BUILDING BETTER LEADERSHIP FOR A CHANGING WORLD

AN UNPRECEDENTED GLOBAL NETWORK

EXCEPTIONAL PROGRAMS AND EXTRAORDINARY PERSPECTIVES

PROMOTING TOMORROW'S WOMEN LEADERS

2016Member Roster

CHICAGO

2016Member Roster

CHICAGO

The International Women's Forum Membership Directory is for members only. Members' contact information may not be used for commercial solicitation. Unsolicited promotional material may not be sent to members' contact addresses contained herein. Making unsolicited promotional contact is contrary to IWF policy. This Membership Directory may not be shared with non-IWF Members.

FORUM CONTACT

Michelle FowlerAdministratorIWF Chicago

Work

20960 Frankfort Square Road, Suite BFrankfort IL 60423United Statesinfo@iwfchicago.org(815) 806-4908(815) 469-1901 (fax)

OFFICERS

Forum Contact

Michelle Fowler

President

Ana Dutra

Vice President

Lisa McClung

Treasurer

Joyce Simon

Secretary

Sylvia van Loveren

Past-President

Laurel G. Bellows, Esq.

CHICAGO - BIOS

Loretta Abrams

Dixie Lee AdamsGeneral ManagerIBM Global Technology Services

Holly H. AgraPresident & CEOChicago's First Lady Cruises

Roula Alakiotou , FAIAPrincipal ArchitectRoula Associates Architects, Chtd.

Sarah Lindstrom AlterCMOGGP-Shopping Mall REIT

Kapila K. AnandPartner, Segment Leader for Hospitality, Travel and Leisure IndustryKPMG, LLP

Susan E. AndersonPresidentS.E.A. Communications, Inc.

Donna de St. AubinPresidentSt. Aubin, Haggerty & Associates, Inc.

Sarah BaderManaging Director, PrincipalGensler

Joy BaerPresidentSTRATA

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Joy Baer is the President for leading advertising technology software provider, STRATA. Joy has 25 years of enterprise software experience, and a background that includes many years of software, strategy and management consulting expertise with Fortune 500 and large media companies nationwide.

Baer previously held the role as EVP/COO at STRATA, overseeing operations for all of STRATA’s business lines and has guided the development of media buying/selling platforms that incorporate the most advanced technologies in the industry. Under Baer’s leadership, STRATA has grown to 200 employees and developed partnerships and efficiencies that are unparalleled in the field.Prior to joining STRATA, Baer worked as the CEO for SpotBuySpot (SBS was purchased by STRATA in 2007). During her tenure as CEO of SBS, she directed new business and enterprise-scale software development initiatives. Under Baer’s leadership, SBS’s scaled to accommodate revenue growth of over 100% annually for 4 years in a row. Now the Custom Division at STRATA, SBS continues to be the industry leader in e-Business, research, business and financial solutions for media companies.

Degrees:

BS, Drake University, Computer Information Systems

Colleges/Universities:

Drake University, 1989-1992, BS, CIS

Volunteer Work:

Northside Basketball League, Commissioner, a non-profit basketball league on the north side of Chicago providing fun, fair, competitive basketball play for over 1100 children annually (boys and girls in 4th through 8th grade).

Resume Data:

Executive Summary

Joy Baer is the President for leading advertising technology software provider, STRATA. Joy has 25 years of enterprise software experience, and a background that includes many years of software, strategy and management consulting expertise with Fortune 500 and large media companies nationwide.

Baer previously held the role as EVP/COO at STRATA, overseeing operations for all of STRATA’s business lines and has guided the development of media buying/selling platforms that incorporate the most advanced technologies in the industry. Under Baer’s leadership, STRATA has grown to 200 employees and developed partnerships and efficiencies that are unparalleled in the field.

Prior to joining STRATA, Baer worked as the CEO for SpotBuySpot (SBS was purchased by STRATA in 2007). During her tenure as CEO of SBS, she directed new business and enterprise-scale software development initiatives. Under Baer’s leadership, SBS’s scaled to accommodate revenue growth of over 100% annually for 4 years in a row. Now the Custom Division at STRATA, SBS continues to be the industry leader in e-Business, research, business and financial solutions for media companies.

Experience

President

STRATA

Privately Held; 51-200 employees; Computer Software industry

March 2014 – Present (2 months) Greater Chicago Area

Driving high level strategic advertising technology initiatives for STRATA, a wholly owned Comcast subsidiary, while overseeing all business lines for this profitable, growing 200-person Chicago-based software company.

EVP, COO

STRATA

Privately Held; 51-200 employees; Computer Software industry

November 2007 – March 2014 (6 years 5 months) Chicago, IL

While in charge of operations for all of STRATA's business lines, developed strategic partnerships across the media industry to drive company's multi-year streak of financial, client and product growth and establish STRATA as the premier software provider for digital and offline media buying and selling solutions.

CEO

Spot Buy Spot

Privately Held; 11-50 employees; Computer Software industry

July 2004 – October 2007 (3 years 4 months)

Founded and built a profitable media software development company to over 40 employees. Partnered with Fortune 500 media company clients to build web-based enterprise software solutions. Grew revenues and scaled a business to accommodate over 100% annual revenue growth for four years in a row. Sold company to STRATA, a wholly owned Comcast subsidiary in late 2007.

Director of Agency Development

STRATA

Privately Held; 51-200 employees; Computer Software industry

July 1996 – July 2004 (8 years 1 month) Chicago, IL

Developed and managed the agency software product lines for STRATA, growing the client base to a 75% market share, and developed significant partnerships with media companies to build enterprise business systems and facilitate electronic workflows throughout the media industry.

Software Development Manager

STRATA

Privately Held; 51-200 employees; Computer Software industry

July 1992 – July 1996 (4 years 1 month) Chicago, IL

Developed software and then grew to lead a team of software engineers and product managers directly responsible for building STRATA products.

Systems Consultant

Towers Watson

Public Company; 10,001+ employees; TW; Management Consulting industry

July 1989 – July 1992 (3 years 1 month) Chicago

Developed software for various employee benefits related practices, including employee benefit statements, pension and 401(k) software.

Volunteer Experience & Causes

Commissioner

Northside Basketball League

January 2010 – present (4 years 4 months)

The Northside Basketball League (NBL) provides basketball game play for Chicago girls & boys ranging from 4th through 8th grade. We enjoy 8 levels of play annually with participation from over 1100 kids! Our focus on fair, fun, competitive play - along with an emphasis on community service participation for all the children is the "essence" of the mission at NBL.

Organizations

Economic Club of Chicago, Member

International Women's Forum, Member

Skills & Expertise

1. Digital Media2. Strategic Partnerships3. Media Buying4. Product Management5. Online Advertising6. Media Planning7. Digital Marketing8. Advertising9. Integrated Marketing

10. Advertising Sales11. Digital Strategy12. Account Management13. New Business Development14. Marketing Strategy15. Analytics

Education

Drake University

BS, Computer Information Systems

1985 – 1989

Anna BallPresident & CEOBall Horticultural Company

Mary Elizabeth BarronPresidentGlobal Thinking LLC

Sarah BeardsleyManaging DirectorAccenture

Laurel G. Bellows, Esq.PrincipalThe Bellows Law Group, P.C.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Laurel Bellows, founding principal of The Bellows Law Group, P.C. is an internationally recognized business lawyer counseling senior executives and corporations in the United States and globally on employment matters, employment and severance agreements, executive compensation, and workplace disputes. Her expertise in executive compensation matters also includes mid-level management compensation, and human resource/talent management matters involving incentives, retirement, and workforce restructuring. The firm litigates zealously and efficiently on behalf of employers. Ms. Bellows and her firm counsel employers relating to general employment matters, prevention of discrimination claims, litigation risk management (including wage and hour regulations, unemployment, whistleblower and wrongful termination claims). The Bellows Law Group assists in the interpretation of new laws in connection with employee benefits, COBRA, disability, religion, dress code, use of marijuana, gun possession and the FMLA Act, to name a few. Ms. Bellows and her firm consult on workplace cybersecurity policies, including “BYOD” policies (Bring Your Own Device). The firm offers transactional, counseling and litigation services to entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized businesses, and large corporations. Client matters range from commercial litigation to business startups. The Bellows Law Group conducts internal corporate investigations, assists public and private corporations, including federal contractors, to comply with regulations and develop corporate polices directed at combatting human trafficking worldwide. Ms. Bellows is past president of the nearly 400,000 member American Bar Association and was the second woman president of the Chicago Bar Association. Laurel is president of the International Women’s Forum (IWF) Chicago Chapter. Laurel’s previous positions include past president of the National Conference of Bar Presidents, past chair of The Chicago Network, past chair of the American Bar Association’s Commission on Women in the Profession, and past chair of the Finance Committee of the American Bar Association’s Board of Governors. Some of her many accolades are acknowledgment by Crain’s Chicago Business on their annual list of Power Players; one of 28 Power Lawyers in the city by Chicago Magazine; and one of Chicago’s 100 Women of Influence by Crain’s Chicago Business. Laurel received the Visionary Award from Vision 2020 for her efforts to combat gender inequity and human trafficking. Ms. Bellows, along with United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region of Africa-Mary Robinson, received the Lexis Rule of Law Award. Laurel serves on Minister Gordon Brown’s Global Citizenship Commission to update the 1946 United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. The Commission will report to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2016. The German Bar Association honored Laurel with the Maria-Otto Preis Award for her outstanding background as a female lawyer, establishing the ABAGender Equity Task Force and anti-trafficking efforts. ATHENA International honored Laurel with the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award presented to exemplary leaders for achieving the highest level of professional excellence and for actively assisting and inspiring women to realize their full personal and professional potential. Laurel received the ABA Commission on Women Margaret Brent Women Lawyers of Achievement Award in 2002. Ms. Bellows is highly regarded for her many contributions to the Chicago and national community. Laurel is admitted and qualified as an Attorney and Counselor of the

