2020
2021
Year In Review

ANNUAL MEETING

Our Annual Meeting was a truly exceptional event. We elected a new slate of Board of Directors, celebrated friendships, and enjoyed the wonders of the Museum of Science and Industry. The program’s theme, “Rediscovering and Revitalizing Chicago and Illinois” was ideal as for many members this was the first time that they gathered in-person since the start of the pandemic. Our panelists Bridget Coughlin, President and CEO of the John G. Shedd Aquarium, Chevy Humphrey, President and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry, Lynn Osmond, President and CEO of the Chicago Architecture Center, and moderator Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton had an dynamic and engaging conversation. Their insights on leading through the pandemic were inspirational.

Drawing on this experience, in June, we effectively presented the City’s first large scale hybrid event since the beginning of the pandemic. Producing WIFL and Launch Pad Women’s Leadership Summit at Navy Pier, one of the Chicago's iconic cultural institutions, was extraordinary. The energy and enthusiasm of the 850 in-person and 600 virtual attendees was unparalleled.



Images from WIFL and Launch Pad 2021



Launch Pad 2021 Highlights:

Initiatives: Paying it Forward

Our Future Leaders Program supports the Chicago Network’s goal of developing the next generation of women leaders by providing outstanding female college students at partnering schools an opportunity to explore career paths in the business and non-profit sectors.

This year of virtual engagement, we were in the unique position to admit more students to the program. Working with Dominican University, Chicago State University, and the University of Illinois at Chicago, our 2020-2021 class was 98% women of color and an overwhelming majority first generation college students. TCN members facilitated 14 virtual educational and inspirational sessions. The students were committed to learning and receiving insights from our members, who were dedicated to fostering and nurturing curiosity.


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