The Lincoln Forum

The Bracket Briefing
2026-03-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
The Bracket Briefing
Monday, March 16 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM CT
Free Virtual Event
Presented by Lincoln Forum & the Union League Club of Chicago
The bracket drops Sunday night. Monday at noon, we break it down.
Join us for a sharp, fast-moving conversation on the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Our panel of sports experts will reveal their Elite Eight, Final Four, and national champion, breaking down key matchups, potential upsets, and the logic behind their picks.
Whether you’re entering a pool or just love the strategy of March basketball, this is your inside look before tipoff.
Moderator:

​Lou Canellis, NBC 5 Chicago

Panelists:

Carmen Defalco, ESPN Chicago
David Haugh, 104.3 The Score
Kevin Powell, WGN Radio
Tina Nguyen, Fox 32 Chicago

The Future of Higher Education
2026-03-02 11:30 - 13:15 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
The Future of Higher Education
Hear from academic leaders shaping tomorrow.
Presented by Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago
Please join us for a luncheon discussion on the Future of Higher Education, featuring senior leadership from three of the nation’s leading research universities, in a forward-looking conversation on the opportunities and challenges facing colleges and universities today. The event will take place at 11:30 a.m. CT on Monday, March 2, at the Union League Club of Chicago.
Featured University Leaders

Henry Bienen, President, Northwestern University
Charles Isbell Jr., Chancellor, University of Illinois
Paul Alivisatos, President, University of Chicago

The discussion will explore leadership, access, innovation, and the evolving role of major public and private research universities in shaping regional and national outcomes. Topics will include financial sustainability, enrollment and demographic shifts, workforce, industry, and civic partnerships, and the growing impact of technology on research and university operations. The conversation will also highlight how leading institutions are increasingly collaborating across institutional lines, including initiatives such as the Chicago Quantum Exchange.

Cementing Illinois’ AI Leadership Through Smart Policy
2025-12-02 12:00 - 13:00 | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
Cementing Illinois’ AI Leadership Through Smart Policy
Tuesday, December 2 | 12:00–1:00 PM CT
Free Virtual Panel Discussion
Presented by the Lincoln Forum & The Union League Club of Chicago
As artificial intelligence accelerates, Illinois has a unique opportunity to solidify its role as the Midwest’s center of innovation and AI leadership.
We invite you to join a timely virtual conversation that brings together voices from government, tech, law, business, and academia to explore how Illinois can remain competitive, attract investment, and build the workforce of the future.
Featured Panelists:
• State Rep. Edgar Gonzalez Jr., Chair, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics & IT Committee
• Birju Shah, Clinical Assistant Professor of Product & AI, Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management & CEO of Loam
• Erika Knierim, Emerging Tech Attorney, Founders Law
• Brad Folkens, Entrepreneur, Technologist, Investor & CTO/Co-Founder, iAsk.ai
We hope you’ll join us for this important conversation.

Reclaiming Civility: How America Moves Forward Together
2025-11-10 09:30 - 10:30 | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
Reclaiming Civility: How America Moves Forward Together
Monday, November 10, 2025 | 9:30–10:30 a.m. CT | Virtual Event
Presented by Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicag​o
At a time when civility and trust in public life are being tested, Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago will host a one-hour virtual discussion on how America can rebuild respect and unity in our democracy. Vice President Mike Pence and Ambassador Rahm Emanuel will share their perspectives in a bipartisan dialogue moderated by Jonathan Martin, politics bureau chief and senior political columnist at POLITICO.
We invite you to join us for this free ​conversation, an opportunity for civic leaders, policymakers, and engaged citizens to reflect on how we move forward, stronger, together, and with a renewed commitment to dialogue, understanding, and the democratic values that unite us.
Register: https://ulcc-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DeXx7-zTTCCAbCQCSPrmqg

Part 2 - Chicagoland Transit in Crisis: What is the Fix?
2025-09-25 12:00 - 13:00 | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
Part 2 – Chicagoland Transit in Crisis: What is the Fix?
Join the Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club Transportation Subcommittee for a follow-up virtual discussion on the growing transit funding crisis in our region.
Moderator: Joe Donlon, Anchor, CBS 2 News
Panelists:

Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-8th District)
Illinois State Senator Seth Lewis (R-24th District)
Illinois State Representative Kam Buckner (D-26th)
Illinois State Representative Brad Stephens (R-20th)

Regional transit agencies continue to face a looming $770 million budget shortfall when emergency funding runs out on December 31, 2025. Unless lawmakers reach a funding deal during the October fall veto session, the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) will be forced to move ahead with budget scenarios that include severe service cuts and fare increases beginning January 1, 2026.
With agencies already developing their 2026 budgets around a projected 20% funding gap, this conversation will focus on potential solutions, legislative pathways, and the very real consequences for riders, workers, and businesses across Chicagoland.

Draw the Line: Why Fair Maps Matter
2025-08-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Draw the Line: Why Fair Maps Matter
A Conversation on Redistricting, Representation, and Reform
Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago invite you to a timely breakfast panel exploring the complex and critical issue of gerrymandering and its impact on political representation. With redistricting reform continuing to spark debate across Illinois and the nation, this discussion will examine the current system and potential paths forward.
The panel features William M. “Bill” Daley, former U.S. Secretary of Commerce and White House Chief of Staff, and Ray LaHood, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and longtime Illinois Congressman—both co-chairs of Fair Maps Illinois.
They’ll be joined by Michael Dorf, constitutional scholar and former General Counsel to the Democratic Party of Illinois, and Bill Cadigan, former chair of the Illinois State Board of Elections, both who played a key role in the 2014 Yes for Independent Maps campaign.
Moderated by Chicago Tribune chief political reporter Rick Pearson, the conversation will offer insights from experienced public servants and legal experts on a topic that continues to shape electoral outcomes.
📅 Tuesday, August 19, 2025
🕗 Doors open: 8:00 AM | Breakfast & Program: 8:30 AM
📍 Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W. Jackson

Chicagoland Transit in Crisis: What is the Fix?
2025-06-25 12:00 - 13:00 | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
Join Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago Transportation Subcommittee in partnership with ACEC-IL for a free virtual event, Chicagoland Transit in Crisis: What is the Fix?, on Wednesday, June 25 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. CT.
Dr. Joe Schwieterman of DePaul University will moderate a timely discussion with IL State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado and IL State Senator Ram Villivalam on the looming $770 million budget shortfall facing regional transit agencies when funding runs out on December 31. The panel will explore potential solutions, including a proposed statewide $1.50 retail delivery tax.
Register: https://ulcc-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0T2TAbBHTruzlSChcsJGOQ#/registrationh

WBEZ Presents: An Evening with Jake Tapper & Alex Thompson
2025-06-05 19:30 - 21:00 | The Vic Theatre, 3145 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago, 60657, United States
WBEZ Presents: An Evening with Jake Tapper & Alex Thompson
June 5, 2025, 7:30 PM, Doors open at 6:30 PM

Join award-winning journalists Jake Tapper (CNN) and Alex Thompson (Axios) for a conversation about their new book, Original Sin—moderated by NPR’s David Folkenflik.
Through exclusive insider accounts—from White House staffers to Hollywood players—they examine how efforts to conceal Joe Biden’s health decline shaped his reelection bid and ultimately backfired, leading to the return of a Trump administration.
Drawing from their in-depth reporting, the authors reveal the political decisions that defined this pivotal chapter in American history.
This event is supported, in part, by Lincoln Forum and The Union League Club.

