January 31, 2023

Leading in Color Newsletter

January 2023

January 2023

From Intention to Impact

Over the last couple of weeks, we have witnessed unconscionable tragedies. We continue to deal with the same issues we faced when Chicago United was founded.

As we prepare to honor the sacrifices and achievements of African Americans throughout Black History Month, let’s continue to use our collective power to plot a course of action that supports equity and justice for all.

Remember, we are inextricably linked. When something happens to one person, one community, it affects us all.

Who are you lifting up?

Best,

Business Leaders of Color 2023: Nominate Today!

Chicago United’s biannual Business Leaders of Color recognition honors accomplished Professionals of Color who are ready for corporate board directorships. To date, Chicago United has identified 470 talented executives of color who have served in over 300 corporate directorships. This year, Chicago United will name 50 new board-ready Candidates of Color as BLCs. Nominations are open until February 28, 2023. Please follow the link to download the Award Criteria and Nomination Worksheet; a button to submit nominations is also available on the page.

Download the Award Criteria and Nomination Worksheet →

Corporate Inclusion Institute-Cohort VI Begins February 10

A community of transformative leaders will convene Friday, February 10, when Chicago United’s Corporate Inclusion Institute (CII)-Cohort VI begins. This carefully curated curriculum empowers organizations by simulating on-the-job DE&I training and equipping participants with proven and actionable tools.

Companies may still enroll team members in CII-Cohort VI. Information on Cohort VI’s curriculum and session schedule includes:

CU member companies and organizations are encouraged to contact Doris Salomon, Vice President of Programs and Initiatives, at dsalomon@chicago-united.org, to enroll team members.

Gail Arrigo Promoted To Executive Vice President

Gail Arrigo has been promoted from Senior Vice President of Strategy & Operations to Executive Vice President of Chicago United. Gail’s continued hard work, leadership and dedication to CU mission is invaluable and irreplaceable.

Pamela Graves Promoted To Vice President of Marketing and Communications

Chicago United promoted Pamela Graves from Director of Marketing and Communications to Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Chicago United recognizes Pam for her work to communicate the impact of Chicago United and build brand awareness.

Doris Salomón, Chicago United’s Vice President of Programs and Initiatives, participated in the Executives’ Club of Chicago’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Summit’s Intersectionality Panel in January.

2021 Business Leader of Color Jose Garcia, President and CEO of Northwest Community Credit Union, recently joined the Board of Directors of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC).

2005 Business Leader of Color Adela Cepeda, founder of Angeles Investors, was named to Bloomberg Linea’s 100 Influential Latinos of 2022 list.

Congratulations to Chicago United Business Leaders of Color and CEO Council Members named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ “Who's Who in Chicago Business.” Business Leaders of Color include: Martin Cabrera Jr., Cabrera Capital Markets (2003); Stephen Harris, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (2021); Mellody Hobson, Ariel Investments (2003); S. Raja Krishnamoorthi, U.S. House of Representatives (2015); Dorri C. McWhorter, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago (2009); Maurice Smith, Health Care Service Corporation (2013); Don Thompson, Cleveland Avenue (2007); Charles A. Tribbett III, Russell Reynolds Associates (2003); and Andrea L. Zopp, CAST US (2005). CEO Council Members include: Jose E. Almeida, Baxter International; Rosalind G. Brewer, Walgreens Boots Alliance; David R. Casper, BMO Financial Group; Dean M. Harrison, Northwestern Memorial Healthcare; Chris J. Kempczinski, McDonald’s; John W. Rogers, Jr., Ariel Investments; Jim Skogsbergh, Advocate Aurora Health; Scott Swanson, PNC Financial Services Group; and Gil C. Quiniones, Commonwealth Edison.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

The following programs are open only to employees of Chicago United Member Companies. Please click here to view our Community Calendar for additional details and registration links.