By Elio Leturia—AS WE REFLECT on a vibrant year of cultural exchange and academic excellence, the Chicago Chapter of the Fulbright Association is proud to look back at the main events of 2025. From historic estates to jazz-filled halls, our community gathered to promote the lifelong connections and mutual understanding that define the Fulbright mission. Before we release our programming for 2026, when we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, here is a summary of the most important events from last year.
Jazz and Greek flavors for our winter event
ON FEBRUARY 20, 2025, the Chapter hosted its Winter event at the PianoForte performance hall in downtown Chicago. More than 60 alumni, scholars, and friends gathered to exchange stories in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. We were honored to welcome distinguished guests, including Vice Consul Jonathan Gamboa of Colombia and Ms. Lina Acolyte from the Lithuanian Consulate.
The evening featured a soulful performance by a student jazz trio from Roosevelt University, which provided a melodic backdrop to the lively networking. Between conversations, guests enjoyed a delicious spread of authentic Greek cuisine from a local Greektown favorite. This musical evening spearheaded by Board Member Mary Mares-Awe, successfully strengthened the ties between our local chapter and the international diplomatic community.
The 2025 Fulbright Chicago Extravaganza
ON THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2025, over 150 guests gathered at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs for the annual Extravaganza. Overlooking Millennium Park, this high-energy event celebrated intercultural learning and professional growth. A major highlight was the “Five-Minute Fulbright” session, where five scholars—including Sarah Kammerer and Daria Tsoupikova—delivered rapid-fire presentations on their global projects.
The evening transitioned into a vibrant networking reception where foreign service members and students connected over shared global interests. With an emphasis on storytelling and professional empowerment, the Extravaganza, wonderfully organized by Board Member Kate Vergara, served as a powerful reminder of the impact our members make worldwide, providing a dynamic platform for fellowship and future collaboration.
Honoring legacy: The Dee Sarelas Service Award
ON MAY 14, 2025, the Fulbright community gathered at the Alliance Française of Chicago for the Dee Sarelas Service Award & Springtime Celebration, now in its 10th edition.
Around 60 attendees honored Michael P. Seng for his 30-year commitment to legal exchanges between Chicago and the Czech Republic, and his contributions to internationalism. Dr. Seng did his Fulbrights in Nigeria and the Czeck Republic.
The evening also recognized the dedicated mentors of the Fulbright Chicago Mentoring Committee and the visiting scholars who enrich our city. Past Dee Sarelas Award winner and board member Dr. Ana Gil-García chaired the organizing event committee.
While enjoying delicious hors d’oeuvres and beverages, participants celebrated the spirit of selfless dedication that Dee Sarelas herself exemplified. This celebration of service and mentorship reinforced the Chapter’s commitment to recognizing those who promote internationalism in the Chicagoland community.
A walk-through history at Mayslake Hall in Oakbrook
TO KICK OFF THE FALL SEASON, the Chicago Chapter visited the historic Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook on September 14, 2025. Hosted by the Benjamin Marshall Society, approximately 50 participants explored the 1919 Tudor Revival-style mansion.
President Jane Lepauw greeted the group with specialized Fulbright-themed cakes, adding a sweet, personal touch to the afternoon.
After watching an informative documentary about famous architect Benjamin Marshall, guests enjoyed appetizers and toured the lush estate grounds. Mayslake Hall has been recently renovated and open to the public.
The sunny weather and shared exploration of local architectural history provided a relaxed environment for members to connect to nature and one another, furthering the Chapter’s goal of building lasting friendships in unique settings.
Warm welcomes at the Alliance Française
THE SPIRIT OF HOSPITALITY was on full display on November 8, 2025, for the Fall Welcome at the Alliance Française of Chicago. To celebrate newly arrived students and scholars, around 65 participants gathered in the cozy first-floor hall to share stories and advice.
Starting with our Fulbright Chicago President Adam Fuss, all board members introduced themselves, ensuring the newcomers felt integrated into their “second home.”
The evening featured a live jazz trio and a bountiful buffet, creating a festive environment for networking. By focusing on the newly arrived class of Fulbrighters, this event embodied the Midwest warmth and camaraderie essential for helping international scholars transition into the vibrant cultural and social landscape of Chicago.
Gratitude and celebration: Thanksgiving in Rogers Park
ON NOVEMBER 15, 2025, the Chicago Math and Science Academy in Rogers Park hosted a cheery Thanksgiving celebration. Organized by board member Meghan McAuliffe, this event highlighted the Fulbright Chicago Mentoring Program, a recent recipient of the national “2024 Fulbright Program of the Year” award.
Visiting scholars and alumni gathered to share a traditional meal and reflect on their experiences in the U.S. The afternoon was dedicated to fostering authentic relationships between mentors and mentees, facilitating a deeper understanding of American culture.
Through delectable food and heartfelt conversation, the Thanksgiving gathering served as the perfect conclusion to a year of building a supportive and inclusive Fulbright family. The Fulbright Mentoring Program created by Dr. Marilyn Susman, a long-term board member enters its fifth year supporting our international visitors.
Portions of this posting were assisted by AI
FULBRIGHT CHICAGO 