Q&A: Ric Estrada, CEO of Metropolitan Family Services, on the Importance of Deep Understanding in a People-First Profession

Effectively operating in the nonprofit sector — specifically, working hand-in-hand with some of our most vulnerable community members — requires the ability to meet people where they are at, and an eagerness to offer assistance as opposed to passing judgment. This mentality has guided Ric Estrada, CEO of Metropolitan Family Services (MFS), who has served […]

A New Artificial Intelligence Tool Has the Attention of Educators, but Local Schools Want to Harness the Technology, Not Ban It

In certain circles, Chat GPT — an artificial intelligence bot — has been vilified as a harbinger of education’s doom. Some of the country’s largest school systems, including districts in New York City and Los Angeles, have blocked access to the technology out of fear it could enable widespread cheating among the students. North Shore administrators […]

10 of Chicago's Top Family-Owned Businesses — 2023

Family-owned businesses are considered the backbone of the American economy. According to the US Census Bureau, they comprise 90% of all business enterprises in North America. Jill McCall, MBA, JD, CAE, Director of the Family Business Center at Loyola University Chicago says, “Family-owned businesses positively impact the general business climate because they set good examples. […]

31 Things To Do in Chicago and the Suburbs This March

Whether you’re celebrating Women’s History Month; the traditions of St. Patrick’s Day; or merely the resurgence of spring, Chicagoland is blossoming with events and celebrations of community, food, art and more — for everyone. For those who patiently waited for the winter blues to pass, the time has come to explore the city once again. […]

Van Gogh on Wheels: NASCAR Partners with The Art Institute of Chicago to Reveal First Promotional Pace Car for 2023 Street Race

Before NASCAR speeds into Chicago for their two-day racing and music festival this summer, they are unveiling collaborative efforts with Chicago institutions. This includes The Art Institute of Chicago, partnering with Toyota and NASCAR to promote the upcoming exhibition Van Gogh and the Avant-Garde: the Modern Landscape on a promotional pace car to celebrate the […]