Supreme Court of the United States and is a mediator, certified through the Institute for Conflict Management. Laurel is licensed to practice in Illinois, Florida and California. www.bellowslaw.com

Kate BensenPresident & CEOThe Chicago Network

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Kate Bensen is President and CEO of The Chicago Network, Chicago's premier, invitation only organization for impactful women senior leaders. Previously, Kate was a Vice President for Conlon Public and a corporate and public finance partner at Schiff Hardin LLP, one of Chicago’s leading law firms. Kate is a member of the Commercial Club, Economic Club of Chicago, Chicago Club, Executives Club of Chicago and the Women’s Board of the University of Chicago (past Chair). She also serves on the board of Grammy Award winning ensemble eighth blackbird, as a director of the Arts Club of Chicago, and member of the President’s Advisory Council for Governors State University. Kate received her AB in economics from the University of Chicago and her law degree from Loyola University of Chicago School of Law. Her Linked-In profile is http://www.linkedin.com/in/katebensen.

Industry/Occupation Area: Nonprofit

Carol BernickCEOPolished Nickel Capital Management

Joan Beth BeugenPresident & Creative DirectorCresta Creative

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Joan is the Founder, President and Chief Creative Director of Cresta Creative.  For 30+ years, she has produced corporate and digital communication in all media including film, video, meetings, television, print and websites.  She has literally hundreds of industry awards to her credit, but mostly values the on-going relationships with her clients, some of which have lasted for decades.  As a marketing consultant and specialist, Joan has worked with Fortune 500 corporations including Apple, Baxter Healthcare, Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Enterprises, Hines, HSBC, Intel, McDonald’s, Navistar, Quaker Oats, Sara Lee Company, Schneider Electric and Shell Oil, as well as non-profits, start-ups and mid-size companies. Previously, Joan was the Founder and President of The Creative Establishment, Inc., a top national corporate presentation agency often featured in business magazines and on television shows such as the Today Show on NBC.  Joan has been named YWCA Entrepreneur of the Year, New York NAWBO Entrepreneur of the Year, Chair of the Illinois Delegation - White House Conference on Small Business,Committee of 200.  She is currently an IWF Board of Director, former President of IWF Chicago, member of The Committee of 200, The Economic Club of Chicago, The Chicago Network and Northwestern University Committee of 100.  Past President of the National Association of Women Business Owners and was listed in Who's Who in America.    

Leslie Brown BlairManaging DirectorLBB Consulting LLC

Patricia BobbPrincipalPatricia C. Bobb & Associates

Robin BorenPresident, Pivotal Home SolutionsAGL Resources Inc.

Cate BradyCEOBulk Ag Innovations

Yasmin T. Bates BrownCorporate Director BCBSILFormer Executive Vice President, BMO Harris

Ms. Rebecca BrueningCEO/FounderBruening Executive Coaching

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: Other

Marion A. CameronPresident & CEOSipi Metal Corp.

Maura CarleyPresident & CEOHealthcare Navigation, LLC

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Maura Carley is an entrepreneur who founded Healthcare Navigation, LLC, a leading healthcare advocacy and medical insurance consulting firm, in 1999 with several offices in the U.S. The firm provides objective advice and counsel with respect to Medicare, health insurance and patient advocacy but does not sell insurance. Prior to founding the firm, Maura had significant experience managing hospitals and also served as an executive with Kaiser Permanente. She has an MPH from Yale University and completed the Kaiser Permanente Executive Program through the Stanford University Business School. She is a also fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives. Maura has served on numerous non-profit boards in Connecticut and New York and is a former President of IWF CT. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Access Health CT. Maura has spoken on healthcare topics across the county and Canada and is frequently interviewed in major national periodicals. She is also the author of the book, "Health Insurance: Navigating Traps and Gaps," which became #1 on amazon.com under health insurance shortly after it was published.

Industry/Occupation Area: Insurance

Donna M. CarrollPresidentDominican University

Kathleen CarrollGlobal Head of Talent AcquisitionAon Corporation

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Kathleen has been with Aon since 2010 and currently serves as the GlobalHead of Talent Acquisition. In this role, she partners with business leaders andHR leaders to attract and recruit the best talent in industry for Aon.

As a member of the Global HR Leadership Team, she also helps drive the Aon’s overall talent agenda and other special HR initiatives. Prior to her current role, she has held other leadership roles at Aon. She served as the overall project manager for the creation and development of Aon Hewitt’s Corporate Health- care Exchange business. She also spent 5 years in Corporate Development and Strategy team leading acquisitions, divestitures and other corporate develop- ment initiatives. Prior to time at Aon, she held roles in the private equity and public accounting.

Kathleen participated in the IWF Leadership Foundation Fellows Program in2010-2011. She is also very involved in the Leadership Greater Chicago andExecutives’ Club of Chicago. She has her MBA from Kellogg Graduate Schoolof Management at Northwestern University and her BS in Accountancy fromUniversity of Missouri. She is married and has three children, Joe (14), Katie(13) and Mac (10).

Andela CepedaPresidentA.C. Advisory, Inc.

Eva ChessVice President, Communications and MarketingAmerican College of Healthcare Executives

Kate Markin ColemanEVP, Chief Strategy/Advancement Officeias advising, LLC

Kendra ColemanUS LeadSheppard Moscow

E. Renae ConleyCEOER Solutions, LLC

Elizabeth ConliskVP, Communications & University RelationsBig Ten Network

Dolores ConnollyCEOSterling Engineering, Inc.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Dolores Connolly is CEO of Sterling Engineering and Sterling Staffing, a $40mm+ engineering services company. She grew up in Ireland and graduated in 1976 from AMI, London. She is a member of the President's Circle at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and serves on the Global Women's Forum Steering Committee. Dolores is an Executive Board Member of Concern Worldwide, an international humanitarian organization working in the 28 poorest countries on the Global Poverty Index. She and her husband Daniel Casey have a strong interest in social justice and the role of women in the 21st century.

Jennifer ConveryGroup President, North AmericaGriffith Foods Inc.

Regine CorradoPrincipalBaker & McKenzie

Pamela Bruce CroninCEO/Managing PartnerBruce Enterprises & Gordon-Bruce Realty Services

Jennifer CyraConsultantOffice Depot

Diane DawsonPresident & OwnerDawson Sales Company

Roxanne Jean Decyk

Holly Van DeursenNon-Executive DirectorActuant, Bemis Co, Capstone Turbine, PGS

Rohini Dey, Ph.D.Owner/FounderVermilion Restaurants (NYC/Chicago)

Veranda DickensChairmanSeaway Bank & Trust Company

Erin DickesPrincipal & Investment AdvisorGeneva Advisors

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Erin has over 22 years experience in the investment industry. Prior to joining Geneva Advisors, Erin was a partner and co-founder of Hadley Capital, LLC, a private equity investment firm focusing on investments in the manufacturing, distribution and service industries. Erin also worked at Robertson, Stephens and Company, an investment bank focusing on the high-tech, bio-tech and consumer industries. Erin plays an active role in the professional, philanthropic and local communities. She is a member of the Economic Club of Chicago, has served two terms as a Board of Director for The Cradle, a non-profit adoption organization and is a member of the International Women's Forum (IWF) of Chicago. Erin is currently member of the Board of Trustees for Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart and is involved with many fundraising activities for Woodlands, the International Women's Forum (IWF) and Boston College. Erin holds an MBA in finance from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management (1996) and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College (1991).

Janet DiederichsPrincipalJanet Diederichs Consultants

Sidney R. DillardPartner and Head of Corp. Inv. BankingLoop Capital Marketsd

Collete English DixonPrincipal, TransactionsPrudential Real Estate Investors

Daphne DolanCEOCity Staffing

Amy Dordek DolinskyManaging DirectorGrownthPlay

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: consultingOccupation Duties:

Co-Founder and Sales Director, GrowthPlay, helping elevate the profession of sales and driving profitable revenue growth through a variety of solutions.

Vicki DonatiGeneral Counsel & Corporate SecretaryCrate & Barrel Holdings, Inc.

Ann DrakeChairman & Chief Executive OfficerDSC Logistics

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Ann Drake, Chairman and CEO of DSC Logistics, a leading supply chain management company. Under Ann’s guidance, DSC Logistics has become a leader in transforming logistics and supply chain management into a critical business strategy based on collaborative partnerships, innovative thinking and high-performance operations. Ann is Vice Chair, Chicago’s Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC), and a member of the Board of the Supply Chain Innovative Network of Chicago (SINC), a council launched by Mayor Emanuel’s World Business Chicago Economic Growth Plan. She is a former member of the Boards of A.M. Castle Company, a global distributor of specialty metals, and the Committee of 200 (C200), a business women’s leadership organization, and former Vice Chair, Business Advisory Council, Transportation Center, Northwestern University. She is the founder of AWESOME, Achieving Women’s Excellence in Supply Chain Operations, Management, and Education. Ann was the first woman to receive the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Distinguished Service Award (2012), a recipient of the Alumni Merit Award (2012) from the Kellogg School at Northwestern University, and was named “Industry Leader of the Year” by IIT (2009). Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Iowa and her MBA from The Kellogg School at Northwestern University.

ckduckworth@mac.comFounder & CEOARZU, Inc.

