorgan Chase Bank
Rebecca Darr President and CEO, Wings Program
Jeremy Foster President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago
Mary Hasten
Board chair, Start Early; president, The Hasten Foundation
Inger Burnett-Zeigler Chair, Thresholds; associate professor and licensed clinical psychologist, department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University
Venita Fields Board member, executive committee, James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy; partner, Pelham S2K Managers
Esther E.T. Franklin Board chair, The Family Institute at Northwestern University; global chief strategy of cer and cultural uency of cer, Spark Foundry
Jonathan Hennessy Board chair, Defy Ventures Illinois; executive director, Hughes Charitable Foundation; independent investor
Elsie Cardell Chair, Ladies of Virtue; president and CEO, Results Sales & Marketing
Edward J. Fiorentino
Vice chair, Clearbrook; executive chairman, TerSera Therapeutics
John Gilligan Chair, A Better Chicago; partner and co-founder, Riverspan Partners
Darryl Henry
Board chair, Genesys Works Chicago; president and CEO, Diversi ed Technology
Michael Chico Board chair, Esperanza Health Centers; senior vice president and xed-income portfolio manager, Northern Trust
Sally Fletcher Board president, Friends of the Chicago River; co-founder and chief nancial of cer, Momento
Marion K. Gross
Board chair, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana; executive vice president and global chief supply chain of cer, McDonald’s
Stefanie Hest
Board chair, Share Our Spare; senior director, Corporate Coalition of Chicago
Nicola Idehen
Vice chair, Adler University; founder, Halden Bridge Advisory Group
Ronald G. Kaminski
Board chair, Chicago Commons; senior vice president, Quanta Services
Jackie Lomax
Founder and executive director, Girls 4 Science
DeAnna Ingram Jones Chair, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities; consultant, NEPC
Anne Kaplan
Board chair, Joffrey Ballet; partner, owner and designer, Insight Environmental Design
Harold Israel Chair, board of trustees, Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning & Leadership; partner and chair of pro bono committee, Levenfeld Pearlstein
Lori Kaufman
Honorary board chair, AIDS Foundation Chicago; retired art dealer, Hokin Kaufman Gallery
Andy Lowenthal
Member, advisory board and former president, board of directors, Renaissance Social Services; retired senior vice president, global expansion and business development, Cboe Global Markets
Roxanne Martino
Board chair and chair of the executive, compensation, and nominating and governance committees, Lurie Children’s Hospital; co-founder, OceanM19
Donielle McCutcheon
Secretary and chair of the nominating and governance committee, Uniting Voices Chicago; partner, Sidley Austin
Manny Jimenez
Secretary, Poder; rst vice president, Community Reinvestment Act of cer, Marquette Bank
Katie Kazas Board president, The Goldie Initiative; managing director of capital markets, Longfellow Real Estate Partners
Jerry Lumpkins
Vice chair, central board of directors and chair, resource development committee, Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago; senior vice president, Midwest commercial real estate division head, Valley Bank
Matt McGrath
Chair, advisory board, Ladder Up; partner, Deloitte Tax
Kenneth Johnson
Board chair, LINK Unlimited Scholars; managing partner, Johnson Blumberg & Associates
Julia Lissner
Vice president and president-elect of the women’s board, Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago; litigation partner, Akerman
Rocco Martino Chairperson of the board of trustees, Endeavor Health; co-founder, OceanM19
JD Miller
Board chair emeritus, Care for Friends; operating adviser, Five Arrows Capital Partners
NOTABLE NONPROFIT BOARD LEADERS
Pamela Miranda
Board member; chair of the membership and governance committee, Easterseals Serving Chicago & Greater Rockford; marketing director and business owner, Order Express
Victor Ravago Chair, Center on Halsted; CEO and principal, Bravo Hospitality Group
Robert Romanoff
Board chair, Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center; partner and former managing partner, Levenfeld Pearlstein
Andy Shaw
Michael Monticello
Board member, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago; managing director, CIBC Bank
John C. Robak
Board chair, Chicago State Foundation; former chairman and CEO, Greeley & Hansen
Cari Sacks Chair, Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Board member, Change Illinois Action Fund/Change Illinois; semiretired former president and CEO, Better Government Association; former political reporter, ABC 7 Chicago
Dara Munson
President, International Women’s Forum — Chicago; president and CEO, Family Focus
Jacki Robinson-Ivy Chair, City Club of Chicago; senior vice president, Northern Trust
Ellaine Sambo-Reyther Chairperson, Wings Program; market manager and director, private wealth adviser, BMO Wealth Management
Veeral Sheth
Chairman emeritus of the board, Meals on Wheels Chicago; partner and director of clinical trials, University Retina & Macula Associates
Meredith O’Connor
Board chair, mHUB; international director and executive managing director, Jones Lang LaSalle
Carla Robles
Board secretary, Spanish Coalition for Housing; director of business development, real estate division, Polsinelli
Stephen J. Schlegel
General counsel, board of trustees, Union League Boys & Girls Clubs; founder and principal, Stephen J. Schlegel Ltd.
John Silmon
Finance committee chairman and treasurer, Ada S. McKinley Community Services; nancial adviser, Edward Jones
Andrea Rodbro Member, Chicago Market board, March of Dimes; partner, audit, KPMG
Mark Schwartz
Board treasurer, National Kidney Foundation of Illinois; managing director, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Diahann C. Sinclair
Board member, Teamwork Englewood; chief of hospital support and community engagement of cer, St. Bernard Hospital
Steve Sorenson Chair, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; retired executive vice president, corporate business transformation, Allstate
Kate Tomford Chair, Old Town School of Folk Music
Mark Stephan
Board chair, Hadley Retired, Goldman Sachs
Anna May Trala President, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago; managing director and chief nancial of cer, GTCR
Melissa Washington
Board chair, Leadership Greater Chicago; senior vice president of customer operations, Commonwealth Edison
Courtland D. Wilson
Founding executive director, Tomorrows Youth Foundation; local of ce administrator, Illinois Department of Human Services
Brad Weir Chair, Aspire; past CEO, Kelso-Burnett
Ta Juana Tang
Board chair, One On One; founder and president, Tandem Ventures
David Tropp Board chair, Metropolitan Family Services; executive vice president, CBRE
Laura West Member, chairmen’s advisory council, Big Shoulders Fund; director, Great Lakes Advisors
Ann Thompson
Past chair, board of trustees and chair, governance committee, Chicago Architecture Center; executive vice president of architecture and design, Related Midwest
Manika M. Turnbull Chair, Skills for Chicagoland’s Future; senior vice president and chief human resources of cer, Health Care Service Corp.
Darrell Williams Chair emeritus, OneGoal; founder and managing member, DuSable Group
Matthew Walch National board chair, Prevent Child Abuse America; partner, Latham & Watkins
Diane Williams Board chair, Southland Development Authority; president emeritus, Safer Foundation
Banking & Finance
Ranked by assets
LARGEST BANKS IN THE CHICAGO AREA
Data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, with additional research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | Ranked by assets. All gures are as of Dec. 31, 2023. Includes banks with headquarters in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will counties, and reporting assets to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Originally published: July 22, 2024.
Client insights and holistic nancial strategies lead to valued relationships
In the nancial services and banking industries — where competition, regulation and commoditization of products and services level the playing eld — customers are most often attracted to companies that value them and offer a superior experience. Not surprisingly, this leads to greater loyalty and satisfaction — crucial components of success for all businesses.
At Busey Bank, we remain focused on creating valued relationships, just as we have for more than 155 years. We take great pride in delivering service excellence in all interactions by continually listening to client feedback and using it to help inform services around their growing needs.
Growing, listening, improving
Gauging how others feel about service and product offerings is always important — especially when welcoming new clients, as Busey did with Merchants and Manufacturers (M&M) Bank customers in late June 2024. The merger broadened Busey’s presence in DuPage, Grundy and Will counties in Northern Illinois, and M&M Bank customers gained access to an expanded array of products and services. Throughout the process, we listened to their feedback to ensure we were providing as smooth of a transition as possible.
“A deciding factor in M&M Bank’s decision to partner with Busey was their commitment to service excellence,” said Brad Butler, EVP and Market President with Busey and former CEO of M&M Bank. “We are thrilled that customers continue to experience the same commitment to service as they did at M&M, while also bene ting from additional products and an extensive service center footprint.”
Measuring success with NPS®
But how do companies like Busey measure success in offering an industry-leading customer experience? This is where Net Promoter Score (NPS®) comes into play. NPS is a customer experience metric and the global standard used across industries and organizations to gauge satisfaction and loyalty.
The score is based on customers’ indication of how likely they are to recommend the company’s products or services to others, typically on a scale from 0 to 10. Final overall scores for the company range from -100 to 100.
“NPS gives us the opportunity to provide our teams with pertinent insights so we can continue enhancing the client experience,” said JP Hills, SVP and Market President with Busey. “As a result, we’re able to dig into the root cause of any issues and create a lasting solution, rather than a temporary x.”
Busey set a new recordhigh corporate NPS score of 56.5 in 2023—a 14.4-point improvement from the previous year and well above the industry average of 23.5. Busey Wealth Management also recorded an all-time high score of 79.8 — 10.9 points higher than in 2022 and also well above the industry average of 24.9.
Additionally, for the rst time, Busey’s Corporate and Wealth Management NPS results outperformed some of the largest banks and investment rms in the country, per Forrester’s 2023 US Net Promoter Rankings report. Continuing that momentum into the rst quarter of 2024, Busey set new quarterly records yet again with a
Corporate NPS of 64.5 and a Wealth Management NPS of 82.6.
“By closely monitoring metrics, we can implement regular and necessary adjustments to further drive improvement,” said Hills. “We continually strive to fully understand how and where we can implement customer insights, allowing us to further our commitment to service excellence.”
For more on the Busey customer experience, visit moneymatters.busey.com.
Delivering personalized, integrated solutions
With increasing complexity in capital markets, nancial services and tax and regulatory burdens, there’s a heightened — and growing — need for the integration of the many diverse components of nancial management for successful individuals and families. All too often, however, clients have become frustrated with traditional models offered by the nancial services industry.
At Busey, we believe there’s a better way — a personalized and holistic approach to
building, planning and managing nances and wealth. We join multiple business lines — each featuring a robust suite of products and services delivered by experienced nancial professionals — to bring the full weight of Busey to every relationship.
Teams of experts in wealth management, commercial banking, treasury management, private banking, mortgage and nancial technology converge and collaborate to help the client develop a plan, coordinate roles and ensure goals are met through multi-tiered professional management. Put simply, it’s a multi-pronged team to plan, manage and preserve assets for current and future generations.
To learn more about our team or to inquire about any of our products and services, visit busey.com.
PRIVATE-EQUITY FIRMS IN CHICAGO
LARGEST VENTURE-CAPITAL FIRMS
LARGEST VENTURE-CAPITAL FIRMS CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST MONEY MANAGERS IN CHICAGO
Construction & Real Estate
LARGEST ARCHITECTURE FIRMS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
by Sophie
(sophie.rodgers@crain.com).
and Will counties in Illinois, and Lake County in Indiana. 1. Formerly Solomon Cordwell Buenz. Originally published: May 20, 2024.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MANAGERS CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST CONSTRUCTION FIRMS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST ENGINEERING FIRMS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
CRAIN’S LIST CHICAGO’S PRICIEST HOME SALES OF 2023
All sales in 2023. Ranked by purchase price. I Originally published: Feb. 5, 2024
1. Sheridan Road, Winnetka 60093
Purchase price: $12.5 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 7.5 BA
Purchase date: July 28
Buyer: Jared and Gabriella Smith
Seller: Chicago Title Land Trust
2. Sheridan Road, Winnetka 60093
Purchase price: $12.3 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 7 BA
Purchase date: Aug. 31
Buyer: Shiraz and Vijay Kotte
Seller: Randy Abrahams
3. North Michigan Avenue, Chicago 60611
Purchase price: $11.2 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 6 BA
Purchase date: Jan. 13
Buyer: Traenif LLC
Seller: Ken Grif n
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
4. North Orchard Street, Chicago 60614
Purchase price: $10.7 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 7 BR, 7 BA
Purchase date: May 18
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: 1956 Natl Orchard St LLC (Jennifer Prewitt)
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
5. West Van Buren Avenue, Naperville 60540
Purchase price: $8.1 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 7.5 BA
Purchase date: Nov. 13
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: Jane Brooks
6. Lake Road, Lake Forest 60045
Purchase price: $7.8 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 7 BR, 7 BA
Purchase date: Nov. 15
Buyer: NA
Seller: David and Kristin Keenan
7. North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago 60611
Purchase price: $6.8 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 4 BR, 5.5 BA
Purchase date: June 7
Buyer: OFTT LLC (Mike Jones)
Seller: Amit Dhadwal, Jennifer McNeil
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
8. East Wacker Drive, Chicago 60601
Purchase price: $6.5 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 4 BR, 5.5 BA
Purchase date: May 12
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: Magellan Development
Neighborhood: Lakeshore East
9. East Scott Street, Chicago 60610
Purchase price: $6.5 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 6.5 BA
Purchase date: May 30
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: Scott Street Partners LLC
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
10. North Mohawk Street, Chicago 60614
Purchase price: $6.4 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 7 BR, 8 BA
Purchase date: May 18
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: Mohawk Partners II LLC
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
11. East Grand Avenue, Chicago 60611
Purchase price: $6.4 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 4 BR, 5 BA
Purchase date: June 23
Buyers: Brandon and Kristy Moran
Seller: RMW Streeterville LLC
Neighborhood: Streeterville
12. Shoreline Court, Glencoe 60022
Purchase price: $6.3 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 6 BA
Purchase date: July 6
Buyer: 325 Shoreline Court LLC
Seller: Chicago Title Land Trust
13. Hill Road, Winnetka 60093
Purchase price: $6.2 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 6 BR, 7.5 BA
Purchase date: Dec. 1
Buyer: Northern Trust
Seller: Heartland Bank & Trust (Steve and Anita Livaditis)
14. North Cleveland Avenue, Chicago 60614
Purchase price: $6.2 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 7 BR, 7 BA
Purchase date: Oct. 25
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: Dasco Cleveland LLC
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
15. Stonegate Road, Lake Forest 60045
Purchase price: $6.0 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 6 BR, 8.5 BA
Purchase date: Jan. 31
Buyer: Proper Title LLC
Seller: NA
16. North Lakeview Avenue, Chicago 60614
Purchase price: $6.0 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 3 BR, 3.5 BA
Purchase date: Sept. 20
Buyer: Andrew Marks trust, Gail Marks trust
Seller: James Gearen
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
17. Bluffs Edge Drive, Lake Forest 60045
Purchase price: $5.8 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 4 BR, 4.5 BA
Purchase date: Jan. 10
Buyer: Linda Kapfer Trust
Seller: Karen A. Guenther, Arlington Jeffrey Guenther
18. Locust Road, Winnetka 60093
Purchase price: $5.7 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 10 BR, 10 BA
Purchase date: June 30
Buyer: Julie Workman
Seller: Andrew McKenna estate
19. North Dearborn Street, Chicago 60610
Purchase price: $5.7 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 7.5 BA
Purchase date: April 10
Buyer: Rosewood Residential LLC (managed by John Pellouchoud)
Seller: Driehaus estate
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
20. Healy Road, Barrington Hills 60010
Purchase price: $5.6 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 6 BR, 6.5 BA
Purchase date: July 18
Buyer: Murrell Trust
Seller: Robert and Denise Krause
21. West Walton Street, Chicago 60610
Purchase price: $5.5 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 4 BR, 4.5 BA
Purchase date: Oct. 3
Buyer: Anthony Zingale trust, Allison Zingale trust
Seller: John and Kacia Morris
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
21. North Hudson Avenue, Chicago 60614
Purchase price: $5.5 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 7 BR, 7.5 BA
Purchase date: March 2
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: John and Mary Willis
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
23. West Oak Street, Chicago 60610
Purchase price: $5.3 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 6 BR, 7 BA
Purchase date: Dec. 8
Buyer: 30OAK21 LLC
Seller: Douglas and Joanne Pertz
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
24. North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago 60610
Purchase price: $5.2 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 6 BA
Purchase date: Jan. 9
Buyer: NA
Seller: Co-op (sellers not identi ed)
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
25. Sheridan Road, Winnetka 60093
Purchase price: $5.2 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 5 BR, 5.5 BA
Purchase date: Jan. 3
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: MALPF LLC (Marc Lifshin)
25. East Walton Place, Chicago 60611
Purchase price: $5.2 million
Bedrooms/bathrooms: 3 BR, 3.5 BA
Purchase date: April 11
Buyer: Chicago Title Land Trust
Seller: Palmore Prop LLC (Michael and Gayle Ahearn)
Neighborhood: Gold Coast
Includes homes sold in 2023 in Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties and reported in real estate listings or public records by Jan. 30, 2024.
