Chicago Woman August 2016

AUGUST 2016

WOMAN chicago-woman.com

THE BEAUTY ISSUE

BACK TO SCHOOL

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INSIGHTS FROM LEADING EDUCATORS

TOP 10 PRO PICKS LOCAL BEAUTY BRANDS

ADLER PLANETARIUM’S CEO

REAL CHICAGO WOMEN:

Beauty for All Ages

DR. MICHELLE LARSON

beauty boss PRETTYQUICK FOUNDER

COCO MEERS

ffc.com

our thoughts WOMAN chicago-woman.com

AUGUST 2016

Publisher + Founder

Kendra Chaplin kendra@chicago-woman.com

Associate Publisher Valerie Kahan val@chicago-woman.com

Editorial Director Jennifer Smith Tapp jennifer@chicago-woman.com

IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER Here we are marking a full year in print! I know I speak for our team when I say we are grateful for our dedicated readers and continued support from amazing Chicago Women.

This issue, we focus on beauty—a subjective term on the surface but with deep meaning for every woman. We each define it differently for ourselves. Ultimately, feeling beautiful brings confidence, and that is empowering.

As you read, you will see our unique take on some local beauty business leaders—from our cover feature, Coco Meers, who has taken the beauty booking industry to Groupon in just a few short years, to Dr. Jessica Hehmeyer, who shares some health-forward beauty insights we should all take note of.

Contributing Style Editors Brandon Frein

Arlene Matthews

style@chicago-woman.com

Design Director Travis Rothe travis@chicago-woman.com

Digital Manager Molly Koeneman molly@chicago-woman.com

Social Media Manager Alia Rajput alia@chicago-woman.com

Account Executives Jill Rossini jill@chicago-woman.com

Amy Lapine amy@chicago-woman.com

Megan Wessels megan@chicago-woman.com

Interns Alison Martin alison@chicago-woman.com

Morgan Forst

morgan@chicago-woman.com

Ophelia Flores ophelia@chicago-woman.com

Taylor Puccini taylor@chicago-woman.com

Other highlights include our conversation with Dr. Michelle Larson, CEO and president of the Shedd Aquarium, as well as thoughts on child-free women in our Closing Thoughts article.

Lastly, as summer comes to a close, many of us are looking to the impending school year. Be sure to read School Daze, featuring several education professionals from throughout Chicago.

Kendra Chaplin Publisher + Founder kendra@chicago-woman.com

Managing Editor Mahjabeen Syed mahjabeen@chicago-woman.com

Contributing Writer Gemma Allen Kate Barrata Laurie Barry Monika Black Becky Carroll Emilia DiMenco Ana Dutra Annette Findling Bela Gandhi Kathleen Henson Dr. Jessica Hehmeyer, DC, CNS, LDN Carolyn Leonard Consuelo Martinez-Quattrocchi K. Sujata ON THE COVER: Shot on location at Chicago Artists Studios by Kirsten Miccoli. Styled

by Brandon Frein and Arlene Matthews. Makeup by Andrea Samuels.

ADVERTISING sales@chicago-woman.com PR + EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS chicago-woman.com/editorial-submissions SOCIAL LIFE SUBMISSIONS chicago-woman.com/social-life EVENT POSTINGS chicago-woman.com/events/submit.html Copyright 2016 FW Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Chicago Woman is published by FW Publishing, LLC. Materials may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Chicago Woman.

www.chicago-woman.com

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AUGUST 2016

You know Q4 puts you in the black.

N o one knows your business better than you. What you also know is that you don’t want surprises when it comes to financing. That’s why MB delivers creative ideas that make a mark for your business, and your reputation.

MB Financial Bank 6

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AUGUST 2016

Member FDIC

EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL BOARD Laurel Bellows Principal, Bellows Law Group, and Past President, American Bar Association Kate Bensen CEO, The Chicago Network Terri Brax CEO, Women Tech Founders, and CEO, TeacherCare Emilia DiMenco CEO, Women’s Business Development Center Ana Dutra CEO, Executives’ Club of Chicago Luisa Echevarria Director, Community Relations, Univision Kathleen Henson CEO, Henson Consulting Kathy Herbert Business Consultant and Investor Erika Kane General Manager, Reserve Dorri McWhorter CEO, YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago Amanda Signorelli CEO, Techweek Julie Smolyansky CEO, Lifeway Foods Dr. Laura Streicher Gynecologist and Medical Director Center for Sexual Health, Northwestern Medicine

from the board

THE ENERGY OF A ROOM FULL OF WOMEN

by Ana Dutra Over the course of my entire professional life, I have been a passionate supporter of development, mentoring, and promotion of diversity and inclusion, especially for women. In every role I had, I led women’s initiatives, implemented new work policies and benefits for women, and fought for gender parity in compensation and promotion. My only request to the women who I mentored, sponsored, and developed was that they should find a way to pay it forward and help other women— creating a multiplier effect of mentorship.

When I took the role as CEO of the Executives’ Club of Chicago—one of the oldest and largest organizations in the country focused on development, networking, and innovation among senior executives— I made it very clear that diversity and inclusion, as well as women mentoring and development initiatives, would be front and center in the Club’s agenda. Our focus on women’s development ranges from mentoring programs for young high-potential women and entrepreneurs to the Women Leadership Series, where we bring successful female leaders to speak to the Chicago leadership community. Our invitationonly Senior Women Leadership Dinners also allow women to discuss specific topics of interest in a safe and confidential environment.

In addition to being the CEO of the Executives’ Club, I am chair of the Midwest for the Committee of 200 and president of the Chicago Forum of the International Women’s Forum, global organizations also focused on connecting successful and passionate female leaders. As one of three sisters and a mother of three daughters, I have lived my life surrounded by amazing women. I love the sound and energy of a room full of women, the power and comfort of a circle of girlfriends, and the creativity and drive with which we embrace everything we do. I am honored to be a member of the Editorial Board of Chicago Woman, a creative publication committed to recognizing and promoting incredible women who are shifting paradigms, breaking rules, and challenging the status quo.

I am looking forward to more energizing exchanges with our readers, contributors, and leaders. We will continue to transform the world, one issue at a time!

AUGUST 2016

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What will it take to build equity for all?

Join Chicago Foundation for Women for the 31st Annual Luncheon + Symposium with Anne-Marie Slaughter, author of Why Women Still Can’t Have it All and Unfinished Business: Women, Men, Work, Family

Work. Life. Women.

Building Equity Thursday, September 22, 2016 Hyatt Regency 151 East upper Wacker Drive Chicago, IL

Reserve your spot at cfw.org/luncheon 31st Annual Luncheon Co-Chairs Nancy Juda CFW Alumnae Council

Scott Swanson President PNC Illinois

#CFWLuncheon

Visionary Sponsors Nancy Juda

Symposium Presenting Sponsor

Benefactor Sponsors

Action Sponsors

Sheli and Burt Rosenberg

The Ho-Chunk Nation

Marcie W. Love Steans Sisters / Steans Family Foundation

Patron Sponsors María C. Bechily, Sondra Berman Epstein and Abby O’Neil

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Marjorie Craig Benton AUGUST 2016 chicago woman

Donations ($10,000+) Lakshmi Foundation Dee Pizer

Barbara and Kenneth Kaufman

Media Partners WOMAN

chicago-woman.com

Conant Family Foundation

Official Airline

beauty boss

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48 BEAUTY FROM

AUGUST 2016 ON THE COVER Coco Meers founded PrettyQuick and brought tech to the local beauty industry.

THE INSIDE OUT

19 LOCAL BEAUTY

IN EVERY ISSUE

MAVENS

44 BEAUTY FOR ALL AGES

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OUR THOUGHTS 4

PRO’S PICKS

7 EDITORIAL BOARD 10

CALENDAR

32 CONSIDER

54 SCHOOL DAZE

12

CULTURE WATCH

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CHECK IT OUT

34 DR. MICHELLE

59 COOL FOR SCHOOL 60 NEUTRAL STANCE

19

BEAUTY BEAT

62 GUIDE TO CHICAGO

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NEED TO KNOW

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MOVERS + SHAKERS

YOUR CARE NETWORK LARSON

CEO AND PRESIDENT, ADLER PLANETARIUM

Insights from leading educators

Clean, modern spaces

GOURMET FESTIVAL

THE MENTOR 26

Kathleen Henson

INSPIRING WOMEN 28 Emilia DiMenco

BUSINESS OF LIFE 30 Laurie Barry

Dr. Jessica Hehmeyer, DC,CNS,LDN

Dr. Jessica Hehmeyer is the lead Functional Medicine and Clinical Nutrition physician at Aligned Modern Health. She seeks to identify and address the root cause of health concerns, and through a collaborative relationship with patients, works to restore health and optimize wellness. This work of empowered health is Dr. Hehmeyer’s calling in life. Read her article “Beauty From the inside Out” on page 36.

Becky Carroll

Considered one of Chicago’s top public affairs strategists, Carroll authored “Women and the State Budget Impasse” on page 18. She has worked at Chicago’s City Hall, at Illinois Office of the Governor, and with local, state and national political campaigns, including National Director of Women for Obama on the 2008 Obama for President campaign. She is also the chairman and CEO of Chicago Forward, that raised over $5 million to support the re-election of Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

52 W HAT’S IN HER BAG? Susan Rothman, Pure Barre West Loop

SOCIAL LIFE 64 CLOSING THOUGHTS 66 Child-Free Women: The Lost Voice in Equality

AUGUST 2016

chicago woman

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r u o y k r a m calendar

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AUGUST 2016

Ed & Aileen Photography

Catering C.Tyson Photography

CULTURE WATCH

UNHINGED September 17–19 3 soloists, 2 pianos, 6 hands... Who could ask for anything more?

How can the music of Stravinsky, Gershwin, Poulenc, Michael Jackson, and Coldplay coexist within the same concert? Anderson and Roe, called “the most dynamic piano duo of this generation,” and award-winning piano prodigy Clayton Stephenson will provide the answers in this star-studded, piano-centric concert that will push the instrument to the absolute limit.

For more information, visit chicagosinfonietta.org.

THADDEUS AND SLOCUM: A VAUDEVILLE ADVENTURE June 1–August 14, 2016

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JASON AND THE ARGONAUTS: AN OPERA FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

This fantastic story of friendship despite racial boundaries takes places in 1908, as Chicago’s Majestic Theatre rises to the top of the vaudeville circuit. A show biz spin on the deep dive of understanding racial divide in American culture, catch this show before it is over.

Tickets start at $42.50.

August 20–21, 2016

Lookingglass Theatre, 821 North Michigan Avenue, lookingglasstheatre.org.

Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 North Wacker Drive, lyricopera.org.

chicago woman

AUGUST 2016

Lyric Unlimited (a Lyric Opera initiative) presents an opera for young people that’s perfect for ages 7-12. It is a story of friendship and adventure, as Jason goes on a quest to take back his throne from his corrupt uncle!

Truly delightful. Four shows only. Tickets are free.

WOMEN + WHEELS PROJECT August 6–August 30

LEFT Picturism (At The Edge Of The World), 2016, Phyllis Bramson, BOTTOM RIGHT, Tuesdays On the Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art, BOTTOM LEFT Women + Wheels Project by Sara Vaun.

Women and Wheels Project, in conjunction with Tarnish, is an ongoing photo project by photographer Sarah Vaun showcasing women who ride, wrench, and race. See it at Beauty + Brawn Gallery, an independent woman-owned and operated space by Lindsey Meyers that specializes in works offering a sociopsychological perspective to the viewer.

