Nonprofits.Club is proud to present the top 50 nonprofit influencers transforming the Chicago Metropolitan Area. This list was curated using several key criteria, including the impact of their work, leadership within their organizations, commitment to social justice and equity, and contributions to the community. These leaders are driving significant change and making a profound difference in the lives of Chicagoans. Join us in celebrating their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they have on our community.
Ric Estrada – President & CEO, Metropolitan Family Services
Ric Estrada, President & CEO of Metropolitan Family Services, has led the organization to quadruple in revenue and families served since 2011. With three decades of human services leadership, he’s expanded the agency’s impact significantly. Estrada serves on multiple boards, including ComEd and the Exelon Foundation, and has received numerous awards for his social leadership.
Sean Garrett – President & CEO, United Way of Metro Chicago
Sean Garrett, as President & CEO of United Way of Metro Chicago, leads the organization in addressing critical community issues such as education, financial stability, and health. He oversees strategic initiatives and partnerships to enhance United Way’s impact across the Chicago metropolitan area.
Andrea Sáenz – President and CEO, The Chicago Community Trust
Andrea Sáenz, President and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust, leads the community foundation’s efforts to close the racial and ethnic wealth gap in Chicago. With extensive experience in education and public service, she drives initiatives that promote equity and opportunity for all Chicagoans.
Daniel O. Ash – President, The Field Foundation of Illinois
Daniel O. Ash, President of The Field Foundation of Illinois, collaborates with the Board and staff to achieve the foundation’s mission. He leads efforts to address issues of racial equity and social justice through strategic grantmaking and community partnerships in the Chicago area.
Gillian Darlow – CEO, Polk Bros. Foundation
Gillian Darlow, CEO of Polk Bros. Foundation, directs the foundation’s grantmaking efforts aimed at reducing poverty’s impact and improving access to quality education, preventive health care, and the arts. Under her leadership, the foundation supports initiatives that help Chicago residents reach their full potential.
Katie Fitzgerald – President and CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities Global
Katie Fitzgerald, as President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Global, brings over 25 years of experience to her role. Her empathetic leadership style and nonprofit background have been valuable assets to the organization. Fitzgerald is committed to hearing new ideas and perspectives, which enhances RMHC’s global impact in supporting families with sick children.
Lisa Yun Lee – Executive Director, National Public Housing Museum
Dr. Lisa Yun Lee, Executive Director of the National Public Housing Museum, is a cultural activist and Associate Professor in Art History. She leads efforts to preserve public housing history and promote social justice. Lee previously directed UIC’s School of Art & Art History, where she helped establish the Museum and Exhibition Studies Program.
Juan Moreno – Project Design Principal
Juan Moreno, an award-winning architect and President of JGMA, contributes his design expertise to nonprofit projects. While not explicitly tied to a single nonprofit, Moreno’s work often focuses on community-oriented and socially impactful architecture, potentially benefiting various nonprofit initiatives through innovative design solutions.
Kathleen Abbott – Nonprofit Board Leader
Kathleen Abbott, a nonprofit board leader, serves on the Advisory Board of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Her leadership experience in business operations and technical services at Exelon likely provides valuable insights to the nonprofit sector.
Terri Ahrens – Nonprofit Board Leader
Terri Ahrens served as Board President of the Center for Disability & Elder Law (CDEL) from 2016 to 2022. Her leadership helped guide this nonprofit organization in providing free legal services to low-income seniors and people with disabilities in Cook County, enhancing access to justice for vulnerable populations.
Brandon Allen – Nonprofit Board Leader
Brandon Allen serves as chair of the South Side YMCA board, playing a key role in supporting fundraising and activities. He has helped the board become more actively engaged in the community and its programs. Allen was recognized as one of Crain’s Chicago Business 2022 Notable Nonprofit Board Leaders for his contributions.
Curt Bailey – Nonprofit Board Leader
Curt Bailey, President of Related Midwest, served as board chair of Start Early from 2017 to 2021 and continues as a board member. He was honored in Crain’s Chicago Business 2022 list of Notable Nonprofit Board Leaders for his work advancing early learning for families with children.
Don Biernacki – Nonprofit Board Leader
Don Biernacki, Executive Vice President of Construction at Related Midwest, is the board chair of HIRE360. His leadership has helped drive the organization’s work in workforce development and supporting diverse businesses. Biernacki was recognized as one of Crain’s Chicago Business 2022 Notable Nonprofit Board Leaders.
