The Chicago Community Trust has announced the selection of Andrea Sáenz as its new president and CEO of the organization, succeeding Helene Gayle. 

Sáenz, the first Latinx president in the foundation’s more than 100-year history, brings 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, most recently as its chief operating officer and interim president and CEO. While on the trust leadership team, she helped establish the 10-year strategic plan to address economic inequity. Before joining the trust, she led strategy, program design, evaluation, and organizational development for Chicago Public Library and was chief of staff to the Chicago Public Schools CEO and policy advisor for the U.S. Department of Education Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education. 

“As an immigrant from Ecuador who grew up in Los Angeles and came to Chicago as an adult, I have long felt embraced by Chicago and energized by our city’s diversity, cultural vibrancy, and civic commitment,” said Sáenz. “I was initially drawn to the trust because of the opportunity to invest in and help support committed leaders and organizations working to improve their communities. Since joining, I’ve been proud to work with colleagues, donors, and partners who have such a deep love and commitment to this city and region, and I look forward to doing all that I can to continue bringing resources and visibility to community-led solutions for our future.”

(Photo Credit: Chicago Community Trust)