Leading for Good 2025
From Silos to Solutions
A Day of Connection, Learning, and Action
Our 2025 event featured over 35 remarkable speakers who shared engaging topics such as innovative business models, transformational partnerships, and scaling for impact. A sold-out room of established and emerging leaders connected with incredible peers, explored transformative ideas, and forged meaningful relationships – shaping new pathways to purpose for everyone. Each of our panels included key takeaways, highlighted at the end of this post.
We started the day with a Morning Talk “Pathways To Peace” featuring Aziz Abu Sarah of MEDJI Tours, a for-profit company focused on socially conscious tours and responsible travel. Aziz’s inspiring story of global travel and uniting people despite their differences set the tone for the day, and reminded those in attendance that we can always reach across to build bridges.
Opening Plenary
The opening plenary, “Building Bridges—Catalysts For Change,” discussed how for-profits and non-profits can overcome today’s challenges to deliver meaningful impact. Moderated by Dominique Jordan Turner (黑料门University Chicago), our panelists , Monica Lopez Gonzalez (Feeding America), Olivia Jefferson (Best Buy), D.L. Morriss (Hinshaw & Culbertson), and Gabriel Presler (Morningstar), shared practical insight on navigating unique issues.
Morriss spoke to the crowd about overcoming legal barriers. Jefferson highlighted how Best Buy is making a social impact through its Teen Tech Centers. Presler advocated for data transparency, and Lopez believes hunger “is a solvable issue with innovation, community, and empathy.”
Morning Breakouts
Attendees then chose between three breakout offerings on emerging technology, storytelling, and the practical use of AI.
The first option, “New Industries, Local Impact,” was moderated by Nicole McCarthy (World Business Chicago) and introduced by Jourdan Sorrell (Comcast). Our panelists, Maurice Green (PsiQuantum), Shyama Majumdar (University of Chicago), and Amanda Murphy (Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago), covered how Chicago is well-positioned to grow emerging technologies – quantum computing, AI, biotech discoveries - and solve complex challenges, develop the workforce, and build on existing technology ecosystems.
Chicago has great potential to be a hub for technology startups, but only if all communities are engaged, including the disinvested.
As Green highlighted, there is hope through collaboration.
“Authentic Communications: Storytelling for Good,” moderated by Jenna Drenten (黑料门University Chicago), and featuring panelists Nii Mantse Addy (Philo), Shalane Walker Barrett (Culture ONE World), and Jason Matsumoto (Full Spectrum Features), discussed the importance of authenticity and representation in marketing across sectors.
Matsumoto talked about ROI, Return on Inspiration, and brought to attention McKinsey Report’s highlight that $30 million was left on the table in the film industry due to the lack of diverse stories. Addy touched on how metrics influence the story being told and the importance of connecting emotionally with the audience. Barrett highlighted how authentic stories matter in the community and in the boardroom.
New this year: We had our first Leading for Good workshop, hosted by Baumhart Faculty member Caleb Gardner (18 Coffees). The hands-on workshop helped the audience understand how AI can enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and workforce management.
As stated by Gardner, there are five best practices for using AI tools: “1. Prioritize writing effective prompts. 2. Check responses for accuracy. 3. Iterate and refine. 4. Review and edit. 5. Treat AI as a helper, not a doer.”
Left to right: Jennie Hull (Nourishing Hope), Michelle Carr (Evergreen Climate Innovations), and Martin Nesbitt and Kip Kirkpatrick (The Vistria Group).
The afternoon breakouts with each of the Innovator Award winners dove deeper into their work.
During the “Social Impact: Transformation Through Technology and Partnerships” breakout, Natia Barnett (Nourishing Hope), LaKreshia Kindred (Bright Star Community Outreach), Kellie O’Connell (American Red Cross), and Nasrin Thierer explored how nonprofits can position technology as a strategic tool for impact. Moderated by 2024 Social Impact Award winner Laura Zumdahl (New Moms), key takeaways from this discussion included leveraging existing platforms to solve problems and improve organizational efficiency and not being afraid to seek donor support.
The session concluded with a call to educate board members about technology strategies and foster collaboration between philanthropy, community-based organizations, and non-profits because, as LaKreshia Kindred said, “It’s not about receiving what is left over, but getting to choose what you need.”
