Join us for a Small Talk with Amy Bashiti on Thursday, December 12, from 12 to 1 pm at Nando’s Peri-Peri (117 E Lake Street)! Amy Bashiti has been providing technical assistance for community revitalization strategies with IHDA throughout the state for more than eight years, working in communities as diverse as Cairo, Decatur, and Mt. Sterling. Before joining IHDA, Amy worked in community development and affordable housing consulting. She received her Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Policy (MUPP) from the University of Illinois at Chicago and her Bachelor of Arts degree from Tulane University. Learn about Amy’s professional journey, and connect with other WP&D peers! Click the link in our bio to register.

Join us for WP&Drinks on Tuesday, December 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Cafe Bionda, a cozy Italian spot in the South Loop with a signature martini list, two mahogany bars, and an open kitchen vibe. Let’s sip, snack, and chat about everything related to Women in Development and Planning. Don’t miss it—we’ll save you a seat! Click the link in our bio to register.

On Friday, members left their usual work spots and joined us across Chicago for WP&D’s first-ever Coworking Day! With laptops in hand and friends by their sides, participants connected, created, collaborated, and chilled in style. It was the perfect way to wrap up the week, and we loved seeing so many faces. Stay tuned—we’ll announce the locations for the next round of coworking days soon!

What a holly jolly time at @promontorychicago for the Winter Hyde Park Farmers Market! From festive brunch vibes to live performances by the incredible Zion Ali (@itsmusababy_) and DJ Elijah Horton, the event was a wonderful kick-off to the winter season. Local vendors brought the magic with unique gifts and goodies, making holiday shopping easy. A huge thank you to the @seccchicago, @dhpchicago, and @alderyancy5 for throwing an event full of community connections and cheer! To everyone who came and supported local businesses—thank you! Here’s to keeping the joy flowing all season long!

Sending some ‘Good Vibes’ your way today! We're thrilled to spotlight WP&D's incredible Programs Co-Chair, Diane Burnham. Diane was honored to be an International Delegate and Panelist at the @hubmontreal Focus-Market Panel in Chicago. Congrats, Diane! "I was extremely humbled and honored to be selected as an International Delegate, representing the @seccchicago on the Chicago Focus Market panel at HUB Montreal. It is important to be able to highlight Chicago, but the Southside in particular. The international perspective of Chicago is often centered on Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier. Still, Chicago is made up of 77 unique and vibrant neighborhoods, and I had the opportunity to focus on Chicago's Southside. Often, there is a misperception about Chicago's Southside. My goal was to help the audience see Chicago on a local neighborhood level and dispel negative stereotypes about the Southside, instead focusing on opportunity, economic attraction, community development, and, of course, the people's history, culture, and diversity. Chicago's Southside is the home of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, the Great Migration of African Americans, the rise of Jazz/Blues/House Music, and so much more. We have the DuSable Museum of African American History to the west, the prestigious University of Chicago in the middle, and the future Obama Presidential Center to the east."

WP&D invites you to our first-ever Coworking Day! Are you a WP&D member working remotely on Fridays? This Nov 22 from 10 am to 2 pm, break out of your usual spot and join us across Chicago for a fresh coworking experience! Bring a friend, grab your laptop, and get ready to collaborate, create, connect, and chill. Explore the locations and stop by whichever one is most convenient for you! 📍 Lincoln Square @greenpostchi (4749 N Rockwell St) - Host: Abigail 📍 Bucktown @trucechicago (1935 N Damen Ave) - Host: Francie 📍 Bridgeport @ Base Community Cafe (1200 W 35th St) - Host: Kelsey Let’s wrap up your week on a high note. We can’t wait to see you there! Register link in our bio.

Join us at The Promontory (1511 E. 53rd Street) on Saturday, November 16, for a festive kick-off to the Hyde Park Holiday Makers Market! Swing from 11 am to 1 pm for brunch vibes, live performances, and a fantastic lineup of local vendors perfect for seasonal shopping. Grab a drink with friends to keep the holiday cheer flowing! Plus, enjoy a complimentary breakfast sandwich on us. Be there early, stay late, and make it a day to remember! Register in our bio.

What an incredible event! Thank you to everyone who joined us for October’s Small Talks—your energy and engagement made it truly special! A huge shoutout to our guest speaker, Karen Liu-Yates, for sharing her invaluable insights into fostering community investment. Karen’s dedication through both her professional and volunteer work is an inspiration to us all, proving just how powerful local neighborhood support can be. We had an amazing time connecting, learning, and growing together, and we can’t wait to see you at our next Small Talk! Keep an eye out for more details soon—exciting things are coming!

A heartfelt thank you to @taft_law , especially Liz Butler and Braeden Lord, for their dedication and expertise in modernizing our bylaws. Their attention to detail has better equipped us to serve our members. With over 135 years of history, Taft Law is a firm that embraces progress. They foster a transparent, inclusive workplace that promotes creativity, teamwork, and client success. Taft is also deeply committed to giving back through charitable contributions and pro bono work. With a unique leadership model and a client-first approach, they consistently deliver exceptional results. We’re incredibly grateful for Taft’s charitable support of our community!

Thanks to everyone who came out for October’s WP&Drinks! Even with the location change, everyone’s good vibes made it an awesome night at @takitostreet! If you missed it, we hope to see you next time!

🚨 Location Change Alert! 🚨We’ve had a last-minute switcheroo for tonight’s WP&Drinks event at 5:30 pm. Meet us at @takitostreet at 2423 N. Lincoln Ave in Lincoln Park! Hope to see you there; if not, we’ll catch you at the next one. Thanks for your understanding and flexibility! Also, don’t forget: WP&D Small Talks with Karen Liu-Yates is coming up this Thursday–a members-only event you won’t want to miss!

What a blast WP+D had at last month's @apaillinois Annual Conference in Champaign! WP+D was proud to take the stage and dive into some amazing planning topics alongside passionate professionals from across the state. A few highlights included Kelsey Zlevor’s impactful ‘Designing Places to Address Depression’ hands-on workshop, Lily Brack’s informative ‘Empowering Communities with Actionable Plans’ and ‘Build Up Cook’ panels, and Hannah Bader’s engaging ‘Perfect Pairings: Strategy Synergies’ Speed Planning Session! It was an inspiring three days filled with new insights, connections, and some seriously great conversations. Looking forward to more collaboration and innovation ahead!

