News:
KEES Client Partner, Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center, taps Sylvia Zaldivar as its next Chief Executive Officer
Skokie, Illinois – Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center (TPBH), an outpatient mental health center that contributes to creating healthier, happier communities where people can be heard, cared for, and respected, has announced the appointment of Sylvia M. Zaldivar as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Sylvia will report to the TPBH Board of Directors and serve as the organization’s chief executive, responsible for leading its strategic vision, operational growth, and community impact. The executive search, led by KEES President and CEO Heather Eddy and Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti, reflects the success of the partnership between TPBH and KEES.
Sylvia most recently served as Executive Director of the Health Foundation of Cook County, where she successfully built the organization’s infrastructure, increased revenue through new projects and events, and deepened the foundation’s partnership with Cook County Health to increase opportunities and the impact of its programs. Sylvia’s work at the Health Foundation highlighted a focus on community-centered solutions, including awarding millions of dollars in scholarships to aspiring health professionals and launching a pilot program to provide paid internships to Community Health Workers.
“Throughout her career, Sylvia has stood with our neighbors on the margins – the poor, minorities, domestic violence survivors, justice involved families, immigrants and many who are at a low point in their lives,” said Randy Roberts, President of the TPBH Board of Directors. “Her unique blend of deep clinical experience and exceptional track record of leadership and stewarding millions in resources to create transformational initiatives makes her an excellent match to guide Turning Point Behavioral Health into its next chapter. We are confident that Sylvia’s lived experience as the proud daughter of Cuban refugees, her lifelong service to our neighbors, and her passion for community-centered solutions will deeply enrich all those we serve and strengthen our impact.”
Sylvia brings a strong track record of success in both nonprofits and philanthropy and has served as the inaugural executive director for several organizations including The Lake County Community Foundation and Maestro Cares Foundation. Before the Health Foundation of Cook County, Sylvia served as WINGS first Chief Development Officer, leading a team that significantly increased revenue, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, a critical time for an agency serving survivors of domestic violence. Her extensive leadership history also includes seven years working abroad in Latin America as a consultant and senior advisor to several nonprofits, foundations and families, and leading the creation and launch of The Chicago Community Trust’s first identity-focused funds, The African American Legacy, and Nuestro Futuro. Before her roles in executive leadership, Sylvia was a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and began her career as a Juvenile Probation Officer in Cook County, IL.
“Returning to the behavioral health space in a clinical setting feels like a full circle moment,” said Sylvia. “Turning Point plays a critical role in the communities I grew up in and love, and I am honored to lead the organization at such a pivotal time, and to continue the legacy established over 30 years by Ann Raney. I am excited to work alongside TPBH’s incredibly dedicated staff to ensure our communities always have a safe, reliable place to turn for care.”
Sylvia holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mundelein College and a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology. She has a Graduate Certificate from Loyola University in Nonprofit Sector and Philanthropy, and was one of the state’s first clinicians to achieve licensure in 1992.
The search was conducted in partnership with KEES, a premier executive search firm specializing in mission-driven organizations and nonprofit CEO search. The process attracted a highly talented and diverse pool of candidates from across the nation. The search was led by Board President Randy Roberts and supported by Search Committee members Nives Bernardi, Brian Clarke, Marge Kray, and David Rosario. Sylvia will come in to lead forward after Ann Raney, who served as CEO for a quarter of a century, and was with Turning Point for over 3 decades, retired on June 30, 2026.
“Sylvia is a dynamic executive leader who brings an understanding of both the funding and operational sides of the nonprofit sector, as well as clinical mental health,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEOof KEES. “Her extensive history of leading organizations through key growth transitions and forging meaningful stakeholder relationships makes Sylvia the perfect match for Turning Point’s mission. The KEES team proudly congratulates both Turning Point and Sylvia on this exciting new chapter of leadership and community impact.”
About Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center
Established in 1969, Turning Point Behavioral Health serves diverse communities throughout metropolitan Chicago. The agency provides outpatient therapy for children, adults, and families, case management, community support groups for adults with severe and chronic mental illness, a residential program, and free crisis services. Turning Point Behavioral Health is conveniently located close to public transportation. Turning Point Behavioral Health has consistently been awarded the highest rating from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). For more information, please visit www.tpoint.org
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a certified woman-owned nonprofit 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. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Media Contact: Jennifer “Jen” Sultz, jsultz@tpoint.org
KEES Media Contact: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
KEES Executive Search Client Partner, SHALVA, welcomes Elisa Quinlan as its Senior Director of Development
SHALVA, the nation’s first independent domestic violence agency founded to serve the Jewish community, has announced the appointment of Elisa Quinlan as its Senior Director of Development, effective June 29, 2026. Elisa will serve as a strategic partner to the Executive Director and lead a comprehensive fundraising program spanning major gifts, individual giving, foundations, corporate partnerships, and events. The executive search, led by KEES’ Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti and Project Manager Haley Becerril, reflects the successful partnership between SHALVA and KEES.