Purchase price is rounded to the nearest thousand; only those homes that share a ranking number have identical full prices. Research by Dennis Rodkin and Sophie Rodgers.
HIGHEST-PAID DOCTORS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
Ranked by total compensation
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com) | Originally published: Nov 18, 2024. This list is not comprehensive. Data was obtained from 990 tax forms for the scal year beginning in 2022, which for most organizations is the most recent year available. Crain's includes current and former doctors at hospitals and health systems based in the Chicago-area counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will. 1. Formerly NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health. 2. Includes $556,079 from related organizations. 3. Includes $341,339 from related organizations.
HIGHEST-PAID HOSPITAL EXECS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will. 1. This compensation re ects their former
2. Formerly NorthShore
Chicago-area
Health. 3. This compensation re ects O'Grady's previous role as president of the North Region and Institutes for Endeavor Health. Originally published: Nov. 18, 2024.
LARGEST HOSPITALS IN THE CHICAGO AREA CRAIN’S LIST
Ranked by net patient revenue
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com) | To qualify for this list, hospitals must be located in the seven-county area of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will in Illinois, and Lake in Indiana. Information was provided by hospitals, and all gures are as of Dec. 31, 2023 unless otherwise noted. “Inpatient days” refers to the actual number of patient-care days provided on an inpatient basis, excluding nursery, psychiatric, long-term rehabilitation and observation beds. “Available beds” refers to the number of staffed beds, excluding nursery, psychiatric, long-term rehabilitation and observation beds. “Daily occupancy rate” is inpatient days divided by bed days available. Numbers that appear tied have been rounded 1 From American Hospital Directory 2 Calculated from American Hospital Directory
Originally published: Nov. 25, 2024.
LARGEST PHYSICIAN GROUPS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | Crain's estimates are in gray To qualify, groups must be located in the seven-county area of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will counties. Net revenue is net of contractual allowances, bad accounts and charity care. “Covered individuals” is the number of people for whom an amount is paid to cover medical services over a speci ed period. e. Crain's estimate. 1. NorthShore University HealthSystem Medical Group, Edward-Elmhurst Medical Group, Northwest Community Health Medical Group, and Swedish Medical Group merged as Endeavor Health in January 2024. The data re ects the combination of the four medical groups. 2. Formerly AMITA Health Medical Group.
Originally published: March 11, 2024.
HIGHEST-PAID NONPROFIT EXECS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
Ranked by total compensation Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com) | This list is not comprehensive. Data was obtained from 990 tax forms for the scal
beginning in
which for most organizations is the most recent year available. Crain's includes nonpro ts based in the Chicago-area counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake (Ill.), Lake (Ind.), McHenry and Will, and/or that have a primary mission that is Chicago-based. Universities and hospitals were omitted, as well as 501(c)(6) organizations. Some executives may have left listed positions since the 990 was led. 1 Includes $30,603 from related organizations. 2 Includes $16,512 from related organizations. 3 Entirety of compensation comes from related organizations. 4. Includes $309,330 from related organizations. Originally published: Sept. 16, 2024.
LARGEST FOUNDATIONS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST NONPROFITS IN THE CHICAGO AREA CRAIN’S LIST
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | This list is not comprehensive. It includes
1. This re ects 2022 data, the most current information for the nonpro t. 2. Formerly known as Illinois Facilities Fund. Originally published: Dec. 2, 2024.
LARGEST ACCOUNTING FIRMS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
Ranked by
LARGEST ACCOUNTING FIRMS IN CHICAGO CRAIN’S LIST
LARGEST LAW FIRMS IN THE CHICAGO AREA CRAIN’S LIST
Benesch: Join the Journey. Are You Ready?
Repeatedly recognized as a top place to work, Am Law 200 firm Benesch ranked as one of the 100 Most Loved Workplaces in America®—just one of two law firms to make the list.
– Newsweek, 2023 & 2024
Named a Top Workplace in Chicago – Chicago Tribune
One of Fastest-Growing Firms in Chicago – Chicago Lawyer
Benesch is a close, caring and collaborative firm where we treat each other like family. We invest in our lawyers and staff members, giving them a roadmap to success, with customized, one-on-one guidance and the tools they need to grow, thrive and succeed.
With a 93.2% 3-Year Lateral Retention rate, nearly all lateral partners nd their permanent home at Benesch. Many come to us from Am Law leading law firms and choose us because of our culture,collaboration and service excellence.
Why Benesch?
“The IP practice is growing very fast and earning Benesch a reputation as an IP powerhouse, both nationally and in the Chicago market. I also like how Benesch is expanding the group in a smart and strategic way that preserves the firm culture.”
~ Charles McMahon
“Proactive, creative solutions form the foundation of client success in the ever-changing energy space. With its fast-growing and entrepreneurial Energy Group, Benesch is the ideal place to grow my practice.”
~ John Rooney
“To be able to work alongside a terrific team of attorneys who share my passion for the energy sector and my commitment to advising clients through their most challenging legal issues is why I chose Benesch.”
~ Hanna Conger
“The ability to be here at Benesch and help build on the great growth that this firm has had is a really appealing opportunity.”
~ Kyle Gillen
“Benesch’s IP practice is second to none, and I look forward to contributing to a team that shares my passion for IP law and my commitment to delivering for our clients.”
~ Laura Schaefer
beneschlaw.com
Helping boards and C-suites get to truth
CRA’s award-winning Forensic Services Practice helps companies and their counsel independently respond to allegations of fraud, cybercrime, misconduct, and non-compliance, often in moments of crisis. These allegations span a broad range of matters, such as accounting irregularities, money laundering, cyber-crime, False Claims Act violations, ABAC/FCPA, #MeToo, healthcare fraud and abuse, Ponzi schemes, and trade secret thefts. Operating from ten countries around the world, CRA’s clients over the past two years included 97% of the AmLaw 100 law rms and 82% of the Fortune 100 companies.
Awards and recognition
The Practice has been recognized by the National Law Journal for being one of the top-three Forensic Accounting Providers in America. Global Investigations Review ranked us one of the top-10 investigative consultancies from around the world for handling sophisticated cross-border, government-driven, and internal investigations. Chambers ranked us for our deep litigation support, crisis, and risk management competencies. Learn more at crai.com/forensics.
Kristofer Swanson, CPA/CFF, CAMS, CFE
+1-312-619-3313, kswanson@crai.com
Who’s Who Legal: Global Leader | Thought Leader | Expert Investigations Forensic Accountant | Digital Forensic Investigations Expert
Research by Sophie Rodgers (sophie.rodgers@crain.com). | This list is not comprehensive. All staff gures are as of June 30, 2024 unless otherwise noted. Includes attorneys in the seven-county Chicago area: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will in Illinois and Lake in Indiana. In the Chicago partners’ specialties section, partners in more than one specialty are counted in each area. 1. Formerly SmithAmundsen LLC.
Originally published: Sept. 9, 2024.
The power of preparedness
Serge Jorgensen is the Cyber Incident Response Leader at Crowe LLP. He assumed the role earlier this year when Sylint Group Inc., a well-known global incident response and cyber intelligence advisory rm Jorgensen founded in 1999, became part of Crowe. With more than 25 years of experience in developing proactive cyber solutions, Jorgensen brings a unique blend of expertise in both strategic guidance and tactical measures to help organizations of all sizes mitigate risks and respond effectively. It’s no longer a question of if an attack will succeed, he said, but when and how prepared an organization is to respond.
How has the landscape of cyber threats evolved in recent years?
Cyberattacks are evolving rapidly, becoming more frequent and more sophisticated. In years past, attacks and exploitation of vulnerabilities would take days or weeks. We’re seeing those same attacks now take minutes or hours. In addition, before it was only the more sophisticated threat actors who would be using multiple vulnerabilities in the course of attack, but now it’s pretty standard operation to leverage different vulnerabilities to connect information derived from attacks against different systems.
What are the key components of a robust incident response plan?
The success of any incident response plan is dictated by the preparation that goes into it. For example, if my incident response plan for a re is to
just get out of the house as fast as possible, but I don’t have a good oor plan or working sprinklers, then I’m likely to get lost or distracted when the house is lled with smoke and ames.
Likewise, the key components of a cybersecurity incident response plan start before the incident occurs. One of those key components is an event detection and escalation process. If I don’t have a process for detecting and escalating events, I am unlikely to identify an incident until nothing works and everything’s been stolen.
Once an incident has been identi ed, key parts of the actual response are processes for scoping, containing, recovering from and investigating the incident.
interconnected infrastructure — the business has lots of other dependencies, whether it’s upstream vendors and suppliers or downstream clients — coming up with that MVP becomes even more critical. Having and executing on an MVP gives the IR team time and options to do their job.
What are some of the challenges that organizations encounter when they're responding to a cyber incident?
One of the biggest challenges is having the right partners or trying to nd the right partners under duress. Back to the re analogy: If you are interviewing re ghters, asking for their monthly fees and negotiating a contract that they want signed before they start
If I don’t have a process for detecting and escalating events, I am unlikely to identify an incident until nothing works and everything’s been stolen.
Of course, there are subpieces of each of those, but if your incident response plan considers and practices those four things and the associated components, you’re on your way to success.
How does business continuity factor into an IR strategy?
Organizations, in general, don’t exist to deal with cyber incidents, so an important consideration in IR planning is to develop some sort of minimally viable product — or what we call MVP — that will allow the business to continue to operate during an event, and then to determine the steps to get to the MVP as quickly as possible. When you’re part of an
spraying water on the house, there probably won’t be much to salvage.
A second challenge is having the right tools deployed. You are already behind the eight ball if, during an event, you are trying to roll out an endpoint detection and response tool to determine where the threat actors might be or trying to deploy multi-factor authentication so that the threat actors can’t get back in.
And then a third challenge — and this one is more strategic — is understanding the longer-term issues that might arise. Am I prepared for the regulator questions about how this happened? How do I determine when to tell my
clients? What are the possible implications to my brand?
What qualities should organizations seek in an incident response partner? Do you have a speci c example?
First and foremost, they should look for a partner who can bring a team together that isn't con ned in their capabilities to the technical or operational needs of the incident response itself. That is to say, they need someone who appreciates that business still needs to happen and can provide assistance with maintaining that MVP — maybe even in ways that the client hadn’t considered.
When a health care organization has a cybersecurity incident, for example, as well as providing the incident response team, we can reach out to our internal health care team to gain an understanding of broader operational requirements and limitations. Do they need someone to think about how to use software differently to keep the business running? Do they need temporary HR teams or accounting teams? That value is a massive differentiator, because if your partner is just trying to ght the re and, in our house analogy again, not thinking and acting more broadly about issues like where is the family going to sleep tonight, then that partnership cannot holistically safeguard you or your business.
Thank you to our 2024 JUF Corporate Partners
These generous JUF Corporate Partners provide funding towards JUF Annual Campaign events, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to JUF programs and services.
Bartlit Beck
DLA Piper US LLP
Katten
Kovitz Investment Group LLC
Miller Cooper & Co., Ltd
Much Shelist, P.C.
Plante Moran
Republic Bank of Chicago
RSM US LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Wintrust
Zuckerman Investment Group
Balyasny Asset Management
BDO USA, LLP
The Cohn Group at Morgan Stanley
Basic Wire & Cable
Car Leasing Inc.
AHC Funds
Altair Advisers LLC
Ankin Law O ce LLC
Aronberg Goldgehn
Baker Tilly
Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLC
Baum Realty Group
Chuhak & Tecson, P.C.
CIBC
CME Group Foundation
Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
FGMK, LLC
Dentons US LLP
GEM Realty Capital
Greenberg Traurig LLP
Harrison LLP
Elrod Friedman LLP
National Wrecking Company
Next Realty
Old National Bank
Reed Smith LLP
Senior Lifestyle Corporation
William Blair & Company
First Bank Chicago Rapoport, Weisberg & Sims P.C.
Horizon Realty Group
Jenner & Block LLP
JLL Capital Markets
JRG Capital Partners
Kona Advisors LLC
Kriezelman Burton & Associates LLC
Landrock LP
Locke Lord LLP
M. Fishman & Co.
Merel Family Law
Milestone Planning Group at Morgan Stanley
Monroe Capital LLC
Mosaic Construction LLC DBA
Design Construction Concepts
Northern Trust
Oak Realty Group, Inc./
Oak Residential Partners
Origin Ventures
Peak Properties, LLC
Rappaport Reiches Capital Management, LLC
Sarno Property Tax
Schoenberg Finkel Beederman
Bell Glazer LLC
Strategic Wealth Partners, LLC
Strauss Malk & Feder LLP
Supera Asset Management
The Wolcott Group, LLC
Venture One
Waterton Associates LLC
Waveland Family O ce, LLC
Wipfli LLP
The Wolcott Group
Wolverine Execution Services, LLC
Worsek & Vihon LLP
For information on corporate partnership opportunities, please contact SarahMapes@juf.org or 312-357-4543.
