Over 525 guests gathered at Brookfield Zoo on April 28 for the Chicago Zoological Society’s 37th annual Whirl fundraiser. This year’s event raised more than $1.3 million in support of the animals at Brookfield Zoo in addition to the Chicago Zoological Society’s conservation, education, and community outreach programs.
One of the benefiting programs includes the Chicago Zoological Society’s King Conservation Science Scholars, which involves young adults interested in animals with action projects and extended learning opportunities at the Brookfield Zoo. During the event, one of the Program’s alumnae, Rebecca Turcios, was recognized for finishing her first year of veterinary school.
Whirl of Fortune was hosted by the Women’s Board and Chicago Zoological Society Board of Trustees. The event was chaired by Elisa Templeton and members of the Whirl planning committee, along with Chairman of the Board of Trustees John Grube and Women’s Board President Sasha Gerritson.
Emily Stone is Associate Editor at Make It Better. She earned a degree in journalism from Elon University in North Carolina. Along with writing, Stone has a passion for digital storytelling and photography. Her work is published in Chicago Athlete Magazine. Stone is a supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Stone is a fluent Spanish speaker who in her free time loves a good dance class.
