What does it take to reach the C-suite — and bring more women with you? For nearly 30 years, the IWF Leadership Fellows Program has helped extraordinary women leaders expand their impact and break through barriers across industries. Join a candid conversation with Julieta LaMalfa and Watchen Nyanue about how the program shaped their leadership journeys and helped them amplify the power of women’s leadership.

Watchen Nyanue, Senior Director, CIBC

Julieta LaMalfa, CFO, I LOVE PRODUCE LLC

MEET THE 2025-2026 LEADERSHIP FELLOWS

*Zoom details will be shared closer to the event date*

It’s all inside your head. But is any of it real?

Co-created by Academy, Grammy and Tony Award-winning artist David Byrne and writer Mala Gaonkar, and presented by The Goodman, Theater of the Mind is a new theatrical experience you’ll see, feel, taste and hear.

Inspired by both historical and current neuroscience research, the show takes you on an intimate and immersive journey inside how we see and create our worlds. Peer behind the curtain of the physical realm as you move through a series of rooms with your guide, where you’ll participate in thought-provoking experiences—and marvel at the wonders of your mind.

Joined by Maidenwena Alba (Theater of the Mind’s Resident Director) and Goodman Theatre Board Chair Marsha Cruzan.

This experience demands conversation to truly understand how each of us sees the world based on our own experiences.  Director Alba will give us a behind the scenes look as we explore together this unique experience

Spots are limited to 16 participants, so don’t miss this interactive neuroscience-based experience.

DETAILS: 

• 5:45pm Program starts promptly
• 7:00pm Dinner & Conversation immediately following the show
• Nonnina Restaurant located at 340 N. Clark Street, Chicago
• Registration includes dinner with cash bar

Goodman Theatre Company

Reid Murdoch Building

333 North LaSalle Street, Chicago

THEATRE INFORMATION

Who Are the Ladies of Virtue (LOV)?

Join us on Tuesday, April 14th for an inspiring evening as we spotlight the incredible work of our 2025 Championess Grantee: Ladies of Virtue (LOV).

LOV empowers girls ages 9–18 by instilling purpose, passion, and perseverance while preparing them for college, meaningful careers, and leadership as change agents in their communities.

The evening will kick off with a lively game‑show experience, followed by powerful stories from LOV program alumnae whose lives have been transformed through this impactful organization. Light appetizers and drinks will be served.

Come discover how LOV is shaping the next generation of confident, capable young women—and how you can be part of their mission to uplift girls across Chicago!

*Guests Warmly Welcomed*

DETAILS: 

• Appetizers & Beverages will be available
• Registration Required for Building Security

Join us for a 60-minute virtual Fireside Chat with IWF Chicago member, Khalilah Lyons and young women from Female Strong, an organization dedicated to equipping girls with entrepreneurial and leadership skills.

You’ll hear from emerging leaders who are already launching businesses, leading initiatives, and reimagining what leadership looks like in real time.

Come ready for a lively, interactive conversation where IWF members can ask questions, share perspective, and offer real encouragement. Expect inspiration, honest insights, and a feel good reminder of what’s possible when women invest in the next generation.

Learn more about Female Strong Female Strong Website

*Zoom details will be shared closer to the event date*

IWF Chicago's Philanthropy Committee is thrilled to partner with Nourishing Hope for a hands-on volunteer event on Wednesday, April 29th from 5:30–7:30 PM at their headquarters, where we will come together to pack hygiene kits for neighbors in need across Chicago. This is a fun, feel-good opportunity to make a real impact in just two hours, plus we’ll enjoy wine and cheese while we work! With Nourishing Hope CEO Mitzi D. Baum and Kayla Carter, Director of Institutional Partnerships at Nourishing Hope joining us for a brief information session, you’ll get to see firsthand how these kits support families experiencing food insecurity and housing instability.

Spots are limited to 25 participants, so don’t miss the chance to roll up your sleeves, connect with colleagues, and leave knowing you helped make life a little easier for so many people. 

In addition to reserving your spot on the IWF Chicago site, please also use the link below to register at Nourishing Hope:

Register as a first-time volunteer: Registration Form Link

Returning volunteer: Login into your personal volunteer site (link here), click Volunteer Calendar, and enter the group code 3519 under "I have a Group Code." Watch this helpful video!

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Members will have an opportunity to support Nourishing Hope's mission through an optional donation that evening.

• Wine & Cheese will be provided.
• Volunteers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, and closed-toed shoes are required. Gloves provided on site.
  

Learn About Nourishing Hope Here