For Immediate Release Contact: Jessica Besser-Rosenberg [email protected] 773-746-4082

CHICAGO’S CORPORATE LEADERS HELP IEF SCHOLARS TO “SUIT UP FOR SUCCESS!”

Chris Gardner to Give Keynote Address Inspiration for “,” Owner and CEO of Brokerage Firm Gardner Rich LLC

(January 5, 2010-, IL) The Education Foundation (IEF) announces Suited for Success, a ground- breaking event designed to provide high-quality, interview-worthy clothes and shoes to low-income, highly motivated community college students who will soon be entering the professional world. With the generous support of Allen Edmonds, The 900 Shops at 900 North Michigan , Morgan Stanley, Davis Imperial Cleaners, juliewatsonstyle, and Brooks Brothers, 41 IEF Scholars, ages 18-52, will be fitted with attire appropriate to their future success. Chris Gardner, the owner and CEO of brokerage firm Gardner Rich LLC, bestselling author of the autobiography, The Pursuit of Happyness, and inspiration for the movie of the same name starring , will congratulate the IEF Scholars on their achievements and encourage them to continue pursuing their goals.

“I am honored that the IEF has asked me to be a part of this special event,” said Chris Gardner, owner and CEO of brokerage firm Gardner Rich LLC and New York Times #1 bestselling author. “I am very impressed by the dedication of the IEF Scholars to further their education and build a better life for themselves and their families. I commend the IEF not only for the financial assistance they give, but for the web of personal support they weave. They understand how life’s unforeseen bumps can alter your path, and they address the needs of the full individual, making it possible for these diligent students to achieve their dreams.”

“With two retail stores in downtown Chicago, Allen Edmonds is proud to support the Illinois Education Foundation for this unique and exciting event,” said Colin Hall, Chief Marketing Officer of Allen Edmonds. “We take great pride in involving ourselves in projects that make a meaningful difference in the career development of students.” Allen Edmonds, a high-end men’s shoe retailer, is donating a new pair of shoes to each of the IEF’s 16 male scholars, a retail equivalent of about $5,200.

The 900 Shops at 900 North Michigan is delighted to contribute to Suited for Success. “We are excited to be a part of this effort and hope our contribution helps to give recent graduates the confidence and poise needed to be successful in the workplace," said Julia Burnham, Vice President of JMB Realty, on behalf of The 900 Shops.

James Moriarity, Executive Director of Morgan Stanley, Chicago and Co-Chair of the event, added, "Morgan Stanley applauds the IEF Scholars who have overcome odds to attain their degrees and advance professionally. We are thrilled to be associated with the IEF and Suited for Success, and it is our pleasure to assist these fine men and women.” Morgan-Stanley has provided a $3,000 grant in support of the program.

Brooks Brothers congratulates the IEF Scholars for their dedication and accomplishments,” said Lou Amendola, Chief Merchandising Officer of Brooks Brothers. “We wish the students great success on their career paths and we are honored to participate in Suited for Success.”

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In addition to the support of Allen Edmonds, Morgan Stanley, and the gently used suits donated by a network of generous IEF supporters, the scholars will also enjoy contributions from the following local organizations:

• The 900 Shops at 900 North Michigan, which houses 70 lifestyle luxury shops, has donated $4,100 in gift cards. • Brooks Brothers is contributing a new dress shirt to each of the scholars. • Davis Imperial Cleaners, Chicago’s pre-eminent couture dry-cleaner, is providing free dry-cleaning of all the clothes collected in advance of the January 15th event. • Wardrobe consultant Julie Watson, of juliewatsonstyle will be on hand at the event to offer a seminar on the “do’s and don’ts” of professional dress, and will style IEF Scholars to look their best.

“We are delighted that our sponsors have dedicated this level of time and resources to our scholars. Their support will be truly valuable in ensuring the professional success of each IEF Scholar,” said IEF Executive Director, Robin Redmond. “Furthermore,” she added, “we are thrilled that our keynote speaker will be Chris Gardner, the noted entrepreneur and philanthropist, who is one of Chicago’s own but beloved all over the world for his inspiring personal story of overcoming extraordinary difficulties. He is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance, and the IEF applauds how he consistently gives back to his community, paving the way for others to achieve success.”

Suited for Success will be hosted by the Standard Club, 320 South Plymouth Court, Saturday, January 15, 10:15 a.m. – 1:00 pm.

About the Illinois Education Foundation The IEF is a world of help for low-income, highly motivated, community college students. From tutors and mentors, to life-skills training and financial aid, the IEF provides absolutely everything to help our students succeed. If you would like to support or learn more about the IEF, please contact:

Illinois Education Foundation 226 W. Jackson Blvd Chicago, IL 60606 (312)920-9605 or Fax (312)920-9607 Email: [email protected] www.iledfoundation.org ###