Author Archive
Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center Partners with KEES to Find its Next CEO
Nonprofit executive search firm KEES has been retained to find the next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center, a leading nonprofit outpatient mental health center in Skokie, IL. Since 1969, Turning Point Behavioral Health has delivered compassionate, affordable mental health care to children and adults across the Chicago metropolitan area. KEES President and CEO Heather Eddy and Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti will lead the search following the planned retirement of the organization’s current CEO.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to express our deep gratitude to Ann Raney for nearly 30 years of visionary leadership,” said Randy Roberts, Board President. “While her decision to retire is bittersweet, we’re excited for her next chapter and look forward to finding a CEO who will continue advancing Turning Point Behavioral Health’s mission with the same dedication and heart.”
KEES is a premier executive search firm specializing in CEO, President, and Executive Director roles. The firm is known for successfully placing top nonprofit leaders, particularly during transitions following long-term leadership. KEES brings deep expertise in behavioral health, social services, and nonprofit healthcare. With a 25-year deep commitment to the metro-Chicago region, KEES continues to help organizations secure transformative leadership to advance community-focused missions.
The Board of Directors has established a Search Committee to lead the process of identifying the organization’s next CEO. The committee has officially begun its work and is committed to a thorough, thoughtful search.
“Congratulations to Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center on this exciting new chapter,” says Eddy. “As a trusted mental health services provider, Turning Point Behavioral Health plays a vital role in the region. We’re honored to support the CEO search and thank Ann for her years of dedicated service. The next leader will build on her legacy, advancing equity and access to mental health care. We’re proud to partner in this transition and remain committed to Turning Point Behavioral Health’s continued growth and success.”
Confidential inquiries, candidate recommendations, and additional information about this CEO search may be directed to Randi Blasutti at rblasutti@kees2success.com.
ABOUT TURNING POINT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE CENTER
Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center is a nonprofit mental health organization that annually serves more than 1,100 adults and children from throughout metropolitan Chicago. Headquartered in Skokie, Illinois, Turning Point Behavioral Health offers a wide range of outpatient services, including crisis support, individual and group therapy, case management, and a residential program. The organization has consistently earned the highest accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and has received both local and national awards, recognizing its leadership in the field. To learn more, visit www.tpoint.org.
ABOUT KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search and consulting firm that builds diverse teams and dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A certified woman-owned and operated firm, KEES provides executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, compensation analysis, and HR consulting. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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TURNING POINT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer Sultz, Development Director, jsultz@tpoint.org
KEES MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
Governor Ferguson appoints Angela Ramirez as Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services
OLYMPIA — Today, Governor Bob Ferguson appointed Angela Ramirez as Washington’s new Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), effective September 22. Ramirez recently served as chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through Jan 20. Since January, she has advised on several projects.
Ramirez’s experience spans more than two decades across local, state and federal government. In her recent role at HHS, she coordinated one of the largest federal departments with over 90,000 employees and a $1.7 trillion budget — the largest of any federal agency. Ramirez led department-wide initiatives, advised the Secretary and senior officials, and steered policy and personnel strategies on issues ranging from reproductive health to behavioral health and workforce development.
“Angela’s leadership, deep experience in delivering essential human services, and focus on collaboration makes her exceptionally well-suited for this role,” Governor Ferguson said. “As Secretary of Washington’s largest agency, she will provide the direction and strategic vision needed to effectively deliver critical services across Washington.”
“I am deeply honored to serve as Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services,” Ramirez said. “I’ve spent my entire career in public service, and I’ve come to realize it is a part of who I am. As the daughter of farmworkers who both experienced homelessness, I understand how life-changing public systems can be when they truly support people. Whether someone needs housing, a job, mental health care, or simply the dignity of choice — I believe in the power of government to help individuals shape their own lives. I thank Governor Ferguson for the opportunity to serve the people of Washington, and I look forward to joining an agency so deeply committed to meeting people where they are and helping them move forward.”
Before leading HHS as chief of staff and, prior to that, deputy chief of staff, Ramirez served as a Special Assistant to the President in the White House, shaping legislative efforts such as the American Rescue Plan. She also served as senior staff on the Biden Presidential Transition and on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Her positions during her 18 years as Congressional staff included serving as executive director of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and chief of staff to then-Assistant Speaker Ben Ray Luján, playing pivotal roles in leadership, legislation and campaign strategy.
