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Our TEAM
A huge heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff and all of the wonderful volunteers who passionately work to build strong leaders, collaborative organizations, and healthy communities... today, tomorrow, and beyond.
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Meet our Charmm'd Team below... This team has proven our leadership journeys don't have to be done alone.
Foundation STAFF
SHERI MILLER, CPCC, CPQC, TTI Certified in DISC, DF & EQ
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"I am often asked why I began Charmm’d. My answer is a selfish one. I love life and want to enjoy it even more. I knew that I stood in my own way of making that happen by how I sometimes responded to what was going on around me. I also knew my reaction to how others acted affected me as well. I wanted to change that. Thus, Charmm’d. We are about the people side of leadership where we learn who we are, how to stand in our own strengths, how to have difficult conversations, how to handle and own those things that trigger us. At Charmm’d we also have the privilege to learn from other leaders who face similar situations. At the end of the day, if we can look in the mirror and know that we have done the right thing, treated others well, taken care of ourselves and made a difference in the world…there’s nothing better."
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~Living in downtown Chicago, Sheri loves the excitement the city offers. From biking on the lakefront to walking her dogs in the park to rooftop get-togethers and more, Sheri and her good man continually find adventure in their little piece of paradise. When she is looking for a quieter moment, her ceramics, cooking, reading and, YES! binge-watching fill her bucket like none other. As for her kids, they are invited to anything and everything that is part of her world – and she thoroughly enjoys what they bring to the table as well.~
ASHLEY WARD, MSW, CPCC, TTI Certified in DISC, DF & EQ
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
"Since finding Charmm’d over a decade ago, I’ve said many times over “I have my dream job” and it’s completely true! I’ve had the good fortune to find a career rooted in leadership and emotional intelligence, which has enriched my life in more ways than I could have ever imagined. The best part is that my primary function with Charmm’d is to build relationships with and support a wide variety of community leaders. I hear their stories of triumph and failure and the lessons they learned along the way. I’m grateful to benefit from the wisdom shared by the leaders in our network and I’m inspired daily by hearing how they serve others. My personal and professional “why” is literally being fulfilled each and every day."
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~Ashley lives in Boerne, TX with her husband of 15 years, her 12 going-on-20-year-old daughter, her spunky 9-year-old son, a sassy Calico cat and a spoiled Beagle. When she isn’t working out of her home office or traveling to Chicago for work, she loves being outside gardening, swimming, biking, hiking and eating lots of bbq and Mexican food. Don’t ask her to cook though, she will burn it!~
SUSAN GIBSON, TTI Certified in DISC, DF & EQ
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
"Helping leaders make connections through conversations and facilitating opportunities for leaders to grow their networks is why I come to work every day. I thoroughly enjoy having the opportunity to serve others by providing professional development opportunities and seeing the results that transpire. I have been with the Foundation for 10 years and I continually have the pleasure to witness growth, strength and more confidence in new and experienced leaders due to the collaboration of minds. I am consistently motivated to do better because I get to work alongside amazing people doing outstanding things in their organizations and communities."
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~In her spare time, Susan enjoys travel, spending time with family and friends, playing games, taking long walks and dining out at her favorite restaurants as well as exploring new ones that pop-up. Susan resides in Lake in the Hills, IL with her husband and their dog. She has three step-children that she loves spending time with.~
WILEY SUSAN WILDER
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR
"I joined Charmm’d knowing my purpose in life is to help others. I truly enjoy being able to serve this team in all of their needs by working behind the scenes in assisting in their happiness and success in what they do best. Being able to fulfill my purpose at Charmm’d has allowed that to flow into a passion. Charmm’d has built a foundation that allows the community to connect with each other as well as provide the knowledge and tools for them to grow into incredible leaders and become a support system for each other. I’m grateful for this opportunity to have a small part in what Charmm’d provides.
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~Wiley enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling to new places, hiking, baking, and reading. She lives in Crystal Lake with her husband, their teenage daughter, and their two very spoiled dogs.~
Board OF DIRECTORS
DAVE DASTUR
SENIOR PRINCIPAL, JENSEN & HALSTEAD, LTD.
