Polk Bros. Foundation adds Nancy Lewis as new Board member
Ms. Lewis is national sales manager of Mary Meyer Corporation
Polk Bros. Foundation announced today that Nancy Lewis will join the Foundation as a board member, filling a position made vacant upon the unexpected passing of Bruce Bachmann, a founding board member, in March. Ms. Lewis is a granddaughter of Goldie Bachmann Luftig, the eldest of the Polk siblings who founded the Polk Bros chain of appliance and retail stores.
“As Polk Bros. Foundation strives to achieve its vision of an equitable, thriving Chicago, we are delighted to welcome Nancy to our board,” said Sandra Guthman, chair of the board of directors. “Nancy’s deep professional background and strong family ties will add a valuable perspective to our work.”
Ms. Lewis is national sales manager of Mary Meyer Corporation, a family-owned company which has designed, manufactured and distributed children’s toys and collectibles since 1933. She directs all independent sales teams across the U.S., and manages key accounts such as large healthcare systems, department stores and branches of the U.S. Military.
“Over the years, I’ve watched what the Board and Foundation have done for the city of Chicago,” said Ms. Lewis. “I’m honored and excited to join this dedicated team, and to continue the family legacy of supporting the city.”
Before joining Mary Meyer, Ms. Lewis held a series of senior sales leadership positions over 16 years with Ty, the largest manufacturer of plush in the world, during its unprecedented growth with its Beanie Babies® introduction. She was also tapped by startup company Dammit Dolls® to bring the product to market and to gain significant exposure for the brand, working within the industry to exponentially increase sales. Ms. Lewis calls Chicago home, and holds a bachelor of science in retailing and merchandising from University of Wisconsin.
“As one of the largest foundations dedicated to supporting Chicago nonprofits, our commitment to this city and its residents is unwavering,” said Polk Bros. Foundation CEO Gillian Darlow. “We look forward to working with Nancy to continue the Foundation’s work and mission.”
In addition to Ms. Lewis and Mrs. Guthman, Polk Bros. Foundation Board of Directors members are:
• Elizabeth H. Connelly, head of healthcare, higher education and not-for-profit banking for JPMorgan Chase
• Mary A. Dempsey, an attorney and president of Philip H. Corboy Foundation
• Howard J. Polk, vice president of investments for Wells Fargo Advisors
• Raymond F. Simon, chairman of Helen Brach Foundation
• David Snyder, chief operating officer of Chicago CRED (Creating Real Economic Destiny)
• Cherryl T. Thomas, president and CEO of Ardmore Associates, LLC
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