Ramirez is a graduate of Princeton University, where she earned a degree in political economy and a certificate in Spanish language and literature. Her early career included a fellowship in the California State Senate and roles in policy analysis and local justice systems. Her community service has included volunteering at Charlie’s Place, teaching English as a second language, and mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters. She was named to Politico’s Power List and has been recognized as a key Congressional staffer in the National Journal.
The appointment follows a competitive national search drawing candidates from more than 11 states.
The process was shaped by deep stakeholder input, including valuable perspectives from tribal leaders, labor partners, community service organizations, department staff, and numerous other groups. This collaborative approach ensured that the selected leader reflects the diverse needs of Washingtonians.
Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES, said, “We want to thank the entire DSHS team and Governor Ferguson’s leadership team for their collaboration and partnership throughout this process. Their engagement was vital in shaping a thorough, inclusive search that brought forward the strongest candidates to lead this important agency. Angela is the leader needed at DSHS at this time.”
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a woman-owned executive search firm dedicated to creating diverse teams with dynamic leadership in the nonprofit and public sectors. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including executive search, leadership development, compensation analysis, interim staffing, and HR support. To learn more, visit www.kees2success.com.
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Media Contacts
Brionna Aho, Governor’s Communications Director, Brionna.aho@gov.wa.gov, 360-628-3843
Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com, 719-671-1129
KEES retained to support Southcentral Foundation as it hires its next Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President
Nonprofit executive search firm KEES has been retained to find the next Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President (CFO/EVP) for Southcentral Foundation (SCF). Located in Anchorage, Alaska, and providing a wide range of health and related services, SCF is an Alaska Native-owned, nonprofit health care organization serving nearly 70,000 Alaska Native and American Indian people living in Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and nearby villages in the Anchorage Service Unit. Incorporated in 1982 under the Tribal authority of Cook Inlet Region, Inc., Southcentral Foundation is the largest of the CIRI nonprofits, employing more than 2,900 people across more than 80 programs.
KEES President and CEO, Heather Eddy, and Project Manager, Randi Blasutti, will lead the search in advance of the planned retirement of Lee Olson, CPA, SCF’s current Chief Financial Officer, who has served on the Southcentral Foundation leadership team since 1997.
As a premier search firm, KEES specializes in executive searches for top executive positions and has a successful history of placing accomplished nonprofit executives nationwide. This partnership further strengthens KEES’ history of success, commitment, and growth, as we continue to build meaningful relationships with nonprofit organizations across 40+ states and 55 local communities.
“As Southcentral Foundation embarks on this next chapter, we extend congratulations to Lee Olson. Lee’s strategic leadership has played a crucial role in shaping Southcentral Foundation, and his legacy will continue to impact the organization for years to come,” states Heather Eddy. “It is an honor to support Southcentral Foundation at this pivotal time as they enter a new phase of growth. We look forward to working closely with April Kyle and the Executive Leadership Team throughout this transition, ensuring that the next era of finance leadership will continue to advance SCF’s vital mission and support its essential work alongside the people of Alaska.”
Confidential inquiries, candidate recommendations, and additional details concerning this CFO search may be addressed directly to Randi Blasutti at rblasutti@kees2success.com.
ABOUT SOUTHCENTRAL FOUNDATION
Southcentral Foundation is an Alaska Native nonprofit health care organization established under the Tribal authority of Cook Inlet Region, Inc. in 1982 to improve the health and social conditions of Alaska Native people, enhance culture, and support individuals and families on their wellness journey. A wide range of health and wellness services are provided to over 70,000 Alaska Native and American Indian people living in the Municipality of Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and nearby villages.