Join us for a Small Talk with Karen Liu-Yates on Thursday, October 17, from 12 to 1 pm at @fromhereonchi (The Old Post Office)! Karen Liu-Yates is a Sr. Community Investment Programs Specialist at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (@lifeatfhlbc) and has supported community investment activities across Wisconsin and Illinois for over three years. She leads outreach and technical assistance for the Affordable Housing Program (AHP), Downpayment Plus (DPP) Program, and co-manages the Housing Counseling Resource Program (HCRP). Karen’s background is in urban planning and non-profit work, and loves opportunities to connect with practitioners in the affordable housing industry. On the side, she also leads @trashpeopleofmckinleypark, a community group that facilitates community contribution and connection via hyper-local neighborhood cleanups. Let’s talk about all things professional and fun, making some new friends along the way!

This past weekend, the WP&D board gathered in Rogers Park for our fall retreat, and it kicked off with plenty of laughs! We began with detective work for the ‘Whose fridge is that?’ guessing game and followed it up with animal-themed Heads Up! The fun didn’t stop even when we got down to business. With the help of a Nonprofit Coach & Consultant, @coachjanetcobb, we dove into group exercises and breakouts, all focused on the board becoming more efficient, collaborative, and impactful. We’re feeling inspired and ready to bring exciting programs and events to the community this fall—stay tuned, even as Chicago cools down!

As fall approaches, Chicago comes alive with celebrations that honor the vibrant culture and heritage of the Latinx community. From Pilsen to Belmont Cragin, Humboldt Park to Little Village neighborhoods, there are countless opportunities to support local and celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of the Latinx community across our city. We are thankful for our colleagues, friends, role models, community leaders, and elected officials who continue to inspire and influence the future of planning and development in Chicago and beyond.

The @apaillinois conference is almost here and we’re excited! The year’s schedule is packed with inspiring leaders and visionaries from across the state. Be sure to catch some of the WP+D crew in action—like Kelsey, Lily Neppl, and Hannah Bader (just to name a few). Also participating? Tag yourself or drop a comment to let everyone know about your session or walking tour. We can’t wait to learn, connect, and have some fun with you all! See you there.

Planning in progress! The WP&D board fall retreat is coming up this month! We’ll reflect on the past year, set goals, and plan some exciting events to come. In the meantime, mark your calendars! WP&Drinks is back on Tuesday, October 15, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at @bartakito! Join us at this vibrant West Loop spot for Latin cuisine with a modern twist. Apps are on us, so come hungry and ready to connect!

Last month, we had an incredible time at @halfsourchicago in Printer’s Row, enjoying refreshing drinks and tasty bites. Good company made the evening one to remember! If you missed out, don’t worry – WP&D September Drinks is coming soon! Stay tuned for details. We can’t wait to see you at the next one!

Join Hire Trans Now for our Quarterly Training TODAY at 3:30 pm at the Gerber/Hart Library & Archives! In partnership with Chicago Therapy Collective, Howard Brown Health, and Taskforce through the Trans Accountability Project (TAP), this 90-minute session will share 6 Best Practices for making workplaces more welcoming and inclusive for Black and Latina Women of trans experience. Leave with actionable steps and a deeper understanding of the unique experiences of Black and Latina trans women in the workplace. Don’t miss it—empower your team and help create real change!

Come OUT TO PLAY at 6pm on Thursday, September 12, as we finish our summer social series. Feeling like a worn-out bag of bones? Interested in a humerus evening? Come join your fellow skeletons in meat-suits at @skeletonkeybrewery! Phil Green will be bringing some special selections from his board game collection. They'll really rattle your funny bone! Hope to see you at the LAST event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Check out the link in our bio to register.

As Women in Planning & Development, we have a special appreciation for a good map - especially one that celebrates the women of Chicago's present and past! Check out the incredible Women’s L Project Map by Janet Volk, which reimagines Chicago’s L station stops with the names of remarkable women from the city’s history. From activists and artists to scientists and social reformers, these stops highlight where these inspiring women lived, worked, and made a lasting impact. Discover who the women are and where their stops are located! Explore the map by checking out the link in our bio!

Despite a little rain, we had an absolute blast at the Annual Member Appreciation Picnic on Saturday, August 17! Huge shoutout to everyone who joined us, and special thanks to @uiccuppa for providing us shelter. Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for... drum roll, please! Introducing our 2024-2025 Board of Directors: ✨ President: Lily Brack, AICP ✨ Vice President: Taylor Gendel ✨ Secretary: Annie Kraft ✨ Treasurer: Liz Kersjes ✨ Marketing: Abigail Rose + Hannah Bader ✨ Membership: Becky Rupel + Makala Morales ✨ Professional Development: Kelsey Zlevor + Francie Lawrence, AICP ✨ Programs: Diane Burnham, MBNA + Rashanah Baldwin, M.A. A heartfelt thanks to our outgoing board members! Stay tuned for more fun WP+D events and updates!

Come OUT TO PLAY at 6 pm on Thursday, August 29 as we run up a high score! Even Cicadas can’t stay outside all summer. Grab some shade from the heat and relive your youth as we Space Invade(rs) the world’s largest arcade, Galloping Ghost in Brookfield! Founded on Friday the 13th of August 2010, Galloping Ghost is now home to 982 arcade games ranging from Aliens to X-Men. The best part? Your entry fee gets you unlimited play for all of them! It’s going to be Mega, Man! Not Tapper-ed out after our fun? The arcade is open until midnight, so you can stay and play all night long. Hope to see you at the seventh event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Check out the link in our bio to register.

Let’s make the most of these summer nights in Chicago! Join us for WP&Drinks on Thursday, August 29 from 5:45-7:45 pm at @halfsourchicago in Printers Row! Kick back with happy hour drinks, tasty modern deli bites, and good vibes all around. Appetizers on us! Click the link in our bio to snag your spot. Can’t wait to see you there!

