Craft Alliance, a visual arts non-profit located in St. Louis, MO, and nationally recognized as one of the premier craft organizations in the country, announced Bryan W. Knicely as its next Executive Director. Knicely will serve as Craft Alliance’s brand ambassador in a growing artist-minded community and will be responsible for the leadership and management of the organization with a special emphasis on resource development, community engagement, and focus on long-term strategic growth and performance. Assuming his new role effective June 26, 2023, Knicely joins Craft Alliance following the planned retirement of the organization’s departing leader, Mark Witzling.

Knicely is a well-respected arts administrator with over three decades of industry experience and an unwavering belief that art can transform lives and reinforce our shared humanity. 

“It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead Craft Alliance in this next season of growth following the exceptional leadership of Mark.” said Knicely. “I truly believe everyone is creative when they are encouraged and inspired to participate in the many forms of craft. I love craft, and I am very appreciative that contemporary craft is being embraced more and more by the larger (art) community. Creative outlets are life-changing for many, if not most, people. Having the opportunity to nurture one’s creativity allows that person to grow internally, as well as within their larger community, creating a passion for their own wellbeing and enhancing their sense of place.” 

Prior to joining Craft Alliance, Knicely served as the Executive Director at Pyramid Hill in Hamilton, OH. Partnering with the Board of Directors, Knicely led all aspects of the organization’s operations, including curatorial oversight, administrative and financial management, fundraising, marketing, education, community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives (DEI). Hired to professionalize their operations and staffing, his accomplishments for the organization included a long-range plan to prioritize Board vision, build a community collaboration of local cultural leaders, and write the first policy for DEI. 

“As Craft Alliance embarks on its next chapter, we sought a leader to propel change,” said Board Chair Peggy Holly. “After a thorough and extensive national search process, the board and staff are delighted to have Bryan lead Craft Alliance as we build on the great foundation and positive momentum built by Mark Witzling.” 

Early in his career, Knicely’s professional track brought him through St. Louis, where he served in leadership roles at Laumeier Sculpture Park and Saint Louis Effort for AIDS. During this period, he developed a deep appreciation for the arts community in the St. Louis region and additionally took ceramics classes at Craft Alliance. Other career experiences include roles with Yellowstone Art Museum, BalletMet Columbus, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, and Stonewall National Museum & Archives. He is the founder of (Re)Create Consulting and has worked with the National Endowment for the Arts and has served as a grants panelist, published several articles, and presented at both national and international conferences. 

Knicely holds a Liberal Arts Bachelor of Science degree in Management and Marketing from Otterbein University in Westerville, OH, and a Master of Arts degree in Arts Policy and Administration from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. Additionally, Knicely holds a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion from Cornell University and was selected to participate in the Harvard Business School’s Performance Measurements for Effective Management of Nonprofit Organizations in order to enhance the Creative Economy movement in Maine. 

Craft Alliance’s Board of Directors retained KEES, and a comprehensive search was launched, attracting a talented and diverse pool of qualified leaders. Leading the search efforts were Search Chair Terri Jacobson (Former CEO of Jacobson Staffing, Inc.), and Search Committee Members Peggy Holly (Craft Alliance Board Chair and Community Volunteer), Jackie Levin (President and CEO AFB International, retired), Lee Kaplan (Business and Strategy Consultant), Paul Ellebrecht (Strategy Consultant at Collaborative Strategies), and Samantha Menezes (Director at Cigna). The Board of Directors ultimately selected Knicely from a strong group of finalists from across the country. 

“Congratulations to the entire Craft Alliance team and community on this exciting placement,” said Heather Eddy, KEES President and CEO. “Bryan will truly help Craft Alliance launch into its next era with a vision that propels and cultivates the contemporary craft movement both locally and nationally. We are excited about the next steps in this onboarding process. Congratulations, all!” 

ABOUT KEES 

KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a non-profit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the non-profit and public sectors. A woman-owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of non-profit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com. 

ABOUT CRAFT ALLIANCE 

Craft Alliance is a visual arts organization nurturing and inspiring creativity to educate and enrich the community through contemporary craft. Established in 1964, Craft Alliance will celebrate 60 years of partnership with St. Louis artisans and craft makers in 2024. From its 15,000-square-foot location in the Delmar Maker District, Craft Alliance offers extensive community outreach programs, exhibitions, and education classes for all skill levels in a variety of mediums, artist residencies, youth camps, and a gallery shop. Each year, 15,000+ people come through the doors to experience a full spectrum of educational resources. Nationally recognized as one of the country’s premier nonprofit craft organizations, Craft Alliance is the only organization of its kind in the region solely dedicated to contemporary craft. To learn more, visit www.craftalliance.org. 

 

Yoo-Jin Hong, a versatile strategist with a passion for community action and positive change, joins KEES as Executive Search Manager. Bringing nearly 20 years of non-profit experience and having held a variety of positions in performing arts and cultural organizations, Hong will serve clients and candidates in a multitude of ways. Specializing in Executive Search, Hong will be responsible for providing a full range of talent acquisition and leadership services with a focus on candidate relations and developing a diverse talent pipeline, while working collaboratively with clients nationwide to support KEES’s continued growth.