Elisa most recently served as the Director of Development at Northwestern University’s Block Museum of Art, where she oversaw all development activities and exceeded the museum’s $26 million campaign goal. As a strategic senior leader, she built critical donor pipelines, spearheaded a successful 550-piece art acquisition campaign, and oversaw board recruitment and development.
“We are thrilled to welcome a visionary and committed development leader to our team,” said SHALVA’s Executive Director, Marlene Copeland. “Beyond Elisa’s philanthropic experience, she brings a genuine dedication to advancing our mission and supporting our community, making her a natural addition to our team. We are thrilled to welcome her and thank the KEES team for their rigorous and thoughtful approach throughout the search process.”
Before joining the Block Museum, Elisa served as Director of Development for the University of Illinois College of Medicine. As a major gift officer supporting the university’s $750 million campaign, Elisa led fundraising efforts for the psychiatry and neurology departments. She developed and executed major gift strategies and cultivated relationships with individuals, foundations, and corporations to secure philanthropic support for medical education, research, and patient care.
“I am incredibly honored to step into this role with an organization that does such vital, impactful work in the community,” said Elisa Quinlan. “Knowing that free and confidential resources exist to help people is very important, and I appreciate the unique focus on the Jewish community. I am deeply honored to leverage my development experience to champion this vital work and ensure these services remain accessible to all who need them.”
Elisa holds an MBA from Babson College and a Bachelor’s in Communications from Northwestern University. She is also a member of the Board for Makom Solel Lakeside Congregation.
SHALVA partnered with KEES, a leading executive search firm for nonprofit and public sector leadership, in January to help find their next Development leader. In partnership with SHALVA’s Executive Director, Marlene Copeland, a comprehensive search was launched, and Quinlan was selected from a talented pool of finalists.
“Elisa is an incredibly accomplished leader who brings loyalty and dedication to the communities she serves,” said Randi Blasutti, Senior Project Manager of KEES. “Her sophisticated fundraising approach, paired with an authentic, heartfelt passion for SHALVA’s unique mission, makes Elisa the ideal strategic leader for this next chapter of growth.”
About SHALVA
Founded in 1986, SHALVA is the oldest independent Jewish domestic abuse agency in the United States. An independent Illinois nonprofit (501c3), SHALVA provides confidential counseling, supportive services, referrals, and community education to help break the cycle of domestic abuse and promote safety, dignity, and healing for anyone in need. All SHALVA therapists are Illinois-Certified Domestic Violence Professionals and Certified Clinical Trauma Professionals, delivering high-quality, trauma-informed care. To learn more, please visit https://shalvacares.org.
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a certified woman-owned nonprofit 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. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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SHALVA MEDIA CONTACT: Mandy Hakimi, mhakimi@shalvacares.org
KEES MEDIA CONTACT: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
Giving USA: Data informs Governance Best Practices
Leadership decisions become Best-Practice when informed by data. KEES believes every Board should know this information and use it in strategic decision-making. Contact us to learn more.
Concordia Place Selects Nathaniel Viets-VanLear as Inaugural VP of Youth Development and Impact Through Executive Search with KEES
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 Nathaniel Viets-VanLear as its inaugural Vice President of Youth Development and Impact.
Reporting to President and CEO Grace Araya, this newly created role is designed to elevate impact by strengthening and expanding Concordia Place’s high-quality youth and Out-of-School (OST) programs. Viets-VanLear will provide strategic leadership for the organization’s youth programming, turning bold vision into measurable outcomes that change young people’s lives. The executive search, led by KEES CEO and President Heather Eddy and Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti, reflects the continued success of the ongoing partnership between Concordia Place and KEES.
Viets-VanLear most recently served as the Senior Director of Operations at My Block, My Hood, My City, where he was the principal strategic advisor to the CEO and maintained overarching operational and programmatic oversight of the organization. Most notably over the past year, he formalized the organization’s strategic infrastructure by establishing its very first Theory of Change and implementing a rigorous OKR (Objectives and Key Results) goals framework.
