UChicago Leadership & Society Initiative (LSI)

? The Power of Connection ?? Online Discussion ?? March 20 from 1:00-1:45pm Join Allison Gilbert, co-author of The Joy of Connections with Ruth Westheimer, and Kasley Killam, MPH, author of The Art and Science of Connection, for a conversation on the vital role of social health. Together, we will explore how meaningful connections can combat loneliness, enhance well-being, and ultimately help us lead longer, healthier lives. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gKBAjfaA

We had the privilege of speaking with LSI Fellow Raymond Stainback, MD, FACC, FASE about his experience in this year's LSI cohort. Based in Houston, Ray is an expert in echocardiography for complex valve disease and advanced heart failure, and has made significant contributions to advancing cardiovascular medicine. He found LSI as he was contemplating his next chapter of impact. Read our full interview with him here: https://lnkd.in/gdccE2q4

We are excited to read The Wall Street Journal's recent feature of Shigehiro Oishi's book, Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life. Shigehiro Oishi is one of the distinguished speakers who will be joining us at our upcoming LSI symposium. We are honored to have him join us. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gxWZXhDE

This week, we're highlighting James C. Franczek, Jr. for #FellowFriday. Jim is a founding partner and President of Franczek P.C. He represents scores of private and public employers, including the Obama Presidential Center, and has served as chief labor counsel to six Chicago mayors. He has lectured at the University of Chicago Law School, Northwestern law school and other institutions of higher learning and is featured in several publications. He’s an active member of The Commercial Club of Chicago and serves on the boards of Advance Illinois and G-PAC. A proud graduate of University of Chicago Law and Notre Dame University, Jim's experience and community commitment make him an invaluable Fellow. We're grateful for the insights and wisdom he brings to the table.

On April 24, scholars, thought leaders, and practitioners will come together for a day of reflection and dialogue on how to activate purposeful next chapters at our LSI symposium. Request an invitation to join us:?https://lnkd.in/gJDDki_D

During our recent workshop with David Brooks, Fellows participated in an open dialogue about how social change happens. This insightful conversation explored shifting from a professional mindset to a generative mindset and considering what history may be asking of us right now. Thank you, David, for creating space to reflect on theories of change, where Fellows might be of greatest service, and how to listen to the needs that summon them.

We are thrilled to have Symon Elliott as a Distinguished Mentor to LSI. With over 25 years of executive search and leadership development experience, Symon brings invaluable insights to our Leadership and Society Initiative. Before rejoining Russell Reynolds Associates in 2023, Symon founded and led Leaders Futures, focusing on C-level executive development through structured mentoring programs. Previously, he spent 18 years at Russell Reynolds, advising boards and financial services leaders. Symon is passionate about purposeful leadership and previously chaired Centrepoint, a leading UK youth homelessness charity. We are grateful for his insights and contributions to the LSI Community. Thank you, Symon, for your exceptional leadership and dedication! #MentorMonday #InspiredbyLSI #AdvisorsInAction

We are excited to highlight Tim Lanai on today's #FellowFriday. Tim is an entrepreneur who built two successful companies. Starting in high-tech sales, Tim launched an executive search firm in 2006 and later acquired a home services franchise in Nashville, TN, in 2015. Under his leadership, the franchise grew to over 4,000 customers and earned awards like Most Philanthropic Franchisee and Franchisee of the Year. Tim is also passionate about mentoring new entrepreneurs. We're grateful for Tim's valuable insights and experience in our second cohort.

A big thank you to our current Fellow, Liz Tinkham, for sharing her valuable insights on building a community as part of this year's LSI cohort. We're incredibly grateful for her contributions!

We’re truly energized to see the documentary release of 2024-2025 LSI Fellow, Kurt Roger Cherry. The critically acclaimed short-form documentary "Mister Abbott" delves into the life of Robert Sengstacke Abbott, the founder and publisher of the Chicago Defender. Congratulations, Kurt, and thank you for sharing your visionary story telling with us.