Every book & ticket bundle comes with a pre-signed copy of “Original Sin”.
**USE PROMO CODE “CLUB” FOR 20% OFF TICKETS OR TICKET/BOOK BUNDLE**

Inside City Hall: Understanding Chicago’s Aldermanic System
2025-05-14 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago present:
Inside City Hall: Understanding Chicago’s Aldermanic System
A Candid Discussion with Former and Current Aldermen on How Chicago’s Government Really Works
Wednesday, May 14 | 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago
Chicago’s City Council plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s future, but how does it really work behind the scenes? Join us for an insightful luncheon panel featuring three seasoned public servants—Retired Alderman James Balcer (11th Ward), Retired Alderman Leslie Hairston (5th Ward), Retired Alderman Michele Smith (43rd Ward) and 15th Ward Alderman Raymond Lopez—as they share firsthand insights on navigating the political landscape of the nation’s third-largest city. Veteran Political Reporter, Mike Flannery will moderate the conversation.
From balancing constituent needs and mayoral priorities to negotiating major policies and unwritten rules, this discussion will offer an unfiltered look at how decisions are made at City Hall. Whether you’re a policy enthusiast, engaged citizen, or just curious about how Chicago’s government operates, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Tickets: https://bit.ly/4iDFykm
**For table and other sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lori Montana atLori@lincolnforum.org or 773-320-1938.

The Quantum Era: Illinois’ Journey as a Global Quantum Leader
2025-05-06 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
The Quantum Era: Illinois’ Journey as a Global Quantum Leader

Join Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago on May 6 at 11:30am for an insightful discussion on the evolution of Quantum in Illinois. This event will explore the breakthroughs that have positioned the state as a leader in quantum research and innovation, the collaborations driving progress, and the opportunities that lie ahead. Experts from academia, industry, government and business will share perspectives on how quantum advancements will shape the future of computing, communication, and economic development in Illinois and beyond.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leading minds at the forefront of the quantum revolution. The conversation will be moderated by Brad Henderson, CEO of P33.
Panelists:

Kristin Richards, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
Harley Johnson, Executive Director and CEO for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) and Professor, Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Anne Caprara, Chief of Staff for Illinois Governor JB Pritzker
Preeti Chalsani, SVP and Chief Quantum Officer, Intersect Illinois

**For table and other sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lori Montana at Lori@lincolnforum.org or 773-320-1938.

Inspector General Deborah Witzburg on Accountability and Reform in Chicago
2025-04-15 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago present:
Guarding the Public Trust: The Watchdog at Work
Inspector General Deborah Witzburg on Accountability and Reform in Chicago
Inspector General, Deborah Witzburg leads the charge against corruption, waste, and inefficiency, serving as the city’s independent watchdog.
Join us for a compelling discussion as Witzburg unveils her office’s work—rooting out fraud, enforcing transparency, and ensuring government accountability. From investigating city contracts to evaluating police oversight, her efforts uphold the public trust and demand integrity in governance.
With a career dedicated to justice and reform, Witzburg’s expertise and tenacity have made her a key figure in Chicago’s accountability landscape. This is more than a conversation—it’s a call to civic engagement.
Reserve your seat today: https://bit.ly/4iEaLnf
Tuesday, April 15 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd
Attire: Smart Casual

Serving Chicago's 34th Ward: A Conversation with Alderman Bill Conway
2025-03-26 11:30 - 13:15 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Serving Chicago’s 34th Ward: A Conversation with Alderman Bill Conway

Lincoln Forum and Union League Club of Chicago are pleased to present “Serving Chicago’s 34th Ward: A Conversation with Alderman Bill Conway” at 11:30 AM on March 26, 2025. Representing parts of the Loop, South Loop, Greektown, West Loop, and Little Italy, Alderman Conway will share insights on the critical issues shaping both the ward and the city. He will discuss the transformative redevelopment of LaSalle Street, efforts to address crime and enhance public safety, and strategies for strengthening education and fostering economic growth.
The conversation will be moderated by Craig Dellimore, Political Editor for WBBM Newsradio.
Tickets: https://bit.ly/4hTfSzC

