The Hyatt Regency Chicago provided the setting for the evening.
Violinist Miri Ben-Ari
Howard Tullman, Leon Panetta and Judy Tullman
John Rowe and Fritzie Fritzshall
Rebekah Shalit, Erin Estell, Julie Lakonishok and Jessica Lindholm
Rebekah Shalit, Erin Estell, Julie Lakonishok and Jessica Lindholm
Michelle Tang, Michael Gray and Dan Drexler
THE PARTY The museum’s dedication to overcoming prejudice, and preserving the legacy of Holocaust survivors and victims, was made immediately apparent thanks to a moving performance and tribute by Grammy Award-winning violinist Miri Ben-Ari—appropriately setting the stage for the evening to come. THE PEOPLE Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta engaged in a lively conversation with philanthropist J.B. Pritzker in the keynote address. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Sen. Dick Durbin also offered remarks, which were followed by museum CEO Susan Abrams’ reveal of the new cutting-edge three-gallery Take a Stand Center. THE PINNACLE The dinner raised a record $3 million, which will help the organization continue to educate and empower the public to take a stand in the face of tragedy. “Illinois Holocaust Museum plays a vital role in reinforcing universal lessons combating hatred, prejudice and indifference,” says David Golder, museum board of directors chair. “It is our moral imperative to work together to preserve survivor stories and teach future generations to take a stand for humanity.” –Photos by Ron Gould Studios
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