🌧️ UPDATE FOR TODAY'S MEMBER APPRECIATION PICNIC 🌧️ Hey friends! The weather might be playing tricks on us today, and parking near Skinner Park may be challenging, so we're taking the party indoors. Rain or shine, we're still going to have a blast! 🎉 NEW SPOT: Lower Level UIC CUPPA Hall (412 S. Peoria St) NEW TIME: 1 - 3 pm The weather won't stop our fun! See you there!

We're pumped to see you at our Annual Membership Appreciation Picnic THIS SATURDAY from 12:30-3 pm at Skinner Park! Look for us near the W Monroe/S Loomis entrance, just south of the Tranquil Garden. If Mother Nature has other plans (rain), we'll be at UIC's CUPPA Hall (lower level) from 1-3 pm. If this is the case, registrants should expect a follow-up email the morning of the picnic. Whether you're a member or just stopping by, come enjoy some tasty food, refreshing drinks, chill activities, and great vibes. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and outdoor games—let's make it a day to remember!

Let’s share some 'Good Vibes'! Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight former WP&D Board member, Em Hall. Em successfully defended her dissertation, "Understanding Partner Types in Transit Public-Private Partnerships: A Case Study Approach," in June. She studied under Dr. Kate Lowe at UIC's College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs, where she also earned a Certificate in the Foundations of College Instruction and a Public Transit Planning & Management (PTPM) Certificate. Now, as Dr. Hall, she’s already putting her Ph.D. expertise to work by growing her consulting business with new transportation planning and AEC clients. Congratulations, Em, and best of luck on your exciting journey ahead!

Come OUT TO PLAY at 6 pm on Thursday, August 15, with the dirtiest dogs in Chicago! Do you have that DOG in you? Then head over to @midwestcoastbrewing for drinks! Their taproom is both friendly to families and pups, so feel free to bring your four-legged bestie for a fun night out! Hope to see you at the sixth event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Check out the link in our bio to register.

What an incredible way to start a Friday morning! Huge thanks to everyone who joined us last week for the Chicago Women Leaders: Insights on the Future of Affordable Housing and Economic Development panel at the stunning @vcollectiverooftop. A massive shoutout to our Programs Co-Chair @rashanahbaldwin for moderating an engaging and insightful discussion. We're also deeply grateful to Commissioner Casteñeda @chicagodoh and Commissioner Boatright @chicagodpd for their unwavering leadership and the remarkable efforts of their teams in ensuring inclusive, equitable growth across Chicago. Huge thanks to our amazing event sponsors @nhschicago and @farrassociates! We couldn't have done it without you. Stay tuned for more WP&D events that inspire and empower!

📍Location Update! Join WP&D for Our Annual Picnic on Saturday, August 17th from 12:30 to 3:00 pm. Same great event, same great food, same amazing network of colleagues and friends, but with a new location! We've navigated the ins and outs of Millennium Park's reservation system, leading us to move our Member Appreciation Picnic to the beautiful Skinner Park in the West Loop. Get ready to enjoy stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Whitney Young High School, the alma mater of Michelle Obama! Just a short walk from the Racine Blue Line stop, the #9 Ashland bus, or convenient neighborhood parking. Look for us by entering from the W Monroe/S Loomis entrance, just south of the Tranquil Garden.

🚨Limited seats left! 🚨Only a few spots remain for the Chicago Women Leaders: Insights on the Future of Affordable Housing event with Commissioner Casteñeda @chicagodoh and Commissioner Boatright @chicagodpd! Don’t miss this special edition of WP&D Networking on Friday, August 2, from 9:30 to 11 am at the stunning @vcollectiverooftop. Arrive at 9 am for registration and breakfast. See you soon!

Two weeks ago, WP&D hosted our first-ever Creatives Night! This open mic style event gave our members a platform to share their developing ideas and works-in-progress. We heard from planners, creatives, researchers, builders, bug enthusiasts, architects, performers, trash people, and others! A standout moment? Someone said, "I’ve never spoken this out loud and shared it with anyone, but my idea is…" Our board found it incredibly refreshing to create an environment where women could share their dreams and openly seek support from the audience. A massive THANK YOU to all the members who attended, those who organized the event, and our keynote speaker, @tanaeb_! The professional development chairs are already gearing up for the next one. Stay tuned!

Come OUT TO PLAY on Thursday, August 1 at 6 pm, as we take in America's pastime. Let's enjoy the game in our private suite! It's going to be the @kccougars vs. the @thechicagodogs. Enjoy fireworks immediately following the game! Hope to see you at the fifth event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Check out the link in our bio to register. Let’s play ball!

Get ready for an exciting event paired with free breakfast! Join us for a special edition of WP&D Networking on Friday, August 2 from 9:30 to 11 am at the stunning @vcollectiverooftop. We’re thrilled to feature Chicago’s very own Commissioner Casteñeda @chicagodoh and Commissioner Boatright @chicagodpd at the Chicago Women Leaders: Insights on the Future of Affordable Housing event. Space and seating are extremely limited, so don't wait—check out the links in our bio to register today. Please arrive at 9 am for registration, breakfast, and refreshments. We can’t wait to see you there!

We the jury find you to be… guilty of being lonely. The OUT TO PLAY crew sentences you to a night of fun and degeneracy at Banging Gavel Brews on Thursday, July 25 from 6 to 8 pm! @bangingavel is located in a historic Vogt building and offers delicious food and sublime beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Hope to see you at the fourth event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Check out the link in our bio to register.

Join @MetropolitanPlanningCouncil for their 90th Anniversary Year celebration! On July 24 from 10-11:30 am at the Harold Washington Library and online, MPC will present “Untangling Zoning Impacts and Promoting Equity Through Reform,” a four-person panel on the impact of zoning and land use on residents’ lives from a local and national perspective. The esteemed panel includes: @MorganMalone (moderator), social change leader and Executive Director of City Bureau. @NolanGray, professional urban planner and author of “Arbitrary Lines: How Zoning Broke the American City and How to Fix it.” @SaraBronin, Founder/Director, National Zoning Atlas and author of the forthcoming book “Key to the City: How Zoning Shapes Our World”. @YonahFreemark, the Director of Urban Institute’s Land Use Lab and MPC’s research partner investigating the impacts of zoning on public health, racial equity, and sustainability. Guest check-in starts at 9:30am for in-person attendees. We hope to see you there.