Cook County Sheriff Dart: Dispelling Myth​s—The Fight Against Human Trafficking
2025-02-13 11:30 - 13:15 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart: Dispelling Myths—The Fight Against Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a deeply under-reported crime and one of the fastest-growing criminal enterprises—happening closer to home than many realize. Join Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago on February 13 at 11:30am for a powerful discussion with Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, who will shed light on common misconceptions about human trafficking, its far-reaching impact in our communities, and the innovative solutions being implemented locally that are setting a national standard. WGN TV News Anchor Lourdes Duarte will moderate this important conversation.
Register: https://bit.ly/4059aPN

Meet the new Cook County State’s Attorney: Eileen O’Neill Burke
2025-01-30 11:30 - 13:15 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Meet the new Cook County State’s Attorney: Eileen O’Neill Burke
Join Lincoln Forum, in partnership with the Union League Club of Chicago and The Chicago Bar Association, for a luncheon with the new Cook County State’s Attorney, Eileen O’Neill Burke, on January 30, 2025, at 11:30 am. This exclusive event is an opportunity to gain insights into her strategic vision and priorities for a better future. Don’t miss this chance to hear from a leader poised to drive impactful change.
**For table and other sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lori Montana at Lori@lincolnforum.org or 773-320-1938.

"The Daley Show" - How Mayor Richard M. Daley changed the Windy City
2024-10-30 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
“The Daley Show” – How the second Mayor Daley changed the Windy City
By Forrest Claypool | Foreword by David Axelrod
Join the Lincoln Forum in partnership with The Union League Club for lunch discussion on October 30th at 11:30 AM, as Forrest Claypool takes you behind the scenes of Chicago’s political machine with his new book, “The Daley Show.” Moderated by veteran political reporter Mike Flannery, this event promises an insider’s look at the legacy of Richard M. Daley, the city’s longest-serving mayor, who transformed Chicago into a global hub while grappling with the complex challenges of corruption, crises, and controversy.
As Daley’s former chief of staff, Claypool offers a unique perspective on both the triumphs and missteps of his administration. Don’t miss your chance to hear firsthand about the man who reshaped Chicago, from Millennium Park to O’Hare’s expansion, and walk away with fresh insights on power, politics, and leadership. Tickets are limited
*Copies of the book will be for sale at the event. Forrest Claypool will sign copies of the book at the event.
Table Sponsorships are available for $1,500, that includes reserved priority seating for 10 and inclusion in our marketing and social media materials as well as recognition at the event. A link to the event photography will also be provided.
For all sponsorships, please contact Lori Montana, lori@lincolnforum.org or 773.320.1938

Chicago's Next Big Idea – The 1901 Project, A Vision for the West Side
2024-10-02 11:30 - 13:15 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Part of Our Ongoing Series on the Intersection of Business and Sports and Community
Chicago’s Next Big Idea – The 1901 Project, A Vision for the West Side

Join the Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago on October 2 at 11:30am for an exclusive conversation with next-generation sports team leaders, Danny Wirtz, Chairman and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks, and Michael Reinsdorf, President and CEO of the Chicago Bulls. They will discuss the “The 1901 Project” — a transformative initiative representing the largest investment ever proposed for Chicago’s West Side. Anthony Ponce, Anchor and Reporter for Fox 32 News, will moderate the luncheon discussion.
Tickets: https://bit.ly/3ZqrJPA

Breakfast with the Blue Angels
2024-08-09 07:40 - 09:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Breakfast with the Blue Angels – A Fun-Filled Event for All Ages!
Join Lincoln Forum for breakfast with the Blue Angels on August 9th. In partnership with the Union League Club of Chicago and the Chicago Council of the Navy League, we’re hosting an unforgettable breakfast event featuring the internationally renowned Blue Angels, one of the U.S. military’s most exciting air show units. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their stunning performances, this event is perfect for all ages!
Event Highlights:

Meet & Greet: Chat with at least one of the Blue Angels pilots and a member of their skilled ground crew.

Incredible Video: Watch a short film showcasing the Blue Angels’ breathtaking air show maneuvers.

Interactive Q&A: Ask your questions during a Q&A session.

A delicious breakfast buffet

Details:

Date: August 9th

Time: Doors open at 7:40 am, breakfast starts at 8:30 am, and the event at 9:30 am.