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: Nonprofit

Vicki DudleyVice President, CFO & TreasurerTTX Company

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

VICTORIA A. DUDLEY

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

 

Victoria A. Dudley joined TTX in October 2012 as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer.  She is responsible for all Finance functions including tax, accounting services, treasury, rating agency and investor relations, capital raising and capital allocation, insurance, risk management including enterprise risk management, Financial Planning and Analysis, Accounting and Financial Reporting. 

 

Prior to joining TTX, Vicki had over 25 years for banking and corporate finance experience.  She was the Vice President and CFO of Yancey Bros. Co., the Georgia Caterpillar, Blue Bird Bus and International Truck dealer which provides sales, leasing and service for heavy construction and electric power equipment, buses and trucks.  She also held multiple positions in the financial services industry specializing in securitization which culminated in her role as Managing Director at Wachovia Securities, (now Wells Fargo).

 

Ms. Dudley has a Bachelors of Science in Finance from the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia and an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University.  She is a member of the Chicago Finance Exchange and the International Women’s Forum.

  Past Board service includes the Atlanta Boy Choir and The Paideia School where she served as Treasurer as well as a Board member.

Industry/Occupation Area: transportationOccupation Duties:

Finance executive with diverse corporate and financial institutions expertise.  Demonstrated track record with public, private and not-for-profit firms, in both investment grade and leveraged situations.  Hands-on leader with strong interpersonal and communication skills, “lean”/process improvement orientation with competency in:

Capital Markets/Capital Raise - "A+-BB" profileRating Agency/Investor RelationsInternational Subsidiary FinanceWorking Capital and Capital AllocationPension Plan/401K Investments and GovernancePlanning, Strategy and AcquisitionsRisk, Insurance and Credit ManagementTechnology, Consultant, Accounting and Law firm resource managementProcess Improvement and Expense Reduction 

CURRENT ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

TTX Company, Chicago, IL $1.5 B Revenue, $7+ B Asset, Rail Car Maintenance and Lessor (10/12 - Present)

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer – Responsible for all financial functions and strategy including financial planning forecasting, capital raising, acquisition analysis, investor relations, rating agency relations, treasury, insurance, accounting, financial reporting, tax and Enterprise Risk Management. Focus on strategy, process improvement, financial controls and collaboration to develop culture of finance as a business advisor to operational units.

 

Financial Forecasting Accuracy and Financial Stress Case Development – Drove increases in forecasting accuracy.  Led development of stress case and “playbook” to rapidly respond to cyclical downturns given that only 25% of the company’s costs are controllable.

 

Capital Allocation and Post Investment Review Process Development – Led development and implementation of capital investment approval process refinement and post review process.

 

Metrics Development – Developed metrics to allow business units to effectively manage cost and quality.

 

Enterprise Risk Management, ICFR, Accounting and Financial Reporting – TTX is owned by publically traded companies which require near SOX compliance for financial reporting.  Executive sponsor of Enterprise Risk Management and Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting to identify and reduce significant risks to financial reporting and overall company risk.

 

Rating Agency – Responsible for rating agency relations and strategy.  Obtained Fitch “A” unsecured rating.  Maintained relationships with Moody’s (Baa1)/ S&P (A+)

 

Capital Raising - $2.7+ billion raised, primarily through the MTN market.  Significantly increased investor outreach resulting in greatly raised oversubscription and credit spread compression against comparable companies.  Obtained board approval for interest rate hedging.

 

Treasury – Enhanced cash management and forecasting and the development of quarterly funding strategy.  Updated cash investment policy.

Chair Pension, 401k and Executive Deferred Compensation Committee – Managed Investment Advisor, actuary an d other Fiduciary service providers for company’s $280+ million defined benefit, defined contribution and deferred compensation plans.  Focus on investment selection, compliance.

Insurance and Corporate Risk Management – Reduced insurance cost due to use of captive insurance for workman’s comp and auto.   Increased insurance outreach to obtain enhanced excess liability coverage during time of industry coverage contraction.  Changed brokers to enhance coverage and reduce cost.

Andrea Elizabeth Dunaif , M.D.Charles F Kettering, Professor of Endocrinology & MetabolismVice Chair for Research, Dept. of Medicine Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Andrea Dunaif, M.D., is the Charles F. Kettering Professor of Endocrinology andMetabolism, and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Medicine at theFeinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University.

Formerly, she was Chief of the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine at the Feinberg School of Medicine for 10 years. Before joining Northwestern in 2001, Dr. Dunaif held faculty appointments at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and Harvard Medical School.

 

Dr. Dunaif is an internationally recognized expert in endocrinology and women’s health. Her research on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS has shown that it is a leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Further, this research has revolutionized the treatment of PCOS with insulin sensitizing drugs. Dr. Dunaif has more than 125 original scientific publications and has edited four books.

 

She has received numerous awards and honors including the Endocrine Society’s highest award for clinical research, the Clinical Investigator Award. She is a past president of the Endocrine Society, a former associate editor of The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism and Obesity and past Chair of the National Institutes of Health Integrative and Clinical Endocrinologyand Reproduction Study Section.

Cheryl DurstExecutive Vice President / CEOInternational Interior Design Association

Ana DutraCEOMandala Global Advisors

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Ana Dutra is the CEO of the Executives’ Club of Chicago and the founder of Mandala Global Advisors. As former-CEO of

Korn/Ferry Consulting, Ana created a $350 MM global business through organic growth and acquisitions. She is on the Boards of the CME Group (NASDAQ: CME), Greeley&Hansen, CoachLogix, International Women Forum, Children’s Memorial Hospital, GSU and AUSL, a school turnaround business. She is also in the Kellogg Alumni Advisory Board, Committee of 200 and Chicago Council on Global Affairs. A Brazilian with 28 years in P&L management, turnarounds, and M&A in 25 countries, Ana helps Boards and CEOs to identify and execute growth strategies through innovation, acquisitions and new technologies. As a CEO, Ana led turnarounds, global acquisitions and post-merger-integrations. Ana started her career with IBM managing global products and lines-of-businesses. After attending Kellogg MBA, she led P&Ls with CSC, Oliver Wyman, Accenture and Korn/Ferry. Ana holds Kellogg MBA, a Masters in Economics from PUC and a Juris Doctor from UERJ in Rio de Janeiro. She frequently speaks in the Global Competitiveness Forum, World Economic Forum and other conferences. She is a recipient of the Executives of Color Leadership Award from Chicago United and the guest editor of the 2015 Best of the Board Room issue of the Hispanic Executive Magazine. Ana is an avid triathlete and yoga practitioner. She lives in Northfield with her husband and their three daughters.

Boards:

Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital

Executive Club of Chicago

 

Donna Van EekerenExecutive ChairmanLand O' Frost, Inc.

Aleksandra EfimovaFounderRussian Pointe

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Aleksandra Efimova is the founder and CEO of Russian Pointe, a company dedicated to providing the finest shoes, apparel, accessories and educational resources to dancers. Efimova’s entrepreneurship began with the founding of Russian Pointe while she was an undergraduate studying international business and marketing at Eastern Michigan University, having arrived in the U.S. from Russia only a few years earlier. Since then, she has built the company from an importer of pointe shoes to North America from Moscow to an international market leader with a varied line of products. Concurrently, she has become known for her community involvement, with particular focus on arts, business and cross-cultural cooperation. She serves as chair of the Moscow Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, chair of Illinois Senator Mark Kirk’s Eastern European Advisory Board, and vice president, Midwest, of the U.S.-Russia Chamber of Commerce, and she is also involved with multiple committees and events promoting the arts and international business. In 2013, she was featured as Small Business of the Month by Bank of America. An alumna of Harvard Business School’s elite Owner/Management Program for executives, and dedicated to constant innovation and creativity in business strategy and leadership, Efimova frequently shares her expertise and experience with audiences including business students and established entrepreneurs. She writes frequently about business and other topics, publishing on her own website and as a guest writer for other sites, including a regular column for Russia Beyond the Headlines.

Ginger S. EvansCommissionerChicago Department of Aviation

Edith FalkPrincipalFalk Consulting LLC

Linda FinkelPresidentavia

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Linda Finkel serves as Chief Operating Officer of Accretive Health’s population health business, providing end-to-end solutions to health systems and provider groups, navigating the changes in US healthcare. Linda has been responsible for all the core elements of service launch and delivery. Additionally, Linda is leading the strategy and execution of an innovative care and payment model in oncology care. Prior to joining Accretive Health in 2011, Linda held executive leadership roles for more than 15 years and brings a 20 year track-record of driving high growth, operational excellence, and client satisfaction and retention at market-leading BPO organizations. Linda ran Bowne Business Solutions, now Williams Lea USA, as Chief Operating Officer, where she led the business to market leadership with 3,000 employees operating in sixteen cities in the US and Asia. She also served as Executive Vice President of Business Development. Prior to joining Bowne, she was President of Donnelley Business Services which grew over 300% under her leadership, firmly establishing the business as the leading provider in the country. Linda graduated from Stanford University and received her Master in Business Administration from Harvard Business School. Linda lives in the city of Chicago with her husband and two teenage children.

