On a Friday afternoon in late August, the communications co-chairs, Katie Bardine and Morgan Benson connected with four CWIP Board members who concluded their terms this Summer. This conversation brought heartfelt insights, stories, lessons, and advice for current CWIP members and Board members! We are so grateful for everyone’s time and hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did! 

In our special roundtable conversation with Lindsey Moorman, Jacki Davidoff, Rachel Baird, and Clare Butterfield, we celebrate the dedication and experiences of the outgoing board members of Chicago Women in Philanthropy (CWIP). 

The conversation kicked off by asking them to reflect on what drew everyone to serving on the CWIP Board. Jacki began by stating, "I was very impressed with the leaders... These were people who took their principles seriously in terms of contributing to communities and organizations. I wanted to be among them." This underlying theme was prevalent as others chimed in and shared how valuable joining the Board was, and how it came to many of them at a pivotal time in their life. Lindsey noted the community she found within CWIP, and within the Board specifically. She noted, "There are so many incredible women in CWIP, and I've had the privilege of watching members throughout the organization, myself included, grow as leaders, philanthropists and advocates thanks to the sense of community and shared learning that CWIP fosters.” 

As board members reflected on their journeys on the Board and within CWIP, many noted the importance of support from colleagues and mentors. Rachel shared how her supervisor encouraged her to get involved, and how she dove into joining the Board.  "Once I saw that they were recruiting for Board members, I thought, why not? I have the support of my current employer, it can only be beneficial to network and work with like-minded people." It was clear throughout the conversation that the support of the CWIP Board, and the ability to grow within a network of women working in the philanthropic space provided immense value for everyone. During everyone’s time on the Board, Clare and Lindsey both indicated how important it was that CWIP fostered an inclusive space, for everyone to have open and honest dialogue about a variety of topics - while encouraging continuous learning for all. 

The Board members reminisced about significant moments during their tenure, particularly the establishment of the Racial Equity and Social Justice Committee by former member Maricar Ramos, following the results of the 2016 Presidential election. Jacki reflected on her involvement, sharing:, "CWIP has always been a place where multiple perspectives are encouraged and not just tolerated - that's us at our ideal state." Lindsey added to this, noting the importance of CWIP’s responsiveness to its members' needs, “I feel really proud of the ways we've challenged ourselves to evolve, not only to use CWIP's platform for good, but also to reflect what our members were looking for from the organization and the voice they wanted us to have."

When we asked them to share what they hope and see for the future of CWIP, Clare answered and said “CWIP is designing a new way of women being together professionally.” All of them underscored the importance of the CWIP community, and the continued investment and support for coming together. As these remarkable women conclude their time on the board, they leave behind a legacy of empathy, leadership, and community engagement. Their stories inspire us to continue fostering relationships that empower and uplift all voices in our sector.

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Jacki Davidoff

Principal, Executive Leadership Coach and Facilitator, Davidoff Strategy 

CWIP Member, Former Board of Director Member & Co-Chair, Co-Chair Racial Equity and Social Justice Committee and Programs and Capacity Building Committee

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Lindsey Moorman

Senior Director, Foundation Relations at Feeding America

CWIP Member, Former Board of Director Member & Co-Chair, Co-Chair Fundraising Committee 

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Clare Butterfield 

Consultant, Butterfield Advisors

CWIP Member, Former Board of Director Member & Co-Chair

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Rachel Baird 

Program Officer at Episcopal Health Foundation 

Former Board of Director Member

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