Richard Blabolil – Nonprofit Board Leader
Richard Blabolil, CEO of Marketing Innovators, serves as board chair for an unspecified nonprofit. With over 31 years of experience in performance improvement, his expertise likely contributes to strategic planning and organizational effectiveness in his nonprofit board role.
Greg Boyle – Nonprofit Board Leader
Greg Boyle, a partner at Jenner & Block and President of the Chicago Bar Foundation, was recognized among Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2022 “Notable Nonprofit Board Leaders.” His leadership has advanced the legal aid community and promoted access to justice for underserved populations.
Iris Krieg – Founder, Chicago Women in Philanthropy
Iris Krieg, founder of Chicago Women in Philanthropy, has over 35 years of experience in philanthropy. She co-founded the Chicago Foundation for Women and served as its first board chair. Krieg established her own consulting firm in 1991, providing expertise to philanthropic organizations. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing women’s roles in philanthropy and supporting nonprofit causes in Chicago.
Margaret E. Jones – Program Officer, Chicago Housing Consulting Services
Margaret E. Jones serves as Program Officer for Chicago Housing Consulting Services, overseeing grantmaking operations and communications. She has a background in grant program development, civic engagement, and strategy at the Chicago Housing Authority. Jones awarded $163,000 to 28 nonprofits, demonstrating her commitment to supporting community initiatives and affordable housing efforts in Chicago.
Jacki Davidoff – Co-chair, Chicago Women in Philanthropy
Jacki Davidoff, co-chair of Chicago Women in Philanthropy, is a Principal at Davidoff Strategy. She integrates strategy, culture, and leadership development for philanthropic organizations. Davidoff previously co-chaired CWIP’s Racial Equity and Social Justice committee. Her work focuses on helping nonprofits identify growth opportunities and overcome internal barriers, contributing to the strengthening of Chicago’s philanthropic sector.
Shelley A. Davis – President, The Coleman Foundation
Shelley A. Davis, President of The Coleman Foundation, brings extensive experience in social impact leadership. She oversees the foundation’s efforts to support entrepreneurship, health, and community well-being in Chicago. Davis’s leadership has focused on creating more equitable access to resources and opportunities, leveraging the foundation’s assets to strengthen nonprofit organizations and local institutions in the greater Chicago area.
Tracy L. Brown – Chief Content Officer, Chicago Public Media
Tracy L. Brown, Chief Content Officer at Chicago Public Media, leads WBEZ’s award-winning newsroom. With a background in journalism and news leadership, Brown oversees content strategy and production for Chicago’s primary public radio station. Her role contributes to informing and engaging the public on critical issues, supporting the nonprofit media organization’s mission to serve the Chicago community with high-quality news and programming.
Carlos Calderon – Chief Financial Officer, Ariel Investments
Carlos Calderon is the Chief Financial Officer at Ariel Investments, where he oversees financial functions across all subsidiaries, including financial reporting, corporate development, and capital management. With extensive experience in strategic planning and financial systems, Carlos has held leadership roles at Morgan Stanley’s Eaton Vance, State Street Global Advisors, and BNY Mellon Investment Management. He serves on the boards of Hope for Kasai and the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, contributing to education and global understanding. Carlos is also an advisory board member of the Chicago Chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals for America.
Meghan Curran – Chief Marketing and Experience Officer, Shedd Aquarium
Meghan Curran is the Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Shedd Aquarium, where she is responsible for delivering the aquarium’s strategic plan and ambitious vision. She shapes the future of Shedd by enhancing visitor experiences and driving marketing initiatives. Meghan’s leadership ensures that Shedd Aquarium remains a leading institution in conservation, education, and public engagement, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and aquatic life.
Wendell Dallas – President and CEO, Nicor Gas
Wendell Dallas is the President and CEO of Nicor Gas, one of the largest natural gas distributors in the U.S. With over 25 years in the natural gas industry, Wendell has held leadership roles at Georgia Power Company and Southern Company Gas subsidiaries. He has served on several nonprofit and community boards, including the Georgia Literacy Commission and the Georgia Workforce Development Board. Wendell’s leadership focuses on operational excellence, customer service, and community engagement.
Kimberley Goode – Chief Communications and Social Impact Officer, BMO
Kimberley Goode is the Chief Communications and Social Impact Officer at BMO Financial Group. She leads a team combining communications, media relations, and community giving to achieve the bank’s strategic priorities. With a background in journalism and extensive experience in corporate communications, Kimberley has held senior roles at Blue Shield of California, Northwestern Mutual, and Kellogg Company. She is recognized for her work in reputation management, corporate social responsibility, and diversity and inclusion.