CHARMM'D BOARD VICE PRESIDENT
"I have both learned from other leaders and helped strengthen other leaders within the Charmm'd community by sharing feedback, ideas and experiences. This learning and strengthening has happened at both the Board level where we strive to make Charmm’d the best organization that it can be, as well as at the community level where I have had the opportunity to meet several outstanding individuals at the Charmm’d events."
MARCOS LEVY
FACILITIES & SECURITY MANAGER, WILMETTE PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT
CHARMM'D BOARD SECRETARY
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"During my 18-year tenure at Lake Forest Library, my Library Director offered the opportunity for managers to attend a Charmm’d leadership seminar. This experience influenced my management philosophy and invigorated my desire to become a more effective leader, leading me to a new position as Facilities Manager at Cook Memorial Library. While many people may view leadership and success as climbing the ladder to achieve the highest position possible, I believe the heart of leadership is not limited to how far one advances, but how one is able to influence others. In 2020, I accepted a new management position at Wilmette Public Library managing a diverse team of individuals. With the knowledge and support I have accumulated through Charmm’d and their Peer Advisory Groups, the various challenges I have endured in the workforce have broadened my leadership dynamic with topics such as problem-solving, conflict resolution, and team building. Charmm’d has been a vital part of my success. The team at Charmm’d take you on a journey that inspires others to also want to become leaders. I, myself, have taken on the role as mentor and co-facilitator in the Leadership Academy to share my passion for developing effective leaders."
Advisory BOARD
LESLIE BLAKE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF MCHENRY COUNTY
"Charmm'd has been a tool that has grown and transformed with me as I have changed roles and faced new challenges. The team and the peers you work along with are a group of extremely qualified and intelligent people. The answer is always in the room when you are surrounded by such talent. The variety of resources and opportunities to connect and grow are incredible. I am impressed with how Charmm'd continues to evolve with the changing needs of the individual and our society as a whole. I especially enjoy the non-profit groups that allow leaders to connect about the real world issues that these organizations face that are unique to the non-profit sector."
KRISTIN BIWER
DIRECTOR OF LIFE ENRICHMENT, ASPIRE
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"Charmm’d has provided me opportunities professionally and personally to become the person and leader that I want to be. Through the skills that I have learned and the resources that I gained, I am able to reflect, take action, and support a better balance at home and work. With our ever changing and dynamic world, I have a renewed sense of determination to be happy and fulfilled in all areas of my life."
DINA DONOHUE-CHASE
VICE PRESIDENT GROWTH AND INNOVATION, ANIXTER CENTER
“Charmm’d provides an invaluable platform where you can take a purposeful break and gather with other professionals to share, learn and reflect. I have gained tremendous knowledge to better inform my work and leadership approach. The combination has had a direct and immediate influence allowing me to advance my professional goals for people and mission impact. The comradery, laughter and friendships gained along the way have been a wonderful bonus.”
PETE MOORE
INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL, OAK HILL SCHOOL
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I am fortunate to have been connected with Charmm’d since 2017. I have received executive coaching, been part of peer advisory groups, and am now fortunate to be a mentor in the Leadership Academy. My connection with Charmm’d has helped me develop as a leader and directly led to me accepting my dream job as Head of School at Davidson Day School. There are few organizations like Charmm’d so dedicated to supporting and developing current and aspiring leaders. I feel blessed to be part of the Charmm’d family."
LEISA NIEMOTKA
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES MANAGER,
CITY OF PARK RIDGE
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"Leadership is a lifelong evolution – an ever changing process. The Charmm’d Foundation creates an essential space for the building of strong leaders who are flexible and resilient. They do this by both focusing on an individual’s strength and talents, while harnessing the power and collaboration of the group. I come away from every peer advisory group session revived and in awe of the leadership talents of the people around me. It connects me to a higher purpose, both personally and professionally."
HOLLIS SIENKIEWICZ
SENIOR MARKETING DIRECTOR, PARAMOUNT THEATRE
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"My Charmm'd Peer Group is one meeting I can say I always look forward to. It's a time to connect with other leaders and recharge so I can stay excited about my leadership role at work. Not only do the other members of my group listen and offer advice, they often help me reset my perspective and my focus. I'm excited to be a part of the Charmm'd Advisory Board as a way to give back to this wonderful organization. They've provided so much guidance and support to so many leaders and I look forward to being a bigger part of that effort of cultivating confident, competent leaders in service-based organizations."
