Good Business Includes Everyone

The 2025 Bridge Awards Celebration was a vibrant reflection of our shared commitment to the work of Chicago United. Our simple truth — Good Business Includes Everyone — was brought to life with the presence of our Members, Partners, Supporters, and Friends. Their collective support reaffirmed our shared vision: to make the Chicago region the most inclusive business ecosystem in the nation.

So many worked in partnership with Chicago United to make the Bridge Awards a success. We appreciate the unwavering support of our Chairman’s Circle sponsors, BMO and Wintrust, and our Advocate for Change sponsors: Abbott, Advocate Health Care, Ariel Investments, HCSC, Nicor Gas, Northern Trust, and United Airlines.

Kudos to our Members, Partners, Supporters, and Friends who sponsored at the Corporate Citizens for Change and Leaders for Change levels, and appreciation to everyone who individually supported. Bravo to our VIP Reception Sponsor, John Robak, and our outstanding Media Partner, Crain’s Chicago Business.

I am deeply grateful for our incredible Board of Directors, led by Kathy Scherer, for their wisdom, dedication, and unwavering commitment to Chicago United. A special “thank you” to Board Member Kimberley Goode, who served as an amazing emcee; event planner Erika Summers of Erika Summers Events; designer Greg Smith of RE:DESIGN Visual Communications; J&L Catering; Kehoe Designs; Black Oak Technical Productions; the entire team at The Geraghty; our wonderful volunteers; and our incredible, small-but-mighty Chicago United staff.

Congratulations again to the 2025 Bridge Award recipient, the University of Illinois Chicago, and Chancellor Marie Lynn Miranda, and to the 2025 BLCs. It was an honor to celebrate you all.

Thank you all for a fantastic night, and remember… We Are Stronger Together.

Be well,