Location: Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West. Jackson, Chicago, IL

Adults $50 | Children 12 and under $37

This is more than just a breakfast; it’s a chance to connect with American aviation heroes. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, join us for a morning of inspiration and excitement!
Reservations: https://bit.ly/3Wu2w3E

Insight 2024: Analyzing the U.S. Presidential Debate
2024-06-28 12:00 - 13:00 | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
Insight 2024: Analyzing the U.S. Presidential Debate

Join Lincoln Forum and the Union League Club of Chicago for a free virtual event on Friday, June 28, from 12pm-1pm CT, as we dive into the first U.S. Presidential Debate with expert analysis from leading political reporters and legislators. This is your chance to gain insider perspectives and ask the questions that matter to you.

Our panel of experts will break down key moments from the debate, discuss the candidates’ performances, and provide insights into how these debates could shape the future political landscape. Bring your questions, bring your curiosity, and join us for an enlightening hour of political discussion. Register now to secure your spot.

Moderator:
Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune Chief Political Reporter
Panelists:
Dave McKinney, WBEZ, State Politics Reporter
Natasha Korecki, NBC News, Senior National Political Reporter
U.S. Congressman Mike Bost (R)
State Rep. Jay Hoffman (D)

Register: https://bit.ly/3KXIWI0

Mapping the Future of Regional Mobility
2024-06-25 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Mapping the Future of Regional Mobility
Transit for the People: Next Steps on Governance and Funding
Challenges in bringing back transit riders after COVID – and already declining ridership prior to COVID – will lead to a $730 million annual “fiscal cliff” beginning in 2026 after federal emergency funds are expended. New and innovative strategic plans from RTA and Metra, CMAP’s Plan of Action for Regional Transit, and legislation sponsored by State Senator Ram Villivalam and Representative Eva-Dina Delgado to consolidate the RTA and its three service boards are all bold steps to leverage the moment to fundamentally rethink how we deliver mobility in Northeast Illinois.
Join the Lincoln Forum, the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC-IL), and The Union League Club of Chicago on June 25 at 11:30 am as we hear from the leaders who are reshaping the region’s vision for transit.
This lunch event will feature a panel with RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning Executive Director Erin Aleman, Illinois State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado (D), and Illinois State Senator Don DeWitte (R), and moderated by Fox 32 Chicago Political Reporter Paris Schutz.
**SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE:
Leadership Sponsor $1,500

A priority table for 10 at the luncheon to invite colleagues and guests.
Your company will be listed on our website and all social media. Specialty signage the day of the event and a mention will be made at the program. You will be listed on our 2024 Sponsors page.
We will send a link post event of all photographs for you to share or use in future communications and every effort will be made to have photographs of you and your guests included.

On the Move Sponsor $500

Two priority seats for the luncheon
Specialty signage at the luncheon recognising your support
A link will be provided post event of all photographs for you to share or use in future communications and every effort will be made to include your participants.

If you are interested in learning about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lori Montana at Lori@lincolnforum.org

Reception and Screening: Lincoln is Crying: The Grifters, Grafters & Governors of Illinois
2024-06-12 18:00 - 20:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Reception and Screening: Lincoln is Crying: The Grifters, Grafters & Governors of Illinois
Join us for a night of intrigue and scandal as we delve into the dark side of Illinois politics with a screening of “Lincoln is Crying”

Please join Lincoln Forum in partnership with The Union League Club for a fun evening – discover the untold stories of Illinois’ most notorious political figures. Enjoy a reception, screening and a talk with John Davies, Emmy Award winning writer/producer/director, and Brian Kallies, producer and editor. Veteran political reporter Mike Flannery will moderate a discussion about the film. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into the dark side of Illinois politics.
June 12, 6pm-8:30pm
Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W. Jackson, Chicago, IL
Dress: Business attire