The Alaska Native Medical Center offers comprehensive medical services and acute, specialty, primary, and behavioral health care for Alaska Native and American Indian people living in Alaska. The Anchorage Native Primary Care Center, known as an example of whole-system transformation, is part of the accredited Alaska Native Medical Center. SCF also owns and manages another large primary care center, 13 federally designated community health centers, a community mental health center, and a residential substance abuse treatment center. While perhaps best known for its primary care services, SCF’s customer-owned, relationship-based Nuka System of Care also offers pharmacy, outpatient behavioral health, dental, and optometry services, specialized substance abuse treatment, specialized services for youth and Elders, and healing programs such as the Family Wellness Warriors. A recipient of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2011 and 2017, SCF is a global leader among health care organizations, recognized for its Nuka System of Care. SCF has also partnered with Harvard Medical School Center for Primary Care. The Center studied SCF’s Nuka System of Care and offered leadership training and exchanges between the two organizations. HMS participated in SCF’s Core Concepts, and SCF took part in the Center’s InciteHealth initiative, which focuses on health care innovation and primary care redesign. To learn more, visit www.southcentralfoundation.com.
ABOUT KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams and dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A certified woman-owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of nonprofit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, compensation analysis, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
KEES Selected by DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform to Lead Executive Director Search
KEES, a premier national executive search firm dedicated to strengthening mission-driven organizations, is honored to renew its partnership with the DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform (DuPage Federation) in the search for the organization’s next Executive Director. This search follows the upcoming retirement of current Executive Director David Roth, who was successfully placed by KEES and began his tenure in 2019, leading the organization through a period of significant impact and progress.
A catalyst for systems-level change and cross-sector solutions, the DuPage Federation is a collaborative leader in advancing equitable access to human service needs across the DuPage region. Through initiatives focused on policy, advocacy, and capacity building, the Federation works to align public and nonprofit sectors to better meet the needs of diverse communities.
“We are honored to renew our collaboration with the DuPage Federation, an organization deeply aligned with our values,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “Our previous partnership in 2018 led to the successful appointment of David Roth, who has made tremendous contributions to DuPage Federation’s mission. We are excited to help identify the next leader who will champion equity and human services reform in the region.”
With deep expertise in executive search for nonprofits and public-serving organizations, KEES brings a strategic and inclusive approach to leadership recruitment. This renewed partnership with the DuPage Federation reflects a shared commitment to excellence, equity, and community service. KEES will work closely with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders to identify a visionary leader who will build on the organization’s strong foundation and guide its continued impact.
“We are incredibly grateful for David’s vision, integrity, and unwavering dedication over the past six years. While we will miss his day-to-day presence, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide our work for years to come,” comments Board Chair Theresa Forthofer, President and CEO of Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley. “We had a trusted partner in KEES during the 2018 search, and we are thrilled to renew that partnership for this next chapter.”
Confidential inquiries, candidate recommendations, and requests for information regarding the upcoming DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform Executive Director search can be directed to Megan Taylor at mtaylor@kees2success.com. Additional details will be shared soon.
About DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform
DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform is a collaboration of government and key community organizations that identifies ways a local community can address its human services needs using its own resources and resourcefulness. The DuPage Federation works to improve access to human services for all residents of DuPage County through policy, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. To learn more, visit DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform.
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A woman owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of nonprofit consulting services including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit KEES.
KEES provides services to strengthen leadership teams through Executive Search, Board Coaching, Leadership Development, Human Resources Consulting, Specialty/Interim staffing, and Philanthropy/Fundraising, all with a focus on DEIB and equity lenses. Focusing its partnerships on organizations propelling social change, KEES has partnered with local, regional, and national partners, including: College of DuPage, DuPage Pads, Naper Settlement/Naperville Heritage Society, Naperville Community Television (NCTV17), United Way of Will County, 360 Youth Services, and Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
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KEES Media Contact:
Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
DuPage Federation Media Contact: Evelyn Frankovich, efrankovich@dupagefederation.org
City of Paducah Selects KEES to Lead Executive Director Search for Historic Hotel Metropolitan Initiative
In a historic step toward advancing cultural heritage and community revitalization, the City of Paducah is partnering with KEES, a nationally recognized executive search and leadership consulting firm, to recruit the first-ever paid staff leader of the historic Hotel Metropolitan. This newly created and compensated position marks a significant milestone in honoring and continuing the work of Ms. Betty Dobson, the longtime community advocate, volunteer, and Founding Executive Director. Building upon decades of dedicated volunteer leadership by Ms. Dobson and the Upper Town Heritage Foundation Board, this role will help shape the next chapter of this vital cultural landmark. The position is part of a transformative initiative supported by a $1.34 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The City of Paducah secured the grant on behalf of the Upper Town Heritage Foundation and established a co-stewardship agreement with the Foundation, which owns the historic Hotel Metropolitan.