TOM SOUTHALL
RETIRED - FORMER VICE-PRESIDENT GLOBAL INNOVATION, CONSTRUCTION, ITW
"I am involved with the Charmm’d Foundation because I believe strong, credible leadership is critical for people to achieve their personal goals and personal potential. And it is also critical for organizations to achieve their goals and achieve their respective Missions. Through the process of teaching leadership, and the skills and components that comprise leadership, we enable people to optimize their work and their teams. Charmm’d provides multiple paths for people to learn the process of leading and the tangible, repeatable skills they need to effectively lead."
SCHENITA STEWART
CHIEF OF POLICE, CITY OF EVANSTON
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I walk away feeling heard and respected. My peer group has been a constant support system for me not only professionally but also personally. It is reassuring to speak openly with others who respect your views but give you honest feedback. I have been able to take positive suggestions back to my department. My employees have commented on how some issues have been dealt with in a transparent and professional manner. Thank you to all involved in making this foundation possible."
Leadership Academy Co-Facilitators
MARIA BRAUER
CONSULTANT - NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT, SHELTER, INC.
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"Getting involved with The Charmm'd Foundation, I expected to benefit professionally. What I didn't expect was the positive impact working with my groups and facilitators would have on my personal life. At a time when most of the new people we meet are on a computer screen, my experiences with Charmm'd made my world less isolating. I developed new relationships and it has been amazing to see everyone support each other through challenging times and cheer each other on. I have built relationships that will stand the test of time. I am so excited to share my experiences as a Leadership Academy Mentor and I hope to facilitate many new and lasting relationships."
ANN GOODRICH
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DIRECTOR and 6TH GRADE TEAM LEADER, NORTH SHORE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I began with Charmm'd just last year as a participant in the Leadership Academy. I grew more as a young leader that year than I could have ever imagined. Both my peer advisory group and my phone calls with Sheri were invaluable. Having the opportunity to workshop situations, listen to how others were handling problems, and trust in such a supportive group was a blessing. Now as I have shifted to a leadership role in the Peer Advisory groups, seeing the other side of Charmm'd has been just as impactful. Learning from other leaders and participants continues to impact my day-to-day work as a teacher and young leader."
DEB GUY
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WOMEN'S EXCHANGE
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"For nearly a decade, working with The Charmm’d Foundation has brought me tremendous opportunities to be among amazing non-profit leaders to learn and grow my own leadership skills. My involvement has included peer groups, leadership workshops and executive coaching. Currently, I enjoy being a mentor in the Leadership Academy. My experiences are numerous and only my gratitude to Charmm’d could be wider or deeper."
SCOTT JEWITT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"When I contacted other non-profit leaders to get their perspective on Charmm’d, I heard they are professional, effective, and excellent facilitators. When I explored this for myself through different Peer Advisory Groups and community workshops, I found it to be true. I have met other leaders from multiple types of organizations that I would not have gotten to meet. The perspectives they have provided showed different ways to see things and that I wasn’t alone. They have helped me to connect with other social service leaders in a way that is more than just ‘convening’ . Charmm'd services are effective and worth it."
DESHA KALMAR
RETIRED DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES, THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"Charmm’d has pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me learn and grow. It has also connected me with many other community leaders, and I value the resources they have provided. What a wonderful group of people!"
MARILYN KRIEGER
RETIRED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ZION PARK DISTRICT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"The Charmm'd Foundation has been part of my leadership growth for the past 10 years. I have been engaged with a variety of Peer Advisory Groups and Cohorts in the larger Charmm'd communities and within my local community. I have learned many techniques and strategies from a variety of leaders during this time. Some of my favorite reflections: Trust, keep perspective, have empathy for others, lead with humility. As you consider how to engage in this wonderful organization be ready for the lifelong impact you will receive from your involvement."