Join us at the posh South Loop @RootsHandmadePizza on July 26 for WP&Drinks! From 5:45-7:45, we’ll be enjoying slices and refreshing beverages on the vibrant rooftop (weather permitting). We hope to see you there! RSVP through the link in our bio.

Want to support WP&D but don’t know how? No worries! Here’s a quick guide on how you and/or your team can help: 🥤 Provide water, food, and refreshments at an event. 🪑 Help purchase chair rentals for a Commissioners’ lunch & learn. 🏢 Lend your space for a professional development event. 💸 Send funds to support networking opportunities. The possibilities are limitless, and every bit of support counts! We appreciate your generosity and are excited to collaborate with you. Reach out with any interest.

Big announcement! We are beyond excited to share that @tanaeb_ will be our keynote speaker for the first WP&D Creatives Night on Thursday, July 18, from 6 to 8 pm in West Town (906 N. Ashland Unit C)! She is a triple threat: urban planner, singer, and creative poet. Sign up now to showcase what you’ve been working on outside of your 9-5. Let’s give and receive feedback, and celebrate each other's creativity! The evening kicks off with an open mic, followed by a cozy hour of mingling with non-alcoholic drinks and light appetizers. Don’t miss out—click the link in our bio to register!

Don’t forget to sign up for our Annual Picnic at Millennium Park on Saturday, August 17 from 12:30 to 3 pm! Let's come together to celebrate being part of WP&D. Join us to welcome new members and enjoy the company of Chicago women in career fields related to planning and development. Enjoy delicious banh mi sandwiches from @balechicago, tasty sides, refreshing beverages, relaxing activities, and great conversation. We can't wait to celebrate with you! Check out the link in our bio to learn more and register.

Join @cntchicago for a conversation about women who are leading the way at the intersection of sustainability and planning. This event is part of their new Visionary Voice series - conversations with planners, organizers, and researchers about the built environment. Each event features a panel, Q&A, and time to meet and chat over refreshments and a beverage of your choice!

Calling all creatives! Are you trying to start your own podcast about public art? Build out your portfolio of people-watching sketches? Write a book and lead walking tours about community gardens? Create a portrait exhibit about riding transit? Whatever it is, we’d love for you to share it! Join us for our first WP&D Creatives Night on Thursday, July 18 from 6 to 8 pm in West Town (906 N. Ashland Unit C)! This is a chance for creatives to share work-in-progress that is not part of their 9-5 while applauding other people’s work, and connecting with each other to propel our projects forward. The first half of the evening will be open mic, followed by an hour of gathering with non-alcoholic drinks and light appetizers. Click the link in our bio to register!

Come OUT TO PLAY at 6 pm on Thursday, July 11 at Pioneer Mini Golf! It's a hole new game, and it's time to raise the par. Head to Pioneer Park Mini Golf for a nail-biting game of mini golf followed by a visit to @wehavegreatbeerpr. We all love putts and we cannot lie, so come out and be a social butterfly! Hope to see you at the third event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Let's par-tee!

Drum roll, please! Announcing the final member of the 2023-2024 WP&D board: our Programs Co-Chair, Diane Burnham! Over the past ten years, Diane Burnham has become a public figure in the midsouth region of Chicago as the Executive Director of the @seccchicago. Diane joined SECC in 2013 focusing on community-based initiatives such as arts and culture, business district improvement programs, community beautification, placemaking, and sustainability. In 2017, Diane was named the sixth Executive Director in the organization’s 70+ year history. Diane successfully transitioned the SECC to divest financially from the University of Chicago and rebrand, guiding the organization to a new future. Diane has doubled the organization’s budget, diversified funding streams, grown the staff, and focused on the organization’s infrastructure. Diane holds a Master of Management and Nonprofit Administration from North Park University in Chicago and a Master of Science in Urban Studies from the University of Wisconsin. Her experience in nonprofit management began in 1998 when she was appointed to the Public Allies National Service Program for Young Leaders, a program co-founded by Michelle Obama. She has also worked at the Urban Ecology Center, the YMCA, and the Howard Area Community Center.

Guess what? Our June WP&Drinks meetup at @thechicagodelta in Wicker Park was an absolute blast! But wait, the excitement isn't over yet: July's gathering is right around the corner. Stay tuned for more details on how to register and join us for another great evening of networking and good vibes.

Today’s the LAST DAY to apply for the 2024-2025 WP&D Board! We have four exciting positions open: Secretary, Professional Development, Membership, and Marketing. If you’re interested in an organization dedicated to fostering connections and advancing leadership for women in planning and development, we’d love for you to join us! Click the link in our bio to apply!

Let’s meet another WP&D board member, our Programs Co-Chair, Rashanah Baldwin! Rashanah is a social entrepreneur, accomplished broadcast journalist, media consultant, and community leader. Between her professional career as a senior advisor for Avoq, a project manager for Bloomberg Associates, and the founder of the Baldwin Media Group, she manages to give back to under-resourced neighborhoods on the South Side of Chicago. Rashanah is a neighborhood strategist with NHS Chicago, and her ability to establish partnerships and leverage her extensive network has allowed her to make a meaningful impact on the South Side. She’s developed partnerships among elected officials, community organizations, city-wide institutions, and residents to bring new businesses that stabilize housing and make neighborhoods more walkable, safe, and economically thriving. She previously worked as a communications coordinator for Illinois Lieutenant Governor Julianna Stratton, leading the communications efforts to uplift the Justice Equity Opportunity Initiative on justice reform and policy. What sets Rashanah apart is her goal to change perceptions by promoting inclusive and positive news coverage through her “Good in Englewood” campaign. She is active on boards with Growing Home Inc., NHS Chicago, The Reporter’s Inc., and of course… WP&D!

