The energy at ACI’s 2026 Breakfast Forum was unmistakable. Under this year’s theme, Partners in Progress: Connecting Institutions and Industry for Impact, leaders from across sectors came together for a morning of thoughtful dialogue, shared learning, and action-oriented collaboration.
Keynote speaker Michael Fassnacht, Chief Growth Officer and President of Chicagoland for Clayco, set the tone with a powerful message: investing in talent is fundamental to building strong cities. His address, “Build Talent. Build Cities. A Guide to Our Joint Future,” called for deeper, more intentional partnerships that align education, workforce development, and regional growth.
That call was reinforced during a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Toby Eveland of Manley Burke LPA. Panelists Amy Cisneros (Braven), Eva Giglio (CME Group Foundation), and Erin Cohan (Northwestern Medicine) shared perspectives from higher education, philanthropy, and industry, highlighting how sustained collaboration, trust, and shared goals create meaningful career pathways for students and strong talent pipelines for employers.
Conversations continued at tables throughout the room, where attendees discussed what’s working, what needs to change, and how to move forward. Key takeaways included the importance of engaging employers earlier in the student journey, leveraging alumni networks, and maintaining consistent dialogue beyond formal events.
The Forum’s impact extended beyond conversation. The event raised $51,000 in net proceeds, including nearly $10,000 in additional donations, to support scholarships and professional development opportunities for students across ACI member institutions.
As the morning concluded, it was clear that the Forum’s value extends well beyond one event. Through continued partnership and collaboration, ACI is helping turn shared ideas into lasting impact: strengthening communities, shaping futures, and, as Fassnacht so powerfully framed it, helping build the cities we all share.
Panel Takeaways for Next-Step Planning here.
Roundtable Conversations Summary here.
Event Photos by Amy Nelson Photography here.
The Forum was made possible through generous support from our sponsors and partners, whose contributions are instrumental in advancing ACI’s mission.