Industry/Occupation Area: Health & Medicine

Chicago Administrator

Michelle FowlerAdministratorIWF Chicago

Bridget Mary GainerVice President & Global Head Public AffairsAON

Susan Glocker GallagherChief Operating OfficerPatina Solutions

Frances GartzkeGlobal Account DirectorSAP America

Sarah Nava Garvey

Suzanne H. GilbertPrincipalS H Gilbert Consulting

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

SHGilbert Consulting, Chicago, IL

Initiative Media- Vice Chair & WW CFO (ret)

Campbell Ewald Advertising- CFO & CAO (ret)

Boards:

Board of Directors VIA Motors, Orem, Utah.  Chair Audit Committee, Member of Compensation, Corporate Goverance, Nominating Committees.

Board of Advsiors, HS Grace Co, Houston, Tex

 

Pamela Walton GleichmanFounder & Managing MemberLandmark America Illinois, LLC

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Beginning her real estate development company in 1977, Pam has developed more than 80 properties including residential, commercial, office, data center and retail throught the Northeast, Midwest and South. Repurposing and renovating historic properties won her accolades and awards. Excellence in revitalization, invovative design and providing exceptional housing development opportunities for elderly are highlights of her career. Pam has been a board member of Thomas College and University of New England, Wayneflete School, a private college preporatory; several arts boards including the Maine Stage Company; and the state of Maine Guarantee Authority and advisory boards for two governors. She served on the two leading National Boards for housing development, amoung many others. Pam has been active in politics policy agendas. She was the first President of the Maine Womens Political Caucus in 1976, Treasurer of the Equal Rights Amendent for Maine and many political campaigns. Pam is married and has grown children including Hillman Norberg. He and her beloved niece, Melissa Quick, an IWF Chicago member, are active attendees at IWF conferences.

Colleges/Universities:

Northern Illinois University, BS Pennsylvania State University, MFA

Robyn GoldenDirector of Health & AgingRush University Medical Center

Ginger GordenPresidentggCFO

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Ginger is passionate about financial planning and strategy designed to accomplish a goal or set of circumstances for individuals and businesses. As founder and president of ggCFO, she is dedicated to the practice of prudent preparation and commitment to plan for financial success. Ginger founded ggCFO based on her desire to advise and educate the non-financial professional with clear, concise and straightforward guidance. The company specializes in working with individuals, startups and growing enterprises on customized plans that allow them to focus on core activities while improving the quality and accuracy of their financial situations. “Failure to plan is a plan to fail,” says Ginger, a certified public accountant and certified financial planner. “Integrity, honesty and exemplary service are critical to the success of my business.” Previously, Ginger was CFO of CSMG Inc., a professional sports representation agency for which she executed the sale of the company after her role as senior vice president of financial services. As an experienced chief financial officer with deep experience across a variety of global businesses, she has advised business and managed teams in technology, services, foodservice and retail with operations throughout Europe, Latin America and China.

Industry/Occupation Area: Finance & Investment

Ellen R. GordonPresidentTootsie Roll Industries, Inc.

Maria C. GreenSenior Vice President & General CounselIngersoll-Rand plc

Karen GreenbaumPresident and CEOAssociation of Executive Search Consultants

Kelly GrierOffice Managing PartnerErnst & Young, LLP

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Kelly is EY’s Americas Vice Chair, Talent. Kelly leads EY’s efforts to deliver anexceptional experience to each of the firm’s 54,000 people in the AmericasArea. She leverages her understanding of the issues facing our client-serving andprofessional teams across every aspect of EY’s business to develop strategiesthat support EY’s momentum in the market, attract top talent, and increasethe engagement and retention of our people. This includes creating world-class learning, development and coaching programs; fostering an inclusiveand flexible culture that values each person’s differences; supporting careermobility; and maintaining EY’s focus on being the employer of choice in eachof our markets. These efforts yield a culture that builds high-performing teamsthat deliver exceptional client service, while forging lifelong relationships withEY’s people. Kelly is a member of EY’s Americas Operating Executive and GlobalTalent Executive Committee.

 

Kelly has more than 22 years of experience serving primarily Fortune 500 global companies and has extensive international experience. She spent more than four years in EY’s Zurich, Switzerland, office as coordinating partner of a Fortune50 company overseeing the audit engagements in the Europe, Middle East and

Africa region.

 

She has held a number of leadership roles at the firm, including Chicago Managing Partner, Coordinating Partner for several SEC registrant clients and as Senior Advisory Partner to some of the firm’s largest Chicago-based clients. Kelly has served as an elected member of the firm’s Americas Advisory Council and the Global Advisory Council, which is charged with key governance and decision- making activities on Americas and Global firm matters. Kelly was selected as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader in 2010, recognized as a “Woman of Achievement” by the Anti-Defamation League and as a “2007 Woman to Watch, Experienced Leader” by the Illinois CPA Society. She was awarded the firm’s prestigious 2008 Rosemarie Meschi Award for her outstanding dedication to the development of EY professionals.

 

Kelly has extensive board experience, serving as trustee of the Ravinia Festival Board of Directors and Children’s Home and Aid Society. She was appointed by Chicago Mayor Daley and Mayor Emanuel to serve as Director of World BusinessChicago and Director of Skills for Chicago’s Future.

Teresa Samala de GuzmanChief Operating OfficerMuseum of Contemporary Art, Chicago

Julie HamosPresidentHealth Management Associates

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

As President of Hamos Consulting, Julie Hamos provides strategic advisory services to healthcare and social service providers, health plans and advocacy organizations, especially with the integration of medical, behavioral health and community services to improve the health of high-risk populations. 

From 2010-2015, Julie was the Director of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, responsible for Medicaid and child support services, a $20.5 billion budget and a staff of 2,200.  She and her team were successful in redesigning the Medicaid healthcare delivery system, implementing the Affordable Care Act, modernizing major technology systems, and bringing fiscal discipline to the Medicaid budget.    

Previously, Julie served as a State Representative for over 11 years, sponsoring and passing ground-breaking legislation. Throughout her career as advocate and public interest attorney, she has tackled tough issues to achieve results.

Julie has a J.D. degree from George Washington University National Law Center in Washington DC, and a B.A. degree from Washington University in St. Louis. 

Ms. Kathy HannanNational Managing Partner, CSR & DiversityKPMG, LLP

Joan Louise HannantPresidentThe Soma Institute

Elizabeth D. HarringtonPresident and CEO

E. Harrington Global and U.S. Publisher

Christie HefnerChairmanHatch Beauty

Sandra L. HeltonCorporate Boards MemberFormer Corporate Executive

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Sandy Helton serves on the Board of Directors of Principal Financial Group and Lexmark International Inc. She chairs Principal’s Audit Committee, and serves on Principal’s Executive Committee and Finance Committee. Sandy serves on the Finance and Audit Committee of Lexmark. Until February 2015 she was on the Board of Covance Inc., where she chaired the Finance and Audit Committee. Her prior corporate board service includes Telephone and Data Systems Inc., US Cellular Corporation and Lukens Steel Company. Sandy has served in leadership roles on numerous nonprofit boards. She currently serves on the Board and Executive Committee of Northwestern Memorial Foundation. She previously served on the Board of Northwestern Memorial Health Care, a nationally recognized academic medical center, where she chaired the Audit Committee and was a member of the Executive, Finance and Investment Committees. Sandy also serves on the Board and Executive Committee of the Chicago Architectural Foundation and on advisory boards at the University of Kentucky. In 2007 Sandy retired as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. Before joining TDS, Sandy had a 26-year career with Corning Incorporated, progressing through engineering, finance and strategy roles to become Senior Vice President and Treasurer, and subsequently served as Vice President and Controller of Compaq Computer Corporation. Sandy’s international responsibilities in Europe, Asia and Central/South America spanned 20 years. Sandy holds an S.M. in Finance from MIT and a B.S., summa cum laude, from the University of Kentucky. In 2009 she was inducted into the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame. Sandy is an accomplished musician. She and her husband live in Chicago and Tucson, Arizona, where they enjoy the arts, time with friends and family and travel.

Eileen HendersonChief Financial OfficerSyntec Holdings, LLC.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Eileen Henderson is Director of Syntec Holdings LLC, a holding company with business interests in the US, Europe and Australia. Previously, she was Vice President of Finance for Akzo Nobel Inc. in charge of finance and control for the North American operations of a $15 billion multi-national chemical company. Henderson’s 21-year career at Akzo included responsibility for financial reporting, tax, treasury, risk management, acquisitions and financial analysis. She sat on the board of the American Cancer Society, and the board of UNICEF Chicago for twenty years including two as chair. She also sat on the Board of Trustees of Lewis University where she chaired the Investment Committee and on the CFO Council of the Conference Board where she served a term on the Executive Committee. She has an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Executive program and from Governors State University, and she is a CPA.

