On behalf of the firm and the Mesirow DEI Council, we are pleased to share that we have deepened our partnership with Women Employed (WE) through support for WE’s Summer Leadership Program, alongside two family foundations. WE is a Chicago nonprofit that has worked to improve the economic status of and remove barriers for women since 1973.

Mesirow’s DEI Council leads the firm’s dynamic evolution of a workplace that prizes diverse thought and experience, and in 2023 provided general funding in support of WE’s mission. The increased focus of this year’s partnership goes hand-in-hand with the firm’s approach to corporate philanthropy and strategic charitable partnerships: marrying financial contributions and employee volunteerism. 

Support for WE’s Summer Leadership Program will help provide opportunity to women at community colleges or four-year institutions, and will allow members of Mesirow’s WomenConnect employee resource group to engage through mentorship and assistance.

The Pattis Family Summer Leadership Program provides a unique opportunity for professional skill building and practical experience by providing a team of interns access to leadership training and front-line research, and by introducing current college students to all areas of nonprofit work through workshops, guest speakers and projects. 

Natalie Brown, CEO
Richard S. Price, Executive Chairman  
Crystal General, Leo Harmon, and Servia Rindfleish, Co-chairs, Mesirow DEI Council