RAY LECHNER
CONSULTING SUPERINTENDENT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
“I have been happily supported by Charmm’d for more than 10 years now. This began when Charmm’d mentored new principals in my school system. They supported and guided community-based conversations that were important and necessary for community collaboration between members in the municipal and education sectors. In having these conversations, we walked away feeling empowered knowing we were not alone and that together, we were making a difference in our community. It is now an honor to be serving Charmm’d and giving back to others as a Leadership Academy Mentor. Go Chamm’d GO!”
BECKY LITTMANN
PRINCIPAL, WILMETTE SCHOOL DISTRICT 39
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I have been involved with Charmm’d as an educator for more than 10 years. The team at Charmm’d are exceptional leaders, coaches and facilitators who are deeply committed to everyone’s personal development and success. The organization has provided me with opportunities to learn and grow with other community leaders. I am fortunate and grateful for the opportunity to meet and discuss important topics with other leaders who encounter similar challenges. Together we reflect, learn and grow!"
STEVE MELLA
DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF, WHEELING FIRE DEPARTMENT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I started my involvement with Charmm’d through the Leadership Academy, shortly after being promoted in the summer of 2020. Learning about Leadership Styles, Ethical Decision Making and a lot about myself while practicing what I learned in real time, has been an incredible journey. Working in a Peer Advisory Group has made that journey that much better. Peers in similar leadership positions but in very different organizations, share their insights and challenges with each other. Instead of learning from hypothetical case studies, your Peer Advisory Group is there to give advice on real issues, in real time. This confidential support network is amazing."
GREG MCDONOUGH
INNOVATION SPACE COORDINATOR, LAKE FOREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I became involved with Charmm’d through the Leadership Academy. The networking, interpersonal, and intrapersonal skills that I’ve developed over the past several years have been invaluable to my growth as a leader. What makes Charmm’d so special really is “the people side.” There’s genuine care in everything the organization does. Through Charmm’d, I’ve facilitated Peer Advisory Groups, attended Leadership Summits, and even a holiday potluck. The quality is spectacular throughout all their services."
CHRIS PAWELCZYK
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LEADERSHIP SUPPORT & STRATEGIC PLANNING, ZION-BENTON TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 126
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"I was very fortunate to have mentors during my journey as a public educator and know that without their support and guidance, I would not be who I am or where I am today. I am excited to be a part of the Charmm’d team as a Leadership Academy Mentor with the opportunity to pay forward the mentorship I received. While this opportunity challenges me and pushes me to develop my next edges of growth as a leader, the best part is helping others grow and develop in their leadership roles in the surrounding communities. Strong leadership is the core of service to our communities. A group of committed leaders striving for personal growth and development to positively impact their communities is a group I want to be a part of."
SHERRY PRAUSE
COMMUNICATIONS AND FOUNDATION MANAGER, DEERFIELD PARK DISTRICT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"As soon as I attended the Charmm’d Leadership Exploratory Session, I was inspired to join. Hearing from individuals all seeking additional leadership skills, choosing to share their wisdom and to mentor other professionals as we navigate through work and life, aligned perfectly with my wants, and needs. The connections and friendships that I have made are invaluable. My Peer Advisory Group members instantly became my friends. A bevy of personalities makes the group successful, and we can always count on one another for strength and encouragement. I have felt more empowered to be a better me and can only hope that what I share has done the same for my peers. Since joining, I have also learned so much about my personality traits and the personalities of others. I use this valuable information daily as I navigate crucial conversations, accountability issues and more!"
MAJEEDA PURNELL
HR MANAGER, GURNEE PARK DISTRICT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"Being a part of the Charmm’d Leadership Academy, has been such an encouraging, supportive, and rewarding experience. I have been able to meet colleagues from various fields and industries. These colleagues have encouraged me to be brave and confident in my decision making; and they have supported my growth by providing a multitude of interesting educational opportunities. As a result, I have been rewarded with relationships with people that see me, my worth and value my place in this world. Thank you, Charmm’d!"
NATALIE RODRIGUEZ
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HOPEFUL BEGINNINGS OF ST. MARY'S SERVICES
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CO-FACILITATOR
"Charmm’d is a wonderful way to gain new perspectives on leadership and navigating professional relationships. I really have come to value the cross-sector knowledge that Peer Advisory Group meetings provide, and it is definitely a unique opportunity to engage with so many other leaders working towards making a difference in the community."
