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Eleven business leaders join the Club’s leadership, bringing fresh perspectives and cross-industry expertise to advance its next chapter

CHICAGO, IL, November 11, 2026 — The Executives’ Club of Chicago today announced the election of 11 distinguished business leaders to its Board of Directors and Board of Advisors. Representing organizations across industries including professional services, technology, aviation, real estate, architecture, and higher education, the new members will help guide the Club as it continues to evolve how business leaders learn, connect, and lead.

Founded in 1911, the Executives’ Club has long been a defining part of Chicago’s business community. Today, the Club is building on that legacy with a bold vision for the future — bringing together insight, learning, and community to help leaders think bigger, lead stronger, and deliver greater impact.

“Leadership has changed, and so have the expectations of the organizations and communities we serve,” said Dorri McWhorter, President and CEO of the Executives’ Club of Chicago. “What excites me about this group is the range of experiences, perspectives, and ideas they bring to the table. They understand that leadership isn’t just about where you’ve been — it’s about what you’re willing to build next. As we continue expanding the Club’s role as a leadership platform, their expertise and commitment will help us create even more meaningful opportunities for leaders to grow, connect, and make an impact.”

Newly Elected Board of Directors

The following leaders have been elected to the Executives’ Club of Chicago Board of Directors:

  • Jeff Baker, Chief Executive Officer, Illinois REALTORS®
  • Liz Connelly, Chief Commercial Officer, CDW
  • Katie Jahnke Dale, Co-Chicago Managing Partner, DLA Piper
  • Rosa De Luna-Frede, Managing Director, Andersen
  • Robert Sevim, President, Savills
  • Brian Vitale, Principal and Co-Managing Director, Gensler

The Board of Directors provides strategic direction and governance, helping position the Executives’ Club for long-term growth, organizational impact, and continued relevance within Chicago’s evolving business landscape.

“The Club’s newest Board members bring exceptional business acumen, diverse industry perspectives, and a shared commitment to advancing leadership in Chicago and beyond,” said Teresa Wilton Harmon, Chair of the Board of Directors, Executives’ Club of Chicago, and Co-Office Managing Partner, Sidley Austin LLP. “Their contributions will be instrumental as we strengthen the Club’s foundation, expand our reach, and build an organization ready for its next century of impact.”

Newly Elected Board of Advisors

The following leaders have been elected to the Executives’ Club of Chicago Board of Advisors:

  • Laura Anderson, Chicago Local Market Lead, Accenture
  • Doreen Burse, Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Officer, United Airlines
  • Dave Chapman, Vice President, Central Region, CDW
  • Kathleen Sarpy, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Agency H5
  • Taylor Stapleton, Associate Vice President and Deputy Athletics Director, DePaul University

The Board of Advisors serves as a strategic network of influential business and civic leaders who champion the Club’s mission, strengthen connections across industries, and help shape opportunities that respond to the evolving needs of today’s leaders.

Together, the newly elected members reflect the Club’s commitment to connecting established and emerging perspectives, bridging industries, and bringing the right people and ideas together to move business and leadership forward.

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About the Executives’ Club 

As the region’s premier leadership organization, the Executives’ Club of Chicago connects and ignites leaders to advance business and humanity. For more than a century, the Club has served as a platform and resource for executives who want to build what’s next, make their mark, and move the world forward. For more information, visit www.executivesclub.org.

Media Contact 

Katy Broom 
Head of Brand Experience
Executives’ Club
kbroom@executivesclub.org  
312-283-2197