Moderated by Tayo Hill (The Nature Conservancy), the “Environmental Stewardship: Diversity in Early-Stage Innovation” breakout dissected how to put innovative climate solutions into practice, with a focus on sustainability and diversity of thought. Mehrdad Arjmand (Renewance), Michelle Carr (Evergreen Climate Innovations), Shashank Churukanti (Evergreen Climate Innovations), and Alexis N. Peña (Good Fibes) agreed that while profitability is essential for survival, investors need to consider more than just capital. As Peña stated, “Having sustainability embedded in the DNA of a company is important.”
Additionally, entrepreneurs were encouraged to think through the entire innovation lifecycle to achieve lasting impact. The discussion also highlighted the importance of diversity—not only in team composition but also in ensuring that all voices are heard.
The breakout “Parkinson Purpose and Profit: Scaling Success—Investing in Models That Matter,” featuring moderator and Baumhart mentor Jon Samuels (The Vistria Group), Simon Castellanos (AIS Healthcare), and Deval Patrick (The Vistria Group), highlighted The Vistria Group's work and discussed how they achieve meaningful purpose and financial results.
One emphasized topic was the importance of not shying away from labels such as DEI. In fact, what makes businesses stronger is the truth that competing points of view will always exist. Patrick highlighted that to build a strong organization, you need diverse talent.
Afternoon Sessions
The fireside chat “Jointly Building A Chicago For All” with Ayesha Jaco (West Side United) and Rebekah Scheinfeld (Civic Consulting Alliance) showcased how partnerships can create lasting change for communities. Some accomplishments of the Civic Consulting Alliance and West Side United include rapid response during the COVID-19 pandemic, a $50 million development to bring wellness resources to Garfield Park, and services to create jobs and wealth in the community. Scheinfeld emphasized that organizations need to be nimble in today’s world, and that when business and the community collaborate, environments are changed for the better. Jaco encouraged all organizations to stay the course on their commitments now more than ever.
The day concluded with a panel of leaders from CSX, The Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, LiftUp Communities, and A Better Chicago.
Moderated by Karen Weigert (黑料门University Chicago), our panelists LaSandra Boykin (CSX | CSX Foundation), Sara Guderyahn (Chicago Blackhawks Foundation), Julian Posada (LiftUp Communities), and Beth Swanson (A Better Chicago) shared how they took initial ideas from conception to scalable, impactful solutions. Each speaker highlighted that for actual change to happen, they had to scale not only their organization, but also the systems involved.
Lastly, our note-takers compiled a list of action items that you can do to help lead for good in your organizations, communities, and the world.
Key Takeaways
- There is no single story and no homogenous place. People are unique in their ways.
- The definition of impact varies among industries, but we can all work toward profit, purpose, and ethical leadership.
- Industry, research, and government collaboration is powerful for advancing emerging technologies in Chicago.
- Stories are not just about the “who”; it's also about the “why”.
- Refining prompt engineering solutions can revolutionize the way people work with AI.
- Mission and margin should always be in balance.
- Engage community members in decision-making that affects them.
- The culture of service starts at the leadership level.
Thank you to our Baumhart alums, scholars, staff, and volunteers for participating in not only the day but also helping to propel the Baumhart Center's mission forward: Quinton Arthur, Noah Baird, Clifton Ballard, Jack Blumenshine, Jenny Gilbert, Josh Hamel, LaShawn Holloway, Luna Luna, Yvette Mensah, Fionna Millet, Cait Osei, Benn Perrone, Chanel Smith, Allie Sundet, Madeline Stanton, Grace Varghese, and Shelby Volosin.
A Day of Connection, Learning, and Action
Our 2025 event featured over 35 remarkable speakers who shared engaging topics such as innovative business models, transformational partnerships, and scaling for impact. A sold-out room of established and emerging leaders connected with incredible peers, explored transformative ideas, and forged meaningful relationships – shaping new pathways to purpose for everyone. Each of our panels included key takeaways, highlighted at the end of this post.
We started the day with a Morning Talk “Pathways To Peace” featuring Aziz Abu Sarah of MEDJI Tours, a for-profit company focused on socially conscious tours and responsible travel. Aziz’s inspiring story of global travel and uniting people despite their differences set the tone for the day, and reminded those in attendance that we can always reach across to build bridges.
“How can I break down barriers that bring people together? You might be surprised that travel is the best way to do that.”
