Farewell to our Executive Director

We have bittersweet news to share: Our current Executive Director, Martin Sorge will be departing shortly to take a new role with the City of Chicago and continue his work facilitating economic development in our great city. We are grateful for the years of service Martin has given to Uptown United and the Uptown Chamber of Commerce, and we wish him well in this next phase of his career.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve Uptown’s incredible community of businesses, organizations, and residents.” Martin says. “I am incredibly proud of the work that our team has accomplished: building uniquely engaging programs like the Uptown Art Week and Argyle Night Market, launching the new visual brand for our community, establishing the Uptown Business Center, leading neighborhood planning efforts, and supporting our local businesses—especially during the pandemic. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with our amazing staff, board members, and volunteers.”

“Martin brought a burst of energy, new ideas and a consistency to the way we ran the organization,” states Jackie Loewe, Uptown United Board Chair. “His enthusiasm was infectious as he helped to recruit new board members and talented staff to Uptown. We’re thrilled Martin isn’t going too far away and the City is lucky to have Martin’s business perspective and strong work ethic.”

Uptown United and Uptown Chamber staff continue in each of their capacities to assist and serve. If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please reach out to someone on our team.

Martin’s last day with the organizations will be August 20^th. His departure marks the first change in full-time staff at the organizations in the past five years. The Uptown United board of directors is leading a search for his successor.

Many thanks,

Jackie Loewe, Board Chair – Uptown United

Stephanie Foerster, Board Chair – Uptown Chamber of Commerce

Terry Tuohy, Commission Chair – Uptown Special Service Area

From Martin: If you’d like to keep in touch, please connect with me on LinkedIn or stop by the office before August 20^th.