Our annual picnic is our favorite way to thank you for your involvement in WP&D! We invite you to join us at @millennium_park on Saturday, August 17th, 2024 from 12:30-3:00 pm as we celebrate all of our members and welcome new members to this annual summer event. During this signature event, you'll have an opportunity to meet and mingle with Chicago women in various career fields related to planning and development. Enjoy food (banh mi sandwiches from @balechicago and other sides), refreshments, relaxing activities, good company and conversation. Can’t wait to celebrate. Check out the link in our bio to learn more ®gister!

The application deadline for the WP&D Board of Directors has been extended! There are still opportunities to apply for our 2024-2025 term positions: Secretary, Professional Development, Membership, and Marketing. The new deadline is Friday, June 28th. Get involved and help shape the future of WP&D. Click the link in our bio to apply today!

Happy Friday! The next WPD Board Member Spotlight is Kelsey Zlevor, our Professional Development Co-Chair. Kelsey is a spatial strategist, design researcher, and cultural worker at the convergence of planning, climate justice, and social change. She is a Senior Associate at @planning_muse, a Chicago-based women-owned planning firm. A committed creative, Kelsey developed the “Strategic Yes for Social Change Retreat Toolkit” in 2021, a package of tools arranged to guide individual strategic planning retreats to align our whole selves in our professional path towards social good. She is also the keeper of Mental Landscapes, an ongoing body of independent trauma-informed design research and scholarship that centers depression and psychological disability in public space design. Kelsey is also a board member of the Association for Community Design, a national nonprofit dedicated to a practice of design that dismantles systemic injustice in the built environment, and was named the fall 2023 Artist in Residence at Allerton Park and Retreat Center in central Illinois. She holds a Master’s in Community and Regional Planning from the University of Oregon and a B.A. in Environmental Science from the University of Iowa.

Are you interested in becoming more engaged with WP&D? This is a friendly reminder that board applications are due at the end of the day on Sunday, June 23rd! For the 2024-2025 term, we have four exciting positions open: Secretary, Professional Development, Membership, and Marketing. We encourage YOU to apply and join the WP&D board. Visit the link in our bio to learn about the roles and apply!

WP&D is committed to equity in every aspect of our organization. Today we acknowledge Juneteenth, the celebration of freedom and the end of slavery in the United States. This day commemorates June 19th, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned of their emancipation, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles for justice and equality, honoring the resilience and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. We recognize and honor the strong leaders like the Grandmother of Juneteenth, Opal Lee, who guide our Chicago community and beyond toward a future of equity.

The next WPD Board Member Spotlight is Mercedes Miley, our Professional Development Co-Chair! Mercedes has a background in architecture, development, and urban design—leading to a comprehensive approach to problem-solving that touches on all aspects of the built environment. She is an Associate Principal at @farrassociates, a sustainability-focused firm striving to advance green infrastructure across communities, and the Co-Founder of Home 42, a development company focused on equitable and compassionate landlordship. Her practice includes the advancement of women, especially young women and girls, into design spaces. Throughout her career, Mercedes has promoted women and girls to reach for their dreams. She has 23 years of service to the Girl Scouts of America and a long history of tutoring and mentoring young women with similar organizations. She would love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey to great things.

🌈 We’re proud to share our colors for Pride Month in Chicago! June is a time for celebration, but the effort to stand together as a community and uplift the voices and stories of the LBGTQIA community extends all year round. Happy Pride Month, Chicago!

Don’t forget about the waitlist! Our next WP&Drinks at @thechicagodelta, a Black-owned establishment with funky-chic decor and Southern fare in the heart of Wicker Park, on June 27th at 5:30 pm is full, but no fear! Stay tuned for July’s event. Our board intentionally plans these networking events in different Chicago neighborhoods and works hard to support women and minority-owned establishments. Hope to see you at a future gathering!

Introducing WP&D’s other Marketing Co-Chair, Irene Henry! Irene is a transportation planner with @meadandhunt, a planning, design, and construction firm, and graduated in 2022 from the University of Illinois-Chicago with a Master’s of Urban Planning and Policy. Irene is passionate about getting people out of cars and into the public realm for connection, collaboration, and community. She has a background in music, studying French horn at St. Olaf College and learning how to build bridges across divergent backgrounds and beliefs through shared musical experiences. Irene loves discussing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and cool public spaces and how they’re part of the solution to climate change, systemic inequity, and social isolation.

WP&D is, at its heart, a “working” board. Everything that WP&D does is the result of the hard work and generous spirit of our all-volunteer board. We are looking for women who are similarly invested in WP&D’s purpose, value teamwork and open communication, and are committed to centering racial equity in all aspects of WP&D’s work. For the 2024-2025 term, we have four exciting positions open: Secretary, Professional Development, Membership, and Marketing. Visit the link in our bio to learn about the roles and apply!

Meet us at the second Out to Play event on Thursday, June 20th at 6 pm at @revbrewchicago for a tour of the brewery and taproom! The tour lasts about 45-60 minutes and includes beer samples and a pint glass. Revolution also offers non-alcoholic options. Also, join us for trivia - Before founding Revolution Brewing, Josh Deth received his Masters of Urban Planning and Policy from UIC in 2005. His graduate project led to the founding of the Friends of the Bloomingdale (606) Trail, which lobbied for the @bloomingdaletrail to be repurposed as a public trail. Join us for this second event in our largest summer series yet, featuring The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy, and 8 stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Hope to see you all there!

The next WPD Board Member Spotlight is Abigail Rose, our Marketing Co-Chair! Abigail is a Senior Planner & Designer at @alltogetherstudio, a women-owned creative agency. After graduating from Iowa State University, she practiced as a Planner II in Pflugerville, Texas, and then moved back to the Midwest to continue planning in the private sector. She communicates the big picture by distilling complex issues into simple messaging and clean visuals. Her experience in graphic design, urban planning, and community engagement drives her passion to better inform policy and create authentic, viable places and solutions.

We enjoyed wonderful conversations over authentic Mexican Cuisine and refreshing drinks last month at Lalo's On Maxwell Street. Thanks for joining us in Little Italy. Hope to see you at our June WP&Drinks - stay tuned for info coming soon!

