LAI Chicago Region | Join a Committee

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Fred Brandstrader

Michael Burayidi

Colette English Dixon

Melanie Jefferies

Helen Kessler

Caitlin Ritter

Cindy Roubik

Adair Schwartz

Swasti Shah

Lynn Smith

Kyle Terry

Will Tippens

Sarah Wilson

Committee Planning Documents

Salon & Chautauqua 2025 Committee Resources

Committee Charter - Coming Soon!

Committee Purpose:

To create annual Chautauqua and Salon programs for the LAI Chicago Region Chapter that:
Align with the chapter’s annual theme as stated by the Board of Directors.
Hold one Chautauqua and one Salon.
Creates events offering in-depth, intimate discussions on timely topics.
Generate as close to breakeven or positive revenue for the chapter.

Here are some resources to help you prepare for your Salon conversations:

READ: Here's how Chicago can reinvigorate its reputation | Crain's Chicago Business Chicago can rebuild its reputation by leveraging its affordable living, educated workforce, cultural richness, and diverse economy. Addressing public safety and economic disparities through collaboration between leaders and businesses is essential to enhance its global standing.

READ: https://thetriibe.com/2025/02/north-lawndale-residents-are-hopeful-about-mayor-johnsons-missing-middle-housing-development-plan/ North Lawndale residents are hopeful about Mayor Johnson's "Missing Middle" housing plan, funded by a $1.25 billion bond, to build affordable housing on vacant lots without displacing current residents. The project aims to revitalize the West and South Sides with 100 new units expected to break ground by May.

READ: https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/regional-transportation-authority-fiscal-cliff/ Chicago's public transit faces a $770 million deficit as federal COVID-19 funds run out. The RTA proposes consolidating CTA, Metra, and Pace, increasing fares by 10%, and seeking $1.5 billion in state funding to stabilize the system.

READ: Chicago region designated U.S. Tech Hub for quantum technologies by Biden-Harris administration | University of Chicago News Chicago was named a U.S. Tech Hub for quantum technologies by the Biden-Harris administration, enabling access to federal funding to boost quantum research, jobs, and an inclusive workforce.

READ: https://apnews.com/article/trump-chicago-transit-infrastructure-grant-roseland-7ff01930f390300db86877428c37bf89 Chicago's far South Side will get $1.9 billion to extend the CTA Red Line, adding four stations to boost access and local economies. Residents are cautiously optimistic amid concerns about potential funding changes under the Trump administration.

READ: https://worldbusinesschicago.com/allnews/city-of-chicago-cook-county-six-chicagoland-counties-announce-first-ever-regional-partnership-for-economic-development/ Chicago, Cook County, and six neighboring counties have launched the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership to boost regional growth. Backed by $1 million from each partner for a three-year pilot, the initiative aims to attract businesses, promote equity, and leverage the region’s infrastructure and talent. World Business Chicago will manage the partnership to strengthen Chicagoland’s competitiveness globally.