“Yoo-Jin is a strategic professional with a diverse background and an impressive skill set,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “Her passion for nonprofits, in particular cultural organizations, will be a driving force to help continue to build and expand KEES work in the arts and culture space, and I am beyond thrilled to have Yoo-Jin join KEES.” 

Most recently as Founder and Consultant at SeventhAbove, Hong provided coaching, consulting, and management services for independent artists, creative collectives, and mission-driven arts organizations. Bringing together her experiences as a lifelong musician and a gritty non-profit leader, Hong has provided tailored services for organizations such as Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, Equity Arc, and Asian Musical Voices of America. She thrives on building supportive and inclusive environments for creative people to do their best work.

As the Executive Director of Kneisel Hall Chamber Music School and Festival, Hong was responsible for all aspects of organizational planning and operations, fundraising, financial management, internal and external relations, and oversight of the 15-acre campus grounds and facilities. During her accomplished tenure, she streamlined organizational practices to improve student experience and patron engagement. Hong also surpassed annual fundraising goals for 2021 and 2022 and increased unrestricted funds and cash reserve. Collaborating with the Board of Directors resulted in strengthened fundraising and donor engagement strategies and early planning of a multi-year capital campaign.

Prior to her time at Kneisel Hall, Yoo-Jin Hong served as Vice President for Guest Experience at the Adler Planetarium, where she oversaw the museum’s full portfolio of exhibitions, public programs, and guest services. In her commitment to equity and inclusion practices, Hong enhanced public programs to amplify underrepresented voices and launched collaborative programs with a variety of musicians, artists, Black and Latinx scientists, and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Building on her leadership experiences, Hong is excited to bring her expertise to KEES. “I was drawn to the way KEES personalizes the search work to each client partner as well as the candidates seeking career advancement. The KEES team really invests in learning each organization’s underlying culture, strengths, and needs to find the right match,” said Hong. “I’m thrilled to join KEES, whose dedication to the nonprofit and public sector resonates strongly with my own values. I look forward to contributing my experiences to the wider network of purpose-driven organizations throughout the country.”

As a classically trained flutist, Hong’s early career path included tenures at the League of American Orchestras in New York and prestigious arts organizations in the Chicagoland area, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras. Hong holds Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL, and holds a third degree, in Orchestral Studies, from Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL. As an expert with knowledge and experience in her field, Hong was invited to serve as a Grant Panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts (Music Division) in 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2022.

Additionally, Hong has recently completed Cornell University’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certificate, and is currently working toward a professional coach certification at the Co-Active Training Institute. Hong is also an avid runner and triathlete. 

ABOUT KEES

KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a nonprofit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in 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. To learn more about KEES, visit www.kees2success.com.  

KEES MEDIA CONTACT

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

Siloam Health, a faith-based, nonprofit healthcare organization serving Nashville’s uninsured, underserved, and culturally marginalized patients, has named Katie Richards as its next President and Chief Executive Officer following the planned departure of the organization’s former leader, Dr. Morgan Wills. Richards assumes her new role effective July 5, 2023.

With fifteen years of experience in faith-based charitable healthcare and nonprofit development in the Nashville community, Richards is a mission-driven nonprofit leader who has successfully contributed to and impacted outcomes for Siloam Health and its patients.

“After a rigorous national search process, we are delighted to name Katie Richards to the role of President and CEO,” said Sammye Woods, Siloam Health’s Board Chair. “Through creative leadership and strategic decision-making, we are confident that Katie will successfully lead and further elevate Siloam Health’s mission.”

Formerly serving as Chief Development Officer and most recently as the Interim Chief Executive Officer for Siloam Health, Richards is a relational leader who builds partnerships with community organizations to expand service impact and access. Under her leadership Siloam’s contributed revenue doubled – going from $1.6M to $3.2M annually – which has led to 2,000 more patients being served each year through whole-person medical care, expanded community health programs, and the opening of Siloam’s second location in Antioch. In addition, Richards serves on influential teams/committees and spearheaded the creation and growth of the Next Generation board, which taps into the expertise of young professionals under the age of 40 who are passionate about engaging the Nashville community with the mission of Siloam Health.  

“Being a part of Siloam’s mission to share the love of Christ by serving those in need through health care the past nine years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” said Richards. “I am grateful for the board’s leadership and the opportunity to serve as the next President and CEO of Siloam Health. It’s an honor to steward a mission I believe in deeply and to lead the organization as we seek to ensure that our neighbors from all nations are empowered to live healthy lives and feel at home in our community.”

Prior to her tenure at Siloam Health, Richards worked in various roles with the YMCA of Middle Tennessee where she was involved with budgeting, staff development, hiring, fundraising, event planning, and board development.

