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Issue link: http://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/297393
CHICAGO BULLS CHA R ITIES PR ESIDENT Nancy Reinsdorf has two families. At her home in Glencoe is her husband, Michael, president and COO of the Bulls, and their three children, with whom she shares pas- sions like horseback riding and photography. Twenty-five miles south at the United Center, though, Reinsdorf is a maternal figure to the 13 team members of the Chicago Bulls. Since becoming president in 2012, t he North Shore native has revamped the team's charity component to boost the players' local involvement outside the stadium, including visits to hos- pitals and schools and working with groups on violence prevention. "We learn the players' stories and hear what touches their hearts," she says. "Then we figure out how to help the organizations in that space." Motivation: Our communication with the team is incredible. The respect we have for them—and the respect we have gotten from them—is the thing that keeps me going. Definition of success: Whenever you become a part of something that speaks to you and what you love to do, you're there. You've made it. Most memorable Bulls game: A playoff game in 1991— the first game I went to with my [now] husband. Work / life balance: I don't draw the line between our players and my own children. I try hard to figure out who and what needs the most attention at that moment and give some strength and extra love and care there. Whether it's one of my kids or something at work, it's when they're at full strength that they're able to circle back and support the other. Who inspires me: It's not one specific person. I always look to the people who are doing the best they can, who excel in their own job and inspire the people around them. It's not always the leader of a department—I love to see the people who give 100 percent and take the opportunities that are around them, and do all of this with pride, kindness, and humility. NANCYREINSDORF This doyenne of philanthropy ensures that the Bulls are always team players in the Chicago community. 136 MICHIGANAVEMAG.COM 134-141_MA_FEAT_PP_May/June_14.indd 136 4/14/14 1:01 PM