Beauty & Brawn Art Gallery and Thinkspace, 3501 West Fullerton Avenue, beautyandbrawngallery.com.

PHYLLIS BRAMSON: UNDER THE PLEASURE DOME June 4–August 28, 2016 Phyllis Bramson’s exhibit, “Under the Pleasure Dome,” features a masterfully composed collection of paintings, as well as assemblages from her influential illustrative work over many years. Admission is free.

Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington Street, phyllisbramson.com.

WAR PAINT July 22–August 21, 2016 Two-time Tony Award winners Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole present a world premiere musical about two women, Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, who change the business of beauty forever. This musical is unforgettable. With its team of librettist Doug Wright, composer Scott Frankel, lyricist Michael Korie, and director Michael Greif, it is a show that cannot be missed!

Albert Theatre at the Goodman, 170 North Dearborn Street, goodmantheatre.org.

TUESDAYS ON THE TERRACE June 7–September 27, 2016 The Museum of Contemporary Art is hosting a free Tuesdays on the Terrace live jazz series until late September. From 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., enjoy opportunities to dine, relax, drink, and experience these wonderful musicians up close.

Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago Avenue, mcachicago.org.

Sine Qua Non is a community of artists working together to create the perfect hair salon experience.

From vibrant, flattering color to sculpted wearable haircuts, we deliver exceptional individualized looks to each guest.

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Lincoln Park 773-871-2280 Lakeview 773-404-8789

t u o t i k chec

The Mommalogues Podcast

“Who are you besides being my mom?” That was the question that Ida Musoni’s son, Victor, asked his mom when he was younger. (He is now 16). Musoni found the question difficult to answer and decided to find out if other mothers also struggled with articulating who they were besides being a mother. This led to the launch of The Mommalogues Podcast, where women who are also mothers talk about what inspires them and who they admire. Occasionally she flips the script and lets kids interview their moms. This is a great listen for moms! Available on iTunes.

READING LIST Sun-Times reporter Maudlyne Ihejirika and her mother, Angelina Ihejirika, co-wrote Nigeria: A Memoir of Love, Faith and War. It tells of her mother’s harrowing experience escaping Nigeria as a war refugee with her six children. It chronicles the flight from civil war to eventually land in Chicagoland. Of working on the book, Maudlyne says, “It has taken me 17 years—between raising a family and working full-time—to complete the memoir of this extraordinary woman, who through her faith and the love she and my father shared, was able to save the lives of her six children during a horrific war.” Available on amazon.com.

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THE YWCA TAKES ON WELLNESS

by Dorri McWhorter, Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago It should come as no surprise that women take on the lion’s share of the responsibility when it comes to making decisions about their own health and wellness and that of their families.

These decisions range from what food to buy to when to see a doctor to which sports their kids should play. Given this incredible responsibility, it is especially important for women to learn how to make smart choices. Unfortunately, studies find that women tend to rely heavily upon information they find on social media and online communities, which may or may not be accurate, informed, and trusted resources.

For 140 years, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago has been committed to educating women to empower themselves to lead better, healthier lives. In 2016, that means launching new services that will focus on helping women and families improve their physical, social, emotional, and economic health. Through our Wellness Initiative, we will provide workshops, one-on-one counseling, and an upcoming website devoted to providing access to trustworthy resources to achieve better health outcomes and improved well-being for Chicagoland’s women and their families.

For updates on the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago’s Wellness Initiative, visit ywcachicago.org.

Have insights and ideas to share?

Let us know! editor@chicago-woman.com

Love Art! SAVE THE DATE! Browse hundreds of juried artists at festivals near you!

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Save $20 On Your First Tan! Ortanic gives you a smooth glow with no streaking, no unsightly orange color and no funny smells!

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Marilyn came to us with the “before” photo. She was using this in her online profile. The new photos that we took look exactly like her, and the response that she had from Smart Dating Academy’s headshots and bodyshots was avalanche-like.

Within months of ‘relaunching’ herself with her new photos, she met the man of her dreams and just celebrated their one year AUGUST 2016 chicago woman anniversary.

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312.988.7676 | 1043 N. Rush Street, Chicago 18

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SPONSORED CONTENT

BEAUTY BEAT A collection of the best salons, spas, and services in the city from PrettyQuick Dita Day Spa’s 60-minute reflexology massage delivers A+ rejuvenation to tired hands and feet. This type of concentrated hand and foot therapy is a must for those who work long days on their feet (nurses, waitresses, DITA DAY SPA retailers) or tirelessly with their 58 EAST WALTON STREET hands (artisans, musicians, technicians).

The spa is a clean, calm space located in the heart of Chicago’s most upscale shopping zone.

Given its zip code, Dita Day Spa’s warm and unpretentious ambiance make it something of a gem.

— By Anne Langbein of Defining Delphine

Scratch Goods is a “skincare salon” where you can watch your face mask being made before it’s applied to your skin. Each of Scratch Good’s handmade formulas contain only all-natural, food-grade, preservative-free ingredients, and everything is made in small batches without any dyes or chemicals.

Owners and longtime friends, Maureen McClure and Elizabeth Leipold, are passionate about SCRATCH GOODS 3551 NORTH DAMEN AVENUE their business and extremely knowledgeable about skincare.

The simplicity and ease at Scratch Goods makes this a nobrainer if you’re considering some last-minute pampering.

The service set-up here is a bit different from what you may be accustomed to at a typical spa. There’s no need to change clothes and there are just two services on the menu: the 30-minute mask and hydration treatment or the 60-minute signature experience. — by Jenny Muslin Ruby Room has been a luxury spa destination on the Chicago scene for almost a decade and has much more than meets the eye. It truly is a healing sanctuary. This isn’t a spa built on fluffy services with lackluster results. A trained esthetician RUBY ROOM takes time to get to know each 1743 WEST DIVISION STREET client and recommends the perfect treatment based on your chakra. Ruby Room reminds us that inner beauty is just as important as outer beauty. And that’s something we can get behind on a more regular basis. — by Johanna Grange of 101 Things I Love

Use the PrettyQuick app to book an appointment at these locations and other top salons and spa. Receive $15 off your first PrettyQuick appointment with the code chicagowoman15.

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DRINK TO YOUR HEALTH!

by Consuelo Martinez-Quattrocchi

The desire to eat and drink healthily continues to gain momentum.

This includes interest in natural, organic, and biodynamic wines.

But how is one different from the other?

NATURAL WINE is a widely used term and interpreted in various ways. It can be made without using chemicals, additives, or industrial procedures. There are no official accreditation requirements.

ORGANIC WINE, depending on the specific country’s certification requirements, is made using grapes without chemical fungicides, herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers. In the cellar, additives (including acidifiers, flavor agents, processed tannins, and sugars) are prohibited. Technological processes to manipulate the wine making process (micro-oxygenation to speed up aging, synthetic yeasts) are also forbidden.

Organic qualification and certification is complex and varies by country.

BIODYNAMIC WINE goes even further.

It is completely organic and based on a holistic philosophy where land is not a source of production but an actual living being: the vineyard is a living ecosystem, the soil a living organism. All planting, trimming, harvesting, and soil treatments are scheduled according to the lunar calendar.

Whether natural, organic, or biodynamic, the wine will likely be more sustainable and healthier than conventional wine. When buying wine, refer to the back label for information on the grapes, wine making method, and certifying body or regulatory agency of origin, as the seal of approval guarantees the producer adhered to the required practices. As always, taste and personal preferences are subjective; however, the wine is often complex, reflecting the vineyard and vintage in a cleaner, more balanced manner.

AUGUST 2016

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Women and the State Budget Impasse

need to know

by Becky Carroll

If you think that the state’s bi-partisan, compromise stopgap budget got Illinois out of the woods…think again.

“This is no victory lap. This is a gasp for air.” That’s how State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz—perhaps Springfield’s most vigilant advocate for vulnerable populations served by the state— characterized the six-month agreement reached by leaders in Springfield on June 30 after operating for a year without a budget., I hope her words make you feel uneasy, as no one’s been hit harder during this brutal budget impasse than women.

Rich and poor. Urban and rural. Single and married. Millennials and boomers. Able-bodied and not. The women of our state are being held hostage to the whims of political agendas.

In Illinois, more women are caregivers. More women are the family breadwinners. More are single parents. Most minimumwage earners are women. More women teach our children in the classroom and look after them in day care. And more women than ever before are struggling to make ends meet. If you don’t count yourself among any of these categories, then odds are someone else in your life does…a sister, friend, colleague, or the woman who fills your morning cup of coffee. They got slammed by the state’s budget impasse, but may be too proud or embarrassed to share this with you.

“…when women speak up, elected officials listen.”

A year without a budget tore apart social service entities and the women and families they serve. One million people lost state services. Let’s avoid a repeat. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from 20 years on the front lines of our state’s biggest public policy battles, it’s this—when women speak up, elected officials listen. If you don’t think you can make an impact, think again. When you advocate for yourself, you’re advocating for all of us. cw Considered one of Chicago’s leading public affairs strategists, Becky Carroll is a two-decade veteran of high-profile political and public policy campaigns, serving in various roles in the Illinois Office of the Governor, Chicago Mayor’s Office, and the 2008 Obama for President Campaign, where she served as National Director of Women for Obama. She’s now president and CEO of C-Strategies LLC, a strategic consulting and public affairs firm.

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ILLINOIS LAW CHANGES TO IMPROVE DIVORCE PROCESS

Changing divorce laws are part of a national trend toward re-examining our consciousness and consciences about divorce and its impact on a couple and their children. In Illinois, a groundbreaking law effective January 1, 2016, made significant changes with the hope of improving the divorce process.

Among its highlights are changes to the grounds for dissolution. Though Illinois has long been a no-fault state, couples could still cite things, like adultery, mental cruelty, and addiction, as grounds. Now, divorcing couples can only plead irreconcilable differences— a change in terminology that will hopefully minimize conflict. In addition, the law also requires that certain standardized forms be used to streamline divorce procedures.

The new law also includes major changes in how parenting decisions are made. Divorcing parents must now each file a proposed parenting plan with the court that includes how major decisions will be made about education, health, and extracurricular activities.

And emotionally-charged words such as “custody” and “visitation” have been replaced with “allocation of parental responsibilities.”

Gemma Allen, a partner in the family law firm of Ladden & Allen, Chartered, said that the new law is designed to make obtaining a divorce easier on both the divorcing couple and their children. “Only time will tell whether the changes make the actual difference in people’s lives that we are hoping for.”

More information about changes to the law is available at laddenallen.com.

THE WOMEN’S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER IS CELEBRATING ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY Join us for two Signature Events!

For inquiries, contact Georgia Marsh, Chief Development Officer, 312.853.3477 x 210

SPONSORED CONTENT

by Annette Findling

INTRODUCING: THE MENTORSHIP SERIES When the idea to start Rich Women Rock began to percolate in my head in 2015, one of the foundational goals of the blog was to help women of all ages learn to talk to one another about money. Talking about what our goals are and how we are trying to achieve them is often the hardest part. That’s not something that only women experience – it’s something that all humans experience.

Whether we choose to stay at home or climb the corporate ladder – there is no question that we are capable, smart, and strong. While every woman defines what having it all means to her, every woman can have everything she wants.

