Annual Arts Entrepreneurship Awards Luncheon
Wednesday, September 27th, 2006
11:30 a.m. at the River East Art Center
435 East Illinois Street
Chicago, Illinois

For reservations or more information,
contact Nissan Wasfie
at nwasfie@colum.edu or 312.244.7658
Seating is limited. RSVP no later than September 15, 2006.

Keynote Speakers
Mikki Markowicz, Executive Director, River East Art Center.
In less than four years, Mikki Markowicz has overseen the transformation of the under-utilized warehouse, formerly called North Pier Terminal Building, into the vibrant River East Arts Center. Her entrepreneurial spirit and appreciation of the arts has grounded her vision: the development of a single site with a constellation of galleries, artists' studios and public spaces for special events. Prior to this venture, Ms. Markowicz enjoyed a career in real estate sales and development with Coldwell Banker and as vice president of business development at Allinea Systems.

Daniel E. McLean, President and Chief Executive Officer, MCL Companies.
Daniel E. McLean is widely recognized for developing highly-desirable, sophisticated properties on less-than-promising sites. In addition to providing architecturally appealing residences - in Chicago, New York, Denver and Las Vegas - his projects include easy access to retail districts, convenience stores, restaurants, nightlife destinations and entertainment - amenities that make urban living attractive. The River East Art Center represents Mr. McLean's determination to provide River East residents and the city at large with a unique destination centered on the vitality and excitement generated by artists and their art.

2005-2006 Award Winners

Dance Chicago
John Schmitz, Co-founder

The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
Laryssa Reifel, Vice-Chairman - Board of Directors

Maywood Fine Arts Association
Louisa Baumann, Artistic Director;
President - Board of Directors

Kohl Children's Museum
Sheridan Turner, President and CEO

Maria Pinto Designs, Inc.
Maria Pinto, Founder; Fashion Designer

The Coleman Foundation
Michael W. Hennessy,
President and CEO