14 Films That Showcase the Best in Humanity

The 2025 Oscars may be over, but the conversations sparked by great films and the creatives behind them will long outlive award season. From film to music to theater, award shows are never just about the trophies. Presenters, performers, and winners often use their moment on the grandest stage to speak — or sing — […]

31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in March 2025

March in Chicago is a feast for the senses, with vibrant celebrations of art, culture, and tradition unfolding across the city. Whether you’re celebrating alongside St. Patrick’s Day revelers, exploring groundbreaking exhibitions, or indulging in culinary delights during North Side Restaurant Week, this month’s lineup has something for everyone. Here are the best things to […]

National Geographic Photo Ark: Joel Sartore’s Urgent Mission to Document and Protect Earth’s Vanishing Species

“People protect what they love — and they love what they understand.” This simple message, shared by Dr. Jill Tiefenthaler, CEO of the National Geographic Society, captures the heart of The National Geographic Photo Ark, a groundbreaking project by National Geographic Explorer and award-winning photographer Joel Sartore. The Photo Ark is more than just a […]

Empowering Artists and Advancing Social Justice: How the Gordon Parks Foundation Continues the Late Photographer's Legacy

Over the past two Sundays, Alicia Keys at in her GRAMMY acceptance speech for the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award and Kendrick Lamar through his Super Bowl halftime performance delivered powerful messages about the power of art to inspire future generations and advance social justice. What do the two artists have in common? They’ve both […]

Harris Theater at 20: How It Became a Lifeline for Chicago Performing Arts and a Proven Model for Arts Sustainability

The road to the Harris Theater began in the 1980s, when the performing arts were feverishly alive in Chicago. Dozens of new music, dance, and theater companies emerged while stalwart organizations experienced exciting growth. What the city lacked, however, was adequate space for its mid-size companies — those that had outgrown the storefront venues but […]

28 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in February 2025

February in Chicago may be chilly, but the city and its suburbs offer plenty of ways to warm up with vibrant cultural celebrations, romantic outings, and winter fun. From honoring Black History Month with museum exhibits and performances to planning the perfect Valentine’s Day, this month is packed with reasons to get out and make […]

Empowering Leaders of Color: Surge Institute Commemorates a Decade of Advancing Equity in Education

A decade of transformative impact was celebrated at ASCENSION, Surge Institute‘s 10th anniversary celebration, which brought together alumni, supporters, and special guests to honor the organization’s decade-long mission of empowering leaders of color in the education sector. Held Nov. 7, 2024 at WildmanBT in Chicago, the evening was a powerful blend of inspiring storytelling, meaningful […]