A Community Man You Can Bank On

Each year, the History Center presents a new Local Legend, honoring someone who has contributed significantly to our community and the world.

This year we proudly celebrate Edward J. Wehmer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Wintrust Financial Corporation as our 2022 award recipient, marking our thirteenth Local Legend.

Ed joins the ranks of Jim Lovell, Adrian Smith, John Bryan, Richard Marx, Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra, Mark and Franklin McMahon, Ellen Stirling, Ryne Sandberg, Marian Phelps Pawlick, Jack Schuler, Dr. Eugene Hotchkiss III, and Susan Garrett.

Ed will be interviewed by WGN Morning News Anchor and award-winning journalist, Larry Potash on Friday, October 21 at 6:30pm at the History Center. The setting is an intimate interview that encourages the sharing of little-known stories, behind-the-scenes anecdotes and insights missing from standard biographies.

Reserve your tickets today!

The Early Years

Ed Wehmer started Wintrust with some friends over a card table and a few cold beers. They wanted a bank that was an alternative to the big banks with a small-town vibe. In keeping with his values, Ed gives back by serving on many non-profit boards. His involvement in the community ensures that children and adults alike are both physically and financially healthy.

Seeing a real need for a return to true community banking and personalized service in the area, Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, the original Wintrust Bank, opened in December 1991. More banks in the Chicago suburbs followed, each with the same mission and with bankers who believed in that mission. After 20 years of growth, Wintrust saw an opportunity to serve the many diverse neighborhoods in the heart of Chicago, and Wintrust Bank was established.

Life in Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

The Wehmer family has been an active part of the local community for almost 35 years. Ed moved to Lake Forest, Illinois in 1988 and Lake Bluff, Illinois in 2013. He and his wife Dorothy have raised six children and are the proud grandparents of eight grandchildren.

Champion for Charity

Ed serves as Chairman of the Board of Northwestern Memorial Foundation at Northwestern Medicine, on the audit committee of Northwestern Memorial Health Care, is a trustee for Lurie Children’s Hospital and Foundation, and Vice Chair on the Board of the Finance Committee of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Ed is also a director of The Catholic Extension Society of America.

Local Legends Benefit

Friday, October 21 | 6:30 p.m. | History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Presented by Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A.

Seating is limited. Click here for reservations and sponsorship information.