BIG DATES
Calendar of nonpro t events for Metro Chicago
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11
British International School of Chicago, South Loop, Open House. Learn more about our innovative and dynamic curriculum, broad range of specialist subjects and exciting, beyond-theclassroom experiences. Our internationally focused curriculum offers personalized support and challenges students to reach their potential. 9 a.m., British International School of Chicago, South Loop. In-person, nordangliaeducation.com/biscsouth-loop/open-house
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
Special Gifts Theatre, Inclusive Musical Theatre PerformanceWilly Wonka.Special Gifts Theatre — an inclusive and transformative theatre program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — presents an original adaptation of Willy Wonka. 2 p.m., The Skokie School. In-person, specialgiftstheatre.org/events
SATURDAY, JANUARY 18
Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, 6th Annual State of Black Illinois Breakfast Conference. The 6th Annual State of Black Business in Illinois Breakfast Conference commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy by convening
entrepreneurs, business leaders and policymakers to explore the current landscape of Black business in Illinois. 8 a.m., In-person, ilbcoc.org
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Pickle Bash. Join us for a fun-filled day in Lincoln Park! Whether you're a pickleball pro or just looking for family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone — tournament play, open courts, raffles and more. Join the party in support of our mission! 8:30 p.m., SPF Chicago. In-person, ronaldhousechicago.org/ picklebash
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28
Hyde Park Day School, 25th Anniversary Gala. Hyde Park Day School is celebrating 25 years of transforming the lives of bright children with learning disabilities. The Annual Gala supports the Bright Futures Scholarship Fund, ensuring that limited financial means are not a barrier to admission. 6:30 p.m., Bryn Mawr Country Club. Inperson, hydeparkday.org/annualgiving-gala
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29
Chicago Architecture Center, Architecture and Design Film Festival.The CAC will host the 3rd annual Architecture and Design Film Festival. The lineup includes 18 stories of creative vision, design innovation and human relationships, embodied
in architecture across the globe. Chicago Architecture Center, Gene Siskel Film Center and Chicago Cultural Center. In-person, adfilmfest.com/adff-chicago
THURSDAY, JANUARY 30
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, 12th Annual Mercy Home Poker Night. Cocktails, dinner buffet catered by Gibsons, casino games, prizes and the chance to make a difference for kids in Chicago. The top 10 finishing players will be awarded great prizes. The grand prize is a seat at the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas! 5:30 p.m., Bank of America Tower. In-person, mercyhome.org/crains-poker
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31
Christ the King Jesuit College Prep, King of Hearts Gala. Join us for the 17th annual King of Hearts Gala to help keep tuition affordable for Christ the King students and their families on Chicago’s West Side. The Gala includes cocktails, a sit-down dinner, live and silent auctions, and dancing. 5:45 p.m., Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park. In-person, ctkjesuit.org/koh
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
Giordano Dance Chicago, Studio 62. A legendary evening! From 7 to 11 p.m., guests will enjoy food and drinks, while also dancing the night away with GDC dancers — under the glittering lights of a disco ball in GDC’s version of the infamous New York City nightclub. 7 p.m., Ravenswood Event Center. In-person, giordanodance.org
Juvenile Protective Association (JPA), All in for Kids Casino Night. Casino Night is hosted by JPA's Associate Board. The evening includes casino games, food and drinks, a silent auction, a wine toss, dancing and more to support JPA’s mission of providing mental health resources to children and adults who support them. 7 p.m., Venue West. In-person, jpachicago.org/ casino-night
OSF HealthCare Little Company of Mary, Crystal Heart Ball
Enjoy cocktails, dinner and entertainment by Maggie Speaks at this 33rd annual event. The venerable Mary Potter Humanitarian Award honors Christmas Without Cancer. Proceeds will benefit the
renovation of OSF HealthCare Little Company of Mary’s surgical areas. 6:30 p.m., Field Museum. In-person, x.osfhealthcare.org/ foundation
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Step Up for Kids. Aon Step Up for Kids, presented by KPMG, is a familyfriendly stair climb event where every step taken — and dollar raised — supports the Department of Family Services at Lurie Children’s. 8 a.m., Aon Center. In-person, luriechildrens.org/stepup
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, d'Vine Affair. The d’Vine Affair benefits Catholic Charities programs and clients in Cook and Lake counties. 2 p.m., Venue West. In-person, catholiccharities.net/events/dvineaffair-2025
Special Gifts Theatre, Inclusive Musical Theatre Performance -Frozen Jr. Special Gifts Theatre — an inclusive and transformative theatre program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with support from peer mentors — presents an original adaptation of Frozen Jr. 2 p.m., Ebinger Elementary School. In-person, specialgiftstheatre.org/events
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6
The Chicago Lighthouse, Sweets for Sight. Join our Junior Board for a night out at Carnivale, while sampling delicious appetizers, sipping and tasting a variety of cocktails, and indulging in cakes, cookies and other treats from the city’s best bakeries. Proceeds benefit our youth programs. 5:30 p.m., Carnivale. In-person, chicagolighthouse.org/event/sipssweets-for-sight
Marillac St. Vincent, 12th Annual House of Cards. Join us at the 12th Annual House of Cards, hosted by our Associate Board at the Royal Sonesta River (FEBRUARY
British International School of Chicago, South Loop, Open House
North. Enjoy charitable casino gaming, delicious food, drinks and live entertainment—all while supporting our programs. Don't miss this exciting night! 7:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta River North. In-person, bit.ly/4ehY7rM
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7
ALS United Greater Chicago, ALS United Greater Chicago's Iron Horse VIP Suite at First Look for Charity. Attend the Chicago Auto Show’s black-tie First Look for Charity, which benefits 18 nonprofits, including ALS United Greater Chicago. Attend as a supporter of our mission and visit our Iron Horse VIP Suite! Enjoy top-shelf refreshments and hors d’oeuvres. 5:30 p.m., McCormick Place. In-person, alsunitedchicago.org/event/firstlook-for-charity-2025
Misericordia Home, First Look for Charity - Misericordia. The annual black-tie affair provides attendees with a “first look” at the nation’s largest auto show, while supporting Misericordia and 17 other Chicagoland charities. Participants enjoy entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, drinks and desserts. 5 p.m., McCormick Place. In-person, misericordia.com
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
Special Gifts Theatre, Inclusive Musical Theatre Performance -Aladdin Jr. Special Gifts Theatre — an inclusive and transformative theatre program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with support from peer mentors — presents an original adaptation of Aladdin Jr. 2 p.m., Copeland Manor Elementary School. Inperson, specialgiftstheatre.org/ events
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, 2025 Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras Gala: Spanish Rhapsody. The 2025 Gala: Spanish Rhapsody — which supports music education programs across the Chicago area — honors Cedille Records Founder and President James
Ginsburg and Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music Dean Jonathan Bailey Holland. 6 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, cyso.org
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Alzheimer's Association, Paint the Night Purple. Supporting the Alzheimer’s Association, this event brings together over 500 individuals for an engaging evening filled with live music from UltraBeat, a dynamic DJ; a silent auction and delicious hors d’oeuvres, complemented by an open bar. 8 p.m., Morgan Manufacturing. In-person, ptnp25. givesmart.com
Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund, Soiree for Scholars. The DMSF Associate Board invites you to our third annual fundraising event, Soiree for Scholars, which will benefit Murphy Scholars. Indulge in an elegant evening and be inspired by our program, featuring Murphy Scholar alumni and speakers. 6 p.m., The Bank of America Tower. In-person, dmsf.org/soiree.html
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Chicago Architecture Center, E-Fest (Engineering Fest). Engineering Fest is the Chicago Architecture Center’s premier family event, where young people are invited to imagine and design the worlds they want, need and deserve. Join for free, hands-on activities that explore Sustainable Engineering! Willis Tower. Inperson, architecture.org/eventsprograms/engineering-fest
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
College of DuPage Foundation, Waves of Japan: Night of Drums and Dreams. The night opens with themed cocktails, entertainment, Japanese-inspired food stations and a silent auction, followed by a performance by Yamato – The Drummers of Japan. A portion of the ticket price will benefit the Major Exhibition Fund of the COD Foundation. 5 p.m., McAninch Arts Center. In-person, foundation. cod.edu
Respiratory Health Association, Hustle Chicago Stair Climb. Climb to the top of Chicago’s skyline at the former Hancock building. After the 1,632-step journey, you can celebrate your accomplishment with other lung-
health heroes, all while enjoying sweeping city and lake views. 7 a.m., 875 N. Michigan Ave. In-person, resphealth.org/hustlechicago-charity-stair-climb
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27
Center for Disability & Elder Law, Light Up the Loop Winter Awards Bene t. CDEL’s Light Up the Loop Winter Awards Benefit will occur at Baker McKenzie! Join us as we celebrate our 2025 Award Winners, along with all of CDEL’s remarkable accomplishments in 2024. 5:30 p.m., Baker McKenzie. In-person, cdelaw.org/events
Girls in the Game, 30th Anniversary Field of Dreams Gala Hear the powerful stories of some of the girls who have grown up in the program, as well as the stories of honorees who have changed the game for girls. Enjoy a cocktail hour, a dinner and a program highlighting 30 years of service to over 65,000 girls. 6 p.m., Intercontinental Magnificent Mile. In-person, givebutter.com/gigfieldofdreams
Leukemia Research Foundation, Ski for Research. Join the Donald Davidson-Alan Brin Memorial Chapter of the Leukemia Research Foundation for the annual five-day Ski for Research trip to Steamboat Springs, Colo. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Leukemia Research Foundation. 8 a.m., Steamboat Springs. In-person, leukemiarf.org/chapters/davidsonbrin/ski
The Reaumond Foundation, Knockout Cancer. Join us for KO Cancer 25, an unforgettable night of boxing and philanthropy. Enjoy thrilling matches, an open bar, a delicious dinner and live entertainment, all while supporting pancreatic cancer patients and families. 6 p.m., House of Blues Chicago. Hybrid (In-person and virtual), bobsencore.org/knockoutcancer-2025
Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago, Battle of the Bands. Five local bands battle it out for fun and a good cause — with a crowd-selected winner. 5:30 p.m., Cobra Lounge. In-person, rebuildingtogether-chi.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
American Heart Association, Go Red for Women Luncheon. The Go Red for Women event
experience focuses on connection and engagement, while fostering an atmosphere of interaction and networking at every turn. The Luncheon will include experiences that can help improve your health and well-being. 11 a.m., Hyatt Regency. In-person, heart.org/ chicagogored
Chicago Loop Alliance, Chicago Loop Alliance and Foundation's 20th Annual Meeting. Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) and Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation’s Annual Meeting gathers the Loop’s most influential business, civic and cultural leaders together, enabling them to connect during this crucial time of economic recovery. 9 a.m., Convene Willis Tower. In-person, loopchicago.com/events/annualmeeting
FEBRUARY TBD
Chicago Architecture Center, "Constructing Hope: Ukraine” Exhibition.“Constructing Hope: Ukraine” presents the work of over a dozen participants who are applying architectural thinking to support Ukraine’s short- and long-term reconstruction efforts. The exhibition comes to the CAC from the Center for Architecture in NYC. Chicago Architecture Center. In-person, architecture.org
Special Olympics Illinois, Polar Plunge. The Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge is the coolest event of the year — with 24 plunges across Illinois in February and March. This fundraiser raises crucial funds for Special Olympics Illinois, while also supporting life-changing programs and promoting inclusion. In-person, plungeillinois.com
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Pickle Bash
WE WANT YOU ON OUR TEAM.
Special Olympics Illinois is driven forward by partners like the Chicago Federation of Labor and Gallagher Our community is growing, and so is our need for your support. It’s time to get in on the action.
SATURDAY, MARCH 1
Cradles to Crayons, Purple Party. At this festive Mardi Gras-themed event, Cradles to Crayons is transformed into the French Quarter. Expect food, cocktails, dancing, raffle prizes and lots of entertainment. Join us for the most colorful party of the year! 7:30 p.m., Cradles to Crayons. In-person, cradlestocrayons.org/ chicago/purpleparty
Make-A-Wish Illinois, I Wish to Party. The young professionals of the Make-A-Wish Illinois Associate Board host a night to celebrate wishes. The party includes an open bar, passed appetizers, bites from Chicago’s hottest restaurants, an auction, music and dancing. Proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish Illinois. 8 p.m., Morgan Manufacturing. In-person, wish.org/illinois
Saint Ignatius College Prep, Gloriam, 2025. Saint Ignatius College Prep will hold its annual fundraiser, Gloriam 2025. More than 1,000 guests will gather for an incredible evening — in the spirit of generosity — to support our tuition assistance students. 5 p.m., Saint Ignatius College Prep. In-person, ignatius.org/giving/ gloriam-2025
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
Northern Illinois Food Bank, A Cup of Hope. Join us for the 10th annual “A Cup of Hope” event, hosted by Northern Illinois Food Bank’s Executive Women’s Council. This afternoon tea event directly benefits Northern Illinois Food Bank’s various feeding programs. 1:30 p.m., Abbington Distinctive Banquets. In-person, solvehungertoday.org/cup
Special Gifts Theatre, Inclusive Musical Theatre PerformanceAlice in Wonderland Jr. Special Gifts Theatre — an inclusive and transformative theatre program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with support from peer mentors — presents an original adaptation of Alice in Wonderland Jr. 2 p.m., Loyola Academy McGrath
Performing Arts Center. In-person, specialgiftstheatre.org/events
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
The Chicago Lighthouse, Raising the Stakes for Vision: Poker & Casino Night. Spend the evening playing cards at your favorite blackjack or poker tables or enjoying casino games and having fun with friends. The grand prize is a $10,000 seat at the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas! Proceeds support our life-changing programs. 5:30 p.m., Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse. In-person, chicagolighthouse.org/ event/poker
HACIA, HACIA 45th Annual Awards Banquet. HACIA’s mission is to advocate for our members, build their capacity and facilitate access to a broad network of diverse professionals and industry leaders. This banquet attracts over 1,200 people from all areas of business. 5 p.m., Hilton Chicago. In-person, haciaworks.org/ event/45th-annual-banquet
FRIDAY, MARCH 7
Hephzibah Children's Association, Heart of Gold Ball. Join us for an unforgettable night of cocktails, a formal sit-down dinner, live music performed by Greenlight, dancing, a live auction and more. All funds raised will support the children and families who are served by Hephzibah. After-five attire is suggested. 6:30 p.m., Rockwell on the River. In-person, hephzibahhome.org/ heart-of-gold-ball
Holy Trinity High School, Guardians of Hope Dinner. An elegant dinner and cocktail party that will raise funds for students at Holy Trinity Catholic High School, which was founded in 1910. 6 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, holytrinity-hs.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 9
Keshet, Annual Rainbow Banquet.Celebrate a year of Keshet's accomplishments and impact on making our community a place where people of all abilities belong and have meaningful opportunities. 7 p.m., Ateres Ayala. In-person, keshet.org
Special Gifts Theatre, Inclusive Musical Theatre PerformanceAlice in Wonderland Jr. Special
Gifts Theatre — an inclusive and transformative theatre program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with support from peer mentors — presents an original adaptation of Alice in Wonderland Jr. 2 p.m., The Skokie School. In-person, specialgiftstheatre.org/events
THURSDAY, MARCH 13
Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter, Power of Purple: A Reason to Hope Luncheon. Over 500 guests will gather for this inspiring luncheon to celebrate caregivers and honor the community leaders who have made an impact in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. All of the funds that are raised will go toward Alzheimer's care, support and research. 11:30 a.m., Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park. In-person, powerandhope25. givesmart.com
Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois, BBB Annual Dinner. Come join over 500 top business leaders and guests for a dynamic night of dinner and networking. Previous keynote speakers have included Astronaut Susan Kilrain, the Bears’ Mike Ditka, the Cubs’ President of Business Crane Kenney, the Bears’ Dan Hampton and others. 6 p.m., Chicago Hilton - Michigan Ave. In-person, bbb.org
DIFFA Chicago, Lip Sync for Life. Creative lip sync team performances by industry colleagues, as well as local drag artists. 6:30 p.m., Lincoln Hall. In-person, diffachicago.org