Did you know? All WP&D contacts (members and non-members) can access their account information from the Constituent Portal. Once logged in, contacts can access restricted custom webpages (coming soon!), view event registrations, renew memberships, or receive member-restricted event registration prices. To log into the portal for the first time, click Member Login at the top right of the website and Create/Reset Password. From the Constituent Portal, WP&D members can also access our new Membership Directory. The membership directory displays member data in a searchable directory format. You can search by name, company, or title, and even add your own photo. Plug into the WP&D network and stay in touch!

We are announcing the next WPD Board Member Spotlight: Taylor Gendel, our Membership Co-Chair! Taylor is a Senior Planner for @lakecountyil focused on sustainability initiatives. Taylor has always been passionate about sustainability, with an environmental concentration at UIC and experience working and volunteering with a number of environmental organizations in the Chicago region before graduate school.

May is coming to a close, but our appreciation for and celebration of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in Chicago extends past this AANHPI Heritage Month. We are grateful for our AA and NHPI colleagues, friends, role models, community leaders, and elected officials who continue to inspire and guide the direction of planning and development in Chicago and beyond.

The cicadas are finally emerging, which for Chicago means two important things… summer is here, and it’s time for Out to Play! On Thursday, June 6th at @temperancebeer in Evanston, join The Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA), Chicago Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA), @apaillinois, Illinois Government Finance Officers Association (IGFOA), Illinois Public Employer Labor Relations Association (IPELRA), and @lgbt_legacy for the kick-off of our largest summer series yet featuring eight stops throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Temperance offers a fantastic range of delectable beers and non-alcoholic options including Evanston's own Kombucha Brava. $1 from each pint will be donated to Evanston's CASE for special education services and accommodations for children with disabilities. We’re excited to be part of this event series (swipe to see future events), and we hope to see you there!

Announcing the next WPD Board Member Spotlight: Kate Portillo, our Membership Co-Chair! Kate is a Village Planner for the @village_of_brookfield, Illinois, who came to the planning field from a diverse background of social work, retail management, and parks and recreation programming. After obtaining a master’s degree in urban planning and policy from UIC, she worked as a planning consultant to numerous regional municipalities where her experience included zoning analysis, case preparation and public hearing oversight for Planning and Zoning Commissions, code amendment, data visualization and modeling, and work on Comprehensive Plan updates. Kate is dedicated to advancing new development, contemporary zoning practice, walkability and sustainability initiatives in Brookfield and has a passion for municipal planning work. In her free time she enjoys camping, live music, and baseball games in the summer with her family.

Join us for WP&D Networking on Thursday, May 30th from 12 to 1 pm with Alina Tompert, Project Manager at @farrassociates. With experience in Chicago, California, and Germany, and drawing from a diverse background in architecture, culinary expertise, and fine arts, Alina seeks to use design to create human-scaled, people-centric, community-oriented and accessible buildings and places. Whatever the craft, the purpose is always to bring people together and elevate the best practices that propel us collectively to a better future. Bring a lunch to Wrigley Square (201 E Randolph St) in Millennium Park in nice weather OR the Chicago Cultural Center in inclement weather to join our small networking event. Visit our bio to register!

Join us for happy hour at Lalo's On Maxwell Street at University Village Market Place in Little Italy! Enjoy authentic Mexican Cuisine, refreshing drinks, and great conversation on Tuesday, May 28th from 5:30-7:30pm. Visit our bio for the link to register. Hope to see you there!

Introducing another WP&D board member… Liz Kersjes, our Treasurer. Liz is an urban planner with a focus on affordable housing planning and policy. She works as a Policy and Research Specialist for the @ilhousing, the Housing Finance Agency for the state of Illinois. Liz has a background in commercial real estate and construction, and her passion is envisioning and realizing a built environment that serves everyone. Liz is a Midwesterner who grew up in Ohio and has deep roots in Michigan. She has a Master of Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago, a Master of Arts in Latin American and Caribbean Studies from Florida International University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Michigan State University (go green!). Swipe to check out photos and fun facts about Liz!

Happy Friday! We’re excited to share a Good Vibes post featuring our WPD Board member Kelsey Zlevor. With a background in creative writing, environmental science, and urban planning, Kelsey is a spatial strategist and social designer at the convergence of planning policy, climate justice, and social change. “It's been energizing talking about the realities of depression in ways that are generative and communal with new audiences. Over the last few months, I led a workshop at the Summit on Combating the Loneliness Epidemic in partnership with the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation, gave a talk on disability as design lens SXSW in Austin, and was a lightning speaker at the UIC Forum. SXSW was a career highlight: I got to share the stage with a friend and colleague, Alexa Vaughn, who is a scholar at the intersection of the Deaf experience and landscape architecture. I started this research project two years ago because I felt like no one was talking about how depression can alter the ways we understand our environment. The best part about presenting now is that, without fail, people approach me afterwards to share a story about how they or someone they love can benefit from the body of scholarship I've been building. And that's my ideal outcome: to normalize the idea that we can cocreate public spaces that accompany people through mental health experiences over the course of their lives."

It’s no secret that summer in Chicago is the busiest time of the year… so SAVE THE DATE! Join us at WP&D's Annual Membership Appreciation Picnic on Saturday, August 17th at Millennium Park! More details to come, stay tuned.

Introducing our next Meet the Board member: Anna Jentz! Anna is a Climate Equity Planner at Greenprint Partners, a sustainable planning and civil engineering firm. At Greenprint, she works on projects that help bring the benefits of holistic, nature-based solutions to frontline communities. She is passionate about partnering with communities to build a more sustainable and resilient future in the face of climate change impacts. Her work includes collaborating with steering committee members to prioritize green infrastructure projects in their neighborhoods, facilitating an advisory group of urban ag organizations, and supporting the development of equity-related workshop content. Prior to her role at Greenprint, she served as an AmeriCorps Service Member coordinating community garden work for the Ramsey County Department of Public Health. Anna holds a B.A. in Environmental Policy from Loyola University Chicago. Anna is the current Secretary of the WP&D Board for the 2023-2024 term! Swipe to check out photos and fun facts!

