CORPORATE PARTNERS EVENTS

Corporate Partners have access to an exclusive series of speakers and panel discussions on topics of particular interest to the region’s business community. Membership also includes invitations to CAF exhibition openings, receptions, special events, public programs, and an annual river cruise.

Special Event - The 38th Annual Gala

April 19, 2013

More than 460 people attended CAF’s Annual Gala, “Architecture is Art,” in the Atlantic Ballroom at the Radisson Blu Aqua. The Gala is the Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, securing revenue for CAF diverse programs and education initiatives. This year CAF was pleased to honor Richard and Mary L. Gray, and host a unique silent auction with original works of art by architects.

Corporate Partners Breakfast – Social Media Strategies

April 10, 2013

“Social Media Strategies” presented a range of perspectives on and case studies describing the value of new media on business development. More than 60 people attended and heard from some of Chicago’s leading new media experts, including:

• John Tolva – Chief Technology Officer, City of Chicago
• James Kent – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Thornton Tomasetti
• Jennifer Lucente McElroy – New Media Manager, Chicago Architecture Foundation
• Rick Murray – President, Edelman (moderator)

Special Event- Patron of the Year Awards

December 5, 2012

More than 250 corporate and civic leaders joined CAF in presenting its 2012 Patron of the Year awards during a luncheon at the Palmer House Hilton. The annual event, presented by Stein Ray LLP, honors developers and clients who commission projects that advance Chicago’s role as a global architecture and design leader. This year’s winners include the University of Chicago, Rush University, the Chicago Department of Transportation, and Inspiration Corporation. 

Special Event- Annual Corporate Partners River Cruise

September 27, 2012

CAF celebrated the wonderful support of its Corporate Partners with a river cruise aboard Chicago’s Fair Lady. More than 70 people enjoyed an evening of networking with Corporate Partners and CAF Trustees, and unique views of the city from Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Corporate Partners Breakfast- Bus Rapid Transit

June 7, 2012

CAF hosted a panel discussion on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) with transportation leaders from Chicago and around the country. The networking breakfast focused on how BRT will affect transit and economic development in the city of Chicago. The event was moderated by Peter Skosey, Vice President of Metropolitan Planning Council. Panelists included:

• Joseph Calabrese – Director, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority
• Gabe Klein – Commissioner, Chicago Department of Transportation
• Ted Orosz – Director, Long Range Bus Planning, MTA New York City Transit
• Rebekah Scheinfeld – Senior VP and Chief Planning Officer, Chicago Transit Authority
• Michael Schwartz – Transportation Planner, San Francisco County Transportation Authority

Special Event- Exclusive Tour of 1871

May 30, 2012

Corporate partners enjoyed a reception and tour at 1871: the new digital collaborative inside the Merchandise Mart. Carlos Martinez of Gensler led tours of the space, and Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center CEO Kevin Willer shared  his vision in creating the city's first hub for emerging technology companies. This event was held in conjunction with CAF's Burnham Society.