“We are thrilled to welcome Nathaniel to the team as our new Vice President of Youth Development and Impact,” said Grace Araya, President and CEO. “Nathaniel brings a powerful blend of operational excellence and practical strategy, perfectly suited to drive our Out of School Time programming. His proven track record of scaling impact and disrupting social inequities makes him an ideal leader to ensure our youth programs remain competitive and poised for growth.”
Viets-VanLear attended Concordia Place programming as a young child in its early days. Additionally, Viets-VanLear brings experience from multiple roles at both Howard and Evanston Community Center and with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
“Having come full circle as a former student in Concordia Place programs, an after-school teacher, and now a leader, I know firsthand the power of this organization’s impact on the community,” said Nathaniel. “Building on the success of a program that is already changing the lives of hundreds of teens each year is exciting. I want to magnify its secret sauce and help tell the story of its success in a way that the community will invest in. I look forward to pushing this mission forward at a critical time for the organization.”
Nathaniel holds a Bachelor’s in American Racial Studies from St. Olaf College and a Master’s degree in Social Sector Leadership from the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. He also received an Obama Scholar credential for completing a social impact and networking program through the University of Chicago, Columbia College, and the Obama Foundation.
Concordia Place first partnered with KEES, a leading executive search firm specializing in nonprofit CEO search, executive recruitment, leadership transition, and public sector leadership, in 2023. Since then, KEES has helped secure multiple key leadership roles supporting the new CEO in truly building a team, ensuring the organization is equipped with dynamic talent to advance its mission.
“Nathaniel brings a lifelong connection to the Concordia Place mission alongside 15 years of dedicated nonprofit sector experience rooted in youth development,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “We were proud to partner with Grace Araya on this pivotal, new role for Concordia Place, which evolved thoughtfully throughout the search process to meet the organization’s current and future needs. Nathaniel’s blend of lived experience, strategic agility, and deep operational expertise will be a tremendous asset to build on the mission and culture of Concordia Place.”
About Concordia Place
Inspired by faith, Concordia Place envisions bigger and better tomorrows where rich diversity strengthens learning and growth for all. Since 1981, Concordia Place has been disrupting social inequities through access to top-quality education, enrichment, and hands-on experiences that include children, teens, and families – together. By proactively addressing key social and economic needs, Concordia Place is where children and families go to learn, grow, and thrive. To learn more, visit www.concordiaplace.org.
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a certified woman-owned nonprofit 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. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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CONCORDIA PLACE MEDIA CONTACT: Laurie Dayon, ldayon@concordiaplace.org
KEES MEDIA CONTACT: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
Hotel Metropolitan Welcomes Dr. MarTeze Hammonds as Executive Director
The Board of Directors of the Upper Town Heritage Foundation, the organization responsible for preserving the Hotel Metropolitan, has unanimously approved the hiring of Dr. MarTeze Hammonds as its Executive Director effective June 1, 2026. This marks a historic milestone as Hotel Metropolitan’s first paid staff position. The Hotel Metropolitan, located at 724 Oscar Cross Avenue, is a site dedicated to honoring African American accomplishments, innovation, and history.
“On behalf of the Upper Town Heritage Foundation Board of Directors, we welcome Dr. MarTeze Hammonds as the new Executive Director of the Hotel Metropolitan,” said Ms. Betty Dobson. “His love of community and African American history will help him to be the perfect leader for the Hotel Metropolitan. We are confident in Dr. Hammonds’ ability to take the Hotel Metropolitan to new heights.”
“I live and breathe Black history. Preserving and elevating the stories, achievements, and cultural contributions of African Americans—particularly those rooted in Kentucky—is not simply my profession; it is my life’s calling,” said Dr. MarTeze Hammonds. “Recently, I had the privilege of speaking at a statewide conference where I highlighted Kentucky’s rich and often overlooked Black history. As Executive Director of the Hotel Metropolitan African American Museum, I look forward to working closely with our Board of Directors, community stakeholders, and supporters to expand the museum’s reach, strengthen its impact, and ensure that the remarkable legacy of the Hotel Metropolitan continues to educate, inspire, and empower future generations.”
Dr. Hammonds is a Western Kentucky native with more than 15 years of experience across higher education, Fortune 500 corporations, nonprofit organizations, and community boards. His career reflects a consistent pattern of driving organizational change and strengthening programs that support access, equity, and community engagement. Dr. Hammonds holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, a Master of Science in Organizational Communication, Master of Science in Human Development and Leadership, and a Bachelor of Science in Theatre from Murray State University. Dr. Hammonds is also currently working towards an Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Services from John A Gupton College, which is set to be completed this Summer.