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Uptown at @marinasbistrochicago for April WP&Drinks! We had a lovely evening of conversation over Puerto Rican bites and cocktails. Hope to see you at our May WP&Drinks - stay tuned for info coming soon!

Last Friday, professionals from planning, construction, architecture, government, and development met to discuss family-friendly policies and planning careers with families in mind at the Professional Parent’s Forum. We are so grateful to @aia_illinois and @apaillinois for partnering with us to put on this event and would like to thank our sponsors @farrassociates, @civicprojectsarchitecture, and @alltogetherstudio. And of course, this event wouldn't have been possible without our incredible speakers’ insight, humor, knowledge, and willingness to share experiences. Thank you to all who joined us! Let's continue these conversations and create change. Join the Chicago Parent's Forum linked in our bio.

Let’s meet another WP&D Board member! Yun-ni Tsai is a Development Manager with Holsten Real Estate Development & Management Corporation. She came from a suburb with scarce resources that faced housing, education, and childcare issues, but was fortunate enough to surround herself in a small community with care and love for each other. Yunni has always wanted to build community and carry along all the kindness she has received. Yunni is Vice President of the WP&D Board for the 2023-2024 term. She would love to talk about how to build community together, so please don't hesitate to reach out and say hi! Swipe to check out photos and some fun facts about Yunni:

Our Annual Alumnae Event was a great success and we’re so grateful to @insidetheplant for the inspiring tour last night. We loved hearing about how “things that are trashed or viewed as trash can be revitalized and made into something meaningful,” and the impact that has on our communities and the environment. Food and refreshments from @therealhefferbbq and @whinerbeer were a great added touch. Many thanks to our amazing alumnae who joined us last night, and @insidetheplant and @bubblydynamics!

We’re so excited for next week’s Professional Parents Forum in collaboration with the @aiachicago and the @apaillinois! We have an amazing lineup of speakers from different sectors and backgrounds (swipe to see) who will share their perspectives on themes of Workplace & Corporate Policies, Strategizing Your Career, and Work/Life Balance. The Parents Forum will be on April 26th from 9am-12pm at AIA Chicago’s office (35 E Wacker Dr), we hope you can join us! Register through the link in our bio.

Our Board comprises a group of 12 women from across the greater Chicago region, all in various stages of their careers and from different avenues of planning and development. We’re excited to spotlight each of them in a multi-part series starting with our Board President, Lily Brack! Lily is a planner with the @cmapillinois (CMAP) focused on providing planning technical assistance to communities and building local government capacity. She leads several programs including the Technical Assistance Call for Projects and the Local Government Network, and she’s heavily involved in the agency’s DEI initiatives. Lily prioritizes equity, inclusivity, and innovation in every aspect of her work. After serving as Professional Development Co-chair during the 2022-2023 board term, Lily stepped into the role of President for the 2023-2024 term. Swipe to check out photos and some fun facts about Lily!

Our special Alumnae Event for previous board members is coming up fast! Join us next Thursday, April 18th from 5:30 to 8:00pm for a tour of @insidetheplant (a project of @bubblydynamics) and refreshments by @therealhefferbbq and @whinerbeer. The Plant is a unique research and production facility with a goal to create closed-loop models of waste and energy. It currently houses more than twenty small businesses and is generally closed to the public - except for special events like this one! Use the link in our bio to reserve your spot.

Join us for our April WP&Drinks at the beautiful @marinasbistrochicago in Uptown! Enjoy Puerto Rican bites and creative cocktails on Tuesday, April 23rd from 5:30-7:30pm. Visit our bio for the link to register. Hope to see you there!

Thank you to everyone who attended our March WP&Drinks at @theduplexchicago in Logan Square! It’s always great to connect with members of our community from across the Chicago region, and we’re looking forward to the April WP&Drinks for another evening of connection and camaraderie. Stay tuned for more details!

Do you or someone you know identify with the challenge of balancing career goals with parenting roles? WP&D, in collaboration with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Planning Association (APA), is excited to host the “Professional Parents Forum”, a networking and skills-building event for working parents. This event on April 26th from 9am-12pm at AIA Chicago’s office (35 E Wacker Dr) will provide a space to gather and share knowledge of the unique situations parents face juggling career and family expectations. Register through the link in our bio.

Hot off the press! With some great events in the past and exciting opportunities in the near future, we’re happy to share with you our spring newsletter for WP&D 2024! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about being a member or finding out ways to support WP&D. Visit our bio for the link to the newsletter.

Calling all WP&D Board Alumnae! We’re hosting a special event for our previous board members to reunite with old friends and create new memories on Thursday, April 18th from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. Please join us for a tour of @insidetheplant (a project of @bubblydynamics), a research and production facility with a collaborative community of small food businesses. @therealhefferbbq and @whinerbeer will be on site for refreshments! Visit our bio for the link to register. We hope to see you there!

Join us in Logan Square for our March WP&Drinks to enjoy some light bites, creative cocktails, and art deco vibes at @theduplexchicago! This month’s WP&Drinks will be on Wednesday, March 27th from 5:30-7:30pm. Visit our bio for the link to register. We hope to see you there!

We are partnering with @transportchicago, @wts_greaterchicago @yptchicago, and @apaillinois to hear from women in our field, gain inspiration on their most valuable advice/experiences, and learn more about how we can continue to make our workplaces the best they can be, for everyone. Whether you are a part of these organizations or not, if you are a woman that interacts in the transportation industry (e.g., planning, engineering, architecture, finance, etc.) please consider responding to one or all of the questions in the quick survey (link in our bio). All responses are anonymous and will be compiled, briefly summarized, and shared via social media at the end of Women's History Month later this month. #internationalwomensday

WP&D, in collaboration with the @aiachicago and @apaillinois, are excited to host the “Professional Parents Forum”, a networking and skills-building event for working parents. Many people can relate to being a working parent, and this event will provide a space to gather and share knowledge of the unique challenges parents face juggling career and family expectations. We seek speakers representing all walks of life and stages of parenthood, from new moms to parents of multiples to those whose kids are flying from the nest! If you are interested in submitting a proposal, please see the guidelines and submission form linked in our bio. Proposals are due on Tuesday, March 12th. Presentations will strive to achieve either an AIA or APA continuing education credit.