We are earning multiple degrees, managing companies, running for office, and raising babies. We are increasing shareholder value while encouraging our children to share —sometimes at the exact same time. We are energy-filled and fearless.

And yet, with all we accomplish, sometimes we forget the power that lies in sharing what scares us and the importance of opening up to a Mentor who can give us the advice that we crave. We shoulder the burden of our struggles all on our own. Sometimes what scares us is our relationship with money, or workplace politics, or our plans for the future, or the price of putting our careers on hold to raise a family. We act as if we’re the only ones who have ever struggled with plotting our course.

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“The only thing we have to fear, is fear itself,”said Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The man wasn’t wrong.

Which leads me to this series of articles on Mentorship. I will be spending the next weeks talking about the importance of Mentorship in all of our lives. A Mentor is someone who looks out for you, advises you, and is passionate about helping you achieve your mission. Conversely, a Mentor is not someone who merely likes the sound of his or her own voice. In other words, don’t confuse a Mentor with a know-it-all.

There are three men who I have been lucky to call Mentors over the course of my career in financial services. I recently sat down for dinner with these gentlemen at Morton’s Steak House. We all enjoyed talking about the good ol’ days—but we also took some time to talk about the lessons that we’ve learned from one another and shared over the years. It was an enlightening evening. Even after all of these years, these gentlemen reminded me, once again, how the advice that they have given me has made my career more successful.

Be sure to visit RichWomenRock.com for more great articles and insights from Annette Findling.

JOIN US THIS SUMMER

MY MENTORS:

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MARV ROTTER 30 years, Retired President of AXA Financial, Midwest Region Marv was, and is, larger than life. Most people I worked with feared Marv, but I came to have the utmost respect for him. He was a straight shooter and succeeding in his eyes was simple. If you had integrity, worked hard, and were honest, then he went to bat for you every time. (If you lacked these qualities however, then look out!)

“The people who you choose to Mentor need to crave their own success. If you care more than they care, then you can’t help them even if you want to.”

BOB GREULICH Regional Vice-President, 29 years, 7 months with Equitable Life/AXA Bob hired me at AXA and was my direct report. He often refers to me as his “first born”. Bob motivated me every day and taught me a handful of simple principals that, if executed with consistency, would help me make my goals. I still heed Bob’s advice and it has proven itself to be evergreen – both literally and figuratively.

“I look back at my Mentors, and they all created the environment whereby those who wanted to succeed, could succeed. The really great people are always working for themselves.”

JOE GALVIN CLU, ChFC 1963-2006 Joe found me a mere 4 years into my career and ended up transitioning his book business (that he had been growing since 1963,) to me when he retired. Joe searched for his successor tirelessly, and I was the only woman he interviewed among many men. He chose me because he admired my work ethic. Joe’s stalwart advice and leadership has helped me immeasurably throughout my career.

“I worked with Annette on how to connect with and sell to anyone, regardless of age or gender. Annette mentored me in some ways too. We both were always on the same page that the client always came first.”

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through HighPoint Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor. HighPoint Advisor Group and Stonebridge Wealth Advisors are separate entities from LPL. Marv Rotter, Bob Greulich, Joe Galvin and their respective companies are separate from LPL Financial and Stonebridge Wealth Advisors LLC.

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s r e k a h s + movers JAMIE MIGDAL FOUNDER + CEO FETCHFIND

THIS IS YOUR FOURTH COMPANY, SO IT SEEMS YOU HAVE A KNACK FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK OF FUSING

TECHNOLOGY WITH YOUR LOVE OF ANIMALS? I really love people and relationships, and I love to put myself in a position where I can have some impact and create value for myself and others.

When I wake up in the morning I definitely In the uncharted territory where tech think: So, what’s my opportunity today, what are meets the pet industry, Jamie Migdal has transformed her love of animals the goals that I have, what are the objectives that I want to meet to be able to move toward that into not just a pet business but opportunity? I just know what I’m building is also a new, creative way to digitally really meaningful, useful, and purposeful. bring people, their businesses, and

their pets closer together.

After a long history of working with pets, Migdal finally decided to make the switch from hands on to digital. FetchFind is an online e-learning content marketplace geared toward education, resources, and solutions for the pet industry.

WHAT’S THE BEST CAREER ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?

(1) Having a plan is really important. (2) Create a group of supportive people around you, especially as an entrepreneur. It’s a lonely world.

(3) Trust yourself.

YOU SEEM TO HAVE A LOT OF MENTORS WHO GIVE YOU GREAT ADVICE. BUT HOW DO YOU ACTUALLY FIND A MENTOR? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. People like

to help people. Find somebody who has what you want and approach them. It’s about being fearless. cw

MARTA KENAR

FOUNDER + EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MCP RESCUE AND OUTREACH

YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED WITH DOG RESCUE YOUR WHOLE LIFE. WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING WE NEED TO KNOW? Fosters are incredibly needed and

make our world go round. Many people are afraid of it because it’s going to be too much work or they’re going to get attached. They don’t realize By turning her compassion that the only way these dogs can leave the for canines into a passion for shelter is if someone opens up their home. Then rescuing them, Kenar puts we learn their personalities in full, and we can her own spin on advocacy. market them that way. It’s a healthy addiction.

With a Banksy meets Biggie Smalls vibe, MCP Rescue and Outreach aims to use various art media—from rap concerts to neighborhood murals—to instill compassion for animals back into our urban youth. MCP also hopes to eventually provide spay/neuter services, vaccinations, medical help, collars and leashes, and micro-chipping to communities who need them.

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HOW DOES MCP STAND OUT FROM OTHER RESCUES? We are very focused on the dogs

being individuals—we personalize each animal and allow their character to shine through. It’s more than “dog is friendly, plays ball, knows sit.” It’s “going to the local pub but drinks only lemonade and orders a banana split.”

WHAT INSPIRES YOU THE MOST IN YOUR WORK?

Their unbreakable spirits. They have so much personality. I don’t want anyone to be lonely, so feeding them love and finding them forever homes, especially since most of them are abused and neglected, is everything to me. cw

REEM ODEH

ATTORNEY As the founder of the Law Offices of Reem Odeh, Odeh serves as an important voice for the Arab-American community.

The attorney and mother of three works on behalf of immigrants who wish to make Chicago home.

WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND? My strengths are in the areas

of community development, community organizing, civic engagement, and immigrants’ rights advocacy. While life hasn’t always been easy for me, both my Palestinian and American identities have shaped me, changed me, and given me a unique opportunity to serve my family and community. My proudest moments trace back to my three children, whom I raised with a strong sense of identity, including cultural traditions from Palestine. I am a member of the Illinois State Bar Association, American Immigration Lawyer Association, and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; served on the Board of Directors of the Arab American Bar Association; and remain active in human rights causes and organizations. In 2008, I was nominated as a Delegate for the Democratic National Convention. I have worked on high-profile cases, including the case of People v. Drew Peterson.

I now fight for the rights of Muslims across the U.S. My office receives inquiries from people all over the globe who are seeking protection, help, and relief from persecution they have suffered at the hands of corrupt governments or abusive individuals. Our clients come to us to transfer their burdens onto our shoulders.

For many of them, we are the people to whom they tell their deepest, darkest stories of pain and loss. I am not particular about the cases I take on because the people who approach me specifically chose me because of my own struggle and perseverance.

BASED ON YOUR WORK WITH IMMIGRANTS IN THE CITY, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT YOU THINK PEOPLE NEED TO UNDERSTAND? We all have common goals ,regardless of where we are from, that unite us. Immigrants come with the want to make a difference, to work ambitiously, to raise their families, and to enjoy freedoms that they were held from previously.

WHAT IS THE BEST PROFESSIONAL ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED? Never

burn bridges with opposing attorneys or anyone in your profession and always maintain integrity because it will go a very long way. cw

HOW HAVE YOUR LIFE EXPERIENCES AFFECTED YOUR CAREER PATH? As a Palestinian-

American, I always struggled with a sense of dual identities. But as a practicing lawyer,

Know an amazing Chicago Woman? Let us know! editor@chicago-woman.com AUGUST 2016

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R THE MENTO

FALL DOWN...

THEN GET BACK UP

by Kathleen Henson This is not going to be a shocking statement: No one likes to fail.

We’re all born to excel and be good at something—most of us would likely admit that we want to be on the winning side of life.

As a business owner that often competes against other firms for business, it’s no different. We put our “all” into a proposal or an idea for a client. Sometimes they absolutely love it; however, there are times when they don’t. As I often tell my children—and share the same feedback with my team— always do your best. If we don’t win, then it wasn’t meant to be. As I reflect back on 25 years in business, I’ve learned some valuable lessons about winning and losing.

Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks: Nearly 15 and a half years ago, I started my own agency in my suburban basement with no backup plan, no money, or investors.

I barely made ends meet the first six months in business and thought of quitting on too many occasions to count. Looking back, one of my mentors told me that I’d be just fine and to keep going.

Most of the people that have achieved the greatest success have failed many times before they actually “made it” in their careers.

When You Fall, Get Back Up: When you hit a roadblock in your personal or professional life, there is a natural temptation to go back into your corner, lick your

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Why Failing Teaches Us So Much More than Winning wounds, and hide away from the world. Last year, our firm lost a major piece of business that we loved, by no fault of our own. I gave myself one weekend to “mourn.”

Then, we started looking for an even bigger and better account.

And guess what? We not only found some awesome new business that was equally fulfilling but we also created multiple new relationships for the firm that were more secure and longer lasting in the long run. We used our failure to our advantage.

Be Vulnerable in Defeat: You certainly don’t need to put a megaphone on and scream to the world you’ve failed, but I have found that I gain more perspective and peace by sharing with my close friends when I’ve failed than by keeping it a secret. One of the beautiful things that you gain is hearing others share their own stories or anecdotes that show you you’re certainly not the first person in that same situation.

There are Blessings in Failure: I’ve had many ups and downs and I have learned that sometimes a failure or a loss is actually a disguise for something better right around the corner. There are

always people going through something worse than you. Put on your gratitude lens and start seeing that there’s lots to be thankful for.

I have found that in my greatest challenges and adversity, bigger and better things have happened that wouldn’t have occurred if I hadn’t failed in the first place.

The way I look at it, my life is an incredible adventure filled with equal amounts of ups and downs.

There will be bumps and bruises along the way for sure, but your character and life story is being defined by how you fall…and then get back up. cw

Kathleen Henson is the proud mother of five incredible kids and the founder and CEO of Henson Consulting, an award-winning national PR firm based in Chicago that employs 39 women and one very brave man.

Her company was recently named among 75 companies on Entrepreneur Magazine’s list of top company cultures nationwide.

Follow her at @KathleenHenson on Twitter and Instagram.

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OMEN W G IN IR P S WBDC IN

3 TIPS TO MINIMIZE BUSINESS RISKS

by Emilia DiMenco Starting a business is a great way to take control of your financial future, yet nearly 50 percent of all U.S. business owners will fail within the first five years, according to a Gallup Poll. The good news is that you can reduce the risk by incorporating proven risk management tactics into your business strategy.

There are different types of risks.

Nuisance risks refer to the minor things that go wrong such as running out of toner or getting a flat tire on the way to a meeting. Other risks are more serious, but they can be minimized with insurance coverage.

Finally, there are the “company killers”—uncertainties like economic conditions, competition, cash flow, people and legal risks—which can sink a business fast unless you take action.

