Category: Uncategorized

President and CEO, The Magnificent Mile® Association (Chicago, IL)

Kimberly Bares is the President and CEO of The Magnificent Mile Association, a private, non-profit membership organization with a mission of preserving, promoting and enhancing one of Chicago’s most unique, multi-use neighborhoods. In addition to domestic and international marketing and hosting placemaking activities year-round, the Association also serves its 700 members with district planning, beautification, advocacy efforts and networking opportunities. In her 25-year career, Kimberly has built a reputation as an expert in economic development, commercial district planning, strategic planning, organizational development, and fundraising.

Executive Director, Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation and Owner, The Owl Wine Bar & HomeGoods Store and G&M DRYGOODS

Molly Alexander is the Executive Director of the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation a new 501(c)(3) organization of the Downtown Austin Alliance focused on public space activation and transformation. For 30 years Molly’s enjoyed a successful career focused on downtown revitalization and economic development, including enterprises in both the public and private sectors. In 2012 Molly and her partner Gary opened their first retail store The Owl Wine Bar & HomeGoods Store in historic downtown Elgin, TX. Their success led them to opening a second store called G&M DRYGOODS a gift store and candy bar in 2015. The Owl was named best business in Texas in 2014 by the Texas Downtown Association (in cities with a population under 50,000) and the stores have been featured in Texas Highways Magazine, the Ft. Worth Star Telegram, the Houston Chronicle and more for their unique offerings and creative retail experiences.