Leadership Academy Mentors
ALLAN BOGAN
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"The Charmm’d Foundation is a unique and special organization. I have had the ultimate privilege of engaging with Charmm’d the past few years, first as a non-profit executive who has nominated staff members at my organization to participate in the Leadership Academy, next as a mentor for a Peer Advisory Group, and now as an Advisory Board Member and Peer Advisory Group Co-Facilitator. I find that the Charmm’d staff and volunteers strive for excellence at all times, in every interaction, and have a strong desire to develop and learn from and with all participants. I am honored to represent Charmm’d and I feel empowered as a leader in my own organization and with Charmm’d interactions because of the genuine, authentic engagement I have had with every leader and leadership experience at Charmm’d. I am grateful to be able to provide support and guidance to Charmm’d program participants in giving back to make a positive impact on the Charmm’d community, and to continue my own personal and professional journey of growth and learning."
ROBERT BRILL
FIRE CHIEF, WHEATON FIRE DEPARTMENT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"Over the past several years, The Charmm’d Foundation has had a profound influence on the professional development of many members of my organization, myself included. The Peer Advisory Groups regularly produce stimulating discussions relevant to today’s workplace challenges. The networking experiences and personal coaching were invaluable in my professional career."
MYRA GAYTAN-MORALES
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & DEAN, UNIVERSITY CENTER OF LAKE COUNTY
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"One of the things that I hope to benefit from being a mentor is to learn how to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I want to contribute to the knowledge of those who are seeking to learn how to remain centered and calm during difficult situations. My motto is 'Be the change that you want to see in the world' (M. Gandhi). Make the best of every moment because it can never repeat itself."
HOLLIS GORRIE
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, CLEARBROOK
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"Being a part of the Charmm’d group has been transformative for me. The insightful discussions, strategic guidance, and collaborative environment have greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth. The experience has not only elevated my leadership skills but also shaped a more confident and adaptable version of myself. I am so grateful for Charmm’d!"
CHRISTINE JOHNSON
ORGANIZATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS FACILITATOR,
CUED FORWARD, LLC
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"I have had the pleasure of serving on Charmm’d’s Advisory Board and acting in supporting roles for various programs over the last seven years. What drew me to engage then is the same thing that moved me to become a mentor for the Leadership Academy this year. Charmm’d’s passion and dedication to creating space for leaders to grow and develop by providing unique learning opportunities that have an immediate and ongoing impact on how they lead. I am thrilled to work alongside this year’s participants as they become more self-aware leaders and broaden their leadership skillset."
CARLY QUICK
EDUCATOR WELLNESS CONSULTANT AND COACH,
CARLY QUICK WELLNESS, LLC
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"I'm excited to team up with Charmm’d again for the Leadership Academy after we first crossed paths over 15 years ago! Charmm’d was ahead of their time back in the early 2000s supporting adults who work in education, and it has been exciting to see them broaden their reach to support a wide variety of individuals and organizations over the years. The encouragement to build ongoing relationships and partnerships has always been a strength at Charmm’d, and I look forward to supporting that mission through this year’s Leadership Academy!"
ESTHER SALUTILLO
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"Being involved with Charmm’d has been a journey filled with growth, both personally and professionally. The Peer Advisory Groups have been a safe space to discuss challenges, share and receive resources, and experience support from dynamic community leaders. As I continue to evolve as a leader, Charmm’d has been and will continue to be influential in that process. As I begin my journey as a mentor, I am excited to share my experience and learn from incoming members."
HEIDI SMITH
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HIGHLAND PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY
CHARMM'D LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MENTOR
"I have learned so much participating in Charmm’d groups and programs, not to mention expanding my professional network of resourceful colleagues and creating life-long friendships. One of my most impactful professional development takeaways is that I am not alone, and Charmm’d has been key in making that truth feel true. As a mentor, I hope to pay it forward, supporting, encouraging, and walking alongside my new colleagues. Thank you for the opportunity, Charmm’d!"