To minimize all your risks and increase your chance for success, here are three important tips:

KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR CASH FLOW. One of the primary reasons businesses fail is cash flow. Vow to take better charge of the money coming in and going out by calculating every month how much you have and how long it would last if your income slows or stops. At the same time, evaluate your accounts payable and how long accounts are outstanding. Take steps to speed up collections, like offering small discounts for faster payments and following up with slow pay custom-

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50 percent of all U.S. business owners will fail within the first five years. ers. Take advantage of terms that you are offered on your accounts payable. Create a cash flow contingency fund with three to six months of operating costs.

Always work to diversify your customer base so your future isn’t overly dependent on one client.

HAVE ADEQUATE INSURANCE. Property and casualty insurance protects against certain losses to your business, but it’s usually not enough to purchase standard insurance policies. You must know the specific risks facing your company.

For example, you may want executive insurance in case a key employee dies or is incapacitated. Other types of insurance include coverage that would mitigate lawsuits from unhappy customers or defective products and insurance to mitigate loss in cases of negligence, harassment, or discrimination.

A knowledgeable commercial insurance agent or broker can advise you of the right type of insurance for your business.

HIRE A LAWYER. Protect yourself against potential lawsuits by consulting with a lawyer.

Your lawyer should review all con-

tracts and advise you about indemnification clauses that protect against damages caused by other businesses. A lawyer also can advise you about business laws and regulations to ensure you’re aware of and following them. Finally, a lawyer can give guidance on when you need to use separate entities to prevent the loss of your assets.

Despite the risks, business owners venture out every day, facing challenges with courage and pushing through them to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. You can, too, by being aware of and honestly addressing the risks, then celebrating your successes along the way. cw

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Emilia DiMenco is president and CEO of the Women’s Business Development Center, an economic empowerment organization for start-up, emerging, and established business owners. For more information, visit wbdc.org.

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F LIFE BUSINESS O

TEACHING KIDS ABOUT MONEY Laurie Barry One of the most important lifetime skills we can teach our children is how to handle money—how to save it, spend it, budget it, invest and borrow it. However, according to the National Financial Educators Council, “the majority of children today never receive money management course work during any level of schooling, including college!

Most college graduates have spent 16 years of schooling that will help them earn more money, yet no time is spent teaching them fundamental personal finance lessons.”1 The sooner parents start taking advantage of everyday teachable money moments, the better off kids will be. Here are just a few specific, actionable ideas to help get you started!

TRIPS TO THE BANK WITH YOUR PIGGY BANK When even very young, once a child has saved their coins in a piggy bank, bring them over to your local bank to open a savings account. This experience may provide a habit for your child and help them understand where money goes to keep it safe until you might need it. Be sure while at the bank to ask the teller for a receipt with the amount of deposit and the balance at the bottom! This

will encourage children to see their balance grow. ​

INVESTING When they are older, a broad understanding of investing is important in helping a child recognize the role other financial tools may play in their long-term goals, such as saving for the down payment for a house or some college expenses.

The starting point is typically an introduction to basic investment tools (e.g., stocks, bonds, mutual funds). This could entail opening a small account (either in your name or through a Uniform Transfer to Minors Account or Uniform Gift to Minors Account, depending on state law) and purchasing shares in a couple of different companies to which your child relates, such as toy, clothing, sports, and entertainment companies. Review the statement you receive each month with them to discuss how stock values rise and fall and the effect this may have on the amount that they can eventually spend from the account.

WORKING HARD AND PAYING FOR THE THINGS THAT THEY WANT! This next exercise is important when

children begin to “want” things and, even possibly, need to pay for them on a monthly recurring basis, like many of the technologybased toys they enjoy. At this time, allowance and chores may be a way to introduce the concept of money management and budgeting to your child. It is important to discuss with your child what you expect the allowance to cover. For example, do you expect your 14 year-old to use her allowance to pay for movie night with her friends? This establishes a goal for each month, and gives them a sense of pride for paying their own way and realizing they have to work to pay for those things that are important to them.

Ultimately, most children will be responsible for making their own financial decisions. Parents can help provide their children the tools and knowledge that will help them develop the skills necessary to make a lifetime of good financial decisions. cw Laurie Barry CFP® is a wealth advisor with UBS Financial Services.

1 www.financialeducatorscouncil.org/financial-literacy-for-kids.html This article provides general information on the topic discussed and is not intended as a basis for decisions in specific situations. Because of the complexities involved with developing estate and tax planning strategies, experienced legal and tax counsel should be consulted before implementing a strategy. UBS Financial Services and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice.

Laurie Barry is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc. a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC in Chicago, IL. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. We offer financial planning as an investment advisory service. This service terminates when the plan is delivered to the client. Note that financial planning does not alter or modify in any way the nature of a client’s UBS accounts, their rights and our obligations relating to these accounts or the terms and conditions of any UBS account agreement in effect during or after the financial planning service. Clients are not required to establish accounts, purchase products or otherwise transact business with us to implement any of the suggestions made in the financial plan. Should a client decide to implement their financial plan with us, we will act as either a broker-dealer or an investment adviser, depending on the service selected. We provide financial planning services as an investment adviser for a separate fee pursuant to a written agreement, which details the terms, conditions, fee and scope of the engagement. For information about our fee-based financial planning services, see the Firm’s Financial Planning ADV Disclosure Brochure.

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CONSIDER THIS:

YOUR CARE NETWORK As women, we take on so many different roles in our lives: we are daughters, sisters, wives, mothers, breadwinners, caregivers, household chief financial officers, and family logistics planners. The list goes on and on. It can be, and is, hard to keep up with all of the demands that are required of each role.

by Carolyn Leonard and Monika Black

In fact, with each role we assume comes a different set of responsibilities. Research reveals that all women have and operate within a “care network,” or a group of people towards whom we feel a responsibility to provide either financial, emotional, physical, or another type of support.

For many of us, that network is our immediate and extended family; for others, it can be close friends and their families. Hotel heiress Leona Helmsley even bequeathed $10 million to her beloved dog. In short, it looks different for each and every one of us. Many single, bread-winning women have between eight and ten people in their care network.

We found that when women worry about money, those worries often relate to concerns about their care network. They worry that they do not have enough money to help all the people they care for, with enough left over to take care of themselves.

It is important for you and your financial future to have clarity regarding your care network. To that end, take some time to consider the following: • Count the number of people in your care network.

• Identify the type of support you would like to give them, i.e., financial, emotional, physical, etc.

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• Prioritize the list based on need and time frame.

• Decide if charity and legacy are a priority or “charity begins at home.”

After you have completed the challenge, talk to a financial planner about how you can begin to turn your aspirations for yourself and your care network into an actionable plan.

Amidst the humor of the following quote from Sir William Golding, the 20th century English novelist and author of Lord of the Flies is a ton of truth:

“I think women are foolish to pretend they are equal to men, they are far superior and always have been. If you give her sperm, she’ll give you a baby. If you give her a house, she’ll give you a home. If you give her groceries, she’ll give you a meal. If you give her a smile, she’ll give you her heart. She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.

So if you give her any crap, be prepared to receive a ton of s—t”.

Golding’s words make us smile because they capture so much of what we women do: the children, the home, the meals. And providing for our care network.

We are trying to keep it all running smoothly and hold it together. cw Carolyn Leonard and Monika Black are the co-founder and strategy analyst of DyMynd, a company that helps financial institutions build meaningful relationships with their female clients. Learn more about DyMynd at dymynd.com.

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DR. MICHELLE LARSON PRESIDENT & CEO ADLER PLANETARIUM

The woman at the helm of one of the city’s most beloved institutions talks to Chicago Woman about what it really takes to be a successful scientist, why she loves her job, and why space exploration will continue to be important in our everyday lives.

Interview by Jennifer Smith Tapp

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WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND? Ironically, I ended up in Physics because I wanted to take an Anthropology elective. The Physics faculty accurately said that if you don’t know what you want to do when you grow up, Physics keeps all doors open. After getting a Physics degree, you can still be a doctor, you can be a lawyer, you can be a writer, you can be anything because it is just a good solid platform of thinking skills. So I ended up with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, not knowing what i wanted to be when I grew up. My department head asked me to apply for a national scholarship for graduate school (which I ended up winning) to pursue a Ph.D in Physics for five years. At the end the Ph.D program in 1994, NASA asked the faculty I was working with and me if we would be willing to use this new “Internet thing” to create a website that would bring images of the sun, taken from a

PHOTO CREDIT: KRIS KASPEREK

“I love... being able to empower all of them (the Adler teams) to do their very best work.”

satellite, into people’s living rooms. So I helped NASA take these hi-resolution images and make them accessible. We also created different educational tools to hook people in and then show them these great movies of the sun boiling and erupting. And that’s where I found it. That’s where the passion kicked in. What excited me about that project was it was right at the interface between research and the public. But I could also work on the creative and communication side of interpreting that for the public and engaging the public in that process. After that I never looked back. It’s always been that interface of what are we doing as scientists and how can I help get the public involved.

DID YOU HAVE ANYONE IN YOUR LIFE WHO FOSTERED YOUR INTEREST IN MATH? One person comes to mind—Mr. Derby, my second grade teacher.

Mr. Derby recognized that I enjoyed math. Story problems really intrigued me because I would read them and say, “I don’t know how this is gonna turn out.” I enjoyed kinda figuring it out—how many apples you took to the market or whatever.

AUGUST 2016

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HOW CAN WE ENCOURAGE YOUNG GIRLS TO PURSUE CAREERS IN THE STEM FIELDS AND HELP RETAIN WOMEN IN THOSE CAREERS? I think we spend too much time focusing on what I call “the nouns” or “the skills”—making sure you take Algebra, making sure you take Calculus. But really, that leaves an absence of realizing that science is about failure and trying and having crazy ideas that you convince someone else to help you test and see if they will work or not.

Science is a puzzling endeavor. It’s “wow, we don’t understand that, and we don’t understand that, and we don’t understand that—let’s figure it out.” Some of the tools needed include creativity and imagination and curiosity. We do a “girls who hack” event here. At the beginning of the day, we ask them to make a list of what they think the skills are you need for STEM careers. Then we ask them to make a list at the end of the day. At the beginning of the day they typically list Calculus, Algebra, Physics, Chemistry. Then we ask them how many of these they already have, and a lot of these girls will say, “I don’t have any of these yet” or “I have one or two of these.” At the end of the day, having worked with STEM professionals as mentors in small groups, they will include curiosity and teamwork and communication skills on the list of what you need for STEM skills as well as Algebra and Chemistry and Physics. But then when you ask how many of these they have, now they have 80 percent of the list! They might still need to go take Algebra, but they know how to communicate, they’re maybe creative and artistic, and they’ve realized through the course of us exposing what science really is that’s part of the game. So I think those of us who made it to careers in STEM somehow realized or stuck with it long enough to latch on to the fact that there are pieces to this that are a part of me already, that I bring to the table.

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST INTERESTING ABOUT YOUR JOB AT THE ADLER? I see my role as president and CEO as creating a culture, creating a team, and unlocking all of their creative ideas. I often say, “you’re the experts, roll with it.” I didn’t come up with Adler After Dark, a program that is selling out month after month. I didn’t come up with Galaxy Ride where we rode to St. Louis and hit rural towns all along the way. They (the Adler team) did, because

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they’re really excelling. So I love the potential and the diversity of having an Astronomy department and a history collection, a public programs team, a marketing team, and being able to empower all of them to do their very best work. I think there’s great power for us to make a difference in STEM and space in particular. I think we can unwrap what science is about—telling the people story, the people behind the discovery. We’re about connecting emotionally with how it felt to explore and find something you had never known before, and that’s resonating with people. They get the tools they need in their tool kit from formal education and they get the context and motivation and emotional power behind why we explore from us. And I think that is going to help society go forward—so those are the reasons I love work.

