The Marcus Corporation Celebrates Diversity at the Renaissance Dinner

A dynamic group of leaders from points near and far gathered at the Pfister Hotel for the first Renaissance Dinner in Milwaukee. The dinners, which have been hosted in 10 other cities nationwide, are gatherings of unique individuals with the goal of diversifying top leadership across the country. The Marcus Corporation was key contributor to the event, offering the hospitality of The Pfister Hotel and sharing the time and talents of prominent members of the Marcus Team.

Included in the evening’s entertainment was the OV Duo with Greg Marcus and John Price. Guests mingled while being treated to the jazz stylings of pianist Marcus and bassist Price.

A featured speaker for the evening was the celebrated Rolando Rodriguez, President and CEO of Marcus Theaters. His speech, titled “It’s Our Time,” called for an increase in the diversity in business leadership. Acknowledging that courage is needed to introduce the changes necessary to create meaningful leadership opportunities for women and people of color, he stated diversity and inclusion must be the new workplace norms.

On the list of presenters was Travis Martinez, the Pfister Hotel’s Executive Pastry Chef. Martinez crafted a unique dessert offering for the event, which was inspired by some of Mexico’s best loved flavors, both sweet and savory. He treated guests to a recreation of the event’s logo, sculpted entirely in chocolate. The Chef’s team created an edible masterpiece that wowed the crowd and had attendees eager to sample their handiwork.

Also present to kick off the festivities were the Pfister’s Artist in Residence, Stephanie Schultz and the Pfister Narrator, Anna Lardinois. The pair welcomed guests to the event and spoke briefly on the hotel’s rich history and support for the arts.

The Imperial Ballroom welcomed attendees who were presented with a sumptuous meal presented in the warm glow of candlelight.  At the close of the final speaker, several guests lingered on, reluctant to leave the comfortable elegance of the hotel. Opting to remain, a group made their way to Blu, happily sinking into welcoming couches to watch the city lights twinkle in Milwaukee’s night sky.