Board Spotlight – Cheryl Vargas

Apr 1, 2025

  • Name: Cheryl Vargas
  • Company: Art Studio 928
  • Role In NAWBO Chicago: Immediate Past President
  • Years In Business: Seven Years
  • Company Location: Oak Park
  • Coffee Order: Iced oat milk brown sugar shaken espresso
  • Dream Vacation: An immersive art and cultural tour of Nigeria and the Great Pyramids to connect with my roots and discover local artistry and satisfying lifelong curiosities.

Why did you join NAWBO Chicago and what has been your experience belonging to the organization?

I joined NAWBO Chicago to connect with other women business owners who share a passion for building impactful businesses. My experience has been transformative—I’ve grown both personally and professionally through the incredible mentorship, resources and collaborations that NAWBO Chicago offers.

Share a NAWBO Chicago success story or connection that helped take your company to the next level.

Through NAWBO Chicago, I’ve built partnerships with organizations that have supported my vision for Studio 928. A connection made during my presidency led to a large-scale corporate collaboration, showcasing Studio 928’s creativity and helping us expand our offerings for teens and community programs.

What is your favorite NAWBO CHICAGO event?

Why the Summer Social of course! The energy is high and the #NAWBOeffect is always in full swing. The Summer Social is the first NAWBO Chicago event I attended and where I learned about the WBDC, women and minority certifications and the Goldman Sachs 10KSB program. I was sold on the spot that I’d indeed found my entrepreneurial tribe.

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