-
Aziz Abu Sarah
Co-Founder, MEJDI Tours
Thank you to Karen Weigert, Director of the Baumhart Center, Dean Michael Behnam, and Provost Douglas W. Woods for our welcome. Our Experience MC, Scott Hoesman, guided us with energy and “content nuggets” throughout the day.
Opening Plenary
The opening plenary, “Building Bridges—Catalysts For Change,” discussed how for-profits and non-profits can overcome today’s challenges to deliver meaningful impact. Moderated by Dominique Jordan Turner (黑料门University Chicago), our panelists , Monica Lopez Gonzalez (Feeding America), Olivia Jefferson (Best Buy), D.L. Morriss (Hinshaw & Culbertson), and Gabriel Presler (Morningstar), shared practical insight on navigating unique issues.
Morriss spoke to the crowd about overcoming legal barriers. Jefferson highlighted how Best Buy is making a social impact through its Teen Tech Centers. Presler advocated for data transparency, and Lopez believes hunger “is a solvable issue with innovation, community, and empathy.”
Morning Breakouts
Attendees then chose between three breakout offerings on emerging technology, storytelling, and the practical use of AI.
The first option, “New Industries, Local Impact,” was moderated by Nicole McCarthy (World Business Chicago) and introduced by Jourdan Sorrell (Comcast). Our panelists, Maurice Green (PsiQuantum), Shyama Majumdar (University of Chicago), and Amanda Murphy (Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago), covered how Chicago is well-positioned to grow emerging technologies – quantum computing, AI, biotech discoveries - and solve complex challenges, develop the workforce, and build on existing technology ecosystems.
Chicago has great potential to be a hub for technology startups, but only if all communities are engaged, including the disinvested.
As Green highlighted, there is hope through collaboration.
“In Chicago, something is successful when industry, education, and research are all working toward the same goal. Beautiful things can happen.”
-
Maurice Green
Head of Market Development, Community and Government Affairs, PsiQuantum
“Authentic Communications: Storytelling for Good,” moderated by Jenna Drenten (黑料门University Chicago), and featuring panelists Nii Mantse Addy (Philo), Shalane Walker Barrett (Culture ONE World), and Jason Matsumoto (Full Spectrum Features), discussed the importance of authenticity and representation in marketing across sectors.
Matsumoto talked about ROI, Return on Inspiration, and brought to attention McKinsey Report’s highlight that $30 million was left on the table in the film industry due to the lack of diverse stories. Addy touched on how metrics influence the story being told and the importance of connecting emotionally with the audience. Barrett highlighted how authentic stories matter in the community and in the boardroom.
“The mission has not changed. We now have to change how we talk about it and market it to stakeholders and shareholders.”
-
Shalane Walker Barrett
Senior VP, Head of Paid Media, Culture ONE World | Baumhart Scholar Alum
New this year: We had our first Leading for Good workshop, hosted by Baumhart Faculty member Caleb Gardner (18 Coffees). The hands-on workshop helped the audience understand how AI can enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and workforce management.
As stated by Gardner, there are five best practices for using AI tools: “1. Prioritize writing effective prompts. 2. Check responses for accuracy. 3. Iterate and refine. 4. Review and edit. 5. Treat AI as a helper, not a doer.”
Innovator Award Winners and Afternoon Breakouts
Congratulations to each one of our Innovator Award winners for 2025!
- Social Impact Award: Nourishing Hope
- Environmental Stewardship Award: Evergreen Climate Innovations
- Parkinson Award for Purpose and Profit: The Vistria Group
The afternoon breakouts with each of the Innovator Award winners dove deeper into their work.
During the “Social Impact: Transformation Through Technology and Partnerships” breakout, Natia Barnett (Nourishing Hope), LaKreshia Kindred (Bright Star Community Outreach), Kellie O’Connell (American Red Cross), and Nasrin Thierer explored how nonprofits can position technology as a strategic tool for impact. Moderated by 2024 Social Impact Award winner Laura Zumdahl (New Moms), key takeaways from this discussion included leveraging existing platforms to solve problems and improve organizational efficiency and not being afraid to seek donor support.
The session concluded with a call to educate board members about technology strategies and foster collaboration between philanthropy, community-based organizations, and non-profits because, as LaKreshia Kindred said, “It’s not about receiving what is left over, but getting to choose what you need.”