Lumity, 2025 Lumity Annual Bene t. Lumity provides transformational experiences in order to open doors to STEM careers for youth from underresourced communities. We partner with employers and schools to create opportunities and light the spark for the next generation of STEM professionals! 6 p.m., The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago. In-person, lumity.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, Mercy Home’s March for Kids Post-Parade Party. A family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the Loop to support a solution for kids in crisis. Steps away from the start of the Chicago
St. Patrick’s Day Parade. 1:30 p.m., Venue SIX10. In-person, mercyhome.org/crains-parade
Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Annual Awards Gala. As an organization committed to neighborhood revitalization, this event draws attendees from all segments of our community partnerships to celebrate the accomplishments of those who are dedicated to furthering our mission through community-led initiatives. 6 p.m., Museum of Science and Industry. In-person, nhschicago.org/annual-awards
SUNDAY, MARCH 16
Chicago Architecture Center, CAC River Cruise season begins. March 16 marks the start of the CAC River Cruise season! Experience the #1 rated boat tour in the United States by USA Today readers in 2024, as well as Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over 10 years. You can buy tickets online or at the CAC. Chicago's First Lady. In-person, architecture. org/city-tours/river-cruise
SATURDAY, MARCH 22
One Tail at a Time, Houndstooth Ball. Houndstooth Ball is One Tail at a Time’s premier dogfriendly gala. Join us for a night of dinner, dancing and celebration with over 500 rescue supporters and their furry friends. 6 p.m., Morgan Manufacturing. In-person, onetail.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 23
University of Notre Dame, Richard H. Driehaus Prize at the University of Notre Dame. The 2025 Richard H. Driehaus Prize at the University of Notre Dame offers guests a ceremony, followed by a reception. 11 a.m., The Charles B. Murphy Auditorium. In-person, nd.edu
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
Austin Coming Together, 2025 ACT Spring Social Fundraiser & Dance Party. We're hosting our Spring Social Dance Party & Fundraiser, aimed at bringing together community residents and more. It will be a night of dancing and good vibes. All funds will be used to help ACT sustain its important work. 6:30 p.m., Xoco House Gallery. In-person,
austincomingtogether.org/ springsocial
Center on Halsted, Human First Gala. Human First gathers the LGBTQ+ community and allies in support of Center on Halsted's services — including housing and social services; programs for youth and seniors; HIV/STI prevention; workforce development; and cultural, athletic and social activities. 6 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, centeronhalsted.org
MARCH TBD
Gar eld Park Chamber of Commerce, 5th Annual Minority and Women Wealth Summit. At this empowering, premier event, attendees will gain valuable knowledge in finance, investment, real estate and entrepreneurship, while also fostering connections that support economic growth. Attendees will meet oneon-one with VC's and Angel Investors. 10 a.m. In-person, gfpchamberchicago.org
Special Olympics Illinois, Polar Plunge. The Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge is the coolest event of the year — with 24 plunges across Illinois in February and March. This fundraiser raises crucial funds for Special Olympics Illinois, while also supporting life-changing programs and promoting inclusion. In-person, plungeillinois.com
Hephzibah Children's Association, Heart of Gold Ball
e Reaumond Foundation, Knockout Cancer
Holy Trinity High School, Guardians of Hope Dinner
Keshet, Annual Rainbow Banquet. Photo: Michael Lee Photography
Lumity, 2025 Lumity Annual Bene t. Photo: Evanston Photographic Studios
Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Annual Awards Gala 2024. Photo: NHS Chicago
Alzheimer's Association, Rita Hayworth Gala. Photo: Purple Photo Group
FRIDAY, APRIL 4
Giordano Dance Chicago, Celebrate Light & Life. Join Giordano Dance Chicago for a celebration of both life and light, honoring the life of Keenan Giordano Casey and celebrating Nan Giordano's 40th year at the helm of Giordano Dance Chicago. 7 p.m., Avli on The Park. In-person, giordanodance.org
PAWS Chicago, Animal Magnetism. Join Chicago's animal lovers and their canine companions for a night of food and drinks, dancing, entertainment and more! This celebration raises critical funds to ensure PAWS Chicago can save and care for thousands of homeless pets each year. 7 p.m., Morgan Manufacturing. In-person, pawschicago.org/animalmag
Smart Love Family Services, Smart Love's 2025 Annual Bene t Gala. The Annual Benefit Gala is Smart Love Family Services' premier fundraising event, featuring a lively cocktail hour, a seated dinner, and exciting live and silent auctions. Proceeds from the evening help Smart Love provide support to every family in need. 6 p.m., The University Club of Chicago. In-person, smartlove2025.givesmart.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
AIDS Foundation Chicago, AFC Gala 40. Enjoy food and drinks, entertainment, a paddle raise and AFC's famous punchboard at this special event, which supports the fight to end the HIV epidemic. 6 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, aidschicago.org/afc40
Chicago Opera Theater, Chicago Opera Theater 2025 Gala. Held in conjunction with the concert premiere of Remedios Varo — this season’s Vanguard opera by Carlos R. Carrillo and Stephanie Fleischmann — Chicago Opera Theater’s 2025 gala will be chaired by Erika Erich, while also honoring Board President Susan J.Irion. 7:30 p.m., Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture. Inperson, chicagooperatheater.org
The Les Turner ALS Foundation, The Hope Through Caring Gala. Chicago’s top minds in ALS research and care, business, academics and philanthropy — and, most importantly, people who are living with ALS — will come together for one of the city’s most elegant and prestigious black-tie optional events of the year. 6 p.m., Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel. Hybrid (In-person and virtual), lesturnerals.org
FRIDAY, APRIL 11
American Heart Association, Heart Ball. The 43rd annual Chicago Heart Ball celebrates the culmination of the year-round Heart of Chicago campaign, which is focused on driving equitable health for every member of our communities across Chicago. 6 p.m., Navy Pier Aon Grand Ballroom. In-person, heart.org/ chicagoheartball
New Moms, New Moms Gala. Join us for our Spring Gala! Celebrate and support New Moms’ progress over 40 years and our innovative vision for the future. Get ready for music, great food and drinks, live and silent auctions, and a paddle raise. 6 p.m., The Old Post Office. Inperson, newmoms.org/gala
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Uniting Voices Chicago, SoundBites. Party with Chicago's influencers at SoundBites! Enjoy food, drinks, performances and more — all while supporting life-changing programs. Discover how to join in at the SoundBites experience page. 21+ only. 6 p.m., Venue West. In-person, unitingvoiceschicago.org/ soundbites
THURSDAY, APRIL 24
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, Vernissage. Hosted by the Women's Board of MCA Chicago, Vernissage is the MCA’s annual fundraising celebration, held on the opening day of EXPO CHICAGO at Navy Pier. This year’s Vernissage brunch will offer ticket holders first access to the exposition. 9:30 a.m., Navy Pier Festival Hall. In-person, mcachicago.org/vernissage
National Psoriasis Foundation, Fleur de Cure. This benefit will bring together 200-plus influential
business professionals, community leaders and philanthropic donors to support the mission of NPF — in its efforts to cure psoriatic disease and improve the lives of those who are affected. 6 p.m., The Dalcy. In-person, psoriasis.org
Thresholds, Thresholds 2025 Gala: Expressions of Hope.This inspiring evening will celebrate the arts as a pathway to healing as we explore Thresholds' strength-based, trauma-informed creative arts programs — as well as how we create safe spaces for individuals and communities to flourish and recover. 5 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, thresholdsgala.org
WINGS Program, Inc., BLOSSOM Fashion Show.This Fashion Show fundraiser will be produced by Zzazz Productions and feature designer, Janet Mandell. We are excited to bring back Nigel Barker—an internationally renowned photographer—as our event host. He served 17 seasons as a photographer and judge on the hit TV show America’s Next Top Model. We will also honor our dear friend, Whitney Reynolds. Guests will enjoy drinks, appetizers and a special gift, too. 6 p.m., 21C Museum Hotel Chicago. In-person, tinyurl.com/3eu5849n
FRIDAY, APRIL 25
After School Matters, Sneaker Ball. Dress up your coolest kicks and get ready to party in style, while also supporting Chicago teens. A one-of-a-kind celebration, Sneaker Ball will feature performances and exhibitions by ASM's talented teens, live music, and delicious food and drinks. 7 p.m., Punch Bowl Social. Inperson, afterschoolmatters.org
Alliance for the Great Lakes, Adopt-a-Beach Spring Kickoff. Volunteer for a shoreline cleanup! You’ll give back to your community and keep plastic pollution out of the Great Lakes. Join a cleanup that’s already scheduled or host one of your own at your favorite Great Lakes beach or shoreline. Inperson, adopt.greatlakes.org
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Chicago, Big Bash. Young professionals and community leaders will gather for an unforgettable night of great fun, music, food, custom cocktails and casino games in Chicago’s West Loop. All proceeds will benefit
BBBSChi’s one-to-one mentoring programs. 6:30 p.m., Venue West. In-person, bbbschgo.org
Merit School of Music, Gala 2025. Join Merit for an unforgettable evening that will benefit equality and excellence in music education. Honoring Emanuel Ax and Richard L.Thomas for their contributions to the arts, the event is a can't-miss for Chicago music lovers. 6 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Inperson, meritmusic.org/gala
Misericordia Home, Misericordia Candy Days. Misericordia’s Annual Candy Days are held the final weekend of April each year. Thousands of volunteers and coordinators help spread Misericordia’s mission, while also collecting funds throughout the city, suburbs and online during the two-day event. 7 a.m., Misericordia Home. Hybrid (In-person and virtual), misericordia.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
CURE Epilepsy, Night of Discovery. An exciting evening of moving personal stories, incredible scientific advancement and fundraising for critical epilepsy research. Features a cocktail reception, a dinner, a program and entertainment. Inperson, cureepilepsy.org/annualbenefit
Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago, National Rebuilding Day. Volunteers repair the homes — and revitalize the communities — of homeowners in need. 7 a.m. Inperson, rebuildingtogether-chi.com
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Annual Gala. This premier event attracts top executives and business leaders for an evening filled with exciting auctions, live entertainment and heartwarming moments that inspire and connect us. 6 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, ronaldhousechicago.org/gala
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, 2025 Healthy Kids Day. Get ready for Healthy Kids Day 2025 at the YMCA! Join us for fun activities that boost kids’ and families’ physical and mental health. Discover new ways to stay active and enjoy free access
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to all Y community hubs. Local Community Hub. In-person, ymcachicago.org
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Blossoms of Hope Brunch. This event benefits the Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) Program. 11 a.m., Westin Chicago Lombard. In-person, catholiccharities.net/events/ blossoms-of-hope-brunch-2025
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30
American Cancer Society, Breaking Barriers: Celebrating Excellence in Female Leadership Luncheon. Join us at the Breaking Barriers Luncheon, which will benefit the American Cancer Society’s ResearcHERS movement — an initiative that funds womenled cancer research and addresses the underrepresentation of women in leadership. Union League Club of Chicago. In-person, acsbreakingbarriers.com
APRIL TBD
Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, 1st Annual Black Carpet Excellence in Media Awards Gala. Join us for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration, honoring excellence in Black media and highlighting those who continue to shape and redefine the industry with bold, authentic narratives in media, journalism and entertainment. 7 p.m., In-person, ilbcoc.org
supporting Josselyn's youth programs and services. The only nonprofit on Crain's Fast 50 list in 2024, Josselyn works to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality mental health care. 10 a.m., Evanston Golf Club. Inperson, josselyn.org
Marillac St. Vincent, Lumiere Gala.Join us for an evening of dining, live music and a live auction to honor this year's award recipients. Celebrate the contributions of individuals and organizations that are supporting Marillac St. Vincent's mission with over 300 community members. 6 p.m., Bridgeport Art Center. In-person, marillacstvincent.org/ upcoming-events
Teach For America Greater Chicago - Northwest Indiana, 25th Anniversary Gala. Celebrate 25 years of impact at the Teach For America Greater ChicagoNorthwest Indiana Gala! Join us to honor our progress and support the future of education, while also empowering students and educators to create lasting change in our community. 6 p.m., Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier. In-person, bit.ly/TFAGCNWI
FRIDAY, MAY 2
High Jump, A Spring of Opportunity – 35th Anniversary Bene t. Join over 500 guests to support our two‐year, tuition‐free, academic enrichment program for curious and motivated 7th and 8th-graders. Our event includes inspiring stories from students and alums, an exciting paddle raise and table service dining. 6 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, highjumpchicago.org/benefit
National Museum of Mexican Art, Gala de Arte. Hosted by its Board of Trustees, the Gala de Arte is the National Museum of Mexican Art’s annual black-tie benefit — critical in generating funding that ensures Chicago continues to boast a world-class museum of Mexican Art. 6 p.m., Hyatt Regency Chicago. In-person, nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/ events/galadearte
its science education and nature conservation initiatives. 6 p.m., Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences. In-person, naturemuseum.org/butterflyball
SATURDAY, MAY 3
Brightpoint, Hinsdale Auxiliary's 70th Annual Derby Day Party. Join us to watch the Kentucky Derby live on the big screen. Enjoy cocktails, followed by dinner and dancing, all while raising funds to support the work that’s being done across the state to support children and families. 4:30 p.m., Chicago Marriott Southwest at Burr Ridge. In-person, brightpoint. org/derbyday
The Dragon y Foundation Chicago, Night of Courage: Dragon y Derby. Dragonfly supports pediatric cancer patients and their families throughout the Chicagoland area. Join fellow supporters for a Derby night with an open bar, silent and live auctions, delicious food and more at our 4th annual Night of Courage! 7 p.m., Fields Lexus Glenview. Inperson, dragonfly.org.
Northern Illinois Food Bank, Fight Hunger 5K/Fun Run. A day filled with delicious food, fitness, fun and entertainment for the whole family. This event unites over 1,500 individuals of all ages and backgrounds in a shared mission to support our neighbors and cultivate vibrant, flourishing communities. 8 a.m., Cantigny Park. In-person, solvehungertoday.org/fighthunger
SUNDAY, MAY 4
JCYS, Wild for JCYS. Join us at the iconic Lion House at Lincoln Park Zoo for Wild for JCYS! Enjoy gourmet food, signature cocktails and an exciting auction — all to support JCYS’s early childhood education and leadership programs. Ages 21+. 5:30 p.m., Pepper Family Wildlife Center at Lincoln Park Zoo. In-person, jcys. org/wild
TUESDAY, MAY 6
Chicago State University, and raise funds for CWIP's professional development programs. 10:30 a.m., Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile. In-person, cwiponline.org
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
The Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation, 2025 Medical Brie ng Luncheon. The annual Medical Briefing Luncheon welcomes a panel of experts in the field of bipolar disorder for an informative and inspiring discussion and Q&A on scientific advancements, clinical best practices, and individual and family challenges. 11:30 a.m., The Casino. In-person, ryanlichtsangbipolarfoundation.org
WTTW | WFMT, Celebration 2025. While celebrating WTTW’s 70th anniversary, the WTTW and WFMT gala — chaired by Renée and Lester Crown — also celebrates our purpose to enrich lives, engage communities and inspire exploration. The evening includes cocktails, dinner and a dynamic performance. 6 p.m., Lyric Opera of Chicago. In-person, wttw.com/gala
THURSDAY, MAY 8
A Better Chicago, Grape + Grain Fine Wine and Spirits Charity Auction. Join us for Grape + Grain, an extraordinary evening that will feature dinner and an exciting auction with curated fine wines and spirits. Proceeds will go towards advancing A Better Chicago's mission to invest in innovative opportunities for Chicago's youth. 6 p.m., Theater on the Lake. In-person, abetterchicago.org/events/grapegrain-2025
Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, ¡VIVA!. A festive celebration of the school's mission to provide a Catholic, college-prep education and professional work experience for first-gen Latinx students. 5:30 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, cristorey.net/viva
THURSDAY, MAY 1
Josselyn, Josselyn’s Spring Luncheon in Cook County. Enjoy friends, boutique shopping and delicious food, while also
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, Butter y Ball 2025. Each spring, the Nature Museum hosts its annual Butterfly Ball — with all proceeds supporting
Chicago Women in Philanthropy, Making a Difference Annual Luncheon. Join CWIP and 500plus philanthropic and nonprofit leaders at the Marriott Magnificent Mile to honor Z. Scott, president of
Facing History & Ourselves, Facing History & Ourselves Chicago Spring Fundraiser. Facing History & Ourselves uses lessons of history to challenge teachers and students to stand
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ASSOCIATION ILLINOIS CHAPTER thanks these corporate partners for leading the way in the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia.