WHAT ABOUT THE FUTURE OF U.S. SPACE EXPLORATION, WITH THE BUDGET CUTS AT NASA? You know, I never pretend to understand the four-year Congressional cycle and budgeting. What I think will help is if we can get society and lawmakers and policymakers to understand that what we have lost sight of is that we are a much more advanced civilization now than we were thousands of years ago, and unless we continue to explore we are going to stagnate. Space is the next uncharted territory. I think what people are missing is that a billion dollars was not launched into space. But that billion dollars was spent on all the people who built the satellite, who are raising families, who have rents to pay, The technology that built that spacecraft feeds right back into creating the Internet, your phone, or GPS location, which has enabled a whole new industry with UBER or LYFT. None of that was possible before we had GPS location technology, That all came from space exploration and the need for satellites to be able to communicate back down.

It is geeks like me that want to explore space because we want to know more about black holes. Now, I don’t pretend every Congressman is dying to learn more about black holes. But they don’t need to be. They need to realize that we are humans and humans explore and civilizations advance when we explore. We are actually selling ourselves short when we are not investing in exploring the next frontier, because the returns to us are really huge. cw

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BEAUTY FROM THE INSIDE OUT

By Dr. Jessica Hehmeyer, DC, LDN, CNS

Our skin is our largest organ, and it should come as no surprise that what we put inside our body affects what we see on the outside of our body. Taking an “inside out” approach has a tremendous capacity to forward our quest for enhanced beauty, by slowing aging and resolving many common skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Through applying three beauty fundamentals, you will find yourself—and your skin—all aglow, shining your optimal beauty to the world.

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BEAUTY FUNDAMENTAL #1: BUILDING BLOCKS FOR HEALTHY SKIN Ensuring that our body has the “ingredients” necessary to nourish our skin is essential to our cause.

So just what are those building blocks?

PROTEIN Our skin is made of three proteins— collagen, elastin, and keratin—with collagen and elastin being the two key players as it relates to wrinkles and fine lines. Aim for 60 grams of protein daily.

WATER 64 percent of the skin is water.

In order to maintain optimally hydrated skin, you should drink half of your body weight in ounces of water per day (i.e., 60 oz for a 120 lb woman), which will give you what you need to moisturize from the inside out.

VITAMIN C This is crucial to the formation of healthy collagen. Consuming

foods rich in vitamin C such as dark leafy greens, broccoli, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and berries will allow your collagen to cross link correctly, filling in those fine lines one link at a time.

VITAMIN A Vitamin A is often used topically as retinol to counteract wrinkling and irregular pigmentation associated with aging. Consuming foods high in vitamin

A derivatives allows for healthy collagen production. Eat sweet potatoes, carrots, peppers, pumpkin, and broccoli.

HEALTHY FATS The innermost layer of your skin is made primarily of fat, and this fat prevents sagging.

Foods high in anti-inflammatory fats—also known as omega-3s—will be particularly helpful.

Try fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines.

BEAUTY FUNDAMENTAL #2: REMOVE THE DAMAGING FOODS Foods that promote premature aging and skin problems fall into two broad categories— food sensitivities and pro-inflammatory foods— while problematic environmental factors include excess sun exposure, tobacco use, pollution, and sleep deprivation. These factors “stress” the body through using up antioxidants, causing damage to our skin and reducing our body’s capacity to

build the glowing skin we seek.

FOOD SENSITIVITIES If you have chronic acne, eczema, psoriasis, or keratosis pilaris, ruling out food sensitivities is an essential step in finding a resolution. Food sensitivity testing is a tool that I commonly use, with the most common reactions occurring to dairy, gluten, yeast, corn, and eggs. Beware that if you are going to take a

“do-it-yourself” approach, you must be very strict (sorry, reduction doesn’t cut it) in eliminating these foods for a minimum of four weeks to see results.

PRO-INFLAMMATORY FOODS As is the case with so many health conditions and concerns, sugar is public enemy number one when it comes to inflammation.

Aiming for 50 grams per day or less will promote healthy, glowing skin

(as well as a slimmer waistline, heart health, and protection against cancer.) Sources of sugar include desserts and sweets, simple carbohydrates, juice, soda, and alcohol.

Pro-inflammatory foods also include those high in the omega-6 fat arachidonic acid such as grain-fed beef (versus grass-fed)*, processed meat, cheese, and certain fish, including tilapia and catfish.

BEAUTY FUNDAMENTAL #3: PROTECTION FROM FREE RADICALS Foods rich in antioxidants quench free radicals, the particles that damage skin’s proteins and promote aging. The following, especially when consumed together and will minimize the damage:

VITAMIN E is found in sunflower seeds or sunflower seed butter (a personal favorite), soy, and safflower oil.

POLYPHENOLS are found in colorful vegetables, turmeric, citrus fruits, and green

tea. Taking an “eat the rainbow” approach to your daily dietary habits will ensure you cover your polyphenol bases.

CoQ10 is found in salmon, tuna, and organ meats such as liver.

Note: Studies have shown that “you are what you eat eats.” That is, the nutrients found in a grass-fed burger versus a grain-fed burger are quite different. The grass-fed animal will pass along the antiinflammatory benefits conferred by the grass they spent their days eating.

Though signs of aging may not be entirely preventable, making these three inside out Beauty Fundamentals part of your skincare regimen will confer benefits visible in your reflection. cw

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y t u a e b s s o b

COCO MEERS

Interview by Terri Brax

Coco Meers, the founder and CEO of Chicago-based digital platform PrettyQuick, knows what it takes to become a leader in the beauty business.

Recently acquired by Groupon, PrettyQuick, matches time-starved users with nearby salons and spas that have been vetted by beauty editors. Coco herself is every bit the perfect representation for a beauty company, balancing charm, grace, and warmth with a commanding presence and sense of humor that creates a powerful leadership style. Coco shares her journey and the lessons she learned along the way with Chicago Woman.

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LOOKING BACK, DID YOUR EARLY YEARS PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR CURRENT ROLE LEADING A GROWING TECH COMPANY? I’ve always been highly goal-oriented and independent. I was also always determined, extroverted, and headstrong. As a pre-professional ballet dancer and student of languages, my early years contained exactly NO formal training in the tech space. But I think being a tech founder is as much about creative thinking and persistence, and those are traits I have always possessed.

WERE THERE ANY DEFINING MOMENTS THAT LED YOU TO REALIZE YOU HAD THE SOUL OF A LEADER OR ENTREPRENEUR? My mom tells a story of when I was two and a half years old, performing in my first ballet recital.

The couple of kids adjacent to me on stage forgot their choreography (they were two).

I was apparently irate that they were blowing it for the rest of us and went over CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

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to physically move their limbs for them. I thought she was joking but then she showed me a video. Thank goodness we’re banning the term bossy!

her y e n r u o j

CAN YOU TALK A BIT ABOUT YOUR FAMILY LIFE? Family is very important to me. My husband Ethan and I welcomed our first daughter, Poppy, last March. Ethan is an incredible partner and values strong women like his own mom and sister. My sister and I are originally from Birmingham, Alabama, and I am so lucky because she decided to move to Chicago a few years back. Our parents come to visit a lot and my in-laws are also nearby, so there is a lot of family time when we want it, which is such a bonus to living in this great city.

PRETTYQUICK’S ACQUISITION BY GROUPON IS CELEBRATED AS A BIG SUCCESS IN CHICAGO. WHAT DOES SUCCESS MEAN TO YOU? Setting a goal—big or small—and working with purpose and grit to achieve it.

Success is not just the big stuff, but the series of small feats along the way that add up in the end to something greater than the sum of the parts. I was always focused on the next milestone, and my team helped me take stock of all the small wins we had along the way, which ultimately yielded real success.

WHAT’S THE DRIVING PASSION BEHIND PRETTYQUICK? The driving principle has always been that women deserve an easier way to schedule self-care. As we grow the platform and I add the responsibility of motherhood to my plate, that has never felt more critical. The beauty industry is one of the last great industries that just doesn’t have a marketplace where supply and demand meet seamlessly. That is what we’re building, and it still feels purpose-driven. I love that my job is to package solutions that will genuinely make it easier for our users to nurture themselves. The endless capacity of technology to solve problems—from the quotidian to the life-changing—still amazes me every day.

WHAT LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED THAT YOU’D LIKE OTHER WOMEN TO KNOW? Being a founder is one of the hardest—if not the hardest­—human experience I’ve had. Of course, there were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but I believed so deeply in the fundamentals of our mission that I could move through even the darkest moments confidently, if not easily. Once your confidence in your vision—in yourself— is shaken, momentum grinds to a halt. Don’t give up.

WHAT LEADERSHIP ADVICE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE? Finding and investing in great people is the most important task a leader has if she wants to grow something to scale. You can’t do it alone. Think hard about why your team comes to work every day and make sure you’re doing everything you can to retain talent smarter than you are.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT PRETTYQUICK’S FUTURE? I am so excited that now, as a part of Groupon Beauty, the business of beauty booking will soar to even higher

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Coco is a passionate entrepreneur and business leader with a track record of commercializing innovation in beauty. At L’Oreal in New York and Paris, Coco helped billion-dollar brands grow market share in fiercely competitive global markets. While earning her MBA at Chicago Booth she transferred her passion for helping women look and feel their best to the tech industry by founding PrettyQuick, a digital platform for booking salon and spa appoint-

ments. After expanding to 6 markets and thousands of premium beauty providers, PrettyQuick sold to Groupon in June of 2015 to help the tech giant enhance their leadership in beauty services. Coco currently serves as Director of Beauty Booking at Groupon.

heights. We are combining the scale and power of Groupon with the functional and industry expertise of PrettyQuick.

It’s a win-win match, and my goal is to build a billion-dollar business in short order. I also enjoy participating in other parts of the vibrant Chicago community, through angel investing in other femalefounded tech startups and giving back to our amazing cultural institutions, like the Joffrey Ballet.

WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU? Poppy! And Ethan. And building a billion-dollar solution for women around the world to more easily take care of themselves.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGE YOU HOPE TO PASS ON TO YOUR DAUGHTER OR OTHER GIRLS AND WOMEN? You can be whoever you want to be. Don’t let up. cw

Terri Brax is the co-founder of Women Tech Founders (WTF) and the founder of TeacherCare Inc., a nationwide agency. WTF is a Chicago-based media and networking organization for women founders and leaders of tech start-ups. WTF highlights the stories and lessons of female-led tech role models.

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BEAUTY FOR ALL AGES Our skin changes as we get older.

So does the way we need to approach our beauty routine.

Pro makeup artist Andrea Samuels created four gorgeous looks for women from their 20s to 50s.

ON SET: This shoot—including our cover shoot—took place at The Chicago Artists Studio. It was founded by photographer James Harris (10Photos.net) and Andrea Samuels when they noticed lack of comradery amongst artists and lack of opportunities for photographers and artists in Chicago. Their mission is to help photographers, agencies, and artists not only in Chicago but also from all around the Midwest who need a space to rent so they can effectively work on their job, project, event, or photoshoot in a professional atmosphere. They also host exclusive events and team up with some of the most innovative nail artists, makeup artists, and hair stylists for education classes and networking parties. Their plans include branching out and creating opportunities that connect the top model agencies in Chicago with some of the best photographers and artists in the Midwest. To learn more about the space, visit ChicagoArtistStudios.com.