Industry/Occupation Area: Finance & Investment

Alexandra K. HendricksonPartnerOdgers Bernston Executive Search

Carol HenriquesCEO and Managing PartnerHighBar Consulting

Leslie S. HindmanPresident/CEOLeslie Hindman Auctioneers

Ann S. HoenigPresident/OwnerPeople-Patch

Dana M. HokinManaging PartnerBitter End Yacht Club International, LLC

Michele M. HonomichlFounder, Executive Chairman, & CSOCelergo

Lee Ann HooverManaging DirectorNavigant Consulting, Inc.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Lee Ann Hoover is currently a Managing Director in the Chicago office of Navigant’s Financial Services Practice. Lee Ann leads Navigant’s go-to-market strategy for the Financial Services industry. While at Navigant, she has performed delivery of engagements, as well as account management at key clients in the financial services industry. Her management consulting experience at Navigant has spanned the banking, investment management and insurance sectors of financial services. Ms. Hoover has an MBA in Finance from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management and a B.S. from University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. While at Navigant she has appeared in industry publications such as Bank Systems Technology, Bank Marketing Consultant, Insurance & Technology and Insurance Networking News. Ms. Hoover is currently a board member of the University of Illinois College of Business Alumni Association, the Chicago Finance Exchange and the International Women’s Forum. Lee Ann also participates in Navigant’s North Kenwood Academy student mentoring program for a local school in Chicago.

Industry/Occupation Area: Finance & Investment

Mary Ann HynesSenior CounselDentons

Lori IgleskiCEO

Fifth Star Consulting

Linda ImontiAdvisory Leader-WestKPMG

Suzanne T. IsaacsPresident and PublisherAmpersand, Inc.

Ann Rockler JacksonCEORockler Companies, Inc

Sylvia Marie JenkinsPresidentMoraine Valley Community College

Cathleen JohnsonPresidentCathleen Johnson Tourism Consultants, LLC

Eileen JonesDesign PrincipalPerkins + Will

Kerry Jordan CFABiographical Info

Short Bio:

Kerry Jordan, CFA is the Director of Business Development at RMB Capital Management where she manages client development, marketing, and capital raising for its Iron Road Partners division. Prior to this, Ms. Jordan served as Head of Marketing and Chief Compliance Officer for Chicago Capital Management L.P., an absolute return, merger arbitrage strategy hedge fund. In this capacity Ms. Jordan managed the fund’s global capital raising, investor relations, and compliance programs. Previously, Ms. Jordan was a director in the Global Derivatives Products group at Bank of America where she focused on the structuring and sale of interest rate, commodity, and equity derivatives for the bank’s Fortune 1,000 clients. Ms. Jordan holds a bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Massachusetts and a master of science in finance degree from the George Washington University. Ms. Jordan holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation, and is an active member of the CFA Society Chicago and the CFA Institute. She currently serves as CFA Chicago’s Vice Chair and Board of Directors member. Ms. Jordan also is a member of the Board of Governors for Econ Illinois, the state of Illinois’ Council on Economic Education and the sponsor of The Stock Market Game. Ms. Jordan is a 2014 fellow of the International Women’s Forum’s On the Board: Advancing Women's Corporate Leadership program.

Industry/Occupation Area: investments / stocks / securitiesBoards:

Board of Governors - Illinois Council on Economic Education

Chair, Board of Directors - CFA Society Chicago

Marilyn KellyVice President of PurchasingKronos Foods, Inc.

Niamh KingVice President, ProgramsThe Chicago Council on Global Affairs

Barbara Levy KipperChairman (Retired)Levy Home Entertainment/Chas Levy Company

Kaarine KoskenalustaInternational AdvisorKellogg Innovation Network

Allyson LaackmanVP, Finance & Administration / CFOMuseum of Science and Industry

Julie A. LagacyVice PresidentCatepillar, Inc.

Christine LaurensCFOATKearney

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: consultingOccupation Duties:

Chief Financial Officer

Denise LazarPartnerBarnes & Thornburg, LLP.

Nila LeiserowitzRegional Managing PrincipalGensler

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: OtherDegrees:

BS Interior Design Major, Business Minor

Colleges/Universities:

 University of Minnesota

Debbie LentzSenior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain OfficerToys“R”Us, Inc.

Biographical Info

Short Bio: As Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Toys“R”Us, Inc., Debbie Lentz is responsible for directing distribution and customs compliance, global importing and exporting, fleet operations and domestic transportation. In this role, she also oversees inventory planning and allocation as well as e-commerce fulfillment, while driving efforts to significantly improve the company’s in-stock position in-store and online, ensuring that customers can shop whenever, wherever and however they want. She is a member of the executive team driving the company’s “TRU Transformation” strategy. Before joining Toys“R”Us, Inc. in 2014, Ms. Lentz spent 13 years at Kraft Foods Group, where she most recently held the position of Senior Vice President, Customer Service and Logistics. In this role, she oversaw 3,500 associates across a network of distribution centers, direct store delivery branches, a transportation fleet and more. Prior to this role, she lived and worked in Zurich, Switzerland where she led logistics to include global exports, fulfillment, product supply and customer service for 23 countries in Europe. Throughout her tenure with Kraft, Ms. Lentz also held positions in global procurement, information systems, manufacturing operations and supply chain across the company’s multiple businesses in North America and Europe.

Earlier in her career, Ms. Lentz worked for Nabisco Foods Group, culminating in the position of Senior Director, Logistics Operations, where she managed all transportation, distribution and warehousing activities. Ms. Lentz served on the Board of Directors of the International Women’s Forum Leadership Foundation and is a current Board Director  for the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. Ms. Lentz received her bachelor’s degree in business logistics from Penn State University and a Master of Business Administration in operations management and personnel and labor relations from the University of Scranton. 

Industry/Occupation Area: ManufacturingOccupation Duties:

Supply Chain

Responsible for product supply, production planning, fullfillment, customer service, customer development, distribution, warehousing and transportation

Mary LeonardVice President-Transportation and OperationsRR Donnelley

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

During her 25 years at FedEx, Mary held a variety of positions in Finance andOperations. She was a Preceptor in the US Leadership Institute before relocating toEurope in the same capacity. Upon completion of that assignment, Mary assumed

the role of Managing Director/Operations for the Southeast of England.

 

In 2002 Mary joined RR Donnelley where she held multiple positions: Director/ Carrier Development and Print Consolidation Facilities, and Director and Vice President of Package Operations.

 

In 2006 Mary joined redbox as VP/Field Operations. She was quickly promoted to SVP-Operations responsible for Field Operations, Kiosk Deployment, Machine Support, Customer Service, Inventory/Logistics, Operational Excellence, and Facilities. Mary was instrumental in growing redbox from 1,700 kiosks in 11/2006 to 32,000+ at the end of 2010. Between 1/1/2009 and 1/31/2011 her team installed one new kiosk, 24/7/365!!

 

She was promoted to Chief Performance Officer at Coinstar (redbox parent) responsible for Customer Service, Strategic Internal Communications, Operational Excellence, and Deployment Operations.

 

Mary rejoined RR Donnelley in 2014. As VP-Transportation/Operations she’s responsible for the development and execution of Donnelley’s transportation strategy and the daily operations of seven print consolidation operations. She is also responsible for National Planning/Analytics, Business Integration, Customer Service, and Expedited Print Operations.

Industry/Occupation Area: OtherOccupation Duties:

Responsible for the Company’s U.S. Operations. Direct reports include the U.S. Directors of Operations for Exchange and Refill, and the Quality department.

Boards:

Member, Board of Directors - Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana; 2012 to presentchair of the House Operations Committee; 2013 to present

Degrees:

Bachelor of Science/Finance

Colleges/Universities:

DePaul University, Chicago, IL

Speaking Topics:

Servant Leadership Supply Chain and Logistics Employee Engagement

Pamela Forbes LiebermanCorporate DirectorFormer President, CEO and Board Member

Connie L. LindseyExecutive Vice President and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Global Diversity & InclusionThe Northern Trust Company

Marilyn LissnerExecutive DirectorCushman and Wakefield

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Marilyn Lissner has been actively involved in the Commercial Real Estate industry for over 30 years, 28 of which have been with Cushman and Wakefield (C&W). She has consistently been one of the highest ranking women in Chicago as well as the Midwest region. Marilyn is skilled at managing corporate accounts, including high-level strategic planning, negotiation and implementation of real estate transactions, as well as providing corporate advisory and portfolio management solutions. Her

expertise encompasses recasting and or negotiating conventional leases, subleases, build-to-suits, acquisitions and dispositions. Her strength is in providing her clients with a full integrated team approach utilizing the multiple disciplines and resources of Cushman and Wakefield. Throughout her career, her team has executed more than $5 billion worth of transactions. She has won over 20 awards throughout her career, including multiple C&W Service Excellence Awards, multiple NAIOP Awards, Greater Food Depository Tenant Representative Award, Illinois Real Estate Journal-Career Achievement Award, Midwest News Hall of Fame Award, and 2014 Honoree Bisnow Chicago Power Women in CRE. Ms. Lissner‘s clients includes such major corporations as AXA, Bibby Financial, BMC Software, BWay, Catalina Marketing, Ceridian, Gartner, Field Foundation, Girl Scouts, Glass Mountain Capital, Greystar, Harris Bank, Heico Companies, LLC, Hewlett Packard, Konica Minolta, Korn Ferry, NEC, Newell Rubbermaid, Neopost, New York Life, Pernod Ricard, Pitney Bowes, Precious Moments, QBE the Americas, Remy Cointreau, SA Ignite, Sanyo, Seko, Siemens, STV, TransGuard Insurance, Unilever, Worley Parsons, US Bank and YWCA. Ms. Lissner’s professional organizations include: Chicago Real Estate Executive Women (CREW) (Founder, Board Member and President), Chicago Office Leasing Broker’s Association (COLBA), University of Illinois (UIC) Real Estate Advisory Board, The Executive’s Club, International Women’s Forum (IWF) (Board Member) and The Chicago Network. Her community involvement has included United Cerebral Palsy, Girl Scouts Camp CEO Leadership Program and Women Employed.

