A Fond Farewell

Chicago local members have bid a fond farewell to Kaufherr Resource Center Administrator Cheryle Dobnikar. Her last day with the Center was Aug. 24.

Dobnikar joined the Kaufherr Resource Center two years ago as administrator and grant writer. Her first order of business was a complete top-to-bottom renovation of the Center. “When I first arrived, the Center had a lot of love but it was time for a change as we moved forward into the next 15 years,” she said.

Those changes entailed bringing it to current-day standards with a brand-new WhisperRoom audio sound enclosure with state-of-the-art equipment in the audio suite, a complete upgrade of the Fern Persons Video Suite, Mac workstations and new furniture generously donated by Groupon. “I’m proud to say the project came in under budget,” she exclaimed, “though not without a few swipes of my brow!”

Over the past two years Dobnikar created The Kaufherr Headliner, the Center’s first electronic newsletter, expanded tech presence with a media technician 10 hours per week, increased members’ use of the Center, introduced new funding sources and opportunities and made a new friends. “I moved my office right into the Center. The SAG-AFTRA members who come in every day are amazing. Honestly, they’ve made each day a gift and I’ve been honored to witness a small part of their journey,” said Dobnikar. “No question, I’ll miss them!”

One of the many members that use the Center on a regular basis, Valerie Banks, praised Dobnikar for her hard work and dedication to the Chicago Local members and the Center. “In her short time here, Cheryle has elevated the Kaufherr Resource Center’s decor, service offerings and overall appeal for SAG-AFTRA members who have utilized it. Her efforts are greatly appreciated,” she said.

We thank Dobnikar for her service to the SAG-AFTRA Chicago Local membership and to the Kaufherr Resource Center. 

The Kaufherr Resource Center is a 2,500-square-foot multipurpose venue that provides state-of-the-art audio and video suites for self-submitting auditions, Mac computer workstations, and a space for meetings, table reads, casting and networking. In addition, professional development workshops and seminars are offered year round. The Center’s close partnership with the SAG-AFTRA Chicago Local allows members’ use of the space free of charge.

Photo: The Singers Committee take a brief break from rehearsing for the Labor Day Parade to say goodbye to Cheryle Dobnikar, center.