Now a museum and cultural space, the Hotel Metropolitan was built in 1909 by Maggie Steed as a safe haven for Black travelers during segregation. Featured in the Green Book, a vital travel guide for African Americans navigating Jim Crow America, the hotel hosted legendary guests including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Thurgood Marshall, and the Harlem Globetrotters.
Over the three-year grant period, the Upper Town Heritage Foundation will work to position the Hotel for a sustainable, vibrant future. The initiative includes new programming, increased staffing, facility improvements, and a stronger foundation for long-term success. This effort is also expected to enhance tourism and cultural preservation in the Kentucky region. This milestone partnership represents a major investment in Paducah’s strategic growth, with the incoming Executive Director playing a vital role in aligning the project with the city’s broader economic and community development goals.
“We are honored to partner with the City of Paducah and local leaders on this important historic hire,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “This Executive Director role is an extraordinary opportunity to lead with innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community impact and historical preservation.”
With 25+ years of experience, KEES specializes in placing mission-driven, transformational leaders across the nonprofit, civic, and public sectors. The firm is recognized for its ability to guide organizations through leadership transitions and build strong, values-aligned teams. Hotel Metropolitan and the City of Paducah selected KEES after reviewing several competitive proposals. This choice is a testament to KEES’s commitment to excellence, focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and its track record in creating new roles in partnership with a growing board, often related to a significant project expansion.
The national search for the Executive Director will launch in the coming weeks. Ideal candidates will bring strategic leadership, a passion for cultural preservation, and the ability to steward significant grant funding and community partnerships.
For confidential inquiries, candidate referrals, or more information about the Executive Director search, please contact Megan Taylor at mtaylor@kees2success.com.
About Hotel Metropolitan
Hotel Metropolitan Museum is a museum in historic hotel building in Paducah, Kentucky. The Hotel Metropolitan provided lodging for African Americans traveling through the area, was a stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, and was listed in The Negro Motorist Green Book. The Hotel Metropolitan Museum focuses on African American history and now houses a museum dedicated to its history. In 2021, the museum received a grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund to restore The Purple Room, and in 2024, it received a significant investment from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to upgrade hotel facilities and make significant investments in infrastructure.
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A certified woman owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of nonprofit consulting services including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit KEES.
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KEES Media Contact: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
Business Enterprise Council certifies KEES through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion
KEES is excited to announce it has earned formal certification as a Woman-Owned Business through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion through the Business Enterprise Program. This certification recognizes leadership, innovation, and dedication that have shaped the firm’s growth over the past twelve years, underscoring KEES’ unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Founded in 2013 by majority owner Heather Eddy, KEES was established as a natural extension of her leadership of the Executive Search division at a national consulting firm. KEES has steadily grown into a trusted name in its executive search presence with nonprofit and public sector organizations. The new certification adds a significant layer of credibility to our firm, and we are confident that it will open doors for new opportunities and collaborations while helping to amplify the voices and contributions of women in the business world. As a certified woman-owned business, KEES joins a growing network of female entrepreneurs striving to make an impact, support one another, and foster a more inclusive and sustainable future in the business community.
“This certification is a testament to the passion and resilience that have fueled our firm’s journey,” said Heather Eddy founder and CEO of KEES. “As a woman entrepreneur, I know firsthand the importance of creating spaces where women can thrive and lead. We have an incredible and diverse team, and I’m proud to lead a movement where women leaders are championed. I am also proud to partner and support other women-owned businesses.”
The woman-owned business certification also highlights KEES’ commitment to creating an empowering environment for its team, particularly women in leadership roles. As part of the certification process, the company had to meet rigorous standards, demonstrating its operational and financial stability, as well as its ongoing commitment to advancing diversity in the workplace.