Industry/Occupation Area: Real EstateOccupation Duties:

Marilyn is skilled  in managing corporate accounts, including high-level strategic planning, negotiation and implementation of local, national and international real estate transactions, as well as corporate advisory and portfolio management solutions. Her expertise encompasses recasting and or negotiating conventional leases, subleases, build-to-suits, purchases, sales and sale/leaseback transactions. 

Degrees:

Bachelor of Education

Colleges/Universities:

University of Illinois and National Teachers College

Honors:

Marilyn has won over 20 awards throughout her career, including multiple C&W Service Excellence Awards, multiple NAIOP Awards, the Greater Food Depository Tenant Representative of the Year Award, the  Illinois Real Estate Journal-Career Achievement Award, and the  Midwest News Hall of Fame Award.

Volunteer Work:

Her community involvement includes Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, (including six years in the Camp CEO Leadership Program, Tribute to Achievement Host, Journey World sponsor, Strategic Learning Initiative participant and Keynote Speaker, 2010 Gold Award), Mentiium (Women Leadership Mentoring Organization) , Women Employed and CREW Career Day.

Eva LosaccoOwnerJoyride Cycle, Inc.

Sylvia van LoverenReal Estate Vice PresidentWalgreens Co.

Janice Lynne LucchesiBiographical Info

Short Bio:

Janice Lucchesi is a corporate tax professional with over 30 years of experience in corporate tax and public accounting.  She most recently headed the North American tax department of a Dutch based company.  She has expertise in international tax matters including transfer pricing, advance pricing agreements and information reporting.  She has held leadership positions in tax policy and advocacy organizations including Tax Executive Institute, International Fiscal Association and the Organization for International Investment.  She is a frequent speaker at tax conferences and has served on the Planning Committee of the University of Chicago Tax Conference and the Advisory Board of the GWU/IRS Annual International Institute on International

Taxation.

Boards:

LEARN Charter School Network, Treasurer of the Board

Tax Executive Institute:  Sr. VP of the Board

Meredith MackCFOStudio Gang Architects

Eva Maddox, FIIDA, Associate AIADesign PrincipalPerkins+Will

Amy MaglioFounder & ExecutiveDirectorWomen’s Global Education Project

Janet MalzoneMidwest Audit Practice LeaderGrant Thornton LLP

Gabrielle MartinezCofounder & Managing PartneragencyEA

Jeanne K. Mason Ph.DCorporate Vice President, Human ResourcesBaxter International, Inc.

Maura Ann McBreenPartnerBaker & McKenzie

Lisa McClungManaging PrincipalLismore International

Terri McNallyPresidentGlobal Capital Ltd.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Terri McNally has been in the equipment financing industry her whole career.  She is 100% owner of Global Capital.  Global Capital finances all types of equipment for Fortune 1000 companies.  Global Capital has equipment financed in 31 countries.  

Our UK subsidiary is known as Agile Leasing UK. Terri McNally has served on several private Boards.  She is a member of The Executives Club, The Chicago Network of Women, WE Connect and WBENC.  She is an international speaker on two topics - women in finance and women entrepreneuer. Terri is also co-founder of Women For Wounded Warriors, an NGO.

Industry/Occupation Area: Equipment Financing

Dorri McWhorterCEOYWCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Kimberly A. MeekOwner & CEOHacha Products Corporation

E. Spes MekusPrincipalMekus Tanager, Inc.

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: Construction & Design

Elizabeth Melas

Mary Lee MontagueExecutive Vice PresidentNorth America Nonprofit Practice Group Leader, DHR International

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Mary Lee Montague is Managing Partner, North America Nonprofit Practice for DHR International, the fifth largest global retained executive search firm. As a nonprofit expert her expansive pedigree includes both internal tenure and external consulting for a wide range of domestic and global nonprofits. She is a sought after fundraiser and board member, deeply versed in the challenges of the nonprofit world in which she’s chosen to concentrate. With this background, she has developed a reputation for going beyond what organizations may initially seek in executive leadership to ensure they get the leader they absolutely require to accomplish their goals. Ms. Montague is a recognized thought leader, frequently quoted in major and industry media including NBC News, Investors Business Daily, and glasshammer.com. She is a lecturer at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management Center for Nonprofit Management. Her personal commitment to philanthropy and mission as well as service-based organizations underscores her expertise. Recently she was selected to co-chair the Civic Affairs Committee of the Executives’ Club of Chicago and is on the World Foundation of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Board of Directors. A lifelong Girl Scout, Ms. Montague spent 10 years as a board member for The Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana and helped facilitate their national merger efforts. She is also the co-founder of the highly successful Girl Scout initiative, CAMP CEO. Additional background includes 15 years at Chicago’s premiere public television station WTTW; early years working on Capitol Hill; over 25 years as an active member of the Economic Club of Chicago; years of hands on volunteering including the Katrina relief mission, Chautauqua Institution, and the Junior League of Chicago. She is also a graduate of Chicago’s Second City Improv Ensemble. Mary Lee and her husband of 21 years live in downtown Chicago.

Industry/Occupation Area: Nonprofit

Graciela I. MonteagudoPresident Americas & Global MarketingMead Johnson Nutrition

Debra J. MoritzExecutive Managing DirectorCushman & Wakefield

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Debra Moritz is the Head of Business Consulting for Cushman & Wakefield, Inc. Based in Chicago, she reports directly to company’s CEO and oversees an integrated delivery platform designed to improve client business performance by reducing cost, increasing revenue, and mitigating risk. With more than 25 years of experience and a successful track record of advising business clients on the strategic management of their assets and portfolios, Ms. Moritz has developed an in-depth understanding of the complex and unique challenges businesses face in ensuring that major real estate decisions are aligned with and support core business objectives.

Dara T. MunsonChicago Child Care Society

Nina Nashif

Lynne NellemannProfessor of Strategy, College of Business AdministrationUniversity of Illinois

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

With 4 IWF conferences under our belt -- Washington D.C., Chicago, Morocco and Berlin -- my husband David Nellemann and I look forward to seeing you in South Africa. He was an Accenture partner; served Congress for five years; taught in the business schools at DePaul and Lake Forest universities and is now an EXODUS instructor; helping legal immigrants become U.S. citizens – most recently some very talented women from Morocco and Egypt. His bachelor’s degree is from Purdue University with MBA and MPA degrees from Northwestern and George Washington universities. Lynne worked in Top Ten global advertising agencies; served in a U.S. Congressional office; was also in management consulting as a director for Arthur Andersen and A.T. Kearney where she could practice in South Africa, Canada, the UK, EC and America; and taught in the graduate business schools at University of Chicago, Northwestern, DePaul and the University of Illinois. Under two U.S. Secretaries of Labor as a Federal Glass Ceiling Commissioner, she was Republican co-chair for the 20-person Commission. Earlier corporate positions at Procter & Gamble, International Harvester and Gannett (parent of USATODAY) –give her expertise in marketing, manufacturing, organizational behavior and enterprise transformation. With bachelors’ degrees in political science and journalism from University of Missouri, a master’s from Missouri as well, a PhD is from Northwestern University and post-doctoral fellowships in the School of Management and Strategic Studies, Wall Street Journal called her part of “the watershed generation of women executives rising to the top.” Lynne was on the IWF Board of Directors as VP of Membership and VP of Communications, serving on the International Women’s Forum Foundation and as a President of IWF-Chicago. Golf, fly-fishing, upland game shooting and travel are favored by both of the Nellemanns.

Pamela J. O'ConnorPresident & CEOLeading Real Estate Cos. of the World

Sheila O'GradyConsultantSpencer Stuart

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Sheila O’Grady is a consultant in Spencer Stuart’s Education, Nonprofit andGovernment Practice, and has more than 20 years of leadership experience innonprofit and governmental organizations.

Sharon F. OberlanderManaging Diretor-Wealth ManagementMerrill Lynch - Bank of America

Catherine Odelbo

Lynn OsmondPresident & CEOChicago Architecture Foundation

Kristie P PaskvanChief Financial OfficerMesirow Financial

Lisa PollinaVice ChairmanRBC Capital Markets

Christine PoormanExecutive DirectorCollege Possible Chicago

Sylvia J. PozarnskyExecutive DirectorColumn Capital

Kristen PrinzPrincipalThe Prinz Law Firm

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Kristen Prinz is a business counselor, employment lawyer, and founder of the PrinzLaw Firm, which focuses on providing clients with strategic and cost effectivelegal solutions. These legal strategies assist business owners and entrepreneursto build and realize their dreams.

