Laura Ricketts, a distinguished businesswoman and LGBTQ+ activist from Chicago, has made her mark as a Chicago Cubs co-owner since 2009 while passionately steering societal change through activism and philanthropy.

Laura Ricketts: Blending Business Acumen with Philanthropic Passion

Imagine wielding the power of enterprise and using it to steer societal change—sounds compelling, right? That's precisely what Laura Ricketts has been doing. An accomplished businesswoman and LGBTQ+ activist, Laura has risen to significance as part of the Chicago-based Ricketts family. They are best known for owning the Chicago Cubs, as well as their involvement in finance and real estate. Born in the ever-buzzing Chicago, Laura herself has evolved into an inspiring figure since she became co-owner of the Cubs back in 2009, but her influence reaches far beyond the confines of baseball.

The Makings of a Change-Maker

Laura Ricketts was born into a family that epitomizes entrepreneurial spirit. The daughter of TD Ameritrade founder Joe Ricketts, she grew up surrounded by business discussions and innovative thinking. Her undergraduate degree is in philosophy from the University of Chicago, a foundation that no doubt shaped her analytical approach, blending complex ethical considerations with real-world applications.

But what really elevates Laura is her commitment to social equity and justice. She's more than just a business owner; she's a fervent LGBTQ+ advocate and has been breaking down barriers for years, such as when she courageously came out publicly—a significant move considering her high-profile status.

A Landmark in LGBTQ+ Advocacy

Co-chairing the Democratic National Committee’s LGBT Leadership Council is just one of Laura's many accomplishments. She also sits on the board of Lambda Legal, a non-profit organization committed to the civil rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Her activism doesn't just exist in titles or bylaws but is underpinned by concerted efforts to support LGBTQ+ equality and empower marginalized groups. She’s leveraged her family's name and legacy for good, advocating for policies that range from fighting workplace discrimination to promoting inclusive healthcare.

Activism through Sports

Laura's connection to the Chicago Cubs goes beyond ownership. It reflects a mixture of tradition, unity, and groundbreaking change. In 2016, the Cubs made history by winning the World Series for the first time since 1908. That was a defining moment for both the team and its owners, including Laura, who managed to bring LGBTQ+ inclusivity to the sports world—an industry often criticized for its lagging diversity policies.

Under her leadership, the Cubs have been vocal advocates for fostering diversity within their organization and throughout Major League Baseball. Her visible presence as an openly lesbian team owner offers an empowering message to young athletes and fans who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Philanthropic Ventures

Laura's philanthropy extends beyond LGBTQ+ causes. She is a founding member of the Obama Foundation's Inclusion Council, which tackles issues of diversity and equity on a broader scale. Furthermore, she works tirelessly on initiatives that advocate for education and economic empowerment.

Much of her charitable work operates through the lens of "impact investing," where she seeks not only to contribute financially but also to ensure that her contributions generate beneficial societal returns. Her holistic approach to philanthropy sets an example for how influential figures can leverage their resources for transformative change.

An Optimistic Future

The future seems vibrant under the guiding lights of leaders like Laura Ricketts. In a world often clouded by division and uncertainty, her proactive steps towards inclusivity and justice stand as a testament to what business can achieve when infused with humanity and compassion. As the life journey of an individual like Laura unfolds, we are encouraged, if not inspired, to reimagine our potential to ignite change.

In Laura Ricketts, we find an embodiment of optimism and dedication, someone who skillfully blends her role as a business leader with the causes she passionately upholds. Through her endeavors, we are reminded that the realms of business and social justice are not mutually exclusive but are powerful when intertwined—a notion that may very well be the key to crafting a more equitable world.