Kelly Graves – CEO, President, FCB Chicago
Kelly Graves is the CEO of FCB Chicago, where she leads the agency’s largest office. With over 20 years of experience in advertising and marketing, Kelly is known for her straightforward approach and commitment to results. She sets a vision for growth and delivers through talent, technology, and creativity. Kelly’s leadership has been instrumental in solving challenging business problems and maximizing the interests of both clients and brands.
Kristin Kroeger – Head of Strategic Initiatives, CIBC US
Kristin Kroeger is the Head of Strategic Initiatives at CIBC US, where she drives key projects and partnerships that align with the bank’s strategic goals. She is deeply involved in the nonprofit sector, leveraging her expertise to support community development and financial literacy programs. Kristin’s leadership in strategic initiatives has helped foster collaborations that enhance the impact of nonprofit organizations in the Chicago area.
Connie L. Lindsey – Former Executive Vice President, Northern Trust
Connie L. Lindsey is the former Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Northern Trust. She has been a prominent advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has led numerous philanthropic initiatives. Connie served as the National Board President of Girl Scouts of the USA, where she championed leadership development for girls. Her contributions have significantly advanced corporate social responsibility and community engagement.
Robert L. Manuel – President, DePaul University
Dr. Robert L. Manuel is the President of DePaul University, where he leads efforts to enhance educational access and academic excellence. Under his leadership, DePaul has strengthened its commitment to social justice and community service. Dr. Manuel’s focus on innovation in higher education and partnerships with local organizations has expanded opportunities for students and reinforced DePaul’s role as a vital community institution in Chicago.
Declan McGovern – Executive Director, Music of the Baroque
Declan McGovern is the Executive Director of Music of the Baroque, where he oversees the organization’s artistic and administrative operations. With a background in classical music management, Declan has enhanced the ensemble’s reputation for excellence and expanded its outreach programs. His leadership has brought innovative programming and increased community engagement, ensuring that Music of the Baroque remains a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural landscape.
Dia Nichols – President, Central Chicagoland Patient Service Area, Advocate Health
Dia Nichols is the President of the Central Chicagoland Patient Service Area at Advocate Health. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare leadership, Dia oversees operations and strategic initiatives to improve patient care and community health. His commitment to health equity and access has driven significant improvements in healthcare delivery and outcomes for underserved populations in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Marisa Novara – Commissioner, Chicago Department of Housing
Marisa Novara serves as Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Housing, where she leads efforts to address housing affordability and equity in the city. Previously, she was Vice President of Community Impact at The Chicago Community Trust. Novara’s work focuses on developing and implementing policies to increase access to affordable housing, prevent displacement, and promote equitable community development. She has been instrumental in advancing initiatives such as the Affordable Requirements Ordinance and the Racial Equity Impact Assessment. Novara’s leadership has been crucial in addressing Chicago’s housing challenges and promoting inclusive growth across the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Darlene Oliver Hightower – President and CEO, Metropolitan Planning Council
Darlene Oliver Hightower served as President and CEO of the Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) for two years, leading the nonprofit’s efforts to create a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous Chicago region. With a background in public policy and community engagement, Hightower focused on addressing critical urban issues such as housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Under her leadership, MPC completed a successful strategic planning process that refocused the organization’s priorities while maintaining financial stability. Hightower’s work has contributed to advancing equity-focused policies and promoting collaborative solutions to regional challenges.
Melissa Root – Partner, Managing Partner Chicago Office, Jenner & Block LLP
Melissa Root is a Partner and Co-Chair of the Restructuring & Bankruptcy practice at Jenner & Block LLP. She maintains an active pro bono practice, representing clients in bankruptcy cases and other matters. Root is deeply involved in community and bar activities, frequently speaking on restructuring, bankruptcy, and diversity and inclusion topics. Her expertise in complex bankruptcy litigation and commitment to pro bono work have made significant contributions to the legal community and nonprofit sector in Chicago. Root’s recent induction into the American College of Bankruptcy further recognizes her professional excellence and contributions to the field.
Kristen Seeger – Partner, Executive Committee Member, Sidley Austin LLP
Kristen Seeger is a Partner and Executive Committee Member at Sidley Austin LLP, where she co-leads the global Commercial Litigation and Disputes practice. Beyond her legal work, Seeger is deeply involved in civic life. She serves on the board of the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago and is a past board chair and current emeritus board member of Mujeres Latinas en Acción. Seeger is also a Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow. Her leadership roles within Sidley, including serving on the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, demonstrate her commitment to advancing equity in the legal profession and broader community.