Siloam Health’s Board of Directors and CEO Search Committee engaged executive search firm KEES, a non-profit executive search firm that builds teams, to conduct an extensive national search that yielded more than 100 talented applicants from across the nation. Leading the search efforts were Search Chair Sammye Woods (Former Director of Transformation Management and Facilitation at Parallon Business Solutions) and Search Committee Members Emmitt Beall (Director of Finance at Optum), Dr. Quincy Byrdsong (Vice Provost for Health Affairs at Lipscomb University), Dr. Doug Heimburger (Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University), Dr. Raymond ‘Buz’ Martin (Former Physician Director for Surgical Services at Ascension St. Thomas Hospital), Todd McKee (Principal Attorney at T. McKee Law), and April Savoy (Senior Vice President & Deputy General Counsel at Allstate). The Board of Directors ultimately selected Richards from a strong group of finalists that came from multiple sub-sectors in healthcare.

“Katie’s commitment to excellence and deep passion to serve not only Siloam’s mission, but Christian healthcare as a whole, will benefit the entire Siloam Health community,” said Heather Eddy, KEES President and CEO. “The KEES team congratulates Katie and the Siloam Health team on this exciting announcement. We look forward to seeing this next stage of Siloam Health’s growth as they continue to share the love of Christ by serving those most in need.”

ABOUT KEES 

KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a non-profit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the non-profit and public sectors. A woman owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of non-profit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.

ABOUT SILOAM HEALTH 

For more than 30 years, Siloam Health’s mission has been to share the love of Christ by serving those in need through health care. Siloam provides medical care for the underserved, promotes community health among marginalized immigrants, and offers student education for the next generation of health care providers. To learn more about Siloam Health, please visit SiloamHealth.org. 

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

SILOAM HEALTH MEDIA CONTACT:

Zach Bevill, Zach.Bevill@siloamhealth.org

Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO), one of the nation’s premier youth orchestra programs, founded in 1946 to provide music education and instrumental training of the highest quality, has announced Jennie Oh Brown as its next Executive Director. Working in tandem with CYSO’s leadership team, Brown will build on CYSO’s mission of inspiring personal excellence through music by identifying new relationships and educational and performance opportunities for CYSO’s young musicians. This work will also include expanding community partnerships to provide musical training and access in under-served communities throughout Chicago and increase CYSO’s profile as one of the nation’s cultural and musical gems. Brown joins Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras full-time effective May 22, 2023. She succeeds Susan Lape, who led for five years and grew the organization exponentially, and departed in early 2023 to lead philanthropy at the Harris Theatre for Music and Dance.

A celebrated artist, arts administrator, educator, and visionary, Brown brings a wealth of experience and a wide-ranging skill set to her new position. Brown has most recently served as Artistic Director with Epiphany Center for the Arts, curating programs and concerts and developing educational programming throughout the landmark venue’s performance spaces. Brown previously served as Executive and Artistic Director of Ear Taxi Festival in 2021, founder, director, and faculty member of Credo Flute, and on faculty at Wheaton College and Elmhurst University. She is founder and director of Picosa chamber music collective, Artist-in-Residence at Epiphany Center for the Arts, and serves on the board of Chamber Music of America.

“CYSO has set a high bar for inspiring generations of young musicians and leaders,” said Brown. “Great music has the power to change culture and to heal spirits. It is more than beautiful sounds; We are creating citizens through this artistic life who are learning to lead, to encourage one another with empathy and kindness, and to serve the greater good. It is a true honor to have been selected as the next Executive Director, and I look forward to working with Music Director Allen Tinkham and the entire CYSO community to create an impact for years to come.”

In addition to her many administrative arts leadership positions, as a flutist, Brown has been an energizing and creative force in the field of classical music for more than 20 years in a broad range of contexts. As a recording artist, her solo album, Giantess, was featured in the Chicago Tribune’s Best classical albums of 2019: World premieres, historic revivals, and enticingly eclectic music (Howard Reich). In addition, as a CYSO alumni parent, she will bring a unique perspective on the impact and importance of the programming CYSO provides to young musicians.

“Jennie is a force within the Chicago and national music scene, and we are thrilled to officially announce her as our next Executive Director,” said CYSO Board Chair Ross Bricker. “We were seeking a collaborative, innovative, and inspiring individual as our next leader, and we look forward to growing and flourishing with Jennie’s background and expertise. I am confident that her vision and skillset will propel CYSO to new levels, ensure it remains a best-in-class program available to all, and bring the enormous benefits that CYSO provides to students throughout Chicagoland.”

Brown holds Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music in Performance, Repertoire, and Literature degrees and the Performers Certificate from the University of Rochester, Eastman School of Music, in Rochester, NY. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and is a graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy. Brown is a member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences and the diversity and inclusion and historical flutes committees of the National Flute Association.

Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras’ Board of Directors retained KEES in 2022, and a comprehensive search was launched, attracting a talented and diverse pool of qualified leaders locally, domestically, and internationally. Leading the search efforts were Search Chair Brittany Viola (Former Attorney at Chapman and Cutler), Saurab Bhargava (Merge), Ross Bricker (Jenner & Block), Pamela Conroy, Bryan Miller (Leyden High Schools), Jennifer Myerberg (The Alvin & Louise Myerberg Family Foundation, Inc.), Angela O’Banion (Cook County Health), John Schladweiler (Schladweiler Associates, Inc., retired), and Hank Turner (Conagra Brands). Consultant Yoo-Jin Hong (SeventhAbove) also added to the Committee’s expertise. The Board of Directors ultimately selected Brown from a strong group of finalists that came from multiple sub-sectors in classical, youth music, and music education.

