Concordia Place, a vibrant mission-driven non-profit organization providing multigenerational programs including early learning, after-school, and teen leadership for Chicago communities, is proud to announce Laurie Dayon as its new Vice President of Philanthropy and Marketing, effective June 5, 2025.

Dayon joins Concordia Place with over 17 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, donor development, and strategic communications. Reporting to the President and CEO, she will oversee and manage all philanthropic and marketing efforts to support Concordia Place’s mission as ‘A Place for All’ by creating involved communities where all people can grow, learn, and thrive, regardless of income or background. Her responsibilities will include donor relations, annual and major gifts, campaigns, communications and social media, and special events, as well as corporate, foundation, planned giving, and select public funding initiatives.

“Laurie brings a powerful combination of passion, experience, and strategy to this role,” said Grace Araya, President and Chief Executive Officer of Concordia Place. “With her expertise in donor development, marketing strategy, and inclusive leadership, she is well-positioned to elevate Concordia Place’s visibility, deepen community partnerships, and secure the resources needed to expand our reach. We are thrilled to officially welcome Laurie to our team and look forward to the impact she will make.”

Prior to joining Concordia Place, Dayon served as the Executive Director of Advancement at Youth & Opportunity United (Y.O.U.), where she led all aspects of fundraising and marketing communications for programs that support youth aged 2 to 22. Her track record includes designing and implementing high-impact donor engagement strategies, securing major gifts, and overseeing communications, grant writing, and compliance. From 2007 to 2023, she served as the Founder and Executive Director of Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois, an organization that now serves over 1,100 girls each year.

“I’m honored to join the Concordia Place team and further a mission that deeply reflects my values and purpose. Youth development has been the cornerstone of my entire nonprofit career, and I believe every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential and build the confidence to take their next step. I was especially drawn to Concordia’s whole-child, whole-family model, which begins in early childhood and continues through adolescence, empowering youth to thrive. This work is more critical than ever, and I’m excited to be part of a community committed to creating vibrant futures for all children.”

Dayon holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Valparaiso University and a master’s degree in marketing communications from Roosevelt University. She remains deeply connected to her community, volunteering with a local food pantry and supporting organizations like CASA of McHenry County and Girls on the Run.

Concordia Place continued its partnership with KEES, a premier executive search firm, as its partner following a previously successful search that resulted in the placement of Grace Araya as President and CEO. After comprehensive recruitment efforts, Dayon emerged as the ideal candidate from a passionate, motivated, diverse, and talented pool of finalists.

“Laurie’s extensive experience across the nonprofit sector brings a deep understanding of strategic growth and stakeholder collaboration,” said Heather Eddy, President and CEO of KEES. “This news reflects Concordia Place’s strong commitment to expanding its impact across Chicago, and she is well-positioned to strengthen the organization’s philanthropic reach, empower communities, and expand opportunities for youth, all while driving fundraising success. Congratulations to Grace and the team on this amazing next hire.”

About Concordia Place

Inspired by faith, Concordia Place envisions bigger and better tomorrows where rich diversity strengthens learning and growth for all. Putting faith into action through service to all neighbors, Concordia Place works to instill in them a sense of community, purpose, and possibility. Rooted in the Gospel message of God’s grace for all people, faith in Christ is a lens through which to view and evaluate all actions.

Concordia Place disrupts social inequities through access to top-quality education, enrichment, and hands-on experiences that include all children, teens, and families—together. By proactively addressing key social and economic needs, Concordia Place provides services that support well-being and maximize potential, which in turn helps communities thrive and remain vibrant. To learn more, visit www.concordiaplace.org.

About KEES

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

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KEES Media Contact

Jamie Sheffler, jsheffler@kees2success.com

Concordia Place Media Contact

Katie Bernabei, kbernabei@concordiaplace.org