The Chicago GSB Club and the University of Chicago Womens’ Business Group (UCWBG) hosted a successful “Linking Professionals to Nonprofit Boards” event on October 22 at the Mid-America Club.
This gathering provided an informal networking atmosphere in which talented professionals could meet representatives from early-stage nonprofits in search of talent to help them advance the missions they serve. The goal for GSB and UCWBG professionals was to help each one find a beginning niche in community service that will also provide career growth and readiness for larger boards. More than 125 women and men attended, and each breakout session was over capacity.
Keynote speaker for the event was Joyce Simon, Chief Financial Officer of the John G. Shedd Aquarium, and a University of Chicago alumna, who spoke on “Doing Well by Doing Good.” Ms. Simon engaged her audience with her message, including personal stories and examples of how board work expands a personal network , offers opportunities to see a broad array of management and leadership styles, and provides the chance to develop unique skill sets that could be useful in business settings. Ms. Simon also urged her listeners to include community service as part of a well rounded life, offering a meaningful avenue for personal contribution to the well being of society.
Knowledgeable panelists and moderators discussed topical issues and answered questions during the breakout sessions. Workshop topics included: “What Should I Expect?” (How to know if you’re making a good choice when you volunteer for a board, and how to make sure you and your board benefit from your service) and “How to Benefit from a Great Board” (How to think about your Board of Directors as an asset you can leverage, but also as one that needs investment for mutual benefit.)
Special thanks to all our guests and to our sponsor, Citi Smith Barney, for its generous support.