“Jennie brings a proven entrepreneurial spirit to the CYSO team,” said KEES President and CEO Heather Eddy. “She is a recognized and admired national leader and artist. Her energy and creativity will further CYSO’s mission to broader and deeper audiences. Congratulations to Jennie, the Board, and the entire CYSO community on this exciting hire.”

ABOUT KEES 

KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a non-profit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the non-profit and public sectors. A woman owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of non-profit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.

ABOUT CHICAGO YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS

With a rich history dating to 1946, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO) is committed to educating, encouraging, and empowering student musicians so that they may pursue personal excellence both on and off the stage. Bringing together young musicians from diverse backgrounds in a collaborative environment that develops self-confidence, teamwork, and leadership, CYSO provides one of the most comprehensive music training programs in the country that inspires both musical and personal growth. To learn more, please visit www.cyso.org.

*Photo Credit: Forestt Strong Lafave

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

CHICAGO YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS MEDIA CONTACT:

Abbey Hambright, ahambright@cyso.org

Storycatchers Theatre (Chicago), a non-profit youth empowerment organization that guides youth impacted by the juvenile justice system to transform their traumatic experiences into powerful theatre and storytelling, has selected Tasha Levy as its next Executive Director. Levy will be responsible for strategic planning, organizational development, sustainability, and key partnerships. Levy assumes her new role this week, following the successful leadership of former Executive Director Priya Shah and Interim Executive Director Rachel Hauben Combs.

With over 25 years of experience in education (both in the classroom and administration), operations, curriculum design, and program development, Levy is a specialist in strategic leadership. Additionally, she brings executive-level skills and expertise honed in both the private and non-profit sectors.

Prior to joining Storycatchers Theatre, Levy served as Chief of Staff for Grow Your Own Illinois (GYO) and Chief Learning Officer for i.c.stars in which she was responsible for monitoring the training program’s quality across multiple cities and ensuring the sustainability of expansion through empowering program teams. In both Chicago-based roles, Levy developed the team’s capacity to design and implement innovative programs that align with best practices and research. Additionally, she was an integral part of ensuring the programs and outcomes matched the goals and purposes of the funding sources, be it governmental or private/donated support.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to lead Storycatchers Theatre during this next phase,” said Levy. “The mission of Storycatchers resonates with me and I have seen the positive changes that can be made through the arts first hand. As a former educator, it was inspiring to see the impact of integrating music and theater in the classroom. It was a life-changing experience for me and my students. I am excited to continue building on the current framework of this amazing organization with the board and staff members that make up this dedicated team. I look forward to continuing the work of Storycatchers and inspiring positive change through the arts.”

Levy holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois in Chicago, IL, a Master of Arts in Education from National Louis University in Chicago, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL.

“We were searching for a passionate, vision-oriented, justice-centered leader and connector of resources and people supporting system-impacted youth,” said Kendra Freeman, Storycatchers Theatre Board Chair and Metropolitan Planning Council Vice President. “Tasha’s dedication to and enthusiasm for the mission of Storycatchers Theatre is inspiring and we look forward to growing and flourishing with Tasha at the helm. On behalf of the Search Committee, the entire Board of Directors, and everyone affiliated with Storycatchers Theatre, we proudly welcome Tasha to the team! Thank you KEES for a wonderful partnership!”

Storycatchers Theatre competitively selected and retained KEES, a premier executive search firm specializing in executive searches for top nonprofit executive positions such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Director, and President roles. A comprehensive national search was launched, and Levy was ultimately selected from a talented pool of finalists. Leading the search efforts were Board Chair Kendra J. Freeman (Vice-President at Metropolitan Planning Council), Search Committee Chair David Sowinski (Partner at Vantage Leadership Consulting), and Search Committee members including Edmund Buck (Youth Coach at UCAN Chicago and Storycatchers alumni), Rachel Hauben Combs (Interim Executive Director/Director of Development at Storycatchers Theatre), Carla Goldstein (Legal Industry Innovator Consultant), Gerald Lewis (Market President at BMO Harris Bank US), and Rhoda Reeling (Vice President, National Association of Realtors, Retired).

“The future holds enormous potential for Storycatchers Theatre and the youth they serve,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “KEES strives to help build strong nonprofit teams and leaders through executive partnerships and we are truly honored to have partnered with such a deeply committed group of board leaders. KEES proudly congratulates the entire Storycatchers Theatre team on this appointment.” 

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 www.kees2success.com.

ABOUT STORYCATCHERS THEATRE

Storycatchers Theatre (SCT) guides young people to transform their life experiences into powerful musical theatre, developing the courage and vision to become leaders and mentors. By creating support for youth within the criminal justice system, Storycatchers Theatre prepares them to change their lives and emerge successfully from court involvement. With numerous dedicated resources, SCT strives to meet the complex needs of adolescents and young adults who have been touched by the justice system. To learn more, please visit www.storycatcherstheatre.org. 