Moderated by Tayo Hill (The Nature Conservancy), the “Environmental Stewardship: Diversity in Early-Stage Innovation” breakout dissected how to put innovative climate solutions into practice, with a focus on sustainability and diversity of thought. Mehrdad Arjmand (Renewance), Michelle Carr (Evergreen Climate Innovations), Shashank Churukanti (Evergreen Climate Innovations), and Alexis N. Peña (Good Fibes) agreed that while profitability is essential for survival, investors need to consider more than just capital. As Peña stated, “Having sustainability embedded in the DNA of a company is important.”
Additionally, entrepreneurs were encouraged to think through the entire innovation lifecycle to achieve lasting impact. The discussion also highlighted the importance of diversity—not only in team composition but also in ensuring that all voices are heard.
“Open process is a competitive advantage…the best teams are diverse teams.”
-
Michelle Carr
CEO, Evergreen Climate Innovations
The breakout “Parkinson Purpose and Profit: Scaling Success—Investing in Models That Matter,” featuring moderator and Baumhart mentor Jon Samuels (The Vistria Group), Simon Castellanos (AIS Healthcare), and Deval Patrick (The Vistria Group), highlighted The Vistria Group's work and discussed how they achieve meaningful purpose and financial results.
One emphasized topic was the importance of not shying away from labels such as DEI. In fact, what makes businesses stronger is the truth that competing points of view will always exist. Patrick highlighted that to build a strong organization, you need diverse talent.
“To have a competitive economy, we cannot miss talent. If you always do what you always did, you will get what you always got, and we have to get better.”
-
Deval Patrick
Senior Partner, The Vistria Group
Afternoon Sessions
The fireside chat “Jointly Building A Chicago For All” with Ayesha Jaco (West Side United) and Rebekah Scheinfeld (Civic Consulting Alliance) showcased how partnerships can create lasting change for communities. Some accomplishments of the Civic Consulting Alliance and West Side United include rapid response during the COVID-19 pandemic, a $50 million development to bring wellness resources to Garfield Park, and services to create jobs and wealth in the community. Scheinfeld emphasized that organizations need to be nimble in today’s world, and that when business and the community collaborate, environments are changed for the better. Jaco encouraged all organizations to stay the course on their commitments now more than ever.
“I have two words: double down…For us, it has always been an all-hands-on-deck moment. And every project that we’ve been able to operationalize has that in it.”
-
Ayesha Jaco
Executive Director, West Side United
The day concluded with a panel of leaders from CSX, The Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, LiftUp Communities, and A Better Chicago.
Moderated by Karen Weigert (黑料门University Chicago), our panelists LaSandra Boykin (CSX | CSX Foundation), Sara Guderyahn (Chicago Blackhawks Foundation), Julian Posada (LiftUp Communities), and Beth Swanson (A Better Chicago) shared how they took initial ideas from conception to scalable, impactful solutions. Each speaker highlighted that for actual change to happen, they had to scale not only their organization, but also the systems involved.
“We hope to leverage and prove that these organizations are really providing services that the public sector could adopt, change, and help scale themselves.”
-
Beth Swanson
CEO, A Better Chicago
Lastly, our note-takers compiled a list of action items that you can do to help lead for good in your organizations, communities, and the world.
Key Takeaways
- There is no single story and no homogenous place. People are unique in their ways.
- The definition of impact varies among industries, but we can all work toward profit, purpose, and ethical leadership.
- Industry, research, and government collaboration is powerful for advancing emerging technologies in Chicago.
- Stories are not just about the “who”; it's also about the “why”.
- Refining prompt engineering solutions can revolutionize the way people work with AI.
- Mission and margin should always be in balance.
- Engage community members in decision-making that affects them.
- The culture of service starts at the leadership level.
Thank you to our Baumhart alums, scholars, staff, and volunteers for participating in not only the day but also helping to propel the Baumhart Center's mission forward: Quinton Arthur, Noah Baird, Clifton Ballard, Jack Blumenshine, Jenny Gilbert, Josh Hamel, LaShawn Holloway, Luna Luna, Yvette Mensah, Fionna Millet, Cait Osei, Benn Perrone, Chanel Smith, Allie Sundet, Madeline Stanton, Grace Varghese, and Shelby Volosin.