With over 25 years of executive search experience, KEES has proudly served clients in 42 states and across 55+ distinct geographies. Our broad national reach and deep expertise allow us to support a wide range of organizations, many with missions centered on equity, access, and women’s leadership. We are especially proud that 97% of our CEO and Executive Director finalist pools include women, and 65% of our overall placements are women. These metrics further show our intentional approach to elevating diverse leadership and empowering women to step into their first CEO or executive role with confidence and support.
“We are deeply committed to creating meaningful impact, not just for our clients, but for our team and the broader community,” Eddy shared. “This certification is more than a credential; it’s a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. We’re honored to be recognized and ready to continue building a legacy of equity, access, and excellence.”
The Commission on Equity and Inclusion works to maximize supplier diversity by ensuring access to contracting opportunities through inclusive, fair, and equitable procurement processes while providing support, education, and mentorship to certified businesses. To learn more about the Commission on Equity and Inclusion, please visit their website.
Consider your professional service needs from a woman-owned small business. When you choose certified women-owned businesses, you’re not only supporting their success but also amplifying their impact.
For more information about KEES and its services, please visit www.kees2success.com.
Off the Street Club Names Vice President of Finance and Operations
Off the Street Club (OTSC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Alisa Brill as its first Vice President of Finance and Operations, effective June 3, 2025. In this newly created role, Brill will work closely with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors to help develop infrastructure and shape the future of OTSC. As a key member of the leadership team, she will bring a new perspective to Club operations to maintain the precious culture and strengthen financial processes and operations. Brill’s leadership will be essential as a key partner in shaping and implementing the organization’s vision, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
With over 30 years of broad experience, Brill is a respected financial and operational management leader across startups, non-profits, distribution, and manufacturing. She has a proven track record of boosting efficiency, building strong relationships, and leading successful transformations.
Brill most recently served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer for a startup social equity business located in Illinois. Before that, she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial and Administrative Officer at The Chicago Lighthouse and as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Medical Operations at PAWS Chicago. At each of these positions, she has consistently demonstrated the ability to streamline processes, implement technology solutions, and modernize accounting practices.
“On behalf of the entire Board, we are thrilled to welcome Alisa to the Off the Street Club family,” said Betsy Holden, President of the Board of OTSC. “Her extensive experience in financial and operational leadership, combined with her passion for our mission, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our operations and impact. Alisa’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence will help us create even more opportunities for the children and families we serve.”
“I am very excited to have Alisa join the Off the Street Club as our new Vice President of Finance and Operations,” said Arnett Morris, the Executive Director of Off The Street Club. “From the time of our initial discussions, when I learned that her father had come from our West Garfield Park neighborhood, I knew that Alisa would be a great fit for our OTSC family and that she cared deeply for those that we serve. She will provide tremendous support for me and the entire staff of the OTSC as we look forward to our next 125 years of growth and development.”
Off the Street Club partnered with KEES, a national executive search firm, to create and fill this new leadership role. After thoroughly assessing OTSC’s needs, KEES worked closely with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors to develop the role and evaluate both the position’s title and strategic scope. KEES conducted a comprehensive, Chicago-based search and selected Brill from a talented pool of top diverse finalists. This search further enhances KEES’s growing expertise and network in placing top-tier finance and operations executives in key leadership positions.
“I’m thrilled to join Off the Street Club because every child deserves the chance to live their best life, no matter where they begin,” said Brill. “The Club’s strong community roots and its dedication to giving kids a safe space to grow, dream, and simply be kids are truly inspiring. I am honored to help advance a mission that brings hope, safety, and opportunity to those who need it most.”
Brill holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is a Certified Public Accountant. When not working, she serves on the Board of Directors at Heartland Animal Shelter and supports Chicago French Bulldog Rescue, where she adopted her two Frenchies, Latke and Louie. She is an avid music lover and concert goer, enjoys biking and hiking, traveling, and most of all, spending time with family.
Randi Blasutti, Project Manager, shared, “Off the Street Club’s powerful mission to serve the community and make a lasting difference in the lives of so many youth is truly inspiring. KEES is proud to partner with such an impactful organization, and we are deeply grateful to the entire Board and OTSC team for their collaboration throughout the search process. Alisa’s leadership skills in working in start-up-like environments set her apart in the applicant pool. We look forward to positive growth and send our congratulations to all!”