Lauren Allnutt – Corporate Controller, Northern Trust
Lauren Allnutt serves as Corporate Controller at Northern Trust, where she oversees financial reporting and controls. While specific information about her nonprofit work is limited, her role at Northern Trust likely involves supporting the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives. Northern Trust has a strong commitment to community engagement and philanthropy, particularly in the Chicago area. Allnutt’s expertise in financial management and controls may contribute to the effective stewardship of resources in Northern Trust’s community investment and charitable giving programs, indirectly supporting various nonprofit causes in the region.
Gil Quiniones – Chief Executive Officer, ComEd
Gil Quiniones, CEO of ComEd, brings extensive experience in energy leadership to his role. Previously president and CEO of the New York Power Authority, Quiniones has been instrumental in advancing clean energy initiatives and grid modernization. He serves on several nonprofit boards, including the Civic Federation and World Business Chicago, demonstrating his commitment to community engagement. Quiniones is also a member of the President’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council, contributing his expertise to national policy discussions.
Lisa Graham – SVP, CFO and Treasurer, ComEd
Lisa Graham, SVP, CFO and Treasurer of ComEd, oversees the company’s financial operations. While specific nonprofit contributions are not detailed, her role at ComEd likely involves supporting the company’s community initiatives and philanthropic efforts. ComEd is known for its involvement in various community programs and charitable giving, which Graham’s financial leadership would help facilitate.
Maria Wynne – CEO, Leadership Greater Chicago
Maria Wynne, former CEO of Leadership Greater Chicago, led the organization in developing civic leaders for nearly a decade. Her work focused on creating opportunities for emerging leaders to address critical challenges facing the Chicago region. Wynne’s leadership expanded LGC’s impact, fostering collaboration among diverse professionals and strengthening the nonprofit sector. She has also served on various nonprofit boards, including the Goodman Theatre and North Central College, further contributing to Chicago’s civic landscape.
Michael Fassnacht – President and CEO, World Business Chicago
Michael Fassnacht, as President and CEO of World Business Chicago, led efforts to promote economic growth and business development in the Chicago region. Under his leadership, WBC expanded its workforce and increased corporate support for its initiatives. Fassnacht focused on countering negative narratives about Chicago by highlighting business expansions and relocations to the area. He also initiated campaigns to promote Chicago globally and support local startups and venture capital efforts.
Brad Henderson – CEO, P33
Brad Henderson, CEO of P33, leads this nonprofit organization in driving global technology leadership and inclusive economic growth for Chicago. With a background in management consulting, Henderson brings strategic insight to P33’s efforts to strengthen Chicago’s tech ecosystem. He serves on several nonprofit boards, including the Chicago History Museum and Interfaith Youth Core, demonstrating a broad commitment to civic engagement. Henderson’s work focuses on connecting founders with resources and accelerating capital flow in Chicago’s tech sector.
Tiffany Gueye – CEO, BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life)
Tiffany Gueye: As CEO of BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life) from 2008 to 2017, Tiffany Gueye led the organization’s growth to serve over 15,000 students annually across 28 states. She drove BELL’s data-driven culture of continuous improvement, making its expanded learning programs, partnership model, and evaluation methods nationally recognized best practices. Gueye’s leadership was instrumental in creating scalable solutions to improve educational outcomes for underserved youth. She has been recognized as a “Top 40 Under 40” achiever and won the “Be the Change Award” from the Massachusetts Conference for Women. Gueye now serves as COO of Blue Meridian Partners, continuing her work in social impact.
Rosie Rios – CEO, Red River Associates, former US Treasurer
Rosie Rios: As the 43rd Treasurer of the United States, Rosie Rios oversaw 4,000 employees and a $5 billion budget. She initiated efforts to place a woman on U.S. currency for the first time in over a century. Now CEO of Red River Associates, Rios continues to influence economic and social policy. She chairs America 250, planning the nation’s 250th anniversary. Rios founded EMPOWERMENT 2026, a nonprofit highlighting historical American women and women in positions of money and power. Her work spans public service, finance, and advocacy for gender representation, making her a significant figure in both government and nonprofit sectors.
Nora Moreno Cargie – President, Tufts Health Plan Foundation
Nora Moreno Cargie: As President of the Tufts Health Plan Foundation and Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at Point32Health, Nora Moreno Cargie leads efforts to support nonprofit organizations addressing systemic disparities and barriers to access. She leverages the health plan’s resources to advocate for healthier lives for everyone. Cargie has been recognized for centering social justice and racial equity in her work, receiving the 2022 Trailblazer Change Agent Award from the National Council on Aging. Her leadership in corporate citizenship and philanthropy has significantly impacted community health initiatives and social determinants of health in New England.