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

STORYCATCHERS MEDIA CONTACT:

Elizia Artis, elizia@storycatcherstheatre.org

Little City Foundation (Little City), a vital and vibrant 501c3 organization offering a comprehensive scope of services and amenities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), has named former Congresswoman and business leader Marie Newman as its Chief Executive Officer. Assuming her new role effective April 17, 2023, Newman will help the organization define its future and move forward into the next decade. Newman will succeed Little City’s current leader, Shawn Jeffers, who is departing following his planned retirement after 20 successful years at the helm.

With a background in nonprofit, private sector, and government, Newman is the nexus of where a nonprofit leader leverages tremendous strength in relationships from multiple sectors. Bringing a collaborative, yet decisive, approach to working with complex and interconnected constituencies, Newman believes expertise and a passion for the organizational mission are essential for a strong working partnership. She is a leader known to move missions and initiatives forward and brings her deep commitment to equity to the forefront.

Previously serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, Newman was the first woman in history to be elected to Illinois Third Congressional district. Serving in this role as a Congresswoman, Newman worked on bringing breakthrough national economic, healthcare, transportation, mental health, labor, technology, and small business strategies and solutions to over 85 diverse communities. Newman was Vice Chair of Communications and sat on the transportation and infrastructure committee as well as the small business committee. In addition to passing six bills out of the house and two bills signed into law to date, throughout her Congressional term, Newman was directly responsible for acquiring $350 million in appropriations funding for her district.

“My personal dedication to Little City’s mission dates to when I first volunteered with my family in my formative years for the organization and when two of my cousins received Little City’s services. These memories are still vibrant and guide me today,” said Marie Newman. “I applaud the successful work and history of Little City since 1959 and together, with the board and the entire Little City team, look forward to charting the course for the next era of the agency following the successful leadership of Shawn Jeffers.” 

Earlier in her career Newman worked for multiple firms as a marketing agency executive and pursued many entrepreneurial ventures. Serving as Executive Director and Founder, Newman also established her own nonprofit, a national coalition of 70 nonprofits to combat bullying after one of her children was bullied. Through recognition of her work, Newman helped develop a curriculum and manual for anti-bullying systems which eventually made it to the White House level, where a Presidential executive order was established requiring all schools to implement anti-bullying programs.

Newman holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Business Minor from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI. 

“We were seeking a compassionate, business-minded, and visionary decision-maker to lead Little City forward,” said Greg Burns, President of Little City’s Board of Directors. “Marie’s executive experience, coupled with her historical and personal passions for Little City’s mission, will help Little City in creating a stronger and dynamic future for the people we serve. We have no doubt that she, along with our passionate and talented leadership team, will move mountains. On behalf of the Board, we would like to officially welcome Marie to the Little City community and thank Shawn for his 20 years of outstanding leadership and wish him and his family all the best in his retirement years. I would also like to thank the entire KEES team for their dedication and commitment throughout the entire succession process.”

Little City competitively selected and retained KEES, a premier executive search firm specializing in executive searches for top nonprofit executive positions such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Director, and President roles, as its executive search partner in 2022 following the retirement announcement of the current leader. A comprehensive search was launched, and Newman was ultimately selected from a passionate, motivated, diverse, and talented pool of national finalists. Little City’s search efforts were led by a Succession Committee including Board President Greg Burns (Principal Owner at MB3 Consulting), Julie Bell (Consultant: Strategic Beauty Marketer), Kelly Evans (Chief Human Resources Officer at Little City), Gil Fergus (retired, former Special Consumer Counsel at Illinois Attorney General’s Office), Heather Ritter (Vice President of Human Resources at Daily Herald Media Group), Dale Rublaitus (retired, former Director of Engineering at Motorola Solutions), and Matt Schubert (retired, former President at Paramount Staffing). 

“I have known Shawn Jeffers since he started at Little City. It was an honor to be selected as the Succession Committee partner and has been an extraordinary opportunity with deeply committed volunteer leaders. Working with Greg Burns, Little City’s Board President, and the entire Succession Committee has been remarkable,” said Heather Eddy, KEES President and CEO. “Marie….wow!! She brings the commitment and experience to provide the best opportunities for children and adults with IDD for generations to come. We are proud to have been selected as Little City’s search partner and are excited about what the future holds. Congratulations to the entire Little City community on this exciting announcement!”

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 www.kees2success.com.

ABOUT LITTLE CITY

Little City Foundation (Little City) is a vital and vibrant organization offering a comprehensive scope of services and amenities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). From its modest beginning, the agency has grown to offer services at its main campus in Chicago’s northwest suburbs, locations throughout Cook, Lake, McHenry, and DuPage counties, and at its Foster Care & Adoption offices in Chicago, Matteson, and Joliet. Established in 1959 and granted nonprofit status that same year, Little City was founded by a group of parents who dreamt of a unique and revolutionary environment for their children who “experts” often said should be institutionalized. Today, Little City serves some adults in the program that have called the main campus home for over 50 years.

