Karen Weigert
Director, Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise and Responsibility, Loyola University
In today’s climate, “doing the right thing” is complicated. Every decision sits under a microscope, subject to shareholder demands, consumer expectations, and political firestorms. But the underlying principles of environmental stewardship, social equity, and strong governance remain critical to building resilient, competitive, and trusted companies.
This summit is about examining it under the harsh light of today’s realities — confronting the backlash, exploring the breakthroughs, and charting what comes next for corporate responsibility in sustainability.
This program is closed to the Media. Questions? Reach out to Katy Broom.
Once the gold standard for responsible business, sustainability and business responsibility are now some of the most polarizing topics in the corporate world. In this opening address, a leading voice will take us inside the new reality — where every action is scrutinized, every statement is political, and the rules for earning trust are being rewritten in real time.
This candid, high-energy talk will set the stage for the summit by asking: How do today’s leaders navigate a world where responsibility and risk are increasingly intertwined?
Director, Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise and Responsibility, Loyola University
In today’s climate, taking a stand can be as risky as it is rewarding. This session dives into the frontlines of the sustainability and business responsibility backlash — from political crossfire to shareholder activism — and explores how top executives are holding their ground, adapting their language, and protecting their brands.
Hear real stories from leaders who have navigated the storm, and walk away with practical strategies to lead with both courage and clarity in a divided marketplace.
Founding Partner, Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres
Director, Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise and Responsibility, Loyola University
Senior Vice President, Chief Sustainability Officer, Northern Trust
If the term “ESG” has lost its power — or become a liability — how do we move forward without losing the progress it represents? In this closing conversation, leaders and strategists share how they’re reframing responsibility for the next era, from shifting to resilience and long-term value creation to embedding impact directly into profit strategy.
Expect fresh frameworks, bold ideas, and a candid look at how to lead with purpose in a time of heightened scrutiny and what’s driving the next wave of accountability — and how companies can lead with integrity while delivering measurable results.
Sustainability Strategist , Uplift
Director of Partnerships, Robert R. McCormick Foundation
President, Social Responsibility Chicago