A core tenet of WP&D is to foster meaningful connections and exchange ideas, and this Sunday the WP&D Board gathered in the Mayfair neighborhood to strengthen connections, reflect on the year to date, and share ideas for the coming months. We were fortunate to have a beautiful day for team building and brainstorming outside, and we're excited to share exciting programs and events with the community this spring! Stay tuned for updates.

WP&D loves to share the good news of our many inspiring members with our community. Please contact info@wpdchicago.com if you’d like to contribute a short blurb and photo(s) about some good vibes you’ve had recently! These can be non-work related to lift up and celebrate positive experiences. Good Vibes from @rashanahbaldwin about running the Chicago Marathon: “I officially joined the 0.01% club - of the global population that can proudly say, I ran a marathon! 🌎💪 And not just any marathon, I tackled the Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2023 where Kelvin Kiptum, a Kenyan speedster (may he rest in peace), set a new world record at 2:00:35! My pace was definitely a bit more chill, but I conquered all 26.2 miles without falling apart! 🎉 Let me tell you, marathons are challenging. It's early mornings, evening track sessions, running in all kinds of weather, running in the rain, and investing in shoes and gear that make your wallet shed a tear. It's worrying about your safety while sometimes running alone or in unfamiliar neighborhoods; it's developing a tough mindset and challenging your body for 18 weeks being a #carbybarbie and #crabbypatty! I spent four months fully committed, waving goodbye to my social life, and embracing running 5-6 days a week. From carb-loading to foam rolling, it was all about getting comfortable with the uncomfortable, week in and week out. 🏃🏿‍♀️🌦️ And here's the heartwarming part - I didn't just run for myself. I ran for a cause, a fundraiser for Mercy Home for Boys & Girls with #MercyHomeHeroes. With so much happening in our city and around the country, I wanted to make a difference for those in need." 🏠❤️

Thanks to everyone who joined us for the fun gathering at the Mesler Kitchen at The Sophy Hotel in @dhpchicago! We sincerely thank our sponsor @seccchicago for tasty appetizers and refreshments. Stay tuned for the next WP&Drinks in March! If your organization or business wants to sponsor a future event, please reach out to us directly at info@wpdchicago.com.

If the early spring has energized your job hunt, be sure to check out our Job Board! It features employment opportunities curated by the WP&D network for various career stages in urban planning, development, and related fields. Interested in sharing a job opportunity? Please send employment and internship listings to info@wpdchicago.com in either PDF format or as a link to the organization's website.

We’re happy to share a Member Spotlight for Janet Li, LMSW, who served as the WP&D Board President from 2020 to 2021. Janet is the Senior Manager of Service Programs at Full Circle Communities, a nonprofit affordable and supportive housing developer in Chicago. She leads the Resident Services team in the provision of person-centered services across Full Circle’s rapidly expanding portfolio. To read her interview, click the link in our bio. Reach out with suggestions for future WP&D Spotlights!

To celebrate Black History Month, we look at the contributions of inspiring Black women leaders in Chicago and around the nation. Black History Month is not just a moment - it's a reminder to consistently acknowledge the work of past and present trailblazers while deliberately advocating for and building platforms on which new leaders can emerge.

We’re kicking it up a notch for this month’s WP&Drinks! Join us at the chic Sophy Hotel in @dhpchicago on Wednesday, February 28th from 5-7pm for some craft cocktails, tasty bites, and great conversation. Many thanks to the @seccchicago for hosting this event! We hope you can join us for a lovely evening of connection and conversation. Register through the link in our bio!

We appreciate the brave souls who trekked through the cold to attend our WP&Drinks in January! Join us at this month's gathering for some appetizers, refreshments, and great conversation. Stay tuned for more details.

We'd like mail! We have a new PO Box location at PO Box 1848, Chicago, IL 60690 (the Loop Clark Street Post Office). WP&D welcomes feedback from our members and the general public. If you'd like to get in touch, please email us at info@wpdchicago.com or send us a letter!

Our small networking lunch is transforming into Small Networking Coffee this month with a special guest - @nicolechavas , President and COO of #greenprintpartners ! Small Networking events are great opportunities to highlight the fantastic work of our members and connect with peers in planning and development. Join us Thursday, January 25th from 8:30-9:30am at Revival Cafe (in @revivalfoodchicago ) for coffee, treats, and good conversation! Register through link in bio.

Arctic blast got you down? We've got a remedy for that! Join us for our monthly WP&Drinks at @alulubrew in Pilsen on Tuesday, January 23rd from 5:30-7:30pm. Alulu has something for everyone, from draft cocktails and happy hour beer specials to non-alcoholic drinks and creative bites (did someone say zucchini frites?) Register through link in bio! No need to be a member, but you will need to create an account through our new website in order to sign up. Questions or concerns, please let us know at wpdchicago@gmail.com. We hope to see you there!

We all know it matters more what's inside than out, but there’s something exciting about starting the new year fresh! Women in Planning & Development is thrilled to share our new brand and website with all of you - check it out in our bio! Much appreciation for @localitystudio, the women-owned company based in St. Louis who designed our new brand and logo. And, stay tuned for monthly WP&Drinks, member spotlights, and more ways to get connected coming soon! Stay warm and inspiring, WP&D.

Thank you to everyone who came out to the WP&D Annual Holiday Party last week! We had an amazing time at the beautiful @tayloredchicago event space in the Heart of Chicago. Much gratitude for @taylorstacoschicago for providing a delicious taco bar and @happy_hour_mobile_bartending for the seasonal cocktails! We’d also like to thank everyone who donated items to our holiday drawing. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year, and stay tuned for an exciting update in early 2024!

See you at TAYLORED tonight for our 2023 Annual Holiday Party! Warm up with street-style tacos, sangria, and cocktails from local women and black-owned businesses Happy Hour Mobile Bartending Service and @taylorstacoschicago Festive attire encouraged! TAYLORED is accessible by the CTA and has off-street parking. Only a few tickers left! To register and learn more about the WP+D event, click the link in our bio.