Over 900 individuals are served in a wide range of residential settings and day programming including 24/7 supportive residential settings for children and adults, a therapeutic children’s day school, foster care and adoption, home-based family support, health and wellness services, and a variety of therapeutic day programs such as employment services, horticulture, fitness, and recreation.

Little City is unique and distinct in the array of services offered. Children and adults, along with their families, are served at a 56-acre main campus in northwest suburban Palatine, Illinois and other residential facilities throughout Chicagoland. To learn more, please visit www.littlecity.org.

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

LITTLE CITY MEDIA CONTACT:

Tina Maraccini, tmaraccini@littlecity.org

Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC), a Chicago-based nonprofit organization committed to ending domestic violence through a self-help and empowerment approach, has selected Judi Golemba as its Development Director effective March 27, 2023. As a vibrant nonprofit professional with more than 20 years of development experience, Golemba will be responsible for supporting CAWC’s mission by ensuring the strength and sustainability of philanthropy at this pivotal point of growth and change in the organization’s lifecycle.

Golemba’s knowledge spans all aspects of philanthropy, including annual fund, major and principal gifts, capital campaign management, planned giving, event management, prospect research, strategic planning, communications, and alumni relations. 

“Our team was looking for an experienced Development executive who shares the agency’s commitment to saving and transforming lives,” said Stephanie Love-Patterson, CAWC’s Executive Director. “Judi’s experience, talent, and passion will help individuals find meaningful ways to fulfill their philanthropic priorities while helping to fund our powerful mission. Thank you to KEES for a successful search. This was a critical hire and Judi will be a great addition to our leadership team. I look forward to introducing her to the greater CAWC family.”

“My career has been devoted to working with or for nonprofit organizations that support the care and well-being of the community,” said Judi. “CAWC’s life-saving services that empower survivors to regain control of their lives are not only inspirational but motivating to me to do more. Only through programs like those of CAWC was I able to guide and assist others in finding the necessary support – finding their voice, securing their safety, identifying resources to assist them in becoming self-sufficient, and providing for their children. I am thrilled to be joining the team and consider it a privilege to work in a capacity to ensure the programs and shelter offered at CAWC have the support to meet the ever-changing needs within the community.”

CAWC’s Executive Director, Stephanie Love-Patterson, steered the hiring process beginning in late 2022. A comprehensive search was launched, attracting a talent pool of candidates. Golemba was ultimately selected from an exceptional group of top finalists. Founded in 2013 as an expansion of Alford Executive Search, KEES partners specifically with nonprofit and public sector organizations to provide an array of search, leadership, consulting, interim staffing, and human resources support. 

“Congratulations to the entire CAWC team,” said Laura Weinman, KEES Vice President. “We are grateful that Judi shares KEES’ commitment to helping CAWC achieve and deliver its vital mission. KEES was thrilled to have been selected as the search partner of choice for CAWC and we proudly applaud Judi on this Development Director appointment.” 

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 www.kees2success.com.

ABOUT CONNECTIONS FOR ABUSED WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN

Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC) is committed to ending domestic violence. For more than 45 years, CAWC has delivered comprehensive and life-saving services to both adult and child victims of domestic abuse in Chicago. As a leader in the field of domestic violence, CAWC’s services have continually evolved to meet a growing community need. CAWC’s mission is to assist victims of abuse with regaining control of their lives through a trauma-informed, self-help, empowerment approach. CAWC works toward this goal through four primary program areas that together provide a continuum of domestic violence services, including a shelter for survivors and their children as well as counseling, advocacy, and a 24-hour hotline. All programs are free of charge. Learn more at www.cawc.org. 

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

CAWC MEDIA CONTACT:

Stephanie Love-Patterson, SLove-Patterson@cawc.org

Nonprofit and public sector executive search firm KEES has been retained to find the next President & Chief Executive Officer for Siloam Health. Siloam Health is a faith-based, charitably funded nonprofit organization that provides affordable, high-quality, whole-person health care to the uninsured and underserved in Middle Tennessee, health promotion among Nashville’s immigrant and refugee populations, and student education for the next generation of health care providers. KEES President and CEO Heather Eddy and Project Manager Megan Taylor will lead the search following the successful tenure and upcoming departure of the organization’s current leader, Dr. Morgan Wills, as he joins the faculty of the Thomas F. Frist Jr. College of Medicine at Belmont University.

Siloam Health’s Search Committee selected KEES after reviewing and connecting with several nationwide recommendations. “Our search committee was pleased to select KEES as our search partner of choice. KEES was a unanimous choice and we look forward to working with the entire KEES team on this important search,” said Sammye Woods, Chair, Siloam Health Board of Directors.

As a premier executive search firm, KEES specializes in executive searches for top executive positions such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Director, and President roles and has a successful history of placing accomplished nonprofit executives nationwide. This partnership builds upon KEES’ executive search history and expanding relationships with faith-focused nonprofit organizations, individual Christian healthcare professionals, and clinics across the Christian Community Health Fellowship (CCHF) network. CCHF is a community of Christian healthcare professionals who are committed to living out the gospel through healthcare among the poor and KEES is pleased to continue supporting these important missions. 

