The Chicago Network, an organization that brings together women leaders in the city, has introduced a new cohort named The Rung. This group consists of 40 women and aims to support high-performing female professionals in the early stages of their careers. According to Maria Doughty, CEO of The Chicago Network, the program is designed to help these women connect and uplift each other.
The Chicago Network began in 1979 when nine influential women executives founded it as a support system for female leaders across various sectors. Over time, the network has grown significantly. Today, it includes more than 550 members, featuring a diverse array of professionals, from astrophysicists to CEOs, artists, surgeons, and university presidents.
Many members expressed a desire for such a networking platform earlier in their careers. Suzet McKinney, chair of the committee for The Rung, noted, “The journey to the top can be isolating.” She believes The Rung will address this gap by providing vital support and guidance.
McKinney, a longstanding member and CEO of the Chicago Loop Alliance, first encountered The Chicago Network at a Launchpad event in 2012. Impressed by the supportive environment, she joined to contribute to the community.
The Rung serves as a crucial step on the path to leadership for women. Doughty stresses that the underrepresentation of women in CEO roles, despite women making up more than half the population, is concerning. One challenge is that women often hesitate to apply for roles unless they meet nearly all the job criteria. The Rung seeks to change this by empowering women earlier in their careers.
Areas like economic growth and investment in Chicago show positive momentum, yet many high-achieving women lack roles in profit-driven business sectors. Doughty emphasizes the importance of companies actively sponsoring women in leadership roles, beyond mere mentorship.
Applications for The Rung opened on October 22 and will close on December 1. The initiative aims to be affordable; thus, the membership fee is $975 annually. The 40 selected participants will be revealed in early January. Doughty envisions Chicago becoming a leader in building women’s leadership at all stages.