up to racism, antisemitism and other forms of bigotry and hate. Join us to support our work — sparking student engagement through teaching hard histories. 5 p.m., Venue SIX10. In-person, facinghistory.org
FRIDAY, MAY 9
Juvenile Protective Association (JPA), All in for Kids Spring Bene t. Our Spring Benefit is an unforgettable evening of elegance and philanthropy, filled with dinner, dancing, cocktails and exclusive auction packages to support JPA’s mission of providing mental health resources to children, along with the adults who support them. 6:30 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, jpachicago.org/spring-benefit
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Alzheimer's Association, Rita Hayworth Gala. Founded by Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, the Alzheimer’s Association Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala recognizes community leaders and raises awareness and funds in the fight against Alzheimer’s. For information and to purchase tickets, visit our website. 6:30 p.m., The Old Post Office. In-person, alz.org/ chicagogala
Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Steppenwolf Gala 2025. An unforgettable evening, kicking off Steppenwolf's 50th anniversary celebration! Join Steppenwolf’s famed ensemble at our stunning, expanded campus for cocktails, dancing, a live auction and a onenight-only performance honoring the theatre’s legacy. 6:30 p.m., Steppenwolf Theatre. In-person, steppenwolf.org/tickets--events/ events/gala-2025
MONDAY, MAY 12
The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center, 30th Annual Spring Luncheon. The Spring Luncheon has featured such prominent speakers as Madeleine Albright, Geena Davis and Brooke Shields, among others. Proceeds benefit The
Woman's Board Endowed Fund for Research and Clinical Trials at Rush, along with community engagement programs. 11 a.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, thewomansboard.org
TUESDAY, MAY 13
Music Institute of Chicago, Music Institute of Chicago Gala Bene t. The Gala — which supports financial aid and scholarships for music education throughout the Chicago area — features presentations of the Dushkin Award to Paquito D’Rivera, the Cultural Visionary Award to J. Thomas Hurvis and the Colburn Award to Sang Mee Lee. 5:30 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, musicinst.org/gala25
THURSDAY, MAY 15
Big Shoulders Fund, Big Shoulders Fund’s Humanitarian Award Dinner. This biennial, one-of-a-kind gala raises funds for scholarships, academic and enrichment programs, and more for nearly 20,000 Chicago-area students. This year's award recipients are longstanding Big Shoulders Fund supporters Kent and Liz Dauten. Marriott Marquis Chicago. In-person, bigshouldersfund.org
Designs 4 Dignity, Spirit of Design 25th Anniversary Gala. Enjoy an unforgettable evening with delicious food, craft cocktails, live auctions and entertainment, while also celebrating D4D’s mission to uplift the human spirit through design. In-person, designs4dignity.org/events/spiritof-design
Josselyn, Josselyn's Spring Luncheon in Lake County. Enjoy friends, boutique shopping and delicious food, while also supporting Josselyn's youth programs and services. The only nonprofit on Crain's Fast 50 list in 2024, Josselyn works to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality mental health care. 10 a.m., Northmoor Country Club. In-person, josselyn.org
VOA Illinois, Leadership Celebration. The Leadership Celebration highlights the unique challenges that are facing the individuals and families we serve, while also honoring the exceptional leadership of individuals who are standing up
for those who need it most. 11:30 a.m., The University Club. In-person, voaillinois.org/ leadership-celebration
FRIDAY, MAY 16
Cara Collective, The 10th Annual Cara Gala. Our signature fundraising event, The 10th Annual Cara Gala celebrates Cara Collective’s mission to eradicate poverty, while also uplifting and recognizing partners who are working to build a more inclusive economy for Chicago — and beyond. 6 p.m., Venue West. In-person, caragala.org
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Allendale, Hustle for Hope SUPERHERO 5K. Gear up, lace those superhero sneakers and prepare to unleash your inner hero at our multi-terrain 5K course around Allendale’s historic campus. Let’s show the Allendale kids and families the power of community and the strength of superhero spirit! 9 a.m., Allendale's Historic Lake Villa Campus. In-person, allendale4kids.org
GI Research Foundation, GI Research Foundation Annual Ball. The Ball celebrates research to cure, treat and prevent digestive diseases. This year’s Ball will include a cocktail reception, a dinner, special guests, a mission-centered program, music from the Gold Coast Allstars and more. 6 p.m., Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel. In-person, giresearchfoundation.org
Goodman Theatre, Centennial Gala. Chicago's flagship nonprofit theater celebrates its 100th anniversary! Kick off the centennial season with an unforgettable evening of dinner, dancing and performance by a celebrity entertainer. Proceeds benefit education and engagement programs. 6:30 p.m., The Fairmont Chicago. In-person, goodmantheatre.org
Make-A-Wish Illinois, Wish Ball. Exciting, inspiring and memorable — Wish Ball is a black-tie evening featuring celebrity entertainment, impactful wish moments and unique auctions. The largest fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Illinois to support local children with critical illnesses. 6 p.m., Navy Pier Grand Ballroom. In-person, wish.org/illinois
Ravinia Festival, Music Matters 2025. Music Matters — one of Chicago’s premier fundraisers — ensures that great music education remains accessible to students all over the Chicagoland area. Guests are hosted for an evening of drinks, dinner, auction and dancing by the Ravinia Associates. 5 p.m., Ravinia Festival. In-person, ravinia.org/ musicmatters
SUNDAY, MAY 18
WINGS Program, Inc., North Shore Ladies Luncheon. Supporters from the North Shore area will come together for a lovely afternoon to celebrate and learn about the work that’s being done by WINGS. We will have a notable emcee, and a WINGS graduate will share her story. Attendees are also encouraged to bring gently used clothing and accessories, which will be donated to WINGS Resale stores. Guests will enjoy champagne, cocktails and lunch as well. Westmoreland Country Club. In-person, wingsprogram.com
TUESDAY, MAY 20
Misericordia Home, The Artist in All. A silent auction and exhibition benefit, which is hosted by the Misericordia Siblings Association, features artwork created by talented Misericordia resident artists — with the assistance of staff and volunteers. 6 p.m., Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago. Inperson, artistinall.org
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
Northern Illinois Food Bank, A Taste That Matters. Join us for an evening that promises delicious food, great conversation and an extensive silent auction at the 13th annual A Taste That Matters, presented by Jewel-Osco! Proceeds ensure our neighbors receive the food and resources they need to thrive. 6 p.m., Drury Lane Theatre and Events. In-person, solvehungertoday.org/taste
NorthShore Hospitals Foundation, Part of Endeavor Health, 28th Annual Myra Rubenstein Weis Health Resource Center Bene t Luncheon. Getting Personal About Breast Health. Join us for an engaging panel discussion about
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a personalized approach to breast cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment, using genomics to guide the plan. Catherine E. Pesce, MD, FACS, is this year’s honoree. 10:30 a.m., Exmoor Country Club. In-person, foundation.northshore. org/mrw
THURSDAY, MAY 22
Women Employed, The Working Lunch. As one of Chicago’s premier spring events, The Working Lunch — Women Employed’s (WE) signature fundraiser — brings together nearly 1,000 activists, community partners and leaders in philanthropy, business, media and politics. Proceeds support WE’s work. 11 a.m., Hilton Chicago. Inperson, womenemployed.org/twl
SATURDAY, MAY 31
ALS United Greater Chicago, Walk ALS Chicago. Every step you take with Walk ALS Chicago fuels patient care, advocacy and groundbreaking research in the fight against ALS. Walk ALS is a vibrant community that comes together, builds bonds and supports one another every step of the way. 8 a.m., Cantigny Park. In-person, walkalschicago.org
The Joffrey Ballet, Adventures in Wonderland - Annual Celebration Honoring Anne L. Kaplan and Fred Eychaner. Eat, drink and dance the night away at The Joffrey Ballet’s annual celebration — and fall down the rabbit hole into the enchanting world of Wonderland. 7 p.m. In-person, joffrey.org
Leukemia Research Foundation, 2025 ABC7 Gibbons 5K Run and 3K Walk. Join us for a morning filled with fitness, food, music and fun! Hundreds of men, women and children unite to raise funds for leukemia research. The event includes a chip-timed 5K run and a 3K walk, followed by a party at Montrose Harbor. 8:30 a.m., Montrose Harbor. In-person, leukemiarf. org/gibbons5k
MAY TBD
Brightpoint (formerly Children's Home & Aid), Breaking Barriers. We put families and children at the forefront of every decision we make. We know prevention works, and we are committed to working with families before small problems become life-altering crises. Join us to learn more! Inperson, brightpoint.org/events
Metropolitan Family Services DuPage, A Night to Stand Up for Families. Features an engaging evening to empower and support families and individuals who are served by Metropolitan Family Services DuPage. Guests will enjoy program presentations, a silent auction, raffles, food, drinks and more. In-person, metrofamily. org/events/dupageevent
Timed Run, a 10K Skate or a 15K Bike. The 2025 event will be the 54th year that the fundraiser has been held! Arvey Field in Grant Park. In-person, walkrollchicago.org
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 2025 Art Auction. The 2025 Art Auction will feature a cocktail reception and viewing of the available works, followed by a seated dinner and a live auction. Proceeds from this event go towards the MCA’s exhibitions, acquisitions and platforming of living artists. 6:30 p.m., Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. In-person, mcachicago.org/ artauction2025
Union League Boys & Girls Clubs, 28th Annual Wine Dinner. An unforgettable evening of fine wine (a nationally acclaimed vineyard is set to be announced), gourmet cuisine, prepared by a Union League Club executive chef, and meaningful impact! 6 p.m., Union League Club. In-person, ulbgc.org
MONDAY, JUNE 9
SUNDAY, JUNE 1
Neighborhood Housing Service of Chicago, Neighborworks Month. In June — to commemorate Homeownership Month — NHS brings together corporate partners and elected officials to strengthen the communities we serve through volunteer events that beautify shared spaces across the entire Chicagoland area. 9 a.m. In-person, nhschicago.org/ neighborworks-day
MONDAY, JUNE 2
Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund, 36th Annual Golf Classic. Swing into action at Chicago’s premier golf event, which supports the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund! Join us for the 36th Annual Golf Classic — featuring seven exclusive North Shore golf courses — to make a meaningful impact in the lives of Murphy Scholars. 10 a.m., Exmoor Country Club. In-person, dmsf.org/golf.html
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
American Cancer Society, Walk & Roll Chicago. As Illinois’ longestrunning cancer fundraiser, Walk & Roll offers participants of all ages and skill levels a 5K Walk, a 5K
Association - Stagg Court. In-person, ascendjustice.org/ celebration-of-courage
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, 23rd Annual Leader Council Graduates’ Luncheon. Leading women in business and civic arenas help open doors to learning and opportunity for Mercy Home's young people, while also celebrating their academic achievements. 11 a.m., Hilton Chicago. In-person, mercyhome. org/crains-gradlunch
FRIDAY, JUNE 13
The Chicago Lighthouse, Seeing What's Possible Gala Bene t Concert. Join The Chicago Lighthouse at our Gala Benefit Concert! Proceeds support The Chicago Lighthouse’s 40 programs and services that help people who are blind, visually impaired and disabled, along with veterans, so that each can reach their full personal potential. 6 p.m., DePaul School of Music – Gannon Concert Hall. In-person, chicagolighthouse. org/event/gala
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
PAWS Chicago, Peter Fasseas Golf Open. The PAWS Chicago Peter Fasseas Golf Open offers a unique way to support homeless pets, while playing on a championship course. Enjoy on-course entertainment, cocktails, golf contests and photos with adoptable animals for a memorable day on the links. 10 a.m., Westmoreland Country Club. In-person, pawschicago.org/golf
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
Alliance for the Great Lakes, Great Blue Bene t. Enjoy the lakefront, live music, cocktails and a scrumptious buffet, while mingling with others who share a passion for clean water. Proceeds support our work to ensure the Great Lakes are clean, safe and accessible for all generations. 6 p.m., Columbia Yacht Club. Inperson, greatlakes.org/benefit2025
Ascend Justice, Celebration of Courage. Ascend Justice’s Celebration of Courage is an annual fundraiser that celebrates our supporters. We honor survivors, volunteers and mission champions, while also highlighting our legal advocacy, holistic services and dedication to empower survivors of abuse. 5 p.m., Chicago Athletic
Haymarket Center, Golf Outing. An opportunity to golf at the acclaimed, private The Dunes Club, located in New Buffalo, Mich., while also raising funds for our critical recovery services. 11 a.m., The Dunes Club. In-person, haymarketgolf.org
MONDAY, JUNE 23
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Lurie Children’s 65th Annual Pro-Am Golf Championship. The Founders’ Board will be hosting the 65th annual Pro Amateur Golf Championship. The Pro-Am is the most successful annual fundraising event in the Hospital’s history, as cumulative proceeds total nearly $34 million. 7 a.m., Onwentsia Club. In-person, luriechildrens.org/proam
THURSDAY, JUNE 26
DIFFA Chicago, Tale of the Tides. The rich mythology of the sea comes to life, immersing guests in the wonders of oceanic lore — from the sirens’ songs to Poseidon’s reign. 6 p.m., Castaways Beach Club. In-person, diffachicago.org
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TRILOGY, a Chicago-based mental health organization, can help your company or group strengthen essential skills around mental health topics through a FREE Mental Health Awareness Training.
Mental Health Awareness
TRILOGY’S Mental Health Awareness Training:
1.Increases awareness of the signs of mental illness.
2.Boosts skills and confidence to be a mental health ally.
Training is:
Training is a one-time, evidence-based training that will help your company or community group be better prepared to support people experiencing mental health challenges, including serious mental illness and emotional challenges, and be a mental health ally. GR REE, RIEF
NGAGING.
FREE, thanks to a grant from SAMHSA.
IEF – just 90 minutes
TRILOGY is a nonprofit
3.Grows knowledge so that YOU are better equipped to help people experiencing mental health challenges.
GREAT team-building opportunity for companies, congregations and community groups.
