Hope Ignites Chicago marked its 46th Annual Evening of Hope Gala at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, bringing together supporters, alumni and community leaders to celebrate the Wilmette-based organization’s mission of helping motivated students from under-resourced communities achieve success through education. Throughout the evening, guests heard firsthand from Senior Scholars Alex and Kye, who reflected on how Hope Ignites Chicago’s residential scholarship program has shaped their academic journeys and future aspirations. The annual fundraiser highlighted the organization’s holistic approach to supporting students from middle and high school through college and into their careers with mentorship, academic guidance and leadership development.
Santonio Cathery, Christy Dizonno and Malcolm Weaver
Photo by Terri Nevins Photography
Monica Robertson delivered remarks during the evening’s program.
Photo by Terri Nevins Photography
Jennifer Chang, De’Airius Salibi, James Wendt, Ashley Trunk-Wendt, Chelsea Howe and James Freeman
Photo by Terri Nevins Photography
Mike Leahy addressed attendees.
Photo by Terri Nevins Photography
Karen Croteau and Jim Wilson with Andy and Jordan Shackelford
Photo by Terri Nevins Photography