“We are honored to have been selected by the Search Committee,” states Heather Eddy. “Our executive search and consulting efforts continually result in successful hires across the country, and with this recent partnership, we will continue driving forward the important missions and ministries of Siloam Health.”

Confidential inquiries, candidate recommendations, and additional details concerning this upcoming President and Chief Executive Officer search may be addressed directly to Megan Taylor at mtaylor@kees2success.com. 

About KEES

KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a non-profit executive search firm that builds diverse teams and dynamic leaders in the non-profit and public sectors. A woman owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of non-profit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.

About SILOAM HEALTH   

Siloam Health is a dynamic, multi-site healthcare organization that has served Nashville’s uninsured and underserved—especially the immigrant and refugee communities–since 1991. Today, nearly 90% of patients and clients are born outside the United States, representing more than 80 homelands and speaking more than 70 languages. A faith-based, religiously chartered organization with a budget of $6 million, Siloam is the second largest charitably funded nonprofit health center in the state of Tennessee and has played a leadership role in Tennessee’s refugee medical screening program for almost two decades. Siloam’s work is accomplished by 65 staff, over 400 volunteers annually, and dozens of partner churches, hospital systems, and other organizations. Medical care is offered at two locations: a comprehensive primary care clinic located in Melrose and a walk-in, limited primary care clinic located in Antioch. Community Health Workers and volunteers through the Nashville Neighbors program attend to the social determinants of health by promoting self-efficacy, health literacy, and health system navigation skills among local immigrant and refugee communities. Siloam clinicians also regularly mentor dozens of students and residents annually through custom coursework, clinical rotations, and internships. For more information, visit www.siloamhealth.org. 

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler

jsheffler@kees2success.com

SILOAM HEALTH MEDIA CONTACT:

Zach Bevill 

Zach.Bevill@Siloamhealth.org

KEES Executive Search Client Partner, Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center (CCLC), a nonprofit organization offering a warm and welcoming learning environment in the Chicagoland area, announced Cari Christoff as its next Executive Director. Christoff, an experienced, quality-driven leader, joined Cornerstone in January 2023, following the planned retirement of long-time Executive Director Lois Scott.

Bringing expansive leadership and early education expertise to the Cornerstone team and community, Christoff has spent the last 30+ years supporting staff, families, children, and her community through her knowledge and expertise in building strong foundations and positive relationships. 

“Cornerstone has set a high bar for what’s possible in providing quality daycare and early education in the heart of Chicago,” said Christoff. “I believe that children having access to high-quality early childhood experiences that are affordable is essential to creating a caring community of learners.” 

For over nine years, Christoff served as Executive Director at Oak Park and River Forest Day Nursery (the Day Nursery). While serving at the Day Nursery, Christoff provided oversight, leadership, and supervision of the nonprofit organization, which provides early childhood education and multiple program services to children in at-risk situations and working families. In addition to strengthening the organization, Christoff also focused on private philanthropy and individual donations, which doubled under her leadership.

“Cari’s expansive knowledge of licensure, accreditation (NAEYC), early childhood education, leadership, and board commitment, offers our team a unique set of talents for the diverse communities we serve and to lead CCLC into the next phase of growth,” said CCLC Board President Dale Branda. “Thank you to the entire KEES team for their successful search efforts. We are thrilled to officially welcome Cari to the Cornerstone family.”

Prior to her time as Executive Director for Oak Park and River Forest Day Nursery, Christoff served as a Child and Family/Teen Director with the West Cook YMCA, and a handful of child and human services agencies in Tucson, AZ. Christoff holds a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities from Indiana University in Bloomington, IN and an Associate of Applied Science, General Studies with an Early Childhood Education Concentration from Pima Community College in Tucson, AZ.

Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center Board of Directors retained KEES in 2022, and a comprehensive, regional search was launched, attracting a uniquely qualified and diverse pool of candidates. Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center Board of Directors leading the search efforts included Board Chair Gale Formato (Retired Nurse), Dale Branda (Chief Operating Officer – Steward Advisors, LLC), and Jane Lambshead (Retired Teacher – Oak Park Elementary School District 97). The Board of Directors ultimately selected Christoff from a strong group of finalists.

“Cari brings a strong skillset and commitment to quality to the CCLC team,” said Heather Eddy, KEES President and CEO. “From our first interactions with Cari, we saw the value she placed on building relationships. Her reflective leadership abilities and strong communications skills will benefit CCLC, and we look forward to this next step for all of them. Congratulations to Cari, the Board, and the entire CCLC community on this announcement.” 

ABOUT KEES 

KEES (formerly Alford Executive Search) is a non-profit executive search firm that builds diverse teams with dynamic leaders in the non-profit and public sectors. A woman owned and operated firm, KEES offers a full array of non-profit consulting services, including executive search, leadership development, interim staffing, and HR support. For more information, please visit www.kees2success.com.