Chicago Bears Beyond the Field: A Conversation with Kevin Warren
2024-06-11 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Chicago Bears Beyond the Field: A Conversation with Kevin Warren
Join Lincoln Forum in partnership with the Union League Club of Chicago for an important event where you will get to hear firsthand from Kevin Warren, President and CEO of the Chicago Bears. This is your chance to go beyond the field and gain insights into the inner workings of one of the NFL’s most iconic teams. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to engage with a key figure in the Bears organization. Lou Canellis, Fox 32 Sports Anchor, will moderate the conversation.
Reserve your spot now for this luncheon event: https://bit.ly/BearsKevinWarren

The Trump Verdict: What Does it Mean for the Presidential Election?
2024-06-04 12:00 - 13:00 | FREE ZOOM WEBINAR
After a landmark verdict where twelve jurors found Donald Trump guilty on 34 counts, the spotlight now shifts to what lies ahead. What ramifications will this have on the upcoming presidential election? Is a prison sentence looming for Trump? Could he potentially make history once more by becoming the first convicted felon to clinch the presidency? Join Lincoln Forum’s panel of experts on Tuesday June 4 for a FREE virtual event where we will delve into these pressing questions and more.
Moderator:
Rick Pearson, Chief Political Reporter for the Chicago Tribune
Panelists:
Cheri Bustos, former U.S. Representative (D)
Pat Brady, Former federal prosecutor and co-founder of Lincoln Forum
Mike Flannery, Veteran Political Reporter
Darren Bailey, Former State Senator (R)

The Lori Lightfoot Administration: A Conversation with Gregory Pratt
2024-04-15 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
The Lori Lightfoot Administration: A Conversation with Gregory Pratt
Please join the Lincoln Forum in partnership with the Union League Club of Chicago as we welcome author Gregory Pratt who will discuss his new book The City is Up for Grabs: How Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot Led and Lost a City in Crisis. Bruce Dold, the former publisher and editor-in-chief of the Chicago Tribune will moderate the conversation.
Monday, April 15, 2024, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago
Cost: $40.00 | Dress Code: Smart Casual
Register: https://CityIsUpForGrabs.eventbrite.com

THE ERA – WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
2024-03-27 11:30 - 13:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
THE ERA – WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
Join us and our co-sponsors the Union League Club of Chicago and League of Women Voters of Chicago, for a thought-provoking luncheon and conversation with Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton on a topic that is unresolved and so integral to our way of life—especially during a presidential election year.

Wednesday, March 27 · 11:30am – 1:30pm CDT
Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W Jackson Blvd
COST: $45

Register: https://ERAWhereDoWeGo.eventbrite.com

The Illinois Tollway: Moving Beyond Move Illinois
2023-10-04 11:30 - 13:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
The Illinois Tollway: Moving Beyond Move Illinois
Join the Lincoln Forum in partnership with the Union League Club of Chicago for an exciting in-person luncheon event featuring Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse and Tollway Board Chairman Arnie Rivera on October 4 at 11:30 a.m.
With the planned renewal of the Illinois Tollway system nearing completion, now is the time to envision what comes next.
The Tollway is kicking off a conversation about its role to boost economic opportunities, advance equity and meet the region’s needs in its next strategic and capital plan.
Get your seat at the table and be part of the conversation.
Register now: https://bit.ly/44EebiC
Media Partner:
Premier Sponsor:
Gold Sponsor:

A Conversation with IL Governor JB Pritzker
2023-07-26 11:30 - 13:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Join us for lunch & a conversation with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker about Innovate Illinois moderated by Brad Henderson, the CEO of P33.
We are excited to welcome Illinois Governor JB Pritzker for a discussion of “Innovate Illinois,” – a first of its kind public/private partnership to bring federal dollars to Illinois and strengthen the state’s economic vitality for decades to come. This important event is presented in partnership with The Union League Club of Chicago, HNTB and Summit Ridge Energy.
Innovate Illinois is a public/private partnership to coordinate the state’s efforts to secure federal funding through the CHIPS and Science Act, the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure and Jobs Act. It is a diverse coalition of business leaders, higher education institutions and elected officials.They will bring their expertise on building the state’s success in priority areas, including, science, transportation, renewable energy, innovation and technology.
Tickets:
Tickets: $75.00 includes lunch
Dress: Smart, Casual
Address: ULCC, 65 W. Jackson, Lincoln Ballroom
Event and Table sponsorships available, email: LincolnForum@LincolnForum.org

