CHICAGO — The Chicago Network and Investor Cash Management recently hosted an event in Chicago focusing on the collaboration of women leaders in government, finance and technology. The event, held at The Chicago Club, recognized both Delaware Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long and Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton for their support of female leaders in these fields.

The Chicago Network is an organization of Chicagoland’s most prominent and influential female leaders whose purpose is to empower women to lead. Investor Cash Management is a financial technology company transforming individuals into investors with a simple, inclusive approach to finance, with headquarters in Wilmington and offices in Chicago, Illinois. The groups met to discuss best practices and ideas to advance more women into leadership roles to benefit the economy in their states.

“Supporting future female leaders will empower our economy and our state,” said Lt. Gov. Hall-Long. “Thanks to groups like The Chicago Network and ICM, women have made great strides in breaking barriers, tearing down walls and closing the gap. But there’s more we can do, and I am grateful to have joined Lt. Gov. Stratton to discuss how we can best support female leaders now and in the future.”

“I often say the wisdom is in the room. We tap into that wisdom to push forward and find solutions. Groups like The Chicago Network and ICM understand the importance of bringing women together in spaces where they can be their authentic selves while networking and sharing ideas,” said Lt. Gov. Stratton. “Together we grow, we rise and work to ensure that there is support for women at all levels in various industries. I am committed to that work, and it is inspiring to join other women leaders as we work to open doors and expand opportunities.”

Investor Cash Management leaders expressed their appreciation for the lieutenant governors’ work.

“We are grateful to the amazing women who joined us today to find better ways to empower and collaborate with each other,” said Carolina Esswein, CAO and co-founder of ICM. “Inclusion and diversity are priorities for ICM. We believe all individuals deserve both supportive work environments and the tools to build better financial futures.”

“Be the catalyst for change and a force for good. The Chicago Network members do just that as they live into our mission of advancing civic, business and philanthropic communities and inspire and support the next generation,” said Maria Doughty, president and CEO of The Chicago Network. “We are at an inflection point that presents an opportunity to work together to increase the number of women on corporate boards and in the C-Suite. We know that when women are at the table, productivity and profitability will follow.”

Lt. Gov. Stratton was also honored as incoming chair of the National Lieutenant Governors Association. Lt. Gov. Hall-Long is a past National Lieutenant Governors Association chair.