The Hotel Metropolitan has received national recognition and support, including funding from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund to restore the iconic Purple Room. The newly created Executive Director position is part of a transformative initiative to expand staffing, enhance programming, and strengthen the hotel’s role as a cultural landmark and a driver of tourism and educational opportunities.
In 2024, the City of Paducah secured a $1.34 million grant from the Mellon Foundation on behalf of the Upper Town Heritage Foundation to invest in the hotel’s future. In 2025, the City and the Upper Town Heritage Foundation approved a three-year co-stewardship agreement to define the public-private partnership between the entities, including the City’s financial support.
Upper Town Heritage Foundation’s Board of Directors, in partnership with the City of Paducah, retained KEES as its executive search partner. A comprehensive and multi-phase search process was launched, attracting a large pool of national and regional candidates. The Interview Committee, led by Betty Dobson, Paducah Mayor George Bray, and Board President Rosa Scott, ultimately selected Dr. MarTeze Hammonds from an exemplary group of top finalists.
“Hotel Metropolitan is far more than a historic landmark; it is an essential part of the region and specifically, Paducah’s cultural and artistic identity. Partnering with the Upper Town Heritage Foundation Board and the City of Paducah is an honor, and we are grateful to all those involved for their collaboration and commitment throughout the process. Meaningful progress toward sharing the future of Hotel Metropolitan, as a result of this search, is inspiring,” said Founder and President/CEO of KEES Heather Eddy. “We are excited to see Dr. Hammonds and the Board lead the hotel into its next chapter. Congratulations, all!”
About the Partners
Hotel Metropolitan
Located in Paducah, Kentucky’s historic Upper Town neighborhood, the Hotel Metropolitan is a symbol of African American history, resilience, and culture. Built in 1908 by Maggie Steed, an African American entrepreneur, the hotel provided safe lodging for Black travelers during the Jim Crow era. Listed in The Negro Motorist Green Book and a stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, it hosted notable guests including Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Thurgood Marshall, Duke Ellington, and the Harlem Globetrotters.
More than a hotel, the Metropolitan served as a welcoming gathering place for Black travelers, entertainers, athletes, and civic leaders at a time when segregation limited access to basic accommodations and services. Although it ceased operating as a hotel in 1996, its legacy endures thanks in large part to local historian Betty Dobson (“Ms. Betty”), whose efforts helped save the property from demolition.
To learn more about Hotel Metropolitan, please visit their Facebook page.
KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that buildsdiverse teams and dynamic leaders in the nonprofit and public entity 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 www.kees2success.com.
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UPPER TOWN HERITAGE FOUNDATION MEDIA CONTACT:
Betty Dobson, bdobson.hotelmetro@currently.com
KEES MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
KEES Client Partner, Mutual Ground, taps Sylvia Acosta Chávez as its next CEO
Mutual Ground, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and substance abuse, has announced the appointment of Sylvia Acosta Chávez as its Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2026. Sylvia will report to the Mutual Ground Board of Directors and serve as the organization’s chief executive, responsible for leading its strategic vision, operational growth, and community impact. The executive search, led by KEES CEO Heather Eddy and Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti, reflects the success of the partnership between Mutual Ground and KEES.
“The Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome a leader who embodies both the professional expertise and the connection to the Aurora community necessary to guide Mutual Ground into its next chapter,” said Board President Dr. Renae Franiuk. “With a proven track record of organizational growth and a deep-seated dedication to survivor-centered services, Sylvia is uniquely positioned to lead our team and advocate for the individuals and families who rely on us every day.”
Sylvia’s leadership journey at the Spanish Community Center (SCC; Joliet, IL) began in 2018 as Family Advocacy Center Director, where she strengthened and stabilized support services by implementing quality assurance systems, enhancing compliance frameworks, and overseeing critical emergency assistance efforts for families across Will and Kankakee Counties. She later advanced to Executive Director, leading SCC through a period of transformational growth that more than doubled the organization’s operating budget while expanding integrated services in early childhood education, adult education, social services, and immigration services across multiple communities, creating a stronger continuum of care for families. Throughout her leadership, she has led initiatives focused on improving equity, addressing service gaps, and increasing access to culturally responsive care. Sylvia brings extensive experience in public systems leadership, fostering cross-sector partnerships, navigating complex regulatory environments, and translating strategy into meaningful community impact.
