A political strategist, essayist, film maker and activist, Marilyn is the president of MK Communications, a 35 year old public policy strategy and communications firm. Founded in 1983 at the conclusion of her work in leading the media (with Bill Zimmerman) and press for the historic victory of Harold Washington the firm prides itself on creating “public environments” for policy issues through providing research, strategic planning, communications, social media and community outreach services.

While located in Chicago, the firm works on national issues and national and well as local clients, including candidates, governments, non-profits and select corporations, many of which have been clients of the firm from 10 to 30 years. (client lists available upon request or through the MK Communications website.

Ms Katz is a regularly published essayist, has authored three books,( The Glass House Tapes” (with Citizens Research Action Committee) “Stopping War, Seeking Justice” (with Carl Davidson) and Talking Back and Acting Out (women negotiating the media, edited by Sandra Jackson and Anne Russo) and written, produced and directed numerous educational and entertainment films and videos.

An activist since her student days, Marilyn continues to create and lead organizations and events – from being a founding member of the Chicago and Los Angeles Women’s moments, the Reproductive Rights National Network to more recently founding Chicago Women Take Action.

A fellow of Leadership Greater Chicago, Marilyn serves on a variety of local organization boards and on the J Street National Board.

You can follow Marilyn Katz on Twitter at @mkatzchi, on tumblr at http://marilynkatz.tumblr.com/ or to read more about successful campaigns, view film, print and other work, visit her website at www.mkcpr.com

Ms. Katz resides in Chicago, is married, has two children and teaches Pilates on the side.