 

She guides executives and professionals through the process of negotiating employment and separation agreements and other disputes in avoidance of career landmines. She has represented executives from public and private corporations, including Bank of America, Walgreen, Zurich North America, and others in matters ranging from negotiations of employment contracts and separation agreements to employment discrimination or retaliation litigation.

 

Ms. Prinz is a member of Economic Club of Chicago and The International Women’s Forum. She also serves on the Advisory Board for Kurtis USA, LLC, the Board of Directors of Concordia Place, the Executive Committee of the Alliance for Women of the Chicago Bar Association, and the One Community Sub- Committee for the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago Kent School of LawStrategic Planning Committee.

Melissa QuickPresidentSteve Quick Jeweler

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

I own & operate 3 independant jewelry stores in Chicago specialing in designerand custom jewelry.

 

Our newest store was voted top 3 “Coolest Store in America” by Instore Magazine, which was a huge honor as it was juried by our peers.

 

In addition, we were designated a top 10 Designer Retailer for 2013-2014 by JCKDesign.

Dr. J. Usha Raj MDAnjuli S. Nayak Endowed Professor of PediatricsChildren's Hospital University of Illinois at Chicago

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

J. Usha Raj, M.D., is the Anjuli S. Nayak Endowed Professor of Pediatrics, at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, USA. Most recently she was the Head of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief of the Children’s Hospital University of Illinois. Under her leadership, the Children’s Hospital was established in 2011, with a mission to serve the underserved. She recruited over 60 new faculty, and established new clinical and research programs. As part of the mission of serving the poor, she and another faculty member successfully obtained 19.6 million dollars from the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services to provide support to children with chronic illnesses. Prior to coming to Illinois, Dr. Raj was at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) and then the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), where she was a tenured full Professor of Pediatrics in 1994, the Chief of the Division of Neonatology at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Co-Director of the Perinatal Research Center. She is listed in the US News and World Report “Best Doctors”. She is known nationally and internationally for her work as a lung researcher with her work funded by the National Institute of Health for 30 years. She has published to date 160 peer-reviewed manuscripts. She received an American Thoracic Society recognition award for scientific accomplishments in 2008, an award given to scientists for their lifelong contribution to pulmonary research by this premier scientific society in lung research. In 2015 she was awarded the Julius Comroe Jr. Distinguished Lectureship by the American Physiological Society, an award given for scientific contributions to the field and for being a leader and role model for young scientists. This is the highest award given by the oldest scientific society in the US, for research contributions in pulmonary physiology.

Sandra Reese

Sonya RosenbergPartnerNeal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP

Carol RothIntercap Merchant Partners

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: Finance & Investment

Pat Pulido SanchezPresident - CEOPulido Sanchez Communications

Carrie Di SantoManaging Director, Global Chief Compliance OfficerCME Group

Terry SavagePresidentTerry Savage Productions

Deborah SawyerPresident & CEOEnvironmental Design International, Inc.

Stephanie A. ScharfAttorneyScharf Banks Marmor LLC

Karla SchererChairman and CEOThe Karla Scherer Foundation

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Please refer to website.

Industry/Occupation Area: NonprofitOccupation Duties:

Please refer to website.

Boards:

R. P. Scherer Corporation

Degrees:

BA, University of Michigan   MA, University of Chicago

Colleges/Universities:

Wellesley College, University of Michigan, University of Chicago

Speaking Topics:

Corporate Governance

Jennifer M. Schulte

Gloria E. ScobyPresidentNoblecor

JoAnn M. SeagrenInvestment AdvisorGeneva Advisors, LLC

Biographical Info

Industry/Occupation Area: Finance & Investment

Michelle R. SeitzHead of William Blair Investment ManagementWilliam Blair and Co., LLC

Biographical Info

Previous Employment:

Michelle Seitz is a member of William Blair & Company's executive committee and leads William Blair Investment Management, the money management operation of William Blair & Company, consisting of the institutional, mutual fund, and private wealth management businesses. In this role, she is directly responsible for William Blair’s largest business, managing over $60 billion in assets. Michelle serves as the Chairman of the Board and President for the William Blair Funds, offering 25 open end mutual funds in the areas of international and global equity, U.S. equity, multi-asset, U.S. fixed income, and cash management. William Blair also acts as advisor to 8 offshore funds. Michelle has 26 years of investment experience and over 15 years of executive leadership responsibility. Prior to assuming leadership of William Blair Investment Management in 2001, she headed Wealth Management Services and Private Wealth Management. Her previous experience includes senior portfolio management roles with Nationsbank in North Carolina.

Boards:

Chairman of the Board and President for the William Blair Funds.

Financial Accounting Foundation (FAF), responsible for oversight of FASB and GASB.

Degrees:

B.S. in Accounting

Chartered Financial Analyst

Colleges/Universities:

Indiana University

Publications:

Profiled in Forbes magazine, Pensions and Investments, the Financial Times, the Chicago Tribune, Crain's Chicago Business, Financial News, and a business book, "Investment Leadership" by James Ware.

Susan SentellCEO and PresidentGladson

Marsha SerlinCEOUnited Scrap Metal

Iram ShahSenior Vice President, Customer TransformationSchneider Electric

Goli SheikholeslamiPresident & Chief Executive OfficerChicago Public Media

Hille R. SheppardPartnerSidley Austin LLP

Joyce SimonExecutive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer, Secretary/TreasurerJohn G. Shedd Aquarium

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Joyce Simon is the Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer of the John G. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The Aquarium, which opened in 1930, is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world and the most visited cultural attraction in the city of Chicago. She has responsibility for financial and treasury operations as well as ERM, continuous improvement, technology, retail shops and food service operations. Joyce also serves as the Secretary/Treasurer of the not-for-profit organization that owns and operates the Aquarium. Prior to joining the Aquarium, she was an audit partner at EY, where she worked with clients in a variety of industries ranging from aerospace and defense contractors to financial-holding companies. She has held leadership positions on a number of non-profit and public-company boards and is currently Treasurer of the IWF Chicago Forum. Joyce is a graduate of The College and Booth School of Business of The University of Chicago and a CPA. She and her husband Doug Emde live in Chicago.

Sara SirotzkyManaging DirectorMarsh

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Sara sirotzky is a Managing Director at Marsh, the insurance brokerage and risk advisor subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies.  Marsh & McLennan Companies include, in addition to Marsh, Mercer, Oliver Wyman, Guy Carpenter, and NERA.  Marsh advises companies by helping them navigate the increasingly complex and volatile Risk Management landscape.  Sara oversees client service teams to identify, analyze, and craft solutions to address clients' strategic, operational, financial, and hazard risks.  To understand and mitigate risk exposures, Sara, along with her clients, have traveled extensively outside the U.S.  Sara joined Marsh in Peru in 1971 and transferred to Chicago in 1974.  Duyring her career with Marsh, Sara has served in multiple leadership roles including leading a Financial Analyst Unit and the Manufacturing Practice for several years.  She has received numerous awards for service excellence and business growth including consecutive "Top Performer" awards by her firm.  She was selected Global Power Broker by Risk & Insurance Magazine in 2011. Marsh selected Sara as Top 10 of best sales professional in 2011.  Sara was featured by The Chicago Tribune on the Sunday Business Section in January 2007.  Sara speaks on Enterprise Risk Management and Evolving Risks.  She has taught insurance courses and published articles (How to Structure an International Insurance Program as well as Rental Cars, Buyers Beware).  Sara was quoted in Business Insurance on February 7, 2012 in an article "Factory Closure Can Create New Risks for Plant Owners."  Sara is also a motivational speaker.  On May 15, 2012, Sara was invited by Vistage tos peake on Are you Destined to be Successful or Determined to be Successful.  She also spoke in front of PRofessional Women Club of Chicago on January 10, 2007 on "Getting into the Inside when you start from the outside."  Sara was interviewed by WGN 720 AM Radio on March 10, 2012 regarding her career and success.

Industry/Occupation Area: Insurance

Michelle SmeadExecutive Vice PresidentDHR International

Julie SmolyanskyPresident & CEOLifeway Foods, Inc.

Lisa SnowManaging DirectorDuff & Phelps, LLC

Lisa M. SodeikaFormer EVP-CommunicationsLMS Global, LLC

Unmi SongPresidentLloyd A. Fry Foundation

Juliet SorensenClinical Assistant Professor of LawCenter for Human RIghts, Northwestern Univ. School of Law

Alison SowdenExecutive Vice President/Chief FinancialThe Art Institute of Chicago

Sara SpieringAssociate PrincipalHeidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

Julia StaschPresidentJohn D. and Catherine T. Mac Arthur Foundation

Gina StaudacherCorporate Tax PartnerHoward & Howard Law for Business

Joan Elizabeth SteelFounder and Managing PrincipalAlpha Wealth Advisors LLC

Lianne SteinVP, Global Corporate CitizenshipThe Boeing Company

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

As Vice President of Global Corporate Citizenship, Lianne is responsible for leading Boeing’s global citizenship strategy, directing programs and resources that impact key issues and working across the enterprise to partner with organizations and the communities where Boeing has a presence. Coming into the position with strong business acumen and a global management perspective, Lianne was the former vice president of Boeing International and president of Boeing Germany. In that role, she identified and pursued new growth and productivity initiatives, led the country strategy planning process, coordinated company activities in Germany and focused on strengthening local market presence – including the development and implementation of research and technology projects in conjunction with German universities, research institutes and suppliers. Previously positions with Boeing include vice president of Commercial Aviation for Connexion by Boeing and as vice president of Boeing Commercial Airplanes for Washington D.C. Operations. Prior to Boeing, Lianne spent ten years with International Lease Finance Corporation and served as vice president and senior European marketing representative. A true believer that one of Boeing’s greatest innovations is the ability to make a positive impact on people and communities; Lianne is a member of the board of directors of American Corporate Partners, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans in their transition from the armed services to the civilian workforce. Additionally, Lianne serves on the board of SITA (Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques), a leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology (IT) and a major supplier to Boeing’s airline customers.