“I am incredibly honored to lead Mutual Ground, an organization whose mission is rooted in safety, healing, and hope,” said Sylvia. “Stepping into the CEO role is deeply meaningful because my connection to Mutual Ground is also personal. As a child, I received support through the organization following experiences of domestic violence and sexual abuse. During one of the most difficult times in my life, I was met with compassion, dignity, and genuine care. That experience shaped both who I am and the leader I strive to be. It showed me that the impact of an organization extends far beyond the services it provides— it can help people feel understood, valued, and empowered to move forward. I am humbled by the opportunity to work alongside the team, Board, and community partners as we build on Mutual Ground’s legacy and continue advancing comprehensive programs and resources for survivors.”
Sylvia holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Political Science from Aurora University. She serves on the 12th Judicial and Governor J. B. Pritzker Domestic Violence Fatality Review teams and is fluent in Spanish with professional experience in interpretation. She actively supports local community missions, serving on the boards of Guardian Angel Community Services, Zonta Club of Joliet, and Greater Joliet Area YMCA.
Mutual Ground partnered with KEES, a leading executive search firm for nonprofit and public sector leadership, in December 2025. The process attracted a highly talented and diverse pool of candidates. The search was led by Board President and Search Chair Dr. Renae Franiuk (Aurora University), supported by Search Committee members Marlene Deck (Compass Mortgage, retired), Neil Harnen (TrustBank Wealth Management), Jessica Moreno (Waubonsee Community College), and Jessica Phillips (Ulta Beauty).
“Sylvia’s leadership through organizational transitions and deep community involvement stood out as exceptional,” said Heather Eddy. “Her ability to stabilize complex programs while driving strategic growth makes her an ideal fit for Mutual Ground. KEES was honored to partner closely with the Board throughout the nonprofit CEO search process to identify a leader whose personal and professional values aligned with the organization’s mission of safety and healing. Congratulations to Sylvia and the entire Mutual Ground team on this exciting chapter.”
About Mutual Ground
Founded in 1975, Mutual Ground is the premier provider of victim services and substance use treatment in Southern Kane and Kendall Counties. Mutual Ground’s mission is to create a safe environment where individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and substance use can reclaim their power. They support the healing of our community through education, awareness, and life-changing services as a commitment to equity for all. To learn more, visit https://mutualground.org.
About KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a certified woman-owned nonprofit executive search firm dedicated to creating diverse teams with dynamic leadership in the nonprofit and public sectors. Known for its work in leadership transition and succession planning, nonprofit CEO and Founder/Founder-like leadership searches, and compensation analysis, we offer a comprehensive range of services spanning executive search, leadership development, compensation analysis, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
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Mutual Ground Media Contact: Betsy Santana, bsantana@mutualground.org
KEES Media Contact: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
KEES Executive Search Client Partner, Envision Unlimited, names Theresa Dear as Chief Human Resources Officer
Envision Unlimited, an Illinois provider of programs, services, and supportive housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs, announced Theresa Dear as its Chief Human Resources Officer. Partnering with Chief Executive Officer Mark McHugh and the executive leadership team to support efforts to ensure a best-in-class culture and a workplace of choice. The executive search, led by KEES President and CEO Heather Eddy and Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti, reflects the continued success of the partnership between Envision Unlimited and KEES.
Prior to joining Envision Unlimited, Theresa served as Chief People Officer at Vivent Health, where she transformed HR into a high-performing, technology-driven, people-focused department across seven states and 18 locations. Theresa successfully decreased employee attrition rate, drove diversity and engagement initiatives, oversaw seven mergers, and guided the organization through change and leadership transitions, strengthening culture, streamlining processes, and optimizing benefits.
“Theresa is a strategic executive with a proven track record in driving high-impact results across nonprofits and complex organizations,” said Envision Unlimited CEO Mark McHugh. “Since joining Envision Unlimited, her expertise in strategy, engagement, talent, human resources, and her insight as a thought partner has already brought strength to our team and organization during this unexpected transition. We are thrilled to have her on board and sincerely thank the KEES team for their thoughtful and deliberate approach throughout the search process.”
Prior to Vivent Health, Theresa held senior HR and consulting leadership roles at HR4Non-Profits Inc., Metropolitan Family Services, and Verizon Communications, working with national nonprofits, government agencies, and large corporate organizations. She has also served in leadership and advisory roles with numerous organizations, including nine years as a Board Chairman and 20 years as a National Board Member of the NAACP, where she chaired the national CEO search committee. Additionally, she has contributed as a facilitator at Northwestern University and as an Adjunct Professor at Keller Graduate School.
