Foreword:

One of a Kind is the fourth book in a series of five on the LaSalle Bank Photography Collection. Its title is fitting for a book about portraits from our collection, for although the phrase implies uniqueness, inherent in the words is the connection to others- of being part of a group. As with the individuals portrayed, each photograph in this book stands alone as a work of art. When combined together, they illustrate the historical depth and artistic breadth of our renowned collection. The LaSalle Bank Photography Collection is approaching its fortieth year. Ever since its inception, the mission of our collection has been to enrich the lives of all who come to the bank. To this end, the collection is on display throughout the halls, common areas, and offices of the bank. LaSalle's curatorial department has an ongoing educational program that includes publications on different aspects of the collection, rotating exhibitions, and employee lunch-time lectures featuring local and international photographers. I would like to thank Carol Ehlers, curator, and Whitney Bradshaw, assistant curator, who selected the images for One of a Kind from over 5,000 photographs in the collection, then sequenced them to enhance one another yet retain their artistic uniqueness.
The portraits in this book are a portrait of humankind- a focus of attention that mirrors our people-centered approach to banking. Just as the art in our collection enriches our work- place, it is through our employees and customers that LaSalle Bank comes to life.

Thoman C. Heagy
Vice Chairman, LaSalle Bank