More than 300 Chicago teenagers showcased their accomplishments, including interactive science and technology exhibits, at the After School Matters Annual Gala on Monday evening. This year’s Annual Gala reflected the organization’s focus on expanding quality programming for Chicago’s teens in the STEAM fields. The event, which was attended by approximately 900 civic, corporate and community supporters, also featured a number of teen performances as well as a variety of visual art displays.

The Annual Gala, held in the Lakeview Terrace and Grand Ballroom of Chicago’s historic Navy Pier, was hosted by Mellody Hobson, chair of After School Matters and president of Ariel Investments, and Dr. Mary Ellen Caron, CEO of After School Matters. Honorary co-chairs for the evening included Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Ms. Amy Rule. Co-chairing the Gala were former Mayor Richard M. Daley; Anne Pramaggiore, president and CEO of ComEd; Patricia Hemingway Hall, president and CEO of Health Care Service Corporation; George Lucas, chairman of Skywalker Properties; Michael Sacks, CEO of Grosvenor Capital Management; and Paul La Schiazza, president of AT&T Illinois.

Teens can search and apply for programs online at www.afterschoolmatters.org. Follow After School Matters on Twitter at @aftrschoolmttrs and on Facebook at facebook.com/afterschoolmatters.