About the Partners
Off The Street Club
Off the Street Club is Chicago’s oldest boys and girls club. It serves the youth in the West Garfield Park neighborhood, which is one of the city’s most challenging areas. For 125 years, OTSC has provided a safe-haven and positive influence for kids living in an environment often marked by poverty, gang activity, and limited opportunities. OTSC serves approximately 2,500 youth annually through after-school programs, scholarships, sports leagues, tutoring, mentoring, and leadership development initiatives. The club aims to provide positive alternatives to gang involvement and street life while helping kids develop skills that can lead to successful futures. For more information, visit www.otsc.org.
KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A certified woman-owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of nonprofit consulting services including executive search, leadership development, compensation analysis, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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OFF THE STREET CLUB MEDIA CONTACT: Arnett Morris, Arnett@otsc.org
KEES MEDIA CONTACT: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
KEES Executive Search Client Partner, Concordia Place, Welcomes Laurie Dayon as Vice President of Philanthropy and Marketing
Concordia Place, a vibrant mission-driven non-profit organization providing multigenerational programs including early learning, after-school, and teen leadership for Chicago communities, is proud to announce Laurie Dayon as its new Vice President of Philanthropy and Marketing, effective June 5, 2025.
Dayon joins Concordia Place with over 17 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, donor development, and strategic communications. Reporting to the President and CEO, she will oversee and manage all philanthropic and marketing efforts to support Concordia Place’s mission as ‘A Place for All’ by creating involved communities where all people can grow, learn, and thrive, regardless of income or background. Her responsibilities will include donor relations, annual and major gifts, campaigns, communications and social media, and special events, as well as corporate, foundation, planned giving, and select public funding initiatives.
“Laurie brings a powerful combination of passion, experience, and strategy to this role,” said Grace Araya, President and Chief Executive Officer of Concordia Place. “With her expertise in donor development, marketing strategy, and inclusive leadership, she is well-positioned to elevate Concordia Place’s visibility, deepen community partnerships, and secure the resources needed to expand our reach. We are thrilled to officially welcome Laurie to our team and look forward to the impact she will make.”
Prior to joining Concordia Place, Dayon served as the Executive Director of Advancement at Youth & Opportunity United (Y.O.U.), where she led all aspects of fundraising and marketing communications for programs that support youth aged 2 to 22. Her track record includes designing and implementing high-impact donor engagement strategies, securing major gifts, and overseeing communications, grant writing, and compliance. From 2007 to 2023, she served as the Founder and Executive Director of Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois, an organization that now serves over 1,100 girls each year.
“I’m honored to join the Concordia Place team and further a mission that deeply reflects my values and purpose. Youth development has been the cornerstone of my entire nonprofit career, and I believe every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential and build the confidence to take their next step. I was especially drawn to Concordia’s whole-child, whole-family model, which begins in early childhood and continues through adolescence, empowering youth to thrive. This work is more critical than ever, and I’m excited to be part of a community committed to creating vibrant futures for all children.”
Dayon holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Valparaiso University and a master’s degree in marketing communications from Roosevelt University. She remains deeply connected to her community, volunteering with a local food pantry and supporting organizations like CASA of McHenry County and Girls on the Run.
Concordia Place continued its partnership with KEES, a premier executive search firm, as its partner following a previously successful search that resulted in the placement of Grace Araya as President and CEO. After comprehensive recruitment efforts, Dayon emerged as the ideal candidate from a passionate, motivated, diverse, and talented pool of finalists.
“Laurie’s extensive experience across the nonprofit sector brings a deep understanding of strategic growth and stakeholder collaboration,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “This news reflects Concordia Place’s strong commitment to expanding its impact across Chicago, and she is well-positioned to strengthen the organization’s philanthropic reach, empower communities, and expand opportunities for youth, all while driving fundraising success. Congratulations to Grace and the team on this amazing next hire.”