Salme Harju Steinberg , Ph.D.President EmeritaNortheastern Illinois University

Venetia Stifler

Emily Heisley StoeckelChairmanThe HEICO Companies, L.L.C.

Kathryn M. SullivanRegional CEO - CentralUnitedHealthcare

Gail TaggartPresident-PartnerL3 Hospitality Group

Judy P. Thornber, JD MBAJudy P. Thornber Associates

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Born and raised in Chicago. BA U of Chicago, Law at Harvard law School, MBA at Booth School of Business at U of Chicago.  40 years of active real estate development for myself and with major companies. A strong interest in environmental concerns, farming and a sustainable culture for the planet

Previous Employment:

real estate developer

Industry/Occupation Area: Real EstateOccupation Duties:

Real estate development, roof-top hydroponics, multi purpose buildings.

Boards:

University of Chicago Women's Business Group

Phi Beta Kappa of the Chicago Area

Degrees:

JD Harvard Law School

MBA  Booth School of Business, U of Chicago

BA  University of Chicago

Honors:

elected to Phi Beta Kappa junior year of college

Interests:

Travel, art, theater, ties to community

Kay TorshenFounder & CEOTorshen Capital Management, LLC

Elizabeth TreacyPresident & Chief StrategistTreacy Marketing Group

Conchita ValdesManaging Partner of Specialty Sales & Marketing

Frontera Foods

Yman Huang VienPresident & CEOLotus Financial Partners Inc.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Yman Vien is a Chinese woman escaped by boat from Vietnam to America in 1978 from the communist regime. Ms. Vien worked for two community banks before joining American Metro in 1998. She took over as President and CEO of American Metro in March 2000 and within a year led the bank to post its first profit since being founded. She currently served as Chairman of the Board. Under her leadership, American Metro Bank has a commitment to provide financial services to underserved and unbanked immigrants to establish credit in this country. Along with her father, Mr. Duc Huang, Ms. Vien helped found the Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) in 1981. She continues her father’s vision of helping thousands of refugees and immigrants improve their lives. Ms. Vien received numbers of awards including Athena award in 2000, ADL’s (Anti-Defamation League) Horatio Alger Award in 2003, Damen Award from Loyola University in 2006. She is elected by the Chicago United as Honoree for the Business Leaders of Color in 2013. Ms. Vien is very proud of her work with the community and the financial services provided to business and new immigrants. She is also grateful with this very rewarding experience.

Industry/Occupation Area: Banking

Jennifer Alter WardenCOO & EVPBaird & Warner Real Estate

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Jennifer Alter Warden is the chief operating officer and executive vice president of Baird & Warner, a major independent real estate services company based in Chicago. Before assuming her current position in 2014, she was president of Baird & Warner Residential Sales, the largest of the company's three divisions. Much of her focus during her 20-year tenure has been to bring marketing and technology innovation to the 160-year-old fifth generation company, while perpetuating the cultural values that have driven its sustainability. In 2014, Baird & Warner was named Chicago's #1 workplace by the Chicago Tribune. Jennifer created the Baird & Warner Good Will Network, the company's charitable initiative, which has donated nearly $2 million to local organizations that provide shelter, primarily to women and children. She serves on the boards of two major civic organizations, Chicago Cares and Working in the Schools, and is a member of President's Advisory Council at Oberlin College, Northwestern University's Council of 100, and the Economic Club of Chicago. In 2010, she co-founded the Joanne Alter Women in Government lecture in conjunction with the Chicago Humanities Festival to honor her late mother, a pioneering environmentalist and the first woman to be elected to the Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. In 2011, Jennifer worked closely with her husband, Rob Warden, founder of the Center on Wrongful Convictions at Northwestern University School of Law, to abolish the Illinois death penalty. A lifelong resident of Chicago, Jennifer is an avid bicyclist who takes full advantage of the city's lakefront, park system, and other public treasures.

Elizabeth Beth WhiteChicago Region DirectorThe Trust for Public Land

Britt WhitfieldPresidentThe Revel Group

Susan D WhitingBoard Director/Trustee Advisor

Nicole Suzanne WilliamsPresidentNicklin Capital Group, Inc.

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Retired pharmaceutical finance executive currently serving on three corporate boards. The two public company boards are biopharmaceutical companies developing drugs 1) to help people with diseases affecting the liver and 2) cures for various solid tumor cancers. I also serve as a director of the Board of the Chicago Botanic Garden and on other not-for profit boards. I live in Glencoe, IL. Hobbies are gardening, travel and golf.

Donna WilliamsonCo-Founder & Managing DirectorCeres Ventures Fund, LP

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

A Brown University and MIT alum, I am a founder and managing director for a Chicago based venture capital fund, Ceres Venture Fund, LP. Prior to venture capital, I worked in the health industry at Baxter and Caremark as a corporate officer of each company. I have served on both public and non-profit boards and mentor startups though TechStars and Chicago Innovation Mentors.

Marie C. WintersSenior Vice President

Brooke WisemanNational CEOBlessings In A Backpack

Virginia Wolff"Event Floral Design"Virginia Wolff, Inc.

Nancy WrightCEOGirl Scouts of Greater Chicago & NW Indi

Carol WyantPresidentPathfinder Consulting

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Susan, an international executive with extensive experience of small, medium and large organisations, has held positions in Marketing and Management for General Electric, Black & Decker and Laura Ashley. She was Managing Director-Europe for Aero Products International and First Alert. Her specific expertise is in Marketing, Business Strategy and Product Development. In 2005 Susan decided to change her life completely. She returned to university,completing an MSc in

Organisational Psychology in 2008, bought a house in Italy requiring complete restoration and began focusing on entrepreneurial ventures. She has co-developed City Academy which offers 800+ courses in creative and performing arts at over 25 locations across London. City Academy has been featured on the BBC and Channel 4, and many publications including Vogue, The Times and Time Out. Having grown City Academy 35% year on year, she has recently launched the Learnng & Development division which combines a deep knowledge of business needs with the transformative power of performing arts. Inspired by the twists and turns that her life has taken since 2005 Susan co-founded SILVERLINING with Angela Harding. SILVERLINING promotes positive ageing, providing the 50+ generation with tools to help create a plan for later life offering workshops and online resources.

Kathleen YoskoPresident & CEOMarianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital

Margaret ZagelFounder and PrincipalRiver Road Consulting LLC, Retired, Chief Legal Officer, Grant Thorton LLP

Biographical Info

Short Bio:

Margaret Maxwell Zagel retired from her position as Managing Partner, Risk, Regulatory and Legal Affairs and Chief Legal Officer of Grant Thornton in 2011. She held that position from 1985-2009 and again from 2003 until her retirement. She continues as Senior Consultant to Grant Thornton in various matters. She currently sits on the board of Fairfax Ltd and its underwriting committee, an insurance company located in the Channel Islands, and was appointed to serve as Chair of Court Theatre Board of Trustees at the University of Chicago by the President of the University. She currently is focusing on board service, consulting on corporate governance and legal matters and arbitration nationally and internationally. At Grant Thornton, Ms. Zagel served as a member of the Executive Leadership team overseeing execution of the firm’s strategy, operations, and financial matters, as well as serving as Chief Legal Officer. At Grant Thornton, she also served on the board of the Grant Thornton Foundation and the Grant Thornton PAC and on several national and international committees for the firm. During her tenure as a senior leader at Grant Thornton, her executive and functional responsibilities included strategy, governance and structure, mergers and acquisitions ,legal, regulatory and risk management matters. From 1999 to 2001, Ms. Zagel served as Senior Vice-President, Chief Legal and Administrative Officer and Secretary to the Board of Directors of Organic, Inc., overseeing the company's public offering, growth, and subsequent sale. Ms. Zagel also served as a senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Tellabs, Inc. and a member of the executive committee at Tellabs, overseeing mergers and acquisitions and international organizational matters among other issues. Before returning to Grant Thornton in 2003, Ms. Zagel served as Special Counsel for Litigation and Transactions at Arthur Andersen LLP. Ms. Zagel has also been a member of two Chicago law firms specializing in business transactions, litigation and regulatory matters, and advising Boards and management on Sarbanes-Oxley issues, governance matters, and internal and regulatory investigations. Ms. Zagel has served as an executive and officer at public and private companies and a board member and officer at public, private, not for profit and professional organizations, including service on the audit committee of a public medical device company. She remains active in several community and professional organizations and serves as a distinguished neutral arbitrator for the Institute for International Dispute resolution, CPR. She has been a frequent speaker on corporate governance, risk management, and management issues and has been repeatedly honored for her career achievements. Ms. Zagel received her law degree from the University Of Illinois College Of Law and her B.A. from Tulane University

Donna F. ZarconePresident & CEOThe Economic Club of Chicago