The Narrative Has Been Debunked
As a thought-leader and convener, the work of Chicago United provides the tools and resources to foster diverse and inclusive leadership. Despite barriers, our work continues to build upon the foundation toward a more equitable business landscape. One of the many tangible results are leaders of color who build businesses, fill the executive-level pipeline, and are prepared for a seat in the corporate boardroom.
This month Chicago United introduced 45 outstanding achievers in business as 2023 Business Leaders of Color. Whether the principal of a small or mid-sized business or the chief of a corporate mainstay, each 2023 BLC has done the work and proven they are prepared and ready to serve on corporate boards. It is their time.
When we lift each other, learn from each other, and work together, we will redress the impact of past injustices and exclusions from economic and social opportunity. Our 2023 Business Leaders of Color join 470 Board-ready leaders and are the evidence; “we can’t find any” is a falsehood.
During the 2023 Bridge Awards Celebration: Elevating Equity presented by BMO, we will honor this cohort of 45 exceptional leaders. I invite you to join me November 16 and engage with their excellence first-hand.
Be well,
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Join Us: Chicago United’s 2023 Bridge Awards Celebration
Sponsorship opportunities are available for Chicago United’s 2023 Bridge Awards Celebration, taking place Thursday, November 16, at the Marriott Marquis Chicago. Themed Elevating Equity, the evening will include the presentation of the Chicago Bridge Award and the CU Impact Award and will also honor two major milestones: Chicago United’s 55th Anniversary and the 20th year presenting the 45 talented individuals named as 2023 Business Leaders of Color.
Please contact Gail Arrigo, Executive Vice President, for additional details.
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In Pictures: Chicago United’s 2023 Business Leaders of Color Reception
Held Thursday, September 21, at The Northern Trust Corporation (a Chicago United Member Company), Chicago United introduced the 2023 Business Leaders of Color during a well-attended reception. Member Company Representatives, Board Members, Supporters and preceding Business Leaders of Color joined to congratulate the cohort of 45 extraordinary leaders. The event was the first in-person reception since the COVID-19 pandemic and the first in-person with Tiffany Hamel Johnson serving as President and CEO of Chicago United.
The 2023 BLCs will be honored during the 2023 Bridge Awards Celebration: Elevating Equity presented by BMO, on Thursday, November 16, at the Marriott Marquis Chicago.
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Welcome To Chicago United
Chicago United welcomes Cauren Burns as the newest member of our team. Cauren joins us as Executive Assistant to the President and CEO, and brings vast experience in supporting senior-level executives and organizational expertise to the organization.
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Andrea Sáenz, President and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust (a Chicago United Member Company), Chicago United Board of Directors Vice Chair, and a 2023 Business Leader of Color received the Roberto Clemente Neighborhood Hero Award from Chicago Cubs Charities in honor of her work uplifting and investing in Chicago’s communities.
During the Dive In Festival, one of the largest diversity, equity and inclusion events in the world, Kip Kelly, Chief Executive Officer-US Affinity at Aon (a Chicago United Member Company) joined a panel discussion entitled “Is DE&I Under Siege?”. Also during the Festival, Luz María Vargas, Senior Program Manager at Chicago United, participated in the panel discussion, “Exploring Unconscious Biases: The Silent Poison.”
Reginald J. Miller, VP & Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at McDonald's Corporation (a Chicago United Member Company), was named one of Diversity MBA’s Top 25 Leaders of Impact.
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UPCOMING PROGRAMS
The following programs are open only to employees of Chicago United Member Companies. Please click here to view our Event Calendar for additional details and registration links.
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Diversity Officer Roundtable
Presented by: Rheaana Guess, Vice President, People & Diversity Officer, Delta Dental of Illinois
PROGRAM
Thursday, October 5 | 9:00 am - 10:30 am
LOCATION
111 Shuman Boulevard, Naperville, IL
Learn More →
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Mid-Level Manager Series: Business Chemistry – Science and the Art of Business Relationships
Hosted by Wintrust
PROGRAM
Tuesday, October 17 | 9:00-11:00 am
LOCATION
231 S. LaSalle St., Lower Level Conference Room, Chicago, IL
Learn More →
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CEO Roundtable Series
Hosted by: Martin Cabrera, CEO and Founder of Cabrera Capital Markets and a 2003 Business Leader of Color
PROGRAM
Thursday, October 26 | 9:00-10:30 am
LOCATION
227 W. Monroe Street, Suite 3000, Chicago, IL
Learn More →
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