JUNE TBD
Chicago Parks Foundation, Green Teams Corporate Give Back.Our corporate clean-up program connects our team with yours for a personalized, two-hour clean-up experience at a park in need. CPF staff members will meet you onsite — with all supplies in hand — to lead your team through a trash pick-up or tree mulching. In-person, chicagoparksfoundation.org/ greenteams
Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, The Blue Gala Fundraiser. Join us for an unforgettable evening that celebrates progress, champions diversity and fuels the future of Black business. Together, we can pave the way for lasting impact and continued economic empowerment. 6:30 p.m. In-person, ilbcoc.org
National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, Walk for Kidneys. Patients, family members, physicians and supporters join together on Chicago's lake-front path for a day of empowerment and support to raise funds for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. 9 a.m. In-person, nkfi. org/walk
MONDAY, JULY 14
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Charities Golf Classic. The Charities Golf Classic benefits Catholic Charities’ programs and clients in Cook and Lake Counties. 10 a.m. In-person, catholiccharities.net/attend-anevent
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
DuPage Senior Citizens Council, Champions for Charity Golf Classic. DSCC will hold its 3rd Champions for Charity Golf Classic fundraiser in 2025. Participants can sign up as an event sponsor and/or join a golf foursome. Proceeds go towards services for seniors in DuPage and Kane Counties. 8 a.m., Cantigny Golf Club. In-person, dupageseniorcouncil.org/golf
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Golf Classic. Enjoy 18 holes of play with exciting contests, food and drinks, and an exclusive gift. Cap off the day with a cocktail reception — where camaraderie meets cause and top executives and business leaders come together to make an impact. 8 a.m., Cog Hill Golf & Country Club. In-person, ronaldhousechicago.org/golf
THURSDAY, JULY 17
PAWS Chicago, Beach Party. Set at Offshore Rooftop, Beach Party brings together good friends, unparalleled views, dogs in their finest beachwear, dinner, dancing, and live and silent auctions — all to benefit Chicago's homeless and at-risk pets. 6 p.m., Offshore Rooftop. In-person, pawschicago. org/beachparty
SUNDAY, JULY 27
SUNDAY, JULY 13
Ravinia Festival, Gala Bene t. An unforgettable evening of music, elegance and giving back! Enjoy a performance by Sutton Foster and Kelli O'Hara with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Marin Alsop, along with a private reception and gourmet dinner, while also supporting Ravinia’s music education programs. 4:30 p.m., Ravinia Festival. In-person, ravinia.org/galabenefit
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30
Cradles to Crayons, BackpackA-Thon. Join us, along with over 750 civically minded volunteers, to pack brand-new school supplies into backpacks for tens of thousands of local children in need. 10 a.m., Wintrust Arena. In-person, cradlestocrayons.org/ chicago/the-latest/events/readyfor-learning
JULY TBD
Chicago Parks Foundation, Play for the Parks Golf Invitational. Enjoy 18 holes of golf on Chicago's historic Jackson Park Golf Course, plus lunch, dinner, an open bar, giveaways, a raffle, prizes and networking — all in support of the Chicago parks. Jackson Park Golf Course. In-person, chicagoparksfoundation.org/golf
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Kicking for the House. Lace up your cleats for a fun-filled soccer tournament with friends, coworkers or teammates! Enjoy the chance to play alongside local pro club members, take part in family-friendly activities and make memories! 12 p.m. In-person, ronaldhousechicago.org/kicking
Fields Country Club. In-person, bigshouldersfund.org
National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, Middle Market Open Golf Tournament. This elite golf tournament is played on four golf courses simultaneously and culminates in a celebratory reception with fabulous prizes. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois’ life-saving work. 11 a.m., North Shore Golf Courses (Onwentsia, Lake Shore, Northmoor and Skokie Country Clubs). In-person, nkfi.org/middlemarket-open
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
Chicago Dance Health Fund, Dance for Life 2025. Dance for Life showcases Chicago’s variety of dance, as it presents professional companies and dancers together for one night, in order to support the Chicago Dance Health Fund, which provides financial support for preventive health care and critical medical needs. 6 p.m., Performance: The Auditorium; After Party: Venue SIX10. Inperson, cdhf.org
MONDAY, AUGUST 18
National Museum of Mexican Art, Copitas de Sol: A Spirited Mixer. Join the Museum’s Auxiliary Board, in partnership with S.A.C.R.E.D., and explore the world of agave spirits. Enjoy delicious bites, music and more. We’ll be pairing agave spirits with Chicago’s best restaurants. Come fill up your copita with us! 1 p.m., National Museum of Mexican Art. In-person, nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1
Leukemia Research Foundation, 24th Annual Angels in the Fairway Golf Outing. Hosted by the Joey's Angels chapter of the Leukemia Research Foundation, this event welcomes nearly 600 participants annually at Lake Geneva, Wisc.’s Grand Geneva Resort. 7:30 a.m., Grand Geneva Resort. In-person, bit. ly/3NNFiRM
MONDAY, AUGUST 4
Big Shoulders Fund, Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic. Enjoy a day on the links while raising money for the Friends of Big Shoulders Fund Scholarship, which supports over 400 Chicago students annually. Friendly competitions keep things lively on the course, and dinner features live and silent auctions. Olympia
Northern Illinois Food Bank, Hunger Scramble Golf Outing. Join us for the 27th Annual Hunger Scramble Golf Outing, presented by Old Second National Bank. This shotgun, scramblestyle golf outing features oncourse tastings, giveaways and scenic views, followed by a fun reception. 9 a.m., White Eagle Golf Club. In-person, solvehungertoday.org/golf
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
American Cancer Society, Skyline Soiree. The Associate Board of Ambassador’s annual gala — Skyline Soiree — is Chicago’s premier young professional celebration, which raises funds to support the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving mission. Rockwell on the River. In-person, acsaboa.org/our-galas
MONDAY, AUGUST 25
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Chicago, Big Golf Tournament 2025. Join us for a remarkable day of golfing, friendly competition and networking. We invite you to
seize this incredible opportunity to showcase your golfing prowess, connect with fellow enthusiasts and contribute to a life-changing cause. 10 a.m., River Forest Country Club. In-person, bbbschgo.org
AUGUST TBD
Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, Reimagine Business Expo and Job Fair. A dynamic event designed to empower and connect entrepreneurs, job seekers and industry professionals. This event brings together corporate buyers, hiring managers and employment agencies to create valuable opportunities. 9 a.m., In-person, ilbcoc.org
Ronald McDonald House
Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Red Shoe Brew. Raise your glass and join Red Shoe Society Chicago for another unforgettable evening! Enjoy delicious food and drink tastings from some of Chicago’s favorite spots, along with live music and games as you soak in the fun. In-person, ronaldhousechicago.org/ redshoebrew
Special Olympics Illinois, Chicago Ducky Derby. This beloved fundraising event features 100,000 rubber ducks splashing down from the Columbus Drive Bridge, as spectators watch them race along the Chicago River. A festival in Pioneer Court continues the celebration to support inclusion. Downtown Chicago. In-person, chicagoduckyderby.com
Josselyn, Josselyn's 16th Annual Spring Luncheon.
Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, ¡VIVA!. Photo: Tricia Koning Photography
e Dragon y Foundation Chicago, Night of Courage: Dragon y Derby. Photo: Shay James Photography
National Psoriasis Foundation, Fleur de Cure 2024.
e Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation, 2024 Medical Brie ng Luncheon. Photo: Robin Subar
Facing History & Ourselves, School Visit at Bogan High.
Brightpoint, 69th Annual Derby Day. Photo: Icon 3 Studios.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
ALS United Greater Chicago, The ALS Classic, presented by The Hartford. You’re invited to the 19th Annual ALS Classic, presented by The Hartford, at the beautiful Cog Hill Golf & Country Club! Enjoy a day of golf and fun that supports our local ALS community and pushes forward our mission to find a cure. 11:30 a.m., Cog Hill Golf & Country Club. In-person, alsunitedchicago.org/ get-involved/the-als-classic
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
Near South Planning Board, Harold Washington Literary Award Dinner. The literary gala recognizes diverse and stimulating authors who address issues of contemporary life — and whose literary achievements include a significant body of work that has touched the public mind and imagination. 6 p.m., Union League Club of Chicago. In-person, thenspb.org/our-events/haroldwashington-literary-award-dinner
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
Misericordia Home, Misericordia Family Fest. Family Fest welcomes thousands of guests and volunteers to the Misericordia campus each year for great food, entertainment, children’s games and more! All proceeds benefit the residents of Misericordia. Fun for the whole family! 11 a.m., Misericordia Home campus. In-person, misericordia.com
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
American Writers Museum, OnWord. OnWord — the American Writers Museum's annual benefit — raises funds to support the American Writers Museum’s educational and cultural programming. 6 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, bit.ly/4epTFHp
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
Brightpoint (formerly Children's Home & Aid), Brightpoint Bene t. Hosted by the Metropolitan Board of Brightpoint, this cocktail party
will highlight one of Brightpoint's programs that advances the wellbeing of children by investing in families. In-person, brightpoint. org/events
New Moms, New Moms Golf Outing. Will you join us and tee up for bright futures? You won't want to miss New Moms’ 2025 Golf Outing. Celebrate over four decades of New Moms and our mission to uplift young families. Harborside International Golf Center. In-person, newmoms.org
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
The Les Turner ALS Foundation, The Les Turner ALS Walk For Life. A two-mile walk along the lakefront, raising money and awareness for people who are living with ALS, as well as their families. 9:30 a.m., Soldier Field. In-person, lesturnerals.org
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Gateway Foundation, “Connecting for Recovery” Bene t Luncheon. Hosted by the Gateway Charitable Foundation Board, this annual benefit luncheon raises funds that will support the Foundation’s impactful work of helping people build healthier lives — by reducing substance use and other addictions, while also improving mental health. 11 a.m. In-person, gatewayfoundation.org/annual benefit
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Sporting Clays. Experience an exhilarating day at this private, premier clay target facility. Enjoy the thrill of sporting clays, side event games, a delicious cookout lunch, and exclusive raffles and silent auction packages that are tailored for clays enthusiasts. 9 a.m., Northbrook Sports Club. In-person, ronaldhousechicago.org/clays
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Alliance for the Great Lakes, Adopt-a-Beach and International Coastal Cleanup. Volunteer for a shoreline cleanup! You’ll give back to your community and keep plastic pollution out of the Great Lakes. Join a cleanup that’s already scheduled or host one of your
own at your favorite Great Lakes beach or shoreline. In-person, adopt.greatlakes.org
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Lurie Children's Corporate Cup. Corporate teams engage in friendly competition across various events to raise funds for Lurie Children’s. The ultimate prize? The coveted Corporate Cup. Join us for a blend of community impact and corporate team-building — an event like no other! 10 a.m., Montrose Harbor. In-person, luriechildrens.org/corporatecup
Saint Ignatius College Prep, Saint Ignatius College Prep 39th Annual Golf Classic for Tuition Assistance. At the Saint Ignatius College Prep Golf Classic for Tuition Assistance, nearly 500 golfers take over all four courses at Cog Hill Golf & Country Club during a day of friendship to support our students. The beloved tradition is celebrating its 39th anniversary! 10 a.m., Cog Hill Golf & Country Club. In-person, ignatius.org/giving/annual-golfclassic
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Big Shoulders Fund, Big Shoulders Fund Ball. Enjoy a night with our Next Generation Boards and friends at our annual gala. This event raises money for scholarships and features student performances and interactive ways to connect with Big Shoulders Fund’s mission of helping students thrive. In-person, bigshouldersfund.org
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
Blessings in a Backpack, Blessings Golf and Tennis Classic. This annual golf and tennis event raises funds to feed hungry children on weekends. 10 a.m., Exmoor Country Club. In-person, chicago. blessingsinabackpack.org
SEPTEMBER TBD
After School Matters, After School Matters Gala 2025. After School Matters’ annual Gala raises funds that support Chicago teens as they explore their potential and find their futures. Guests will enjoy interactive teen program displays, teen
musical performances and a speaking program. In-person, afterschoolmatters.org
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Art of Caring. The Catholic Charities Women’s Board of Lake County hosts this signature fundraiser, which will bring together civic, philanthropic and community donors as they support Catholic Charities, along with its critical programs and services in Cook and Lake Counties. In-person, catholiccharities.net/attend-anevent
Chicago Parks Foundation, Run for the Parks! 5K Run, Walk and Roll. Join us for our 3rd annual 5K on the Lakefront Trail or a guided 1-Mile Burnham Wildlife Corridor Nature Walk. Enjoy our Post-Race Pancake Party, plus refreshments, a DJ, lawn games, awards and community fun — all while supporting Chicago's parks. Burnham Park at 31st Street Beach. In-person, chicagoparksfoundation.org/run
PAWS Chicago, PAWS Chicago 5K. The PAWS Chicago 5K is a day filled with giveaways, a dog agility course and pet spa, fun photo ops, raffles, treats and meeting other pet lovers. The 5K is PAWS's largest gathering of the year, as it raises critical funds and awareness for homeless pets. 7:30 a.m., Montrose Harbor – Grove 16. Inperson, pawschicago.org/5k
The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center, 2025 Fall Bene t. The annual Fall Benefit is a celebratory evening that raises funds for the Woman’s Board’s efforts in support of Rush's education, medical research and community service programs. In-person, thewomansboard.org
Steppenwolf eatre Company, Steppenwolf Gala 2024. Photo: Kyle Flubacker
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3
Chicago Loop Alliance and Foundation's 20th Annual Gala. The Annual Gala gathers supporters together to celebrate the Loop’s rich cultural amenities and its continued transformation, due to the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation’s work — through award-winning programs and projects like Sundays on State. 6 p.m. In-person, loopchicago.com/ events/annual-gala
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter, Walk to End Alzheimer's, Chicago. An inspiring annual event held in communities nationwide, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care, support and research. Participants of all ages join the fight against the disease. 8 a.m., Lincoln Park, South Fieldhouse. In-person, alz.org/illinois
WINGS Program, Inc., WINGS 25th Annual Purple Tie Ball. Raise a glass with us as we commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month and celebrate our survivors, who are now hopeful, free and thriving. The evening will include a cocktail reception, dinner and a program, a live auction, spectacular raffle prizes, mesmerizing entertainment and a presentation by our David K. Hill award recipient. 6 p.m. Hybrid (In-person and virtual), wingsprogram.com
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9
Alzheimer's Association, Memory Rock. This annual concert benefit electrifies River North with live, local bands, an open bar and an exciting silent auction. Guests enjoy an unforgettable night of music, mingling and a chance to support a meaningful cause. 6 p.m., Tunnel. In-person, memoryrockchicago.com
Giordano Dance Company, 18th Annual “Dancing With The Giordano Stars” Competition Bene t. This popular event — patterned after the hit ABC series
Dancing With The Stars — teams GDC professional dancers with partners from the Who’s Who of Chicago’s civic, social and business communities as they vie for honors before a panel of celebrity judges. 7 p.m., Park West. In-person, giordanodance.org
NorthShore Hospitals Foundation, part of Endeavor Health, MRW Leadership Board's Play To Prevent. Join us for our 3rd annual Play To Prevent. Bring your game of choice (such as canasta or mahjong) for your group of four — we’ll supply the lunch! Casual dress, including jeans, is welcome. Contact mrwleadershipboard@gmail.com for more information. 10 a.m., The Birchwood Club. In-person, bit. ly/3CkBZjd
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12
ALS United Greater Chicago, Team ALS runs the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Over 200 athletes will take on the annual Bank of America Chicago Marathon — in support of the ALS community through ALS United Greater Chicago. Join our cheer station and support the nation’s largest ALS charity team. 7 a.m. In-person, alsunitedchicago.org/ get-involved/run-to-defeat-als
The Les Turner ALS Foundation, Team Race for ALS Bank of America Chicago Marathon. We're racing for a cure! Limited entries into the Chicago Marathon are available through our team each year, or you can join Team Race for ALS and fundraise with your own marathon entry. 7:30 a.m., Grant Park. In-person, lesturnerals.org
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Join one of the biggest and best charity teams for this epic race and help provide critical funds for the children of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. You’ll receive an 18-week training program, a jersey and more. Heroes go 26.2 miles — no matter what! 7:30 a.m., Grant Park. In-person, mercyhome.org/ runcrains
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, Visionary: Celebrating Leadership in the Arts. MCA Chicago’s Visionary Luncheon celebrates arts education philanthropy
leadership in Chicago, in addition to highlighting women artists’ work. Event proceeds support the MCA’s Learning Programs, which reach thousands of students and teachers each year. 11 a.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, mcachicago. org/visionary
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16
DIFFA Chicago, Art for Life. The rich mythology of the sea comes to life, immersing guests in the wonders of oceanic lore — from the sirens’ songs to Poseidon’s reign. 6 p.m., Castaways Beach Club. In-person, diffachicago.org
Gar eld Park Conservatory Alliance, Fleurotica. A runway show, featuring breathtaking garments made entirely from plants, flowers and natural materials. All proceeds benefit the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance’s nature education programs at the Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens. 6 p.m., Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens. Hybrid (In-person and virtual), garfieldconservatory.org/ fleurotica
Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago, Paint the Town. An evening to celebrate the organization's impact, while also raising support and funds that will help more families have safe, healthy and affordable homes! 6:30 p.m., Marshall's Landing. Inperson, rebuildingtogether-chi.com
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
Chicago Architecture Center, Open House Chicago. Open House Chicago is a free public festival that offers behind-thescenes access to architecturally, historically and culturally significant sites throughout Chicago, plus events and programs at the sites. In-person, architecture.org/open-housechicago
Uniting Voices Chicago, Red Jacket Optional Gala. We can’t wait to welcome you to Uniting Voices’ Red Jacket Optional gala — Chicago's most uplifting fundraising event. Make a profound impact on the future of Chicago’s youth, while enjoying an evening of showstopping musical performances. 6 p.m., The Geraghty. In-person, unitingvoiceschicago.org/events
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
The Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation, INSIGHTS VIII. INSIGHTS VIII — an art exhibition featuring the work of artists with bipolar disorder — highlights the creativity that often accompanies this illness and seeks to reduce the stigma that’s associated with it through awareness and understanding. 5 p.m., Zolla/ Lieberman Gallery. In-person, ryanlichtsangbipolarfoundation.org
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, 2025 Recognition Dinner. Celebrate our collective impact at the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s Annual Recognition Dinner. Join us to honor the game changers that are transforming our communities, continuously fostering vibrant neighborhoods and championing such transformation. 6:30 p.m. Inperson, ymcachicago.org
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24
Breakin’ It Down, a scal sponsorship project of Mujeres Latinas en Accion, 2025 Breakin’ It Down Conference. We seek to advance racial equity in nonprofits, philanthropy and fundraising. This oneday event uses an interactive agenda with speakers, plenary panels, workshops, an awards ceremony and its signature Speed Networking with Funders. 9 a.m., Malcolm X College. In-person, breakinitdownchicago.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
Misericordia Home, Heart of Mercy Ball. The 2025 Heart of Mercy Ball is a black-tie affair that features cocktails, awards, dinner and dancing to a live band at the Hilton Chicago! The Ball benefits the children and adults with developmental disabilities who call Misericordia home. 6 p.m., Hilton Chicago. In-person, heartofmercyball.org
Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago, Make a Difference Day. Volunteers come together to help repair the homes of homeowners who are in need. 7 a.m. In-person, rebuildingtogether-chi.com Special Olympics Illinois, Champions Ball. This annual black-tie gala for Special Olympics Illinois raises crucial funds for the life-changing programs
that support individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports, health programming and personal development. The Geraghty. In-person, soillchampionsball.org
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
Skills for Chicagoland's Future, Employment Champions Breakfast. An annual event, the Employment Champions Breakfast celebrates partners who help connect job seekers with opportunities. It raises funds to support their mission of reducing unemployment in the Chicagoland area. 7:30 a.m., Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. In-person, skillsforchicagolandsfuture.com/ events/employment-championsbreakfast
OCTOBER TBD
American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Chicago. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement. Join us to celebrate breast cancer survivors, thrivers and caregivers for a day of celebration. Soldier Field Stadium Green. In-person, makingstrideswalk.org/chicagoil
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Chicago, Night of Champions. Wear your favorite team jersey and join us for this "un-gala" gala, which features live music, food and drinks, tailgate-themed games and lots of fun — all in support of BBBSChi's mission! 6:30 p.m., Venue West. In-person, bbbschgo.org
Field of Dreams Visionary Center, Inc., Monte Cristo Masquerade at the Mansion. A glamorous and enchanting fundraiser hosted by an award-winning agency — in a beautifully immersive atmosphere at a mansion. Enjoy a night of elegance and purpose, where every mask that’s lifted brings hope to our communities. 7 p.m. In-person, fodvc.org
Grant Park Music Festival, 13th Annual Advocate for the Arts Awards Bene t. Civic leaders join friends of the Festival for this annual event, which supports the Festival's 10-week season of free concerts held at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. In addition, they underwrite Festival Connect, the Festival’s education and community engagement initiative. Fairmont
Chicago Millenium Park. In-person, grantparkmusicfestival.com
Legal Aid Society of Metropolitan Family Services, Equal Access to Justice Award Luncheon.The Equal Access to Justice Award Luncheon supports the Legal Aid Society of Metropolitan Family Services’ critical legal services, which it provides to thousands of clients. Furthermore, it celebrates the pro bono contributions that make its services possible. Inperson, metrofamily.org/events/ legal-aid-luncheon
National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, Gift of Life Gala. This stylish soiree celebrates its 40th anniversary, while bringing together physicians, policy makers, business leaders and patients to raise funds for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois’ life-saving work. 6 p.m. In-person, nkfi.org/gala
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 2025 Art Auction
Chicago Women in Philanthropy, 2024
CWIP Annual Luncheon. Photo: Lynn
Renee Photography
Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Neighborworks Day. Photo: NHS Chicago
e Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center, 29th Annual Spring Luncheon. Photo: Lydia Ziegler
Alliance for the Great Lakes, Great Blue Bene t. Photo: Alyce Henson, courtesy, Alliance for the Great Lakes
National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, 2024 Middle Market Open, Skokie CC.