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Photography by Kirsten Miccoli Shot on location at The Artists Studio Makeup by Andrea Samuels Styling by Brandon Frein and Arlene Matthews

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BEAUTY IN YOUR 20s

EXPERIMENT WITH COLOR Senna lip lacquer

PLAY WITH A SHIMMERY EYE SHADOW AND CAT-EYE LINER LOOKS Inglot Eyeliner #77

SKIN IS MORE OILY AT THIS AGE, SO USE A MATTE PRIMER Inglot Mattifying Primer

MAHJABEEN SYED, MANAGING EDITOR, CHICAGO WOMAN MAGAZINE AUGUST 2016

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BEAUTY IN YOUR 30s

IMPORTANT TO NOURISH SKIN Peter Francis Roth Cucumber De-Tox Hydrating Gel

LOOK FOR A GOOD, FULL COVERAGE FOUNDATION

Make Up For Ever Full Cover #18 Foundation

ENRICH SKIN ON THE LIPS

Milk Lip Stain with Vitamins

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+ + +

BEAUTY IN YOUR 40s

SKINCARE IS MOST IMPORTANT AT THIS AGE

Peter Francis Roth Cucumber De-tox Hydrating Gel

TONE DOWN EYE MAKE-UP, TURN UP THE LIP MAC Cherry Lip Pencil Use a lip pencil over a lipstick so color doesn’t bleed into lines around the lip.

TRY AN ILLUMINATOR FOR A YOUTHFUL, DEWY GLOW Inglot Face and Body Illuminator #65

ARLENE MATTHEWS, STYLIST, KIT THIS AND CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR, CHICAGO WOMAN MAGAZINE AUGUST 2016

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BEAUTY IN YOUR 50s

MOISTURE IS KEY

Peter Francis Roth 24K Gold Pure Luxury Lift & Firm Hydra-Gel Eye Patches

USE A MATTE EYE SHADOW

It won’t settle into creases and is less shiny. Olive and cool skin tones should try a purple or berry lip color, such as Inglot HD Matte Lip Tint #15.

USE A PRIMER

They help tone down shine and help makeup last longer, try Make Up For Ever Smoothing Primer.

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CONSUELO MARTINEZ-QUATTROCCHI, PARTNER, VILLA GABRIELLA ORGANIC WINES 48

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PICKS FROM THE PRO

A makeup pro like Andrea Samuels needs to have an arsenal of a few go-to things in her kit.

Here are ten she always has on set.

before applying make-up for a smoother, long-lasting finish throughout the day. This works for all skin types.

2. MAC COSMETICS LIP PENCIL IN “SPICE” This lipliner is the perfect neutral brown that works for all skin tones.

3. INGLOT FACE AND BODY ILLUMINATOR #65 This is great for a

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4. ENLIGHT “PASSION”

BY DANESSA MYRICKS

quick pick-me-up without feeling cakey or heavy on your skin. You can apply with your fingertips, using a small, round brush on your cheekbones; or tapping it lightly on your skin to blend. #65 works best for light to medium skin tones.

This is the perfect illuminator for medium to dark skin tones. “Passion” is deep copper and looks best when applied lightly—a little goes a very long way.

Since this comes in a powder form, it can be used as an eyeshadow, a lipcolor, or a blush.

5. INGLOT “MAKEUP FIXER” SETTING SPRAY Help your makeup stay fresh all day 4

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1. MAKE UP FOR EVER STEP 1 “SMOOTHING PRIMER” Prime your face

without using any harsh alcohol. This spray contains “Hydrolyzed Pearl,” a natural source of calcium and protein, which provides a natural sun block and helps maintain the elasticity in your skin.

6. MILK MAKEUP “SUNSHINE OIL” This is packed with grapeseed, avocado, mandarin, and lemon oil in a lightweight, easy-to-use roller ball pen.

I love using this to create the dewy look without any shimmer, glitter, or bronzer added. I apply it in a small circle on cheekbones, collar bones, and above the cupid’s bow for a “fresh out of the shower” look on skin.

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7. ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS “DIPBROW POMADE” I love this product for my brides or any client that wants a longlasting, durable, water-resistant brow color. With a slanted angled brush, I like to start at the base of a brow and bring it over to the end of the brow for a more sculpted and defined effect.

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8. INGLOT AMC GEL LINER #77 This is the BEST gel liner I have ever used; it’s jet black, stays put all day, water- and smudge-proof.

9. SENNA COSMETICS LIP LACQUER IN “FRENCH KISS” This gloss works perfectly for all skin tones. It’s a beautiful nude, creamy gloss.

10. MAYBELLINE “PUMPED UP!” VOLUM’ EXPRESS MASCARA This is my go-to mascara. It’s easily accessible in pharmacies like Walgreens, and the price is reasonable ($7.99). If you want the voluminous look without spending too much, I highly recommend Maybelline. cw

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TRUE

beauty MAVENS

by Alison Martin

When it comes to beauty, shopping local doesn’t always mean heading to Macy’s on State Street. Chicago is home to several unique beauty lines that offer everything from exfoliating scrubs to roll-on scents and toners. Best of all?

They are all founded by Chicago women.

Lifetherapy

Remix by Giselle Wasfie

Lynette Lovelace

Giselle Wasfie

If Lynette Lovelace had just two words to describe Lifetherapy, she’d say “encouraging positivity.” Founded in 2009, Lifetherapy empowers women with its collection of scents, scrubs, and lotions. Through her brand, Lovelace shows consumers how positivity can directly affect their outlooks. These days, Lovelace is busy building brand awareness and launching the brand’s newest line of accessories. Her favorite product? The body cremes.

Journalist-turned-acupuncturist Giselle Wasfie says the key to starting a business is strong determination and passion. “I’m really in awe of a lot of the materials I use,” she says. “I feel fascinated by the power of what these ingredients hold.” Her aromatherapy and beauty line—Remix by Giselle Wasfie—combines Chinese medicine with other natural ingredients to promote health and healing. Right now, she’s loving the Weed Bug Repellent cologne.

WHERE TO BUY: The Dailey Method in Oak Park or lifetherapy.com.

WHERE TO BUY: Humboldt House, 1045 North California Avenue, or online at remixbygisellewasfie.com.

Bonnie Lip Balm Sarah deHebread Sarah deHebread thinks of herself as an artist. “I didn’t start Bonnie with the idea that I was starting a business,” she says. “I was just making stuff.”

Since its launch in 2010, Bonnie’s line now includes body, facial, and bath care products. A supporter of green beauty products, she describes Bonnie as a “natural beauty brand.” Of all her products, deHebread’s lip balm is still her favorite.

WHERE TO BUY: A dozen salons and retail outlets in the Chicago-area, including Lill Street Art Center, or bonnielipbalm.com.

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Amazing Cosmetics Sue Katz and Lisa Thurman In 2000, Sue Katz and Lisa Thurman launched Amazing Cosmetics, selling high-performing concealer products online. In five years, their products were in Sephora, Ulta, and the beauty bags of both Cindy Crawford and Drew Barrymore. “We’ve never really strayed from the concealer market,” Katz says.

Right now, they’re working on new primers, but they’re both loving the AMAZINGCONCEALER® Hydrate. “I don’t think there’s anything sexier,” says Thurman, “than beautiful skin.”

WHERE TO BUY: Ulta Beauty and Sephora stores.

Morgan Marie Beauty

Astrida Naturals

Morgan Byrne

Maia Singletary

Makeup artist Morgan Byrne believes in using makeup to highlight unique features. When she launched Morgan Marie Beauty in 2012, Byrne made sure her products did just that. The line’s lipsticks and concealers work to bring out the wearer’s individuality. If she had to choose her favorite product, she’d choose the lipstick. “It’s so fun to be able to change your whole look with just a quick application,” she says.

Founder Maia Singletary lives by the philosophy: “Keep it simple.” Her beauty line, Astrida Naturals, embodies simplicity, by using shea in nearly all products from lotions to facial cleansers. Of her products, Singletary loves the sandalwood vanilla shea lotion best. She uses it as a body lotion and as an afterconditioner for her natural hair. “I get a lot of mileage out of just that one product,” she says.

WHERE TO BUY: Available online at morganmariebeauty.com.

WHERE TO BUY: Available at Whole Foods Market, 80 West Huron or online at astridanaturals.com. cw

NEW T N CLIE IAL SPEC eeks 4 w 00 for $1

1170 WEST MADISON STREET, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60607 PUREBARREWESTLOOP.COM WESTLOOP@PUREBARRE.COM

Summer is the perfect time to recommit to your health and fitness goals, whether striving for sculpted summer arms or needing to mix up your fitness routine. Pure Barre is a proven technique—focusing on the most effective movements for creating a long, lean physique.

Get started at Pure Barre West Loop today!

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r e H Bag In LO & SONS OG (OVERNIGHT/GYM) BAG Just the right size for all things work, workout, and play-related. Lots of pockets to stash stuff away and a nice slim shape so it never feels bulky.

Susan Rothman shares what she always has on-hand for her busy active life as owner of Pure Barre West Loop.

Photo by Kirsten Miccoli

PB WATER BOTTLE My hydration companion for class and beyond! Keeps my hot tea hot and my water cold.

THINKJERKY The perfect quick snack made from chef-crafted recipes and ingredients I can pronounce. I love that it’s a Chicago-based company.

PB STICKY SOCKS I always keep an extra pair on hand for taking or teaching class

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VOCALZONE Literally life-saving for anyone who uses their voice a lot or needs to squash that tickle-cough to make it through teaching a class or a presentation.

MUDPIE CHELSEA CARRY-ALL Vegan leather trimmed, waterresistant carry-all and it doubles as a quick clutch. I grabbed mine at The Fig Tree boutique, down the street from our West Loop studio.

They have so many cute things!

RX BAR Another great Chicago-based company! They are super-transparent about what’s in their whole food protein bars so you know exactly what you’re eating.

www.liftUPlift.com/AllyAwards

EMI-JAY FLEXX HAIR TIES With these, I can tie my hair back without creasing it! Take it down, shake it out, and go.

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SCHOOL DAZE Any parent in the city can tell you that navigating the vast education landscape of the city can be daunting, regardless of the grade level of your child. Here, we talk to experts at every stage of development to learn more about the options that Chicago has to offer its children.

FINDING THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL PROGRAM Selecting a perfect preschool for your child can be simple, if you know the right questions to ask and if you enter the process prepared. Catherine Griffin, owner of Little Hands Learning Center Preschool, says parents have a lot to consider when choosing the best program for their little one.

Addressing your family needs is important. Being in close proximity to home or work has a significant impact on your day and logistics. As well as the hours of operation and calendar closure dates which effect your daily work schedule. Other aspects, such as whether the school has an open-door policy may matter to you—are you able to drop in and check on your little one at any time?

Take a look at the financials. Not only what works for your family’s budget, but what the tuition includes.

Some schools include meals and special meals with children with dietary restrictions.

Extra fees may be incurred for certain activities or additional programs.

