DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform (DuPage Federation) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sabina Abdul-Qadir as its next Executive Director. Abdul-Qadir succeeds David Roth, who retired following six years of leadership. As Executive Director, Abdul-Qadir will lead the organization, guide the team, and collaborate with the Board on strategic planning, coalition-building, and community-focused services, all while advancing integrated and equitable human services across DuPage County. She will formally assume her role in December 2025.

A seasoned attorney and nonprofit leader with over 15 years of experience advancing equity, building coalitions, and fostering organizational growth, Abdul-Qadir is committed to inclusion, systems change, and community collaboration. Her career centers on strengthening organizations through conflict management, staff development, and sustainable systems that expand access to services and opportunities. “Sabina brings an exceptional blend of vision, compassion, and systems-level insight,” said Theresa Forthofer, DuPage Federation Board Chair and President & CEO of Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley. “Her deep dedication to equity, collaboration, and community voice makes her the ideal leader to guide DuPage Federation into its next chapter.”

In her most recent role as Head of Outreach at MUHSEN, Abdul-Qadir led the organization’s national outreach and growth strategy, expanding services across the U.S. and into Canada. Under her leadership, MUHSEN saw a substantial increase in registered families served and launched multiple new service centers. She managed daily operations and a $3.5 million annual budget, identifying cost-saving measures and reallocating resources to further organizational goals. Previously, as Legal Counsel for The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, she secured $1.5 million in grant funding and developed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for more than 60 member organizations.

“DuPage Federation’s mission reflects the work I have dedicated my career to,” said Abdul-Qadir. “I have focused on building bridges, creating systems that work for people who are often overlooked, and making sure equity is something families can feel in their daily lives. I see DuPage Federation as an organization that shares this commitment, and together with the Board, I look forward to advancing its mission and creating lasting impact in our communities.”

The search was conducted in partnership with KEES, a premier executive search firm specializing in mission-driven organizations. The process attracted a highly talented and diverse pool of candidates. The search was led by Board Chair Theresa Forthofer and Search Chair Kara Murphy, supported by Search Committee members Molly Beck Dean, Becky Beilfuss, Sonny de Rama, Adam Forker, and Peggy McGuire.

Abdul-Qadir holds a Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law in Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois.

“Sabina brings extensive experience, a global perspective, and deep community engagement to her new role,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “Her strong commitment to equity and proven ability to align organizational values with community impact reflect the mission and vision of DuPage Federation. We are honored to have partnered with the Federation in this search and wish them the very best as they continue their important work serving the community.”

About DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform
DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform is a collaboration of government and key community organizations that identifies ways a local community can address its human services needs using its own resources and resourcefulness. The DuPage Federation works to improve access to human services for all residents of DuPage County through policy, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. To learn more, please visit DuPage Federation.

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

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DuPage Federation Media Contact:

Eva Rafas, erafas@dupagefederation.org

KEES Media Contact:

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com