Women’s Leadership Event

Join Illinois Green Alliance for the return of our annual Women in Green Building Leadership Luncheon, where we celebrate and engage with the influential women at the forefront of sustainable design and construction. 

 

This year’s theme is “Growing Your Impact,” and we will explore how green building professionals can elevate their voices and activate their networks to advance sustainability to the next level. Don't miss the chance to learn how we in the green building industry can leverage our unique perspectives to build a healthier and more sustainable future for all. 

March 20 | 11:00 AM | Maggiano's Little Italy

Register

Lunch Menu Options & Dietary Information: 

First Course:

  • Truffle Honey & Whipped Ricotta (V, VEG, GF)
  • Zucchini Fritté (V)
  • Maggiano's Salad (V, VEG, GF)

Second Course:

  • Rigatoni Ragu (V, VEG)
  • Salmon, Lemon & Herb (PS, GF)
  • Eggplant Parmesan (V)

Sides:

  • Roasted Garlic Broccoli (V, VEG, GF)
  • Fresh Grilled Asparagus (V, VEG, GF) 
  • Desserts:Tiramisu (V, VEG)
  • Chocolate Mousse (GF)


Agenda

  • 11:00 AM | Doors Open
  • 11:30 AM | Welcome & Table Discussions
  • 11:50 AM | Lunch is Served
  • 12:05 PM | Panel Begins
  • 1:15 PM | Networking Session
  • 1:45 PM  | Event Ends

The unique professional experiences shared at this event will guide and inspire our community as we navigate a rapidly changing sustainability landscape. Despite the challenges, there is no one better equipped to advocate for sustainable policy action than building industry professionals themselves—who are driving innovation and raising the bar on the next generation of green building practices. 

 

This event will be in person at Maggiano’s Little Italy in River North and will feature a three-course vegetarian lunch. Our speakers represent a range of industry and professional experience levels to allow space for women across the sustainability landscape to relate to their stories. Following the panel discussion there will be opportunities to join the conversation and share your own narrative through facilitated table discussions. 

Our 2025 Speakers

Marnese Jackson 

Executive Director 

Midwest Building Decarbonization Coalition 

Bio

Nancy Kohout 

Senior Principal | Mechanical Discipline Leader 

SmithGroup 

Bio

Patty Lloyd 

Director, Sustainability 

Leopardo Construction 

Bio

Jill Maltby-Abbott

Architect and Project Manager 

Moderator 

Bio

Madeline Semanisin 

Illinois Policy Director, Climate & Energy 

Natural Resources Defense Council 

Bio

Want to support this year's event?

Earn recognition at this signature event and uplift women’s voices in our industry. Start the conversation about sponsorship today!

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