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Schools vary greatly in educational philosophies. It will be helpful to familiarize yourself and understand the key differences between common terms and formal educational philosophies such as the Montessori Method, The Reggio Emilia Approach, The Waldorf Approach, The High-Scope Approach, Active Engaged Learning, Accelerated Academics, Child-centered, Teacher-led, Child-led, Co-operative Childcare, and Developmentally Appropriate. Also, take a look to see if they offer individualized instruction available for students at various academic levels or for children with different learning styles. Another important philosophy you will want to know about is the disciplinary standards and style.

SchoolS can vary greatly in quality and standards for their teachers’ and staff certifications and education level, as well as teacher-to-child ratios.

One to note is Adult, Child and Infant CPR/First Aid. Schools at this level may offer comprehensive activities and special programs—think spanish or yoga classes. These programs often introduce new teachers to class for these programs.

Being prepared helps parents feel less ovewhelmed when choosing the best preschool fit for their child and allows parents to enter the process more aware which makes the process more effective, efficient and enjoyable.

A LOOK INTO A CPS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL The challenges that CPS faces has been well-documented. A northside principal gives an inside look into how she manages the day-to-day operations at her school while keeping parents aware of how it the situation affects their children.

Diverse both culturally and socioeconomically, Nettelhorst is like a “mini utopia”, says Principal Yasmeen Muhammad, who feels both factors are major components for college and career readiness. “It is important for students to read about other cultures and learn how they contribute to our society,” she explains. “[At Nettelhorst] we are able to put theory into practice while enriching our students through events that highlight various cultures.” But even the school’s unique culture and her extensive background in elementary education could not have prepared her for the challenges that came with the state budget cuts. Navigating through the political nuances to keep students, parents, and staff happy—while also making sure Nettelhorst continues to live up to its excellent reputation, was essential. As a first-year principal, Muhammad has addressed the money deficit by being open with her parents and sharing with them all information presented from the district.

THE PRIVATE SCHOOL OPTION Be ambitious. That is the common thread that runs through all aspects of British International School of Chicago in Lincoln Park. Mel Curtis, Principal of BISC Lincoln Park, describes the educational experience students receive as a “personalized education that creates a purposeful and meaningful experience. Our school is passionate about giving opportunities to explore more than just math and science.”

Making the effort to get to know all of the students and what they do outside of school is important to determining what they need while in the classroom. Curtis says that a common question she is asked is how BISC Lincoln Park tests students. “Assessment happens every day,” she says. “Our children are adept at challenging

themselves, and our school has an all-around approach to learning, including character building and teaching them to be able to communicate with both adults and children.” Like many schools, BISC Lincoln Park wants to teach their children to be globally-minded and able to make a difference in the world. Curtis mentions that BISC Lincoln Park has a program for older students to travel to Tanzania to work with students there and learn to be compassionate international citizens.

An important part of the BISC Lincoln Park curriculum is the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) corridor for their 2-11 year old students. An all-integrated, interdisciplinary program, the campus includes a science lab, a library, an arts studio, a drama room, maker space, and a robotics studio. According to Curtis, the arts component in STEAM learning is crucial. “If you ignore the arts element, you have let children down. You have to have a much bigger perception of what the arts can do.” BISC Lincoln Park recently announced a collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to further enhance the school’s STEAM program in the form of classroom challenges that focus on the intersections between the five disciplines.

CHARTER SCHOOLS: PLAN FOR SUCCESS DRW College Prep is one of 17 campuses of the Noble Network of Charter Schools, which collectively serves a student population that is 98 percent minority and 89 percent low-income. Noble was founded in 1999 as an alternative choice for families that were otherwise assigned to traditional Chicago Public School campuses. It’s an option where students from all across the city could experience a top-notch collegeprep education that placed a deliberate emphasis on school safety, an inclusive learning environment, and a focus on lifelong success through college. Since the original Noble Street College Prep opened, it has expanded to 17 high school campuses all across Chicago, including DRW College Prep in the Homan Square neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side. All Noble schools are open-enrollment public charter schools, meaning that any student living within the city limits may attend. They are non-selective and there is no tuition. The Noble model of highly-trained teachers and a supportive school environment has proven to substantially improve outcomes for traditionally underserved students and neighborhoods in Chicago. Everything that Noble does is built around college access and success for their students. With an

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e m i t n w do

unshakable belief that any child somewhere to go, when they dedication and success of Noble can succeed in college and in life might otherwise hang with the students and staff. given the proper education and wrong crowd or look for trouble. support in high school, Noble After-school programming that KEEPING KIDS SAFE campuses are sending students to especially helps students think and through college at historically about and imagine futures AFTER SCHOOL unprecedented rates. Despite beyond the communities they Since it was founded in 2004, be a good time to brush up on live your to mind, makeespecially sure you comprising only 10 percent of Now would inFrench are, in my Spark Chicago has been helping remember how to order that un vin rouge.

Alliance Française offers the public high school population valuable.” Because of Spark, middle school students in underlanguage classes atconnect all levels, fromkids the from Regular, once-a-week class in Chicago, Noble students earnedFrench dangerous parts of served neighborhoods to thewith twice-a-week Accelerated course.

Fall/Winter 2015 classes run over one third of all college the city have access to the kind mentors so they can have a November 18of tograduating January 30. | and guidance scholarship dollars awarded to from higher ofFrançaise opportunities chance andAlliance 810 North Dearborn Street | 312-337-107 | af-chicago.org public school students in the they otherwise may not be able to look toward a more fulfilling future. graduating class of 2016. As have.

According to the numbers, Executive Director Kathleen St. recognition for these and many it’s undeniable that Spark Chicago Louis Caliento—who has been other remarkable achievements, has had great success since it with Spark Chicago for three and Noble was recently awarded the opened in 2011. The program a half years now—speaks to why Parents of multiples who for have been looking for aprogramming helping handhas are distinguished Broad Prize now serves 12 schools and 350 after-school now luck. School Twiniversity is a websitebecome and class series that for is the Bestin Charter in the nation students, with 95 percent of them indispensable much number resource for honor parents of twins and multiples.

Taught in 2015, one an extraordinary finishing 8th grade compared to of Chicago’s youth: “It provides by Julie Burt Nichols, of twins, the classes are divided into two levels: that reinforces the high herself level of a mother 71 percent district-wide. cw students with something to do, Twin Prep and Newborns. Learn more and register for classes at twiniversity.com.

PLANNING AN APRIL IN PARIS?

TWINIVERSITY

PROMOTION

Fusion: A Revolutionary Way to School Fusion Academy is a revolutionary private middle and high school where positive relationships unlock academic potential. We are a non-traditional community of learning with the smallest class size possible: one student and one teacher per classroom. This allows us to personalize and customize curriculum for each student’s unique strengths and learning style.

Our supportive staff and campus environment provide a safe space for students to flourish emotionally, socially, and academically. It includes a state-of-the-art recording studio and a mixed-media art studio for students to express theircreativity. Our Homework Café® is where students complete all their homework before they leave for the day ING COM TO with supervision and help from a teacher.

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SOO ARK & P OLN LINC NSTON! EVA

Classes are offered at three levels: essential, college prep, and honors. From algebra to yoga and everything in between, we have a wide variety of classes to choose from. Students can enroll full-time, take classes for credit, or utilize our tutoring services. In addition to academics, we partner with outside therapeutic professionals to support students’ emotional health and help foster a balanced life.

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While it’s impossible to put our students into categories, we generally serve students with the following backgrounds: ADHD, accelerated/gifted learners, dyslexia, dysgraphia and learning differences, social challenges and social anxiety, or students with challenging schedules. Students who attend Fusion have one thing in common: traditional school isn’t working. fw: chicago NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 chicago woman

AUGUST 2016

Julia Berle, one of our Dallas, TX parents, said: “Never have we had such a powerful, loving, caring, incredible educational experience. [Our son] has learned so much, excelled so much and grown exponentially in the Fusion environment. Thank you all for loving and teaching my boy with dignity, honor, and respect.”

Fusion has campuses across the country in California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Texas, and is coming soon to Chicago! Learn more at FusionNearNorth.com.

Is it better to leave the kids everything?

Or nothing?

Values. Work ethic. Responsibility. Some gifts our families pass on to us aren’t measured in dollars. The inheritance discussion can be complicated, but it’s needed to reduce conflict, resolve issues and prepare your heirs.

Your UBS Financial Advisor can help you begin a conversation about inheritance planning, family relationships and the responsibilities that come with family wealth.

For some of life’s questions, you’re not alone.

Together we can find an answer.

Laurie P. Barry, CFP® Senior Vice President--Wealth Management Wealth Advisor 312-525-4393 laurie.barry@ubs.com Everly Champion Senior Wealth Strategy Associate 312-525-4399 everly.champion@ubs.com Emily Duerr Registered Client Service Associate 312-525-4395 emily.j.duerr@ubs.com The Barry Wealth Consulting Group UBS Financial Services Inc. One North Wacker Drive Chicago, IL 60606-2807 312-525-4500 800-621-0684

ubs.com/team/barrywealthcg As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial PlannerTM and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. ©UBS 2016. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. D-UBS-464BA5D7

ANCHORAGE

HELSINKI VANCOUVER SEATTLE

STOCKHOLM TRONDHEIM

EDMONTON

PORTLAND

ICELAND

OSLO GOTHENBURG COPENHAGEN BERGEN STAVANGER BILLUND HAMBURG FRANKFURT MUNICH ABERDEEN AMSTERDAM GLASGOW BRUSSELS ZURICH MANCHESTER MILAN BIRMINGHAM LONDON PARIS GENEVA HEATHROW ORLY & CDG & GATWICK

DENVER

BARCELONA

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL

MADRID CHICAGO TORONTO MONTREAL

WASHINGTON D.C.

BOSTON NEW YORK

HALIFAX

JFK & NEWARK

ORLANDO

FLY ICELANDAIR FROM CHICAGO O’HARE TO MORE THAN 20 DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE Take an Icelandair Stopover at no additional airfare

COOL FOR SCHOOL Sure, you can rush out to a big box store and stock up on the same boring school supplies you buy every year. To shake things up a bit, we suggest you check out our edit of cool stuff that kids actually want throw into their backpacks.

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4 1. PAK’D LUNCHES Delivered to your home, these ready-to-go meals fit right into little ones’ lunchboxes. $6.50 for kid’s pak, $8.50 for adult pak.

Full selection available at eatpakd.com.

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2. FJALLRAVEN RE-KANKEN BACKPACK Made from recycled polyester sourced from water bottles. $90.00. Available at Fjallraven Chicago, 1708 North Damen Avenue, or fjallraven.us.

3. DOUBLE-ENDED COLORING PENCIL SET This set makes school projects and casual doodles a lot more fun. $10.00. Available at urbanoutfitters.com.

4. CAMERAS ZIPPER POUCH keeps pencils, erasers and all things small in one place. $6.95. Available at Enjoy Urban General Store, 4723 North Lincoln Avenue, or urbangeneralstore.com.

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5. EARASER School supplies can be soooo boring, why not have a little fun with a play-on-words eraser. $4.95. Available at the Museum of Contemporary Art shop, or mcachicagostore.org.

6. PSYCHOBABY U-R-A HERO LUNCH BAGS These are personalized, so misplaced meals can be thing of the past. $22.00.

Available at psychobabyonline.com. cw

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NEUTRAL STANCE Make a statement without being loud.

Paula Rodriguez of Paula Interiors shows you how to express yourself in soft tones and layer with luxe textures to create a clean, modern space.

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Rodriguez says that “Minimalism is all about balance of color, function and comfort. The key in designing this look is taking away what’s not essential and leaving just what’s comfortable and beautiful.”