“I am inspired by Envision Unlimited’s mission to promote choice, independence, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities,” said Theresa. “Growing up in foster care, I witnessed the critical support that nonprofits provide to those in need, which shaped my passion for giving back and driving meaningful change. This work aligns with my leadership experience and role as CHRO, where I aim to identify, discover, and reimagine how services can be improved, measured, and translated into more successful and satisfying experiences for members. I am proud to be part of this talented team and to help advance programs and services that empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.”
Theresa holds a Master of Science in Industrial Relations and Human Resources Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Organizational Development from Loyola University Chicago.
Envision Unlimited first partnered with KEES, a leading executive search firm for nonprofit leadership, in 2020. Since then, KEES has helped fill multiple key leadership roles, strengthening its commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and advancing Envision Unlimited’s mission to provide quality services that promote choice, independence, and inclusion for its members.
“Theresa is an inspirational human resources leader,” said Heather Eddy. “We were proud to partner with Envision Unlimited on this search and deeply value their role as a leading organization in the community. Since stepping into her role as Chief Human Resources Officer, Theresa has already brought strong expertise and leadership to the team, and we congratulate Envision Unlimited on this exciting announcement.”
About the Partners
Envision Unlimited
Envision Unlimited is a full spectrum of care organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as mental health challenges from infants to senior citizens, regardless of race, gender, religion, or ability to pay. Our mission is to provide quality services that promote choice, independence and inclusion for our members. Our innovative services include an array of community living options, novel day programs, community employment support, respite for families, mental health services, foster care for children with disabilities, and more. Today, we support 5,000 members and their support networks in Northern and Central Illinois. Through outreach, evaluation and service planning, we help thousands of people become part of the community, transition to safe homes and access support services so they can live their lives to their greatest potential. To learn more, please visit www.envisionunlimited.org.
KEES
KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a certified woman-owned nonprofit 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. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.
As a leading nonprofit executive search firm, KEES specializes in placing top executives and has a strong track record of connecting accomplished leaders with mission-driven organizations nationwide. This partnership reflects KEES’ ongoing commitment to building meaningful relationships and supporting nonprofits that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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ENVISION UNLIMITED MEDIA CONTACT: Brandi Adams badams@envisionunlimited.org
KEES MEDIA CONTACT: Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com
Leadership, Calling, and the Future of Mission-Driven Talent
A Conversation with Major (Dr.) Terry Masango, Training Principal, The Salvation Army College for Officer Training at Crestmont, The Salvation Army USA Western Territory.
In recognition of the recent National Salvation Army Week, KEES spoke with Major Terry Masango of The Salvation Army about leadership, hiring, mentorship, and the evolving future of mission-driven talent. His reflections highlight hiring, leadership development, and the evolving future of nonprofit talent.
Beginning July 1, Major Terry Masango will officially assume the role of Territorial Program Secretary for The Salvation Army USA Western Territory, with the rank of Lt. Colonel.
1. What initially drew you to The Salvation Army, and how has your perspective evolved?
His story begins with a legacy. He is a fifth-generation Salvationist raised in a family deeply rooted in The Salvation Army. His early life in Zimbabwe and exposure to the movement’s global presence shaped his identity long before leadership felt like a vocation. Although he once aspired to become a medical doctor, his path shifted through Salvation Army education and a relocation to Spokane.
His first appointment in Renton, WA, confirmed his calling through hands-on service in food banks and community programs. His later partnership with KEES came at a critical time in 2021, when he served as Divisional Secretary for Business. During a period marked by workforce shortages and hiring challenges, partnering with KEES became an important part of maintaining leadership continuity. “We needed the help. It was a time when people were reluctant to enter the workforce, and demand was extremely high. Engaging KEES was very important for us.”
(Pictured Majors Terry and Rutendo Masango)
2. What qualities matter most when hiring mission-driven leaders?
For Masango, character outweighs credentials, as he prioritizes integrity, values alignment, reliability, consistency, and a genuine willingness to serve.
Technical skills can be taught, but values cannot. One interview question he often uses is, “Why are people poor?” The answer reveals worldview, empathy, and approach to serving others.
3. What workforce trends are you seeing?
He sees a generation driven by purpose over pay, with younger professionals seeking meaningful work that creates visible impact. People are looking for meaningful work, not just a paycheck.