Photo: Nancy Wong
Chicago Dance Health Fund, Dance for Life 2024. Photo: Purple Photo Group
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
Blessings in a Backpack, Do-It-Yourself 5K.The world's greatest 5K — participate in your own place, at your own pace. 8 a.m., at a convenient location near you. In-person, chicago. blessingsinabackpack.org
Union League Boys & Girls Clubs, Blue Door Gala.The annual Blue Door Gala features a festive cocktail reception, dinner, dancing and live blues music. Wear your favorite blue accessory or fashion to celebrate our youth and the difference that Union League Boys & Girls Clubs make. 5:30 p.m., Union League Club. In-person, ulbgc.org
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Glow of Hope Brunch. The Women’s Board of the House of the Good Shepherd invites you to the annual Glow of Hope Brunch, which benefits the House of the Good Shepherd. In-person, catholiccharities.net/attend-anevent
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6
Big Shoulders Fund, Big Shoulders Fund Lend a Shoulder Day. Experience Big Shoulders Fund’s mission by spending time in one of our schools. You’ll meet students and school staff, while also participating in activities like science experiments, judging a poetry slam or being treated to a student performance. In-person, bigshouldersfund.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Cradles to Crayons, Un-Gala. Join us for the 10th Annual UnGala and help keep Chicagoland kids safe and warm this winter! This fantastically fun, family-friendly event includes entertainment, food, drinks, volunteering and special surprises. 10 a.m., Cradles to Crayons. In-person, cradlestocrayons.org/ chicago/ungala
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, Mercy Home Lux Gala. Don't miss Mercy Home for Boys & Girls'
signature fall gala in the exquisitely restored art deco interior of Chicago’s Old Post Office. Be immersed in an unforgettable evening of splendor at this architectural gem in the city. 6 p.m., The Old Post Office. In-person, mercyhome.org/crains-lux
National Museum of Mexican Art, Día de los Muertos: Love Never Dies Ball. Join the Museum’s Auxiliary Board for a festive Day of the Dead celebration in remembrance of our departed loved ones. Enjoy a spectacular fall event with live music, delicious culinary treats, beverages and more — all in support of the Museum. 6 p.m., National Museum of Mexican Art. In-person, nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
The Les Turner ALS Foundation, All in for ALS Casino Night. Try your luck at the tables, bid on auction items, enjoy tasty appetizers and snap pictures while raising money for the Les Turner ALS Foundation — the leader in comprehensive ALS care in Chicagoland. 6 p.m., East Bank Club Chicago. In-person, lesturnerals.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
PAWS Chicago, Fur Ball. The PAWS Chicago Fur Ball is Chicago’s premier pet-friendly black-tie event! This unique gala invites guests to dress their pets in four-legged formal wear and walk the red carpet for an exciting celebration, which will benefit PAWS Chicago. 6 p.m., The Drake Hotel. In-person, pawschicago. org/furball
NOVEMBER TBD
American Cancer Society, Taste of Hope.Taste of Hope brings award-winning chefs and Chicago foodies together to celebrate the American Cancer Society's progress in the fight against cancer. The event has raised over $4 million to support our goal of eliminating cancer. Aon Ballroom at Navy Pier. In-person, chicagotasteofhope.org
Metropolitan Family Services, Mpower the Night. Mpower the Night celebrates families and communities “Mpowered” by Metropolitan Family Services!
The evening will include a cocktail reception, dinner, a silent auction, a raffle, presentations of the Legacy Award and Corporate Champion Award, and an afterparty. In-person, metrofamily.org/ events/mpower-the-night
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball.This ball is one of Chicago’s most popular black-tie galas of the Christmas season. Gather your friends and family members for a festive evening of dinner and dancing. Hilton Chicago. In-person, catholiccharities.net/attend-anevent
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10
Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago, Housewarming Party. Sponsor a home to work in for National Rebuilding Day. 5:30 p.m. In-person, rebuildingtogether-chi.com
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
WINGS Program, Inc., WINGS Sweet Home Chicago. This family holiday brunch fundraiser includes activities such as gingerbread house decorating, a balloon artist, ornament decorating, visiting Santa and K-9 Comfort Dogs, and a special music performance by Ralph’s World. 10 a.m., Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. In-person, wingsprogram.com
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, Sporting Clays.
e Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center, 2024 Fall Bene t.
Photo: Robin Subar
Misericordia Home, Heart of Mercy Ball. Photo: Sean Brady
Announcing the 2024-25 Fellows
The Chicago Leadership Circle is an eight-month program designed for business leaders seeking to understand Chicago’s interconnected economies and to imagine the region’s prosperous and inclusive future.
Cora Buckle Manager Direct Marketing Campaigns Feeding America
Eugene Humphrey Executive Director Human Resources Development Institute
April Morgan Chief of Staff to the Board Chicago Transit Authority
Victor Ramos Assistant General Counsel Sikich LLC
Heather Eddy President and CEO KEES
Pasquale laconetti Global Account Executive Workforce Dell Technologies
Cynthia Noble Executive Director, ART on THE MART Vornado Arts
Joli Robinson CEO Center on Halsted
Carlos Vazquez CEO GoSprout
Allecia Harley Founder and CEO IntuWork Consulting
LaVon Johns Equity Partner Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP
Mark Potter Provost & Chief Academic Of cer City Colleges of Chicago
Lesley Roth Principal Lamar Johnson Collaborative
Brandy Walker Director of Development and Marketing Community Counseling Centers of Chicago
John Heiderscheidt Owner & Managing Attorney Heiderscheidt Law Group, LLC
Thomas McElroy II President & CEO Level-1 Global Solutions, LLC
Ari Rakic Director of Business Sales Management WestWard360
Erin Steva Vice President of External Affairs Chicago State University
Laura Zumdahl President & CEO New Moms
The Fellowship is a joint initiative of Crain’s Chicago Business and the University of Chicago Graham School.
2025 Meeting & Events Guide
EVENT VENUES
101 CLUB
Magni cent Mile
101 E Erie St, Chicago, IL 60611
312-667-6800
events@roanokehospitality.com
101club.com/private-events
Capacity: 170 seated, 300 standing
Choose 101 Club to elevate your next gathering. A collection of vibrant and exciting new restaurants, offering bars, rooftop, live music, al fresco dining, and event center all on Chicago’s Mag Mile. Exclusive private and semi-private event spaces and personalized service set the stage for unforgettable events. From boardrooms to private dining rooms, we have spaces perfect for professional meetings, intimate celebrations and large receptions.
BANDOL BRASSERIE
Loop
100 W. Monroe St. Chicago, IL 60603
312-877-5713
bandolrestaurant.com
Capacity: 84 seated, 135 standing
Planning an event in 2025? The newest edition of Crain's Content Studio's Meeting & Events Guide presents a diverse array of venue options and event service providers, from iconic cultural landmarks to cutting-edge spaces and culinary-driven experiences. Whether you're hosting a corporate meeting, a vibrant celebration, or a private gathering, this guide will help you discover the perfect setting and resources to create an unforgettable occasion.
CANAL STREET EATERY
West Loop
314 S. Canal St., Chicago, IL 60606
312-967-5775
events@canalstreetchicago.com
canalstreetchicago.com
Capacity: 120 seated, 200 standing
Whether you're planning a corporate event, holiday party, or wedding, Canal Street Eatery is the perfect backdrop. From intimate gatherings in our sleek private dining room to large celebrations in our airy restaurant overlooking the largest public park in the Business District, our versatile spaces can accommodate your needs. Situated in the West Loop across from Union Station, we offer Italianinspired cuisine, covered parking in the same building, and an experienced team ready to assist.
MASTERING THE DETAILS
CHEZ CHICAGO
Streeterville
247 E Ontario Street – 2nd FL., Chicago, IL 60611
312-971-7922
info@chez-chicago.com
chezeventvenue.com
Capacity: 200 seated (with dance oor), 300 standing
Chez, Chicago’s Premiere Event Venue – Where Technology Meets Elegance! Chez is the ideal choice for corporate events, weddings, private celebrations, pop-ups and more! With a state-ofthe-art sound system, intelligent lighting, and a massive 40-foot LED wall, Chez elevates every event to the next level! This contemporary loft space features white-painted brick walls and columns, surrounding a stunning glass staircase, a blank canvas that can be easily transformed for any event type.
From catering menus to audiovisual needs, attention to detail ensures your event runs smoothly. Organizing each task in advance helps you stay on top of every element.
30,000 SQ. FT. OF MEETING SPACE UNDER ONE ROOF WITH HOTEL
25 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN INDIANAPOLIS
5,000+
30 MINUTES FROM THE INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
$
EVENT VENUES
CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM
Old Town Triangle
1601 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614
312-799-2254
chicagohistory.org
Capacity: 300 indoors & 700 outdoors seated, 1,200 standing
Sip cocktails next to one of Chicago’s rst L cars. Dance the night away against a backdrop of Lincoln Park’s lush gardens and the glittering lights of the city skyline. Tucked along the grounds of Lincoln Park, steps from the lake and a short cab ride from downtown, the Chicago History Museum offers a variety of spaces that can be used for corporate events, daytime meetings, cocktail receptions, or just about any type of event.
CITY CRUISES CHICAGO
Streeterville
455 N Cityfront Plaza Drive, Chicago, IL, 60611 312-321-1241
chicago.rfp@cityexperiences.com citycruises.com/Chicago Capacity: 570 seated, 749 standing
City Cruises offers memorable experiences on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, including dining cruises, architectural tours, and speedboat rides. Dining options range from upscale plated menus to casual buffets, each with DJ entertainment. Host corporate events such as team-building outings, holiday parties, and client entertainment on the water. With ve vessels departing from Navy Pier and the River Esplanade, City Cruises provides exceptional dining and breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline—perfect for any gathering.
EDEN Avondale
2734 West Roscoe Street, Chicago, IL 60618
312-366-2294
eat@edeninchicago.com
edeninchicago.com
Capacity: Cocktail, 75-150; Seated 18-100
GRILL ON 21
Financial District
208 S. LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60604, Floor 21 312-634-0000
grillon21.com/meetings
Capacity: 110 seated, 150 standing
Grill on 21 is located on the 21st oor of the Lasalle Chicago, in the heart of the Financial District. Enjoy city views and natural light from our top oor venues, including an Executive Boardroom, private dining room, pre-function corridor, solarium rooms, meeting spaces and stunning grand ballroom. Grill on 21 pairs sophistication, culinary expertise and concierge-level service, making it the ideal destination for your next social gathering, board meeting, wedding, or celebration.
MERIDIAN BANQUETS & CONFERENCE CENTER
1701 W Algonquin Rd, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
847-952-8181
sales@meridianbanquets.com
meridianbanquets.com
Capacity: 550 seated, 750 standing
Meridian Banquets provides the ideal setting for your next company meeting, holiday party, or training event. With exceptional cuisine, versatile event spaces, and dedicated team, we’re committed to making your event a success. Conveniently located just outside Chicago and close to O’Hare airport, Meridian offers a professional atmosphere and easy accessibility.
JAKE MELNICK’S CORNER TAP
Streeterville
41 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
312-266-0400
JMCTevents@levyrestaurants.com jakemelnicks.com/private-events
Capacity: 200 seated, 400 standing
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
CHICAGO
Streeterville 220 E. Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 312-397-4017
events@mcachicago.org
mcachicago.org/rentals
Capacity: 300 seated, 900 standing
MAPLE & ASH
Gold Coast
8 W. Maple St., Chicago, IL 60610
773-377-8847
events@mapleandash.com mapleandash.com/reserve/#events
Capacity: 300 standing, 200 seated
Add an artful twist to your next event! Conveniently located near Michigan Avenue, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago provides a sophisticated and distinct setting for your company’s gathering. Featuring spacious and exible accommodations amongst some of the most important art of our time, the MCA provides the perfect backdrop for a truly contemporary event that will impress and inspire creativity among colleagues. Why settle for ordinary?
CHOOSING THE PERFECT VENUE
The right venue sets the tone for your event. Consider accessibility, capacity, and amenities when selecting the space that will wow your attendees.
Steps from the lake, nestled in the Gold Coast, the Chicago History Museum is the perfect location for large staff meetings, presentations in a cinema quality theater, intimate collaborations, and lively cocktail receptions.
His tory, inspired
His tory, inspired .
Steps from the lake, nestled in the Gold Coast, the Chicago History Museum is the perfect location for large staff meetings, presentations in a cinema quality theater, intimate collaborations, and lively cocktail receptions.