PATTERNS

These are essential, not because we are going minimal means you have to go bare minimum. Be brave and start mixing simple patterns. You can use them in accent pillows, upholstered furniture, rugs, window treatments and tile. Be careful and don’t overdo it—three patterns are more than enough.

CLEAN LINES When using neutral tones, furniture becomes a very important aspect in the décor of your space. This is the time to showcase geometric lines to create visual interest.

TEXTURES Mix soft luscious fabrics with different materials, like glass, plastic, metal and wood. These add interest and warmth to the space.

PHOTO CREDIT: DUSTIN HALLECK

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WILLOW GRAY CHAIR,

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“UNTITLED”

BY SHAR COULSON

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NATURE: Natural elements always make the room feel welcome and alive. Bring nature by adding fresh flowers, succulent plants or by adding driftwood accessories.

ACCENTS Get a stunning piece of art to make it the focal point of your room. If art is not your forte, just add a pop of color.

A small table or few accessories can do the trick. Color has to be in small dose—adding a hint of color to your neutral palette.

LAYERS Adding these create depth and dimension. Think about using your favorite color but don’t overdo it by using it everywhere. Play with it’s light and dark versions.

INSTA INSPO

Need more inspiration? Check out some of our favorite local designers on Instagram: Kate Marker @katemarkerinteriors Alexandra Kaehler @alexkaehlerdesign Brynn Olson @brynnolsondesign

ABSTRACT GRAY/WHITE A REA RUG (5’X8’)

$349.99, theroomplace.com

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GOURMET-IMR KNOW BEFORE YOU GO CHICAGO GOURMET FESTIVAL Explore culinary masterpieces at Bon Appétit presents Chicago Gourmet, one of the nation’s premier culinary celebrations promising a thrilling lineup of celebrity chef talent. Now in its ninth year, the weekend-long culinary showcase hits Millennium Park from September 23–25 with newly developed programming.

Here are five key things to know about this year’s Chicago Gourmet.

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Celebrity Chef Headliners.

In 2016, Chicago Gourmet appointed its first-ever Host Chef, Rick Bayless of acclaimed Frontera Restaurants. Bayless will act as the official culinary ambassador of the event, while lending his creativity and influence to curate nationally renowned talent, new events, engaging seminars, cooking demonstrations, and more. Editor-in-Chief Adam Rapoport and Deputy Editor Andrew Knowlton of presenting sponsor Bon Appétit will be heavily involved in the weekend’s activities, not to mention renowned chefs like Stephanie Izard (Girl & the Goat), Tony Mantuano (Spiaggia), Art Smith (Chicago q), Takashi Yagihashi (Slurping Turtle), and many more. Master Sommelier Serafin Alvarado—who will kick off the weekend by popping bottles of the uber exclusive Ace of Spades Gold from Armand de Brignac—and Mixologist Natalia Cardenas from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits will bring fine wines, unique cocktails and interactive beverage seminars.

Food Is Art! Use Your Palate.

Another first, Bon Appétit presents Chicago Gourmet 2016 has announced an unprecedented weekend-long theme: Food Is Art! Partnerships with EXPO Chicago and the Art Institute of Chicago will integrate fun, interactive art components throughout Millennium Park over the weekend.

The Grand Cru.

The Tao of Tacos.

Chef selections in the Grand Cru will be curated from the Complete Culinary Works, a component of Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Shakespeare 400 Chicago celebration. Showcasing artful translations of Othello to The Taming of the Shrew and everything in between, guests with coveted tickets to Grand Cru will sample delicious bites and taste the world’s finest wines as they are poured by leading master sommeliers.

This brand new event by Host Chef Rick Bayless will feature 12 chefs presenting their take on the taco, drawing inspiration from their unique backgrounds and incorporating ingredients, techniques, and flair that are signature to their culinary style. Using the tortilla as a blank canvas, participants will bring Chicago Gourmet’s newly introduced Food is Art! theme to life through vibrant flavors and never-before-tasted combinations.

Held on Saturday, September 24, at the Harris Theater Rooftop, the event also will feature cocktails from Cazadores Tequila and brews from Lagunitas.

Tasting Pavilions.

With 11 tasting pavilions at this year’s event, there will be ample to sample!

The ever-popular BBQ and Beer Tasting Pavilion Presented by COUNTRY Financial will feature barbecue bites and live music, while the The Japan Consulate and Sister Cities Tasting Pavilion will highlight Japanese and international chefs, cuisine, and products. Guests can gorge on seafood at the Supreme Lobster & Seafood Co. Tasting Pavilion, feed their inner meat lover at the PRE® Brands Pavilion, or vote on their favorite gelato at the Gelato World Tour Tasting Pavilion. Additional pavilion sponsors include American Airlines, Mariano’s, U.S. Foods, Big Green Egg, and Martin’s Potato Rolls.

Chicago Gourmet is produced by the Illinois Restaurant Association, title sponsor Bon Appétit magazine and presenting sponsor Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Chicago Gourmet 2016 is one of the nation’s largest and most celebrated culinary events, with more than 200 restaurants and chefs, as well as hundreds of renowned vintners, spirit makers and premium breweries. For more details, visit www. chicagogourmet.org.

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FEARLESS: A ROADMAP FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER JUNE 11, 2016 PALMER HOUSE HITLON

TOP LEFT, CLOCKWISE: Christy Heffner speaks with other panelists. Linda S. Wolf, retired chairman and CEO, LeoBurnett Worldwide. Guests. Roxanne J. Decyk, Retired Executive Committee Member and EVP, Global Government Relations, Royal Dutch Shell Plc. Sharon Oberlander announcing the panelists.

The Executives’ Club of Chicago’s Women’s Leadership Breakfast featured a panel discussion with female executives sharing their next chapters, board affiliations, and transitions. Panelists included Roxanne J. Decyk, retired executive committee member and EVP, Global Government Relations, Royal Dutch Shell Plc; Christie Hefner, former chairman and CEO, Playboy Enterprises; and Linda S. Wolf, retired chairman and CEO, Leo Burnett Worldwide.

The discussion was moderated

by Janice L. Fields, former president, McDonald’s USA

JUNE ISSUE PREMIER JUNE 1, 2016 JOY DISTRICT

TOP LEFT, CLOCKWISE: Marilynn Gardner, CEO, Navy Pier with Dorri McWhorter, CEO, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. Bela Gandhi, CEO, Smart Dating Academy with Jennifer Smith Tapp, editorial director, Chicago Woman. Samara Mejia, MATH Venture Partners, Morgan Forst, and Saudia Davis, Executive DIrector, Smarty Pants Are Leaders. PHOTO CREDIT: MALLORY GREEN.

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Fifth Third Bank hosted Chicago Woman magazine’s June 2016 launch party at the new roof top at Joy District on Hubbard Street. With over 300 attendees, Marilynn Gardner, CEO of Navy Pier, and Bob Sullivan, Regional President of Fifth Third Bank, addressed the crowd and spoke about their partnership for Navy Pier’s Centennial year celebrations.

Belvedere Vodka cocktails were served as well as Moet Chandon.

The evening was a great success and we are thankful to all those that came to celebrate with us and continue to support Chicago Woman and our vision.

2016 EPWNG Charitable Luncheon to Benefit Bright Pink JULY 14, 2016 RAVINIA FESTIVAL

TOP LEFT, CLOCKWISE: Lindsay Avner, CEO of Bright Pink, and Wendy Baum, Founder of the Exclusive Professional Women’s Networking Group.

Medical Direct of Bright Pink, Deborah Lindner speaks to the group. Luncheon attendees. Lindsay avner, Wendy Baum and guest. PHOTO CREDIT: ROMY MODIN.

The Exclusive Women’s Professional Networking Group (EPWNG) hosted a luncheon featuring a presentation from Bright Pink Founder & CEO, Lindsay Avner, and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Deborah Lindner, on advances in women’s health and the importance of preventive action. Funds raised through this luncheon will directly fuel Bright Pink’s life-saving breast and ovarian health programs for young women and their health providers.

Artisan Crafted Wine, Made with Organic Grapes

www.villagraziellaorganic.com

Our conscious choice to grow & harvest Italian organic grapes for wine, comes from our belief to fully enjoy food & wine without compromising one’s health or overall wellness. Our objective is to balance nature, the long-term health of the soil, the vines, the environment & ultimately those who enjoy Villa Graziella wines.

TM

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

THE CHILD-FREE WOMAN

A voice lost in the discourse on women’s equality

By K. Sujata, President and CEO, Chicago Foundation for Women It is an interesting time for women. Elecrepresents a cross-section of those issues— tion Day is just a few months away, and like reproductive rights and the wage gap— Hillary Clinton is making history as the but is still being locked out of larger presumptive nominee for a major politconversations on how to support the needs ical party. The Supreme Court recently of women: women without children. ruled in favor of the womAs the number of women en of Texas after voting who delay marriage and against the state’s restricJoin Chicago Foundation children, or forgo them tive abortion laws in Whole for Women on August 24 altogether, grows, it is Woman’s Health v. Hellerstat Harold Washington increasingly important edt. Sheryl Sandberg put Library Center for a public to make sure that this a much-needed spotlight discussion “Career Without unique perspective has a of support on single moth- Kids: Work/Life Balance for ers in a Mother’s Day Face- the Other ‘Modern’ Woman.” seat at the table for building equity for all women. book post, sharing, “We all The conversation will serve When it comes to work/life owe it to single mothers to as an important lead up to recognize that the world the September 22 luncheon balance, the common misconception is that women does not make it easy for and symposium with who do not have children them, especially for those Dr. Anne-Marie Slaughter. have ample free time. who struggle to make ends Visit cfw.org/events Women who are living it meet.” In June, First Lady to learn more. though, from young proMichelle Obama brought fessionals to senior level together an all-star team executives, argue otherof activists, celebrities, wise. With the expecphilanthropists, and changemakers for tation that women without children The United State of Women. The daylong can work longer and later, or the pressummit attracted more than 5,000 womsures of advancing their career, mainen from around the country to discuss taining relationships, staying healthy, economic security, entrepreneurship, and steering away from the stigma of violence, health, and education. And being childless or unmarried, these continuing the success of her 2012 The working women risk burnout in the Atlantic article, “Why Women Still Can’t same way working mothers do.

Have It All,” Dr. Anne-Marie Slaughter’s scholarship stresses the need for support It is beyond time to collectively accept new, in the home, at work, and in communidiverse narratives and perspectives regardties for working women to achieve work/ ing women, including those who do not life balance. fit neatly into the norm. That means having more women in leadership positions, These examples reveal a cultural shift in including political office, valuing unhow much space and opportunity wom(der)paid work like care-taking, and en are given to succeed and exist as their supporting women’s rights to make multi-dimensional selves. There is one decisions for themselves. cw particular subset of women, however, that

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Full STEAM Ahead!

Fall Open House!

November 13, 2016 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Science. Technology. Engineering. Arts. Math.

At British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, we know that the young innovators of tomorrow need today’s interdisciplinary approach to learning. Throughout our five-story campus located in one of the top rated neighborhoods in the city, our students ages 2 & up benefit from our pioneer STEAM program that equips them with the transferable skills they will need in the future workplace through hands-on problem solving, creativity, and communication. To find out how your child will take a unique approach to working across disciplines and promoting collaboration between students, book a tour today. www.bischicagolp.org/admissions admissions@bischicagolp.org 773-506-2097