The CWIP Summit: Collective Power, Shared Purpose
Serving as our Annual Meeting
This is a special time each year when our community comes together to connect, reflect, and envision what’s next for CWIP. You’ll have the chance to celebrate the year’s accomplishments with fellow members, share your voice in shaping our future, and enjoy meaningful networking with people who care deeply about advancing women in philanthropy.
In addition to serving as our Annual Meeting, we will host a timely leadership conversation on The Future of Community Investment: Leadership, Culture, and Civic Impact. Leaders in conversation include Perri L. Irmer, President and CEO of The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, Gabrielle Lyon, Executive Director of Illinois Humanities, and moderator Barbara Graham, Founder and Executive Director of the Hey Benji Foundation and Co-Chair of CWIP's Membership Committee.
Communities don't thrive because of one investment or one organization. They thrive when philanthropy, arts and culture, education, civic engagement, and community voices work together. This conversation will explore how Chicago leaders can strengthen investment—particularly across the South and West Sides—by building partnerships that preserve culture, create opportunity, and empower residents to shape their own futures.
Join us to learn, celebrate, and connect as we build power around our shared purpose.
Cost
Members: $35 | Non-members: $50
Agenda
| September 17 | |
| 8:00 AM | Registration/Breakfast and Networking |
| 9:00 AM | Leaders in Conversation |
| 9:45 AM | Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony |
| 10:30 AM | Event Concludes |
Panelists
Perri L. Irmer
President and CEO
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Perri L. Irmer is President and CEO of The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, the iconic institution founded in 1961 by Dr. Margaret Burroughs. It is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the U.S. She has held this position since September 2015, and her plans for the DuSable include advancing Dr. Burroughs' vision of the museum as a center for African and African American arts and culture, as well as a center for research, thought leadership and community advancement. Ms. Irmer was born and raised in Hyde Park, holds a Professional Bachelor of Architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology (1981), and a J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School (1991). Read more.
Gabrielle Lyon
Executive Director
Illinois Humanities
Gabrielle Lyon is a nationally recognized nonprofit leader with a career dedicated to education and civic engagement. As Executive Director of Illinois Humanities, she champions initiatives that connect people and communities through the public humanities to explore ideas, engage in dialogue, and strengthen democracy. She serves as Chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission, guiding efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through inclusive statewide engagement. Read more.
Panel Moderator
Barbara Graham
Founder and Executive Director
Hey Benji Foundation
Barbara Graham is the Founder and Executive Director of the Hey Benji Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit advancing youth development through food access, workforce development, social-emotional learning, and community engagement. A native of Chicago’s Englewood community, Barbara is an author, advocate, and community leader committed to creating opportunities for young people and families. She also serves as a Co-Chair of the CWIP Membership Committee, supporting efforts to strengthen equity, leadership, and community-centered investment throughout Chicago.
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Event Refund & Transfer Policy
We understand that plans can change, and we strive to be as flexible as possible while ensuring smooth event operations. Please review our refund and transfer policy below:
If you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible. Many of our events sell out, and we want to make the spot available to someone else.
- Full Refund: Cancellations made 5 or more days before the event are eligible for a full refund.
- No Refund: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds for cancellations made within 5 days of the event.
- Ticket Transfers: You may transfer your ticket to another individual at any time prior to the event. To do so, please contact us with the name and email of the new attendee.
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