Tamara Copeland – President, Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers
Tamara Copeland: As President of the Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers (WRAG) from 2006 to 2019, Tamara Copeland was a major thought leader in philanthropy. She conceptualized and led the “Putting Racism on the Table” initiative, significantly advancing discussions on racial equity in grantmaking. Copeland’s leadership transformed WRAG into a powerful force for addressing social needs and civic problems. Her work extended beyond WRAG, including roles at Voices for America’s Children and as a Visiting Fellow at Georgetown University. Copeland continues to advocate for racial justice through her writing, consulting, and public speaking engagements.
Celeste James – Executive Director, Center for Nonprofit Advancement
Celeste James: As Executive Director of Community Health at Kaiser Permanente for 15 years, Celeste James led grant and social impact investments, programs, and advocacy efforts focused on healthy food access, economic opportunity, housing, and quality healthcare. Her work transformed Kaiser Permanente’s approach to community health by strengthening partnerships with community members, policymakers, and business leaders. James’s leadership has been instrumental in addressing social determinants of health and promoting health equity. She now works as an independent Health Equity & Social Impact Consultant, continuing to advance health equity by helping organizations disrupt societal barriers to well-being and prosperity.
Kerrien Suarez – Executive Director, Equity in the Center
Kerrien Suarez is the Executive Director of Equity in the Center, where she leads efforts to build a Race Equity Culture within nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. She co-authored the influential publication “Awake to Woke to Work: Building a Race Equity Culture,” which provides actionable steps for organizations to advance racial equity. Suarez’s work focuses on dismantling white dominant culture and addressing structural racism in the social sector. Her leadership has been instrumental in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, making her a key figure in the movement towards racial justice in nonprofit organizations.
Phil Buchanan – President, Center for Effective Philanthropy
Phil Buchanan is the President of the Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP), where he has led the organization since its inception in 2001. Under his leadership, CEP has become a leading provider of data and insights on philanthropic effectiveness. Buchanan co-founded YouthTruth, an initiative to harness student perceptions to improve K-12 education. He authored “Giving Done Right: Effective Philanthropy and Making Every Dollar Count,” recognized as the “Best Philanthropy Book of the Year” by Inside Philanthropy. Buchanan is a frequent commentator on philanthropy and has been named to the Nonprofit Times’ “Power and Influence Top 50” list multiple times.
Jacob Harold – Executive Vice President, Candid
Jacob Harold is the Executive Vice President of Candid, formed by the merger of GuideStar and Foundation Center. As President and CEO of GuideStar, he led a financial turnaround and tripled the organization’s reach. Harold co-led the $45 million capital campaign to launch Candid and authored its guiding strategy document, Candid 2030. He is known for launching the Overhead Myth campaign to shift focus from nonprofits’ financial ratios to their programmatic results. Harold has been named to the Nonprofit Times’ “Power and Influence Top 50” list and serves on several nonprofit boards.
Robert Egger – Founder, DC Central Kitchen and L.A. Kitchen
Robert Egger is the founder of DC Central Kitchen, L.A. Kitchen, and the Campus Kitchens Project. DC Central Kitchen, established in 1989, is a nationally recognized “community kitchen” that collects leftover food to fuel a culinary arts job training program and provide meals to local service agencies. Egger’s initiatives have produced over 40 million meals and helped over 2,000 individuals gain employment. He is also an author and activist, known for his book “Begging for Change” and his advocacy for the economic role of nonprofits. Egger has received numerous awards for his contributions to social justice and food security.
Diana Aviv – Former CEO, Feeding America and Independent Sector
Diana Aviv is the former CEO of Feeding America and Independent Sector. At Feeding America, she led the organization in providing nearly 5 billion meals to 46 million Americans through a network of 200 food banks. As President and CEO of Independent Sector, Aviv was a leading voice for the nonprofit sector, advocating for policies that support charitable organizations. She has served on numerous advisory boards and continues to influence the sector through her work with ourCovenant, an initiative to build partnerships with communities of faith in support of democracy.
These influencers are not only leaders but also champions of change, working tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals and communities in the Chicago Metropolitan Area. Their dedication and efforts are inspiring and deserving of recognition. At Nonprofits.Club, we celebrate impactful work and foster a community where leaders can learn from and support each other.
We invite you to join us in acknowledging these influencers and suggesting other notable names who deserve recognition for their contributions. Share your suggestions with us and help us continue to highlight those who make our communities stronger and more vibrant.
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