ABOUT CORNERSTONE CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER

Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center, a ministry of LaSalle Street Church, achieves its vision by providing the highest quality affordable education and care, by reaching out to our diverse community, and by partnering with and supporting families and teachers because we are called to be an expression of God’s kingdom in our neighborhood.  CCLC cultivates a stimulating environment where children are empowered through a milestone-based curriculum, immersive learning experiences, and STEAM activities. All day-to-day services operate through a unique partnership with Childtime Learning Center (Childtime), owned by Learning Care Group (LCG). LCG offers childcare across 11 brands and more than 1,050 high-quality schools nationwide. To learn more, please visit www.cornerstonechildrenslearningcenter.com. 

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

Chicago Debates, a non-profit dedicated to advancing the educational achievements, community contributions, and life success of Chicago’s youth through the transformative power of academic debate, has promoted Anthony J. Bolden Jr. to Executive Director. Providing strategic oversight to and overall executive leadership for Chicago Debates, Anthony assumes this new role effective January 3, 2023. 

After nearly three years serving Chicago Debates as Director and then Senior Director of Programs, and most recently acting as the Interim Executive Director, Anthony has developed a deep understanding of how Chicago Debates’s mission impacts the lives of young people. During his tenure to date, Anthony has collaboratively built a programming team, created and standardized a virtual programming model, successfully rolled out a new student application, and engaged over 20 new Title 1 schools in Chicago Debates’s work. Throughout the pandemic, Anthony and his team served more than 2,100 students across the Chicago Public Schools while engaging more than 400 volunteers each year. Under his leadership, the program team has additionally expanded program offerings to include new forms of debate.

“Years ago, when I first applied for a position with Chicago Debates, I was drawn to the tremendous impact that debate could have on a young person’s life. Having had the opportunity to build ‘first-ever’ debate teams at struggling Chicago Public Schools and then watch those same debate teams produce their school’s most engaged and successful young minds is why I look forward to coming to work each day,” said Anthony. “Our program works, and I continue to be proud to promote our mission to help build, empower, and amplify our students’ voices — ultimately producing more informed and prepared young leaders. Serving and leading as Chicago Debates’s next Executive Director is the honor of a lifetime.”

Anthony holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, both from Oakwood University in Huntsville, AL, and a Graduate Certification in Nonprofit Management from North Park University. Additionally, Anthony is a Chicago Urban League IMPACT Leadership Development Fellow Alumnus at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Forefront Educational Equity Fellow Alumnus.

Prior to joining Chicago Debates, Anthony was the Program Manager at Partnership to Educate and Advance Kids (PEAK), a nonprofit with a mission to “provide opportunities for underserved youth to achieve academic and personal success.” Additionally, Anthony served as Associate Pastor at Oakwood University Church in Huntsville, AL prior to his term at PEAK.

“Through creative leadership and strategic decision-making, I am confident that Anthony will successfully lead and further elevate Chicago Debates, and its reputation as a community leader and champion for debate, youth, achievement, and education,” said Eli Kay-Oliphant, Chicago Debates’s Board Chair. “Anthony’s own lived experience, combined with his leadership, dedication, and optimism will ensure Chicago Debates enjoys another 25+ years of impactful service. We are delighted to promote Anthony to the role of Executive Director and thank KEES for another successful partnership.”

Chicago Debates retained KEES, a national executive search firm for nonprofits, as its executive search partner earlier in 2022, launching a comprehensive search. This partnership builds upon KEES’s history and expanding relationships with individual Leagues across the Urban Debate network, as well as with the National Association for Urban Debate Leagues. Anthony was selected from a talented pool of top finalists. Leading the search efforts were Board and Search Committee Chair Eli Kay-Oliphant (Partner – Sparacino PLLC) and Search Committee members Amit Bindra (Partner – The Prinz Law Firm, P.C.), Elisa Davis (Assistant General Counsel, Corporate & Compliance – Kaplan), Sharone Mitchell, Jr. (Cook County Public Defender), Cindy Stuyvesant (Assistant General Counsel – Wintrust Financial), Tania White (CEO and Chief HR Strategist – Canary HR Consulting), and Jessica Yeats (Principal Data Scientist – NVIDIA). 

“Anthony has dedicated his career to date to encourage and support young people’s growth and success,” said Laura Weinman, KEES Vice President. “The entire KEES team congratulates Chicago Debates and looks forward to seeing the continued positive change for Chicago students to reach their full potential in their chosen future path.” 

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. KEES has partnered with several Debate Leagues across the country on a number of searches for Executive Director and Director of Development roles. 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.

ABOUT CHICAGO DEBATES

Chicago Debates envisions a world in which Chicago youth are empowered to find their voice, succeed in college and career, and become leaders in their community. Since its inception in 1995, Chicago Debates’s Chicago Public Schools partnership has grown from an initial five high schools on the south side to over 90 middle and high schools throughout the city. Chicago Debates has become one of the most competitive policy urban debate leagues in the country, and a national model for other urban leagues. We envision a world in which Chicago youth are empowered to find their voice, succeed in college and career, and become leaders in their community. For more information, visit  www.chicagodebates.org. 

KEES MEDIA CONTACT:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

CHICAGO DEBATES MEDIA CONTACT:

Tayo Hill, communications@chicagodebates.org