& North | chicagohistory.org
| events@chicagohistory.org
Steps from the lake, nestled in the Gold the Chicago History Museum is the location for large staff meetings, presentations , intimate collaborations, and lively cocktail receptions. chicagohistory.org events@chicagohistory
Steps from the lake, nestled in the Gold Coast, is the perfect location for large staff meetings, presentations , intimate collaborations, and lively cocktail receptions.
Clark & North | chicagohistory.org
312.799.2254 | events@chicagohistory.org T
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| chicagohistory.org
ry, inspired
| events@chicagohistory.org
Steps from the lake, nestled Chicago History Museum location for large staff meetings, a cinema quality theater, intimate and lively cocktail receptions.
EVENT VENUES
PARAMOUNT EVENTS
Avondale
2752 West Roscoe Street, Chicago, IL 60618
773-880-8044
info@paramounteventschicago.com paramounteventschicago.com
RIVER ROAST
River North
315 N. La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60654
312-822-0100
RRevents@levyrestaurants.com
riverroastchicago.com/private-events
Capacity: 530 seated, 1200 standing
ROANOKE RESTAURANT
Loop
135 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60602
312-361-3800
theroanokerestaurant.com/privatedining Capacity: 150 seated, 300 standing
SOLDIER FIELD
South Loop 1410 S. Museum Campus Dr. Chicago, IL 60605 312-235-7000
events@soldier eld.net soldier eld.com
Capacity: 1,000 seated, 15,000 standing
River Roast Private Events offers an impressive setting for your next all-day meeting, client dinner or team gathering. Helmed by an impressive culinary team, River Roast is a lively social house and gathering place. Experienced event planning and service teams aim to accommodate and anticipate your needs for a awless event. Whether you’re planning a reception for 1,000 people or an exclusive affair for eight, our seasonal, customized menus and exceptional views will impress.
Excellent service and a top notch culinary program make Roanoke Restaurant a staple in the Loop. Enjoy artisan comfort food, signature rotisserie options and hand-crafted cocktails in an inviting and beautifully designed setting. Event spaces include the restaurant, bar and elegant secondoor event center equipped with meeting rooms perfect for corporate events, receptions or any celebration. Private dining packages and catering options available.
MAXIMIZING ENGAGEMENT
Keep your audience engaged with interactive sessions, live polling, or dynamic networking activities that leave a lasting impression.
Soldier Field is the premier event venue in Chicago, hosting a wide range of events including sporting events, concerts, corporate events, social events, meetings and expos. With sweeping views of the downtown skyline and beautiful Lake Michigan Soldier Field is the perfect venue to wow your guests. The talented event team at Soldier Field will take care of every detail to ensure that your event is spectacular.
THEATER ON THE LAKE
Lincoln Park 2401 N. DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60614 313-414-1313
info@theateronthelake.com
theateronthelake.com
Capacity: 500 seated, 1000 standing (including outdoor spaces)
THE CHOPPING BLOCK
Lincoln Square
4747 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL 60625
773-472-6700
parties@thechoppingblock.com
thechoppingblock.com
Capacity: 50 seated, 50 standing
The best parties start and end in The Chopping Block’s kitchens! Our private cooking events bring people together over food and wine. Whether your goal is to create a more cohesive corporate team or entertain VIP clients, we offer a fun, educational and diverse event solution. From interactive cooking parties for all skill levels to a new atmosphere for a business meeting, our kitchens provide the perfect outlet to create a memorable experience.
THE FILLMORE ITALIAN TRATTORIA & BAR
Loop
120 W. Monroe St. Chicago, IL 60603
312-312-2142
llmorerestaurant.com
Capacity: 105 sitting, 165 standing
THE MORRIS ESTATE
Southwest Michigan
2007 Morris Drive, Niles, MI 49120
269-684-4443
discover@themorrisestate.com
themorrisestate.com
Capacity: 200 seated, 200 standing
Trade the sterile of ce or hotel setting for a welcoming ambiance that inspires fresh perspectives and promotes connection. The peaceful atmosphere of The Morris Estate offers a respite from the ordinary for corporate retreats or offsite board meetings. Known for extraordinary culinary experiences, luxurious accommodations, and picturesque scenery, the 600-acre estate sits along the St. Joseph River in Southwest Michigan, conveniently located 15 miles from the South Bend airport or within driving distance of Chicago.
THE WELLSLEY
River North
504 N. Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60654
312-896-4504
info@wellsleychicago.com
wellsleychicago.com
Capacity: 300 seated, 500 standing
The Wellsley is a versatile venue that beautifully combines grandeur and charm, offering timeless sophistication for a variety of events, including corporate gatherings, holiday parties, weddings, and celebrations. Spanning 7,700 square feet, this nely appointed space accommodates groups of 30 to 300 for meetings, receptions, lunches, and dinners. Partnering with the award-winning Boka Restaurant Group and preferred caterer Boka Catering, The Wellsley simpli es your planning with a one-stop-shop for chef-driven cuisine and exceptional hospitality.
THE POWER OF BRANDING - Strong branding turns an event into a memorable experience. Incorporate your logo, colors, and messaging throughout to reinforce your identity.
CORPORATE RETREATS | OVERNIGHT LODGING | CULINARY EXPERIENCE
e peaceful atmosphere of e Morris Estate o ers a respite from the ordinary for corporate retreats or o site board meetings. Known for extraordinary culinary experiences, luxurious accommodations, and picturesque scenery, the 600acre estate sits along the St. Joseph River in Southwest Michigan, conveniently located 15 miles from the South Bend airport or within driving distance of Chicago.
EVENT VENUES
WALDORF ASTORIA
Gold Coast
11 E. Walton St., Chicago, IL 60611
312-646-1324
chiwa-salesadm@waldorfastoria.com
hilton.com/en/hotels/chiwawa-waldorf-astoria-chicago/events
Capacity: 200 seated, 230 standing
Experience unforgettable meetings and events in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago. Our venue combines luxury service with a thoughtful event and meeting planning approach, making it the perfect setting for any gathering. Inspired by literary icons, Parisian sophistication, and a fresh interpretation of elegance, our spaces offer stunning Chicago views, opulent furnishings, unique artwork, and state-ofthe-art business amenities. Waldorf Astoria Chicago promises an unparalleled backdrop for every event.
WNDR MUSEUM
West Loop
1130 W. Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60607
312-278-7908
events@wndrmuseum.com wndrmuseum.com
Capacity: 150-200 seated, 540 standing
Located in Chicago's West Loop, WNDR is a playground for the mind, where creativity and joy come alive in every corner. Chicago’s original immersive art experience has the perfect spaces for private events of all types. From our 8,250 sq. ft. event hall perfect for bigger events of all types to our 1,050 square foot loft perfect for teambuilding or off-sites. WNDR also offers a full venue buyout giving private access to the entire exhibit.
WRIGLEY FIELD
Wrigleyville
1101 W Waveland Ave. Chicago IL 60613
773-388-8165
wrigley eldevents@levyrestaurants.com wrigley eldevents.com
Capacity: 200 seated, 300 standing
With its legendary history, nothing says “Chicago” like hosting an event with Wrigley Field as the backdrop. Boasting a spectacular lineup of 20 unique event spaces throughout the ballpark and surrounding campus, Wrigley Field offers an unforgettable experience to enjoy the tradition, beauty, and charm of the historic venue. From our versatile conference center featuring exible meeting rooms to our exclusive premier club spaces, Wrigley Field invites you to make your next event a win.
TECH-SAVVY PLANNING - Leverage technology like event management software, live streaming, or virtual reality to create seamless and innovative experiences.
SERVICES
AV CHICAGO
Audio Visual
619 W. Taylor, Chicago, IL 60607
312-229-4100
Sales@avchicago.com avchicago.com/crains-contact-page
BLUE PLATE CHICAGO
Hospitality / Catering 1362 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607
312-421-6666
info@blueplatechicago.com blueplatechicago.com
Blue Plate is Chicago’s Caterer. From corporate celebrations to fundraising galas or in-of ce workplace dining - Blue Plate can ex to provide customized catering solutions for your event or meeting. Driven by culinary creativity, green certi ed, and with preferred status at more than 100 iconic Chicago venues, Blue Plate has earned a national reputation for its standard of service and innovation.
CREATING MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES
Crafting a standout event is all about attention to the little things that leave a big impact. Choose a theme that aligns with your audience and goals, and carry it through every element, from invitations to decor. Incorporate thoughtful, personalized touches such as branded giveaways or tailored experiences that resonate with attendees.
VISIT HAMILTON COUNTY (INDIANA)
CVB
37 E. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032
317-848-3181
lkelner@hamiltoncountytourism.com VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Meetings
Just north of Indianapolis and three hours south of Chicago, Hamilton County is perfect for your next small meeting. The cities of Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and West eld offer six conference hotels, including 30,000 square feet under one roof. Hamilton County offers elevated dining, distinctive arts, upscale shopping and affordable pricing. We are centrally located, and serviced by Indianapolis International Airport, just 28 miles away. Let our team make your next small meeting a big success!
SCHNEIDER DELI
Catering, Corporate Catering, Party Catering 600 North La Salle Drive, Chicago, IL 773-590-1345
catering@schneiderdeli.com schneiderdeli.com
1440 Media 37
50 South Capital 118
7wireVentures 119
A Epstein & Sons International Inc. ............... 123, 126
AA Medical .............. 38
AAM Insurance Investment Management 121
AAR CORP 56
Abbott Laboratories 53
AbbVie Inc 48, 53
Accel Construction Services Group LLC 37
Accel Entertainment Inc 57
Access Community Health Network 136
ACCO Brands Corp 56
Ace Hardware Corp 49
Adams Street Partners .. 118, 121
Addison Group ........... 52
Adtalem Global Education Inc 56
Advocate Christ Medical Center 131
Advocate Condell Medical Center 131, 132
Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital 131
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital 131
Advocate Health Care 48
Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center 131
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital 131
AECOM 123
Af liated Engineers Inc 126
Agency EA LLC ........... 58
AHEAD Inc. .............. 50
AIT Worldwide Logistics 38, 51
Albany Bank & Trust Co NA 116
Aldi 49
Aldridge Electric Inc 125
Alera Group Inc 38, 51
Alight Inc 56
Allstate Corp 53
Alzheimer’s Association 136
Amalgamated Bank of Chicago 116
Amazon com Inc 48
American Airlines Group Inc. . 48
American Community Bank & Trust 116
American Lung Association 136
Amsted Industries Inc 49
Amundsen Davis LLC 144
Anderson Mikos Architects Ltd 123
Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s
ArentFox Schiff 142
Ariel Investments LLC 47, 58, 121
Art Institute of Chicago 136
Arthur J Gallagher & Co 53
Arup US Inc 126
Ascension Alexian Brothers 131
Ascension Illinois 48
Ascension Medical Group Illinois 132
Ashling Partners 37
ATI Physical Therapy Inc 57
Atkore Inc 56
Atlas 47
Avison Young 124
AZEK Co , The 56
Belmont Bank & Trust Co 116
Benesch 126
Berglund Construction Co 125
Berlin Packaging LLC 50
Best Bay Logistics 47
Big Ten Conference Inc 136
Bigane Paving Co 58
bKL Architecture LLC 123
BlueCross BlueShield Venture Partners 119
BMO Financial Group 116
Boler Co (Hendrickson) 50
Bowa Construction 47
BrightStar Care 38, 58
Brinson Foundation, The 135 Brunswick Corp 54
Bulley & Andrews LLC 125
Byline Bancorp Inc 116
C
C+R Research 58
Calamos Asset Management Inc 121
Camping World Holdings Inc 54
Cannon Design 123
Cardiac Surgery Associates 132
Carl Buddig & Co 52
Cars com Inc 57
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of
Hospital of Chicago 48, 131
Antares Capital LP 50
Apidel Technologies LLC 58
AptarGroup Inc 56
Arbor Lodging 47
ARCH Venture Partners 119
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co 53
ARCO/Murray National Construction Co. ... .37, 50, 125
Ardmore Roderick 47
B
Baird Capital 119
Baker McKenzie 49, 142
Baker Tilly 51, 138
Baldwin Richardson Foods Co 47
BankFinancial NA 116
Barnes and Thonrburg LLP 142
Baxter International Inc 53
BDO USA 50, 138
BDT & MSD Partners 118
Culligan International Co. 50
Cultivate Brands LP 38
Cushman & Wake eld 124
GCM Grosvenor 118, 121
Deere & Co. 53
Deloitte 138
Discover Financial Services 53
Diverse Facility Solutions Inc. 47
Diversi ed Technology Inc. 38
DLA Piper LLP 140
Donnelley Financial Solutions Inc. 57
Double
Driehaus
Duff
Duly
DuPage
Dynamic
E78 Partners
Edgewater
Elks
John Bean Technologies Corp. 56
John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation 135
John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County 131
Joint Commission, The 136
Jones Day 140
Josselyn 37
Joyce Foundation 135
JPMorgan Chase & Co. 48
Jump Capital 119
Lauterbach & Amen LLP
Leopardo Construction
KB Partners LLC
Madison
Manhard Consulting Ltd. 126
Maranon Capital LP 118
Mariani Enterprises 37, 125
Marilyn Miglin LP 58
Marquette Bank
MATH Venture Partners 120
Mather Group, The 37
Mayer Brown LLP 51, 140
McDermott Will & Emery LLP 51, 140
McDonald’s Corp. 53
McHugh Construction 125
McShane Cos., The 51, 58, 125
Medline Industries LP 49
Meitheal Pharmaceuticals 37
Mesirow Financial Holdings Inc. ................... 121
Mesirow Private Equity 118
Methode Electronics Inc. 57
Metropolitan Family Services 136
Michael Reese Health Trust 135
Middleby Corp., The 54
Midland Paper Co. 52
Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois/Indiana 132 Network Distribution
KDM
Kearney
KeHE Distributors LLC
Kellanova 53
Kemper Corp. 54
Kimley-Horn & Associates Inc.
Kin
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Knowles Corp.
Koch Foods Inc. 49
KPMG
Midwest Center for Women’s Healthcare 132
Milhouse Engineering & Construction Inc. 47, 126
Miller Cooper & Co. Ltd. 138
Misericordia Home 136
MK Capital 120
MNJ Technologies Direct Inc. 58
Mondelez International Inc. 53
Monroe Capital
Pritzker Group Venture Capital 119
Pritzker Private Capital 118
Providence Bank & Trust 116
PwC 138
R R Donnelley & Sons Co 49
RB Global Inc 56
RCP Advisors 118
Readerlink Distribution Services LLC 51
Redline Metals Inc 58
Redmond 37
Redwood Logistics 52
Reed Smith LLP 142
Re ection Window + Wall
Republic
Reyes Holdings LLC
RHM Staf ng Solutions
Richard Group
Right
RLI Corp 56
Robert R McCormick Foundation 135
Rohrman Automotive Group 51
Rose Pallet 58
Ross Barney Architects 123
Rotary International 135
RRF Foundation for Aging 135
RSM US LLP 49, 138
RTM Engineering Consultants 47, 126
Rush Copley Medical Center 131
Rush Direct Inc 58
Rush Street Interactive 37, 57
Rush University System for Health 48
Ryan
STRENGTHENING THE MIDWEST.
ONE BUSINESS AT A TIME.
We’re more than just a bank. We’re your partners in progress. Our Associated Bank Relationship Managers work with you like they’re a member of your own team. We move at the speed of your business, with fast, local decisions and direct access to decision makers.
We understand the local business landscape because we’ve helped create it.
You’ve got this. Because we’ve got you.
COMMERCIAL BANKING CAPABILITIES & FEATURES:
Treasury management, including liquidity and deposits, receivables, payables and fraud management services.
Lending and financing services such as trade and asset financing and employee stock ownership plans.
Employee benefit plan management, HSAs and retirement plans.
Specialized solutions for financial institutions, local government and insurance.
Institutional trust, custody, asset management, syndications, interest rate derivatives and foreign exchange.
