Andrea McNeil, MPA

01/31/2025

Flashback Friday to the Tarble Arts exhibit—what an experience! Every exhibit was incredible, but the Dolls collection stood out in a way that resonated deeply. The craftsmanship and storytelling behind each figure brought history to life, honoring the resilience, brilliance, and cultural impact of these historical figures.

Some of my favorites from the collection included:
• Elizabeth Keckley – A former enslaved woman who became a successful dressmaker and close confidante of Mary Todd Lincoln. Her skill and business acumen made her a pivotal figure in both fashion and history.
• Ashanti Queen Mother – Representing the strength and leadership of West African matriarchs, this doll embodied the power and wisdom of those who defended their people and preserved cultural heritage.
• Dr. George Washington Carver – His legacy of agricultural innovation and dedication to education was beautifully captured. Seeing his likeness in the collection was a reminder of his lifelong commitment to sustainability and empowerment.
• Harriet Tubman – No collection honoring history would be complete without her. The doll’s presence evoked her relentless courage in leading enslaved individuals to freedom and serving as a spy during the Civil War.
• Dr. Daniel Hale Williams – A pioneer in medicine, his doll paid tribute to his groundbreaking work as one of the first to perform open-heart surgery and his advocacy for Black medical professionals.
• Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois – The scholar, activist, and co-founder of the NAACP, his representation in the exhibit was a powerful nod to his tireless fight for racial equality and intellectual excellence.

Each figure in the Dolls collection told a story of perseverance, ingenuity, and leadership. It was more than an exhibit—it was a moment of reflection and appreciation for those who shaped history.

Congratulations to Gisela Alvarez, Mya Harbison, and Nick Shaw on a truly wonderful special event! Your hard work, creativity, and dedication made it an unforgettable experience. Well done!

Happy (almost) Black History Month!

08/14/2024

It was an incredible honor to share my journey as part of the first cohort of the Ageless Innovators program at the Chicago Innovation In-Gala recently! My heartfelt thanks to the Chicago Innovation Foundation for creating such a powerful platform for intergenerational connection and growth.

But, the highlight of the In-Gala evening was meeting the true Queen 👑 of Ageless Innovation, Mildred (Millie) Williams—mother of Christie and David Hefner—who was in the audience to see her daughter receive the 2024 Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame Inductee award for her outstanding contributions as a business and civic leader.

At 98 years young, Mildred is an absolute firecracker 🧨. When I asked her the secret to her success, she simply said, “I never minced my words.” She encouraged me to do the same—and that’s a lesson I’ll carry with me forever. If that’s not impact realized, I’m not sure what is. 💡



📷: David Hefner (left)
📷: Chicago Innovation (right)

08/08/2024

With NBC Olympics & Paralympics –Thank you, NBC Olympics & Paralympics, for making my day! I'm thrilled to be recognized as one of your top fans! 🎉

s! 🎉

02/18/2023

I have reached 100 followers! Thank you for your continued support. I could not have done it without each of you. 🙏🤗🎉

12/12/2022

Chicago Innovation's "A Night for the Ages" at the Center on Halsted, in partnership with the Village, presented its inaugural Turn the Page on Age awards and hosted a multi-generational panel discussion on the power of age in fueling innovation. What an insightful and fun event!
Chicago Innovation

08/11/2022

I'd like to believe I don't have a concept of aging, and age is not a predictor of our future or productivity level. 👼🏾🏃🏾‍♀️💃🏾👩🏾‍🦯👵🏾

I'd 💕 even more if our society also believed the same!

I am honored to be a part of Chicago Innovation's community. And I find myself renewed each time we get together. 🤗
Chicago Innovation

02/03/2022

🤔

Neighbors in the Timbers Pointe subdivision said they will meet with village officials to discuss possible solutions.

01/18/2022

Happy birthday to a man with a BIG dream. May we all commit to doing our part, everyday.