Author Event: Former United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz
2023-05-10 11:30 - 13:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Former United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz will discuss his new book Turnaround Time with CBS 2 News Anchor Joe Donlon.
Go behind the scenes with the CEO who led United Airlines’ remarkable turnaround.
Around the world and around the clock, the people of United Airlines are locked in a struggle against time to ensure your aircraft lands and takes off for another flight safely and efficiently. This “turnaround time” is the heartbeat of an industry in which the margin for error is nil and success is measured by fractions of a second.
In 2015, when Oscar Munoz took the helm of this iconic brand, its culture was anything but united and its reputation was in free fall. A merger with its onetime rival Continental had stalled, operational and financial performance was badly trailing those of its competitors, and the bonds of trust with shareholders, customers, and employees had reached a breaking point.
With candor, humor, and heartfelt wisdom, Oscar reveals how he rose from humble immigrant origins to lead United Airlines through one of modern business’s greatest corporate turnarounds. He offers soulful, much-needed leadership lessons for today’s world: listening with empathy, standing up for employees, building durable cultures that are profitable because they’re principled, and advancing a vision for a genuinely inclusive economy for the future.
The event begins with an 11:30 a.m. reception and book signing followed by lunch and the program at noon. Books will be available for purchase. The price is $40 per person plus applicable Eventbrite processing fees and taxes.
Tickets: http://bit.ly/3MyJE0b
Dress code: Business Casual

2023 Chicago Mayoral Candidate Forum - LIVE televised event
2023-02-09 18:00 - 19:00 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Join us in-person for the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Candidate Forum presented by Fox 32 Chicago, Lincoln Forum, the Union League Club and the Chicago Bar Association on Feb 9, 2023.
This LIVE televised candidate forum will feature ALL of the 2023 Chicago mayoral candidates, including (in ballot order): Ja’Mal Green, Alderwoman Sophia King, IL State Rep. Kam Buckner, Willie Wilson, Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson, Paul Vallas, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Alderman Roderick Sawyer and U.S. Rep. Chuy Garcia.
The candidates will discuss the important issues facing Chicago. Fox 32 Chicago Political Editor Mike Flannery and Fox 32 Anchor Scott Schneider will moderate the forum.
Doors open at 5:15pm, everyone attending must be seated by 5:45pm, the LIVE televised forum begins promptly at 6:00pm CT. The forum is being held in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W. Jackson Blvd.
Tickets are $35 per person plus applicable fees and taxes.
Purchase tickets here:

A Conversation with Vice President Mike Pence
2022-11-28 11:30 | Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
A Conversation with Vice President Mike Pence

Our next event is a book discussion with Vice President Mike Pence. It will be moderated by Rick Pearson, Chief Political Editor, of the Chicago Tribune on November 28 and will begin with a reception at 11:30a.m. followed by lunch and the program at 12:00 p.m. at the Union League Club of Chicago. The price is $65 per person plus fees, which includes the lunch, program and one copy of the book.
Vice President Pence will be signing his book, “So Help Me God,” during the reception as well as following the conclusion of the program. Additional copies of the book will be available for purchase on the day of the event.
This program is presented in partnership with the Union League Club of Chicago.

A New Day in Springfield?
2021-02-26 12:00 - 13:00
A New Day in Springfield?

Presented by The Lincoln Forum, The Union League Club of Chicago and Crain’s Chicago Business
With the end of Mike Madigan’s time as Speaker, Crain’s Political Columnist Greg Hinz will talk with newly elected Illinois House Speaker, Emanuel Welch about what’s next. Join us for a FREE virtual event on 2/26/21 from 12pm-1pm CST.
Registration is FREE and capacity is limited