At the same time, he observes growing pressure across multiple levels of leadership. Artificial intelligence continues to be a major challenge, not only for younger workers but also for senior leaders, who are asking whether they can keep pace with change and remain effective in an evolving environment. Many senior leaders are also wrestling with broader economic concerns, including retirement readiness, investment decisions, and increased attention to benefits such as 401(k) structures and matching programs, topics that were not as central to conversations just a few years ago.
He also notes that AI is reshaping education and formation. Students are increasingly challenged in areas such as writing and critical thinking, which is leading educators to rethink outcomes and assignments. In response, there is a growing shift toward in-class learning, collaborative work, and alternative assessments that better measure understanding and reduce overreliance on long-form take-home writing.
4. How has mentorship shaped your leadership?
Mentorship is intentional and shared. Rather than relying on one mentor, he builds an “advisory board” that includes a retired Salvation Army leader, external mentors, and younger leaders he also mentors, creating ongoing learning in both directions.
5. What stands out as a key accomplishment?
He highlights both personal and professional milestones. On a personal level, he reflects on initially wanting to become a medical doctor. That path did not unfold traditionally, but after coming to the United States and being supported by The Salvation Army, he was able to complete his AA, BA, Master’s Degree, and Doctoral Degree. “To me, it’s one of those personal accomplishments that I was still able to become a doctor. My family and my background don’t line up with where I ended up. My parents didn’t own a home. I had the drive to do this. I wanted to be a doctor, and I am today.” He also reflects on how closely his work connects to lived experience, having experienced poverty and homelessness growing up in Zimbabwe, which informs his leadership today.
Professionally, he points to a $42–62 million Pasadena project that integrated a multi-story facility, a food distribution center, and 65 units of affordable housing.
6. What advice do you give emerging leaders?
His advice is to find a mentor early, practice patience with yourself and others, protect yourself from burnout, and define your “true north.” He recalls a moment of physical exhaustion that reinforced the importance of rest and boundaries. He adds, “My faith is my true north. It keeps me grounded. I read the Bible. I go to church. Find out what that is for you. Don’t just go with the wind wherever it takes you. Have your true north.”
Closing Reflection & Future of Talent
Major Terry Masango’s reflections point to a consistent theme. Mission-driven organizations are strengthened when they expand opportunity, address unconscious bias, and invest in potential. He emphasizes that individuals are often overlooked not for a lack of ability, but for a lack of opportunity. He reflects, “People gave me opportunities based on potential, not what I had already done, and then I was able to prove what I could do.”
He also highlights his doctoral research on female leadership within The Salvation Army, underscoring the importance of widening access, strengthening equitable pathways, and ensuring leadership better reflects the communities it serves. He notes, “In Fortune 500 companies, the number of female leaders remains low,” and expresses a desire to see that number increase while also creating more opportunities for women in leadership roles.
These insights reflect the realities facing mission-driven organizations today, including change, complexity, and the need for values-based leadership that develops people as intentionally as it directs mission.
At KEES, these conversations reflect the importance of thoughtful partnership in strengthening nonprofit leadership pipelines and supporting organizations like The Salvation Army as they navigate growth, change, and long-term mission sustainability.
To learn more about The Salvation Army USA Western Territory, visit: The Salvation Army
Celebrating National Salvation Army Week: A Conversation with Homer Smith
KEES celebrates National Salvation Army Week, we are honored to spotlight leaders whose work continues to strengthen communities and change lives. One such leader is Homer Smith, Regional Director of Development of The Salvation Army Southwest Division, whose 11-year tenure with The Salvation Army reflects a deep commitment to faith, relationships, and mission-driven impact.
From meaningful donor connections to transformative capital campaigns, Homer’s journey highlights the heart of fundraising and the evolving role of philanthropy in creating long-term solutions for individuals and families.
For Homer Smith, The Salvation Army has always been personal. Raised in The Salvation Army church, he played in the band, attended services with his family, and later served as an officer alongside his wife in Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois. After a 20-year career pivot, returning to the organization felt like a full-circle moment.
“I’ve known The Salvation Army all my life,” he shared. “Coming back allowed me to focus on the good The Army does every day while bringing my faith experience into a new leadership role.”
Over the past decade, Homer’s focus has deepened around social services and long-term solutions, including vocational training, financial literacy, housing support, and pathways toward self-sufficiency.
