Before Colbert and Kimmel, 18th-Century Satire Took Aim at the Powerful — Curator Silvia Beltrametti Explores Its Enduring Relevance in New Driehaus Museum Exhibition

As an IP attorney and art law professor, Silvia Beltrametti is drawn to questions of ownership, influence, and creative interpretation. The Italian mother of three divides her time between homes, extended family, business opportunities, and philanthropic commitments across Ireland, Italy, and the U.S. with her husband, Jay Krehbiel, alongside her work at the School of […]

Wonder Women: Celebrating My Favorite Superheroes

In truth, all women are superheroes — life givers, multitaskers extraordinaire, nurturers, problem solvers; generally, they are emotionally stronger than men too.  In honor of Women’s History Month, please share who inspires you! Of course my magnificent mothers top my list. Senator Gramsie —  Virginia Blankenbaker, aka Mom The Dean —  Patricia Albjerg Graham, aka […]

The 2025 Better Guide to Giving

As the holidays get underway, many of us look for ways to make someone else’s season brighter. And there’s science behind why that makes us feel so good. Research shows that acts of generosity — from gift giving to financial support — increase happiness more than spending on ourselves.  At Better, we’re dedicated to simplifying […]

A Major Barrier Keeps Human Trafficking Survivors From Stability — This Organization Helps Break It

Escaping a trafficker is often seen as the finish line. In reality, it’s only the beginning.  According to the 2023 Polaris National Survivor Study, 43 percent of survivors earn less than $25,000 annually, compared to 26 percent of the general U.S. population. Survivors emerge from exploitation with no income, limited education, no savings, and often […]

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 […]