Greetings Steno Community,

On June 5, 2026, Steno in the City welcomed the steno community and industry partners to another Summer Social Mixer high above the Chicago skyline at The Metropolitan, located on the 67th floor of the iconic Willis Tower.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was set on good vibes. With breathtaking panoramic views and a room filled with passionate professionals, the evening perfectly captured what Steno in the City is all about: bringing our community together to build relationships, celebrate the profession, and create new opportunities.

Attendees were welcomed with signature Steno in the City hospitality, receiving a swag bag filled with special goodies and a complimentary glass of champagne as they mingled with colleagues, reconnected with familiar faces, and made new connections with professionals from across the country.

As the sun dipped below the Chicago skyline, the room came alive with conversation, laughter, and inspiration. Adding to the elegant ambiance, renowned cellist Drew Weigman provided beautiful live music throughout the evening, creating the perfect backdrop for a wonderful SITC Steno experience.

Technology, Innovation & Industry Connections

Guests also had the opportunity to experience the latest advancements in stenographic technology with hands-on demonstrations of the NexGen Writer. Representatives from Stenograph were on hand to answer questions, showcase new features, and build excitement leading into their Signature Event weekend in Chicago on June 6, 2026. It was the perfect opportunity for attendees to explore innovation while networking with fellow professionals.

The Steno Community Deserves the Best

No Steno in the City event is complete without an exceptional dining experience.

Guests enjoyed an impressive selection of chef-inspired hors d’oeuvres and handcrafted desserts throughout the evening. Making its highly anticipated return, the interactive pasta station once again became a guest favorite. Chefs prepared customized dishes with exciting culinary flair, ensuring everyone enjoyed watching their plates being made.

From flavorful filet sliders, crab cakes, chicken skewers, and crispy cauliflower to amazing desserts, every detail reflected the elegance, hospitality, and attention to detail that attendees expect from Steno in the City.

Celebrating Community and Trying Something New!

One of the most memorable highlights of the evening was simply taking the time to celebrate one another and enjoy each other’s company.

This year, we introduced something new. Rather than sitting with familiar faces, guests were encouraged to sit at tables with people they had never met before. The original plan was to rotate everyone throughout the evening, similar to our popular Steno Speed Dating with a Professional session.

However, something incredible happened.

The conversations became so engaging that we decided not to interrupt them. Every table was filled with laughter, discussions, shared experiences, and new friendships being formed. Watching complete strangers become colleagues, and colleagues become friends, was exactly what this event was designed to accomplish.

Another exciting highlight was welcoming members of the steno community who traveled from California, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Indiana, and Kentucky just to attend this one-night-only networking experience in Chicago. Their commitment to supporting Steno in the City and the profession, and connecting with fellow stenographers, made the evening even more special.

Members of the Illinois Court Reporters Association also joined the celebration, engaging attendees in conversations about advocacy, professional development, membership, and the future of stenography. Their presence reinforced the importance of supporting one another and working together to strengthen our profession.

We appreciate you, ILCRA!

Thank You to Our Sponsors

A special thank you to our generous sponsors, SPS Litigation, Lexitas, and Cite Depos, for your continued partnership and support. Your commitment to the court reporting profession helps make events like this possible, and we sincerely appreciate your investment in our community.

Until Next Time…

The Chicago Summer Social Mixer was everything we envisioned and more. It was an evening dedicated to celebrating the incredible professionals who make up the stenographic community.

Every conversation sparked a new connection.

Every introduction opened a new opportunity.

Every smile reflected the strength, passion, and unity of our profession.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event such an incredible success. Your enthusiasm, support, and commitment continue to inspire the mission of Steno in the City.

We can’t wait to see you at the next event as we continue connecting the steno community from across the country, one city at a time.

Stay connected. Stay inspired. We’ll see you soon!

Thank you, Chicago!!