The Power of Relationships
One of the most meaningful parts of Homer’s career comes from relationships with donors like Art and Naomi, whom he met when they were in their late eighties. The relationship grew far beyond philanthropy when Art and Naomi’s family invited Homer and his wife to attend the couples’ 75th wedding anniversary party (pictured). A few years later, Homer was asked to conduct the funeral service for Naomi and subsequently participate in the funeral service for Art.
“That relationship was one of the highlights of my time here,” he reflected. “To pray, to serve them, and walk alongside their family meant so much. This experience captured the essence of my evolution over the last decade as a professional fundraiser.” Today, Homer continues to focus on helping people at their point of need, whether it is the clients served by The Salvation Army or the donors who make it possible.
Their daughter remains in touch today, a lasting reminder of the depth of those connections.
Moments That Reinforce the Mission
Several donor experiences have stayed with him. One involved a skeptical retired donor named Bill who, after learning more about The Salvation Army’s addiction recovery work, made a significant gift to a women’s shelter project. During a tour, Bill quietly sat in the lobby, looked around, and began to weep, moved by how his gift would help others to overcome their addictions.
“That moment reminded me exactly why this work matters,” Homer said.
Another highlight has been a nearly 10-million-dollar capital campaign for a new family services center, which ultimately grew far beyond expectations even during the uncertainty of the pandemic. A key part of that success came through an unexpected and deeply meaningful relationship with a donor who lives a very simple life but has an exceptionally generous heart. Her quiet, consistent giving and extraordinary trust in the mission have helped bring the campaign almost to the finish line. Looking ahead, Homer is especially excited about expanding programs that support long-term self-sufficiency, including vocational training for families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Advice for Future Fundraisers
Homer offers two key lessons for those entering mission-driven development work.
- • First, stay close to the people being served. “You have to keep seeing the people behind the mission,” he said.
- • Second, trust the process. “Do the work faithfully and do not get consumed by results,” he advised. “Meaningful impact takes time.”
- • He also encourages professionals to stay in roles long enough to see lasting impact take shape.
Faith at the Center
Homer credits mentors who shaped his approach to development work, including Danny Lacey, who taught him to prioritize seeing donors as people first, and Geoff Gephart, who helped him grow in confidence as a fundraiser.
He also reflected on meeting Heather Eddy of KEES in the Detroit airport, a conversation that ultimately led to his current role. “I had no idea what that meeting would become,” he said. “I am incredibly grateful for her support and advocacy. It was an opportunity and a blessing.”
At the heart of his leadership is faith, both for Homer and his wife, Robin (pictured).
“As a follower of Jesus, my faith is foundational to me,” he shared. “It is a blessing to encourage others, support donors, and help people through meaningful moments.”
As KEES honors National Salvation Army Week, Homer’s story reflects the heart of the mission across The Salvation Army Southwest Division, where faith, relationships, and service come together to meet real needs and build long-term solutions for individuals and families. His journey is a reminder that lasting impact is not only measured in campaigns or dollars raised, but in lives changed through consistent presence, compassion, and trust. To learn more about the Southwest Division’s ongoing mission to serve communities across the region and support The Salvation Army’s work in Southern Nevada, visit Support The Salvation Army in Southern Nevada
Business Enterprise Council Renews KEES WBE Certification Through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion
KEES is proud to announce the renewal of its certification as a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE/WOB) through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion as part of the Business Enterprise Program (BEP). This continued certification reaffirms KEES’ commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and recognizes the firm’s sustained leadership and impact.
Founded in 2013 by President and CEO Heather Eddy, KEES has grown into a trusted national partner in executive search and consulting for nonprofit and public sector organizations. As a recertified WBE/WOB, KEES remains part of a strong network of women-owned businesses that drive impact and advance inclusive leadership.
“This recertification reflects both where we have been and where we are going,” said Eddy. “We remain committed to creating opportunities for women leaders and supporting the broader WBE/WOB community.”
The recertification process requires organizations to demonstrate ongoing operational excellence, financial stability, and a clear commitment to advancing diversity. KEES is proud to meet these standards year after year.
With more than 26 years of executive search experience, KEES has served clients in 42 states and across 55+ geographies. Notably, 97% of CEO and Executive Director finalist pools include women, and 65% of placements are women, underscoring KEES intentional focus on elevating diverse leadership.
The Commission on Equity and Inclusion works to expand supplier diversity by ensuring equitable access to contracting opportunities and providing support to certified businesses.
If your goals include expanding partnerships with WBE/WOB firms, we invite you to consider KEES for your professional service needs and join us in advancing a more inclusive business ecosystem.
For more information, please get in touch with us here.