About Concordia Place
Inspired by faith, Concordia Place envisions bigger and better tomorrows where rich diversity strengthens learning and growth for all. Putting faith into action through service to all neighbors, Concordia Place works to instill in them a sense of community, purpose, and possibility. Rooted in the Gospel message of God’s grace for all people, faith in Christ is a lens through which to view and evaluate all actions.
Concordia Place disrupts social inequities through access to top-quality education, enrichment, and hands-on experiences that include all children, teens, and families—together. By proactively addressing key social and economic needs, Concordia Place provides services that support well-being and maximize potential, which in turn helps communities thrive and remain vibrant. To learn more, visit www.concordiaplace.org.
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams and dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A certified woman-owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of nonprofit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, compensation analysis, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, visit www.kees2success.com.
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KEES Media Contact
Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
Concordia Place Media Contact
Katie Bernabei, kbernabei@concordiaplace.org
Naperville Community Television (NCTV17) Partners with KEES to Find its Next Executive Director
Nonprofit executive search firm KEES has been retained to find the next Executive Director for Naperville Community Television (NCTV17). Located in Naperville, IL, NCTV17 is a nonprofit organization that delivers community-centered journalism that reflects diverse voices to foster shared understanding and civic engagement. KEES President and CEO, Heather Eddy, and Project Manager, Randi Blasutti, will lead the search following the successful tenure and upcoming transition of the organization’s current leader, Liz Spencer.
Neveen Michael, Board President, shared, “We are so incredibly grateful for Liz’s leadership and contributions over the last two decades. Thanks to Liz—and the dynamic, talented team behind NCTV17—the station will continue to be Naperville’s trusted source for local information.”
As a premier executive search firm, KEES specializes in executive searches for top leadership positions such as Chief Executive Officer, President, and Executive Director roles and has a successful history of placing accomplished nonprofit executives nationwide, especially after the transition of long-tenured leaders or Founders. This partnership builds upon KEES’ history of executive search success and its established relationships within the Naperville community and the surrounding DuPage and Will Counties.
The Board has appointed a Search Committee, chaired by Kash Aqeel, and including Emily Cross Vayr, and Carolina Zavala. The committee will begin its work immediately and aims to announce the next Executive Director in the fall, allowing for a smooth transition as the departing leader moves on to her next chapter.
“On behalf of the entire Board, I would like to thank Liz for her vision and dedication during her tenure. We are committed to finding a world-class successor, and are grateful to have her continued leadership and guidance throughout this transition process,” said Kash Aqeel, Chair of the Search Committee for Naperville Community Television Board of Directors. “We are thrilled to have retained KEES as our search partner of choice, and look forward to working with their local leadership and team on this important search.”
“Congratulations to Liz Spencer as she embarks on this next personal chapter,” states Heather Eddy. “Liz’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in shaping NCTV17 into a trusted source of community-centered journalism. Her dedication to elevating diverse voices and fostering civic engagement has left an enduring legacy. It is an honor to have been selected as NCTV17’s partner, and we look forward to collaborating with the organization’s leadership during this transition as we continue advancing its vital mission.”
Confidential inquiries, candidate recommendations, and additional details concerning this upcoming Executive Director search may be addressed directly to Randi Blasutti at rblasutti@kees2success.com.
ABOUT NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY TELEVISION
Founded in 1987, Naperville Community Television (NCTV17) is an award-winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to telling local stories on air and online! The station delivers hyper-local news coverage of the people, places, and perspectives that matter to Naperville area residents. From a local perspective on national news to what’s being discussed at Naperville’s City Hall, Naperville News 17 keeps residents informed about what’s happening in their community.
The television station covers local elections, puts viewers curbside at parades, and showcases various community events, performances, and presentations. NCTV17 also produces talk shows and documentaries. On Naperville Sports Weekly, reporters cover both boys’ and girls’ varsity sports from all six local area high schools, bringing fans the highlights, interviews, and stories not seen anywhere else. To learn more, visit www.nctv17.org
ABOUT KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams and dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public sectors. A certified woman-owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of nonprofit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, compensation analysis, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY TELEVISION MEDIA CONTACT:
Kash Aqeel, kashif.aqeel@whiteeagletek.com
KEES MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com