Dorri McWhorter Takes the Helm as Chicago Executives' Club President & CEO

A New Era for Leadership in Chicago

The Executives' Club of Chicago has made a significant announcement with the appointment of Dorri McWhorter as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 2, 2025. This decision marks an exciting chapter in the Club's journey as it aims to innovate and expand its influence in the business community. Bringing over two decades of experience in both corporate and nonprofit sectors, Dorri McWhorter is no stranger to impactful leadership. Her reputation as a transformative leader is backed by her successful tenure as President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. During her time there, she spearheaded a remarkable transformation, which included a nearly 50% increase in revenue and the establishment of vital partnerships with well-known brands like Wilson Sporting Goods and Peloton.

Christine Schyvinck, the Board Chair of the Executives’ Club, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Dorri is a visionary business leader with boundless creativity and an ability to operationalize ideas to deliver impactful results.” Schyvinck's words highlight the fresh energy and innovative thinking McWhorter is expected to bring to the Club, aligning perfectly with its goal to challenge and inspire leaders at all levels.

McWhorter’s Vision for the Future

In her new role, McWhorter aims to leverage the Executives’ Club as a crucial platform for addressing modern business complexities and encourage collaboration among seasoned and emerging professionals. She recognizes Chicago's potential to foster ideas and innovations that can effect global change, saying, “Chicago's broad shoulders can lift up the ideas and innovation that change the world.” This perspective underscores her commitment to inclusivity and forward-thinking programming, ensuring that the Club plays a pivotal role in empowering local business leaders.

With an impressive background that includes leading the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, where she evolved the organization into a progressive social enterprise, McWhorter has a proven track record of scaling operations, increasing budgets, and launching groundbreaking initiatives. Notably, she championed the introduction of the women’s empowerment exchange-traded fund (NYSE WOMN), reflecting her dedication to social impact and financial growth.

Engaging Chicago’s Business Community

The Executives' Club of Chicago, a dynamic hub for leaders across various industries for over a century, serves as an essential resource for connection, development, and growth. Under McWhorter's leadership, the Club is poised for continued innovation with its engaged membership and strong financial reserves. The organization will further explore diversifying its approach to enrich content and integrate cultural relevance, ensuring it serves the ever-evolving needs of Chicago’s diverse business landscape.

Dorri McWhorter also embodies a collaborative spirit and understands the significance of working with various stakeholders. She currently holds board positions at numerous prominent companies and nonprofits, such as LanzaTech Global and NexPoint Capital. Her extensive experience equips her with unique perspectives that will benefit the Executives' Club as it navigates future challenges and opportunities.

With a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, along with an honorary doctorate from Lake Forest College, McWhorter showcases a strong academic foundation that complements her professional experiences.

As she takes her place at the forefront of the Executives' Club of Chicago, the community can look forward to a revitalized commitment to innovation, collaboration, and leadership development. This transition not only promises to enhance the Club's legacy but also aims to make a marked impact on the broader business ecosystem of Chicago, making it a better place for all.

In closing, Dorri McWhorter's leadership marks a pivotal moment for the Executives' Club. As she drives forward its mission of connection, development, and best practices, Chicago's business leaders are set to benefit from her vision and expertise established over her distinguished career.