KEES/Alford Executive Search

06/19/2026

Today, KEES honors Juneteenth, a day of reflection, remembrance, resilience, and hope. We recognize the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the significance of June 19, 1865, when news of freedom finally reached those still enslaved in Texas. As we commemorate this important day in American history, we also acknowledge the ongoing pursuit of equity, justice, and opportunity for all.

Learn more about the legacy and significance of Juneteenth: https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/moments/juneteen

Article Source: Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture

Juneteenth is a time to gather as a family, reflect on the past and look to the future. Discover ways to celebrate this African American cultural tradition of music, food and freedom.

06/18/2026

We're excited to expand our consulting services to Concordia Place as a KEES Client Partner! KEES is supporting Best Practice Governance by conducting an Executive Compensation Review, and we could not be more pleased to continue supporting this long-standing client partner.

Concordia Place is a mission-driven nonprofit serving Chicago through early learning, after-school, and teen leadership programs. The organization works to disrupt social inequities by providing access to top-quality education, enrichment, and hands-on experiences that include all children, teens, and families together.

Learn more at www.concordiaplace.org

Learn more about Executive Compensation Review under the services tab at www.kees2success.com

06/17/2026

Does your Board uphold Best Practices and practice excellence?

The Oak Leyden Board does.

KEES was honored to facilitate a governance-focused learning session covering nonprofit trends, board best practices, and the evolving imperatives of today's board leaders.

Thank you to the Oak Leyden Board, Eileen Curran, Linda Skitka, Bob Gerstner, Lori Malinski, Lucia Robinson, Howard Japlon, Tom Jacobs, Craig volpe, Laura Gerstner, Cathy McClendon and R. J. McMahon for a fantastic evening, and for staying engaged even as a tornado warning passed through the area.

Oak Leyden supports children with IDD through wrap-around therapeutic services and adults with IDD through residential and community day services. Their impact goes deep for each individual and their families.

Reach out to KEES/Alford Executive Search if your Board needs to learn about Nonprofit Board Best Practices.

06/16/2026

💡 When was the last time your board reviewed executive compensation?

If it's been more than three years, your organization could be creating unnecessary retention, recruitment, and governance risks.

Our latest blog explores why every nonprofit board should conduct an independent Executive Compensation Review regularly and how it helps support strong leadership, good governance, and long-term success.

📖 Read more: https://kees2success.com/blog/why-every-nonprofit-board-should-conduct-an-independent-executive-compensation-review-every-three-years/

Learn why nonprofit boards should conduct an independent executive compensation review every three years to support executive retention, strengthen governance, benchmark compensation, and prepare for future leadership transitions.

06/15/2026

Happy Work Anniversary to KEES Candidate Placement, Sandra Nelson, CFRE! Congratulations on celebrating six incredible years with the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, serving as Vice President for Advancement. Here’s to another year of leadership, impact, and continued success!

06/12/2026

KEES CEO and President Heather Eddy recently enjoyed reconnecting with Alex Harris and Steve Grosskopf at Melt n Dip. The gathering brought together members of the Search Committee that partnered with KEES during the CEO search for Naper Settlement.

At KEES, we value the relationships built throughout every search engagement, and it's always rewarding to reconnect. These lasting connections are a reminder that strong partnerships extend well beyond a completed search.

06/11/2026

KEES is honored to announce the placement of Nathaniel Viets-VanLear as the inaugural Vice President of Youth Development and Impact.

Congratulations to the Concordia Place team on this exciting leadership addition and the creation of this important new role. We also extend our sincere appreciation to President and CEO Grace Araya and the entire leadership team for their partnership throughout the search process.

Read more: https://kees2success.com/concordia-place-selects-nathaniel-viets-vanlear-as-inaugural-vice-president-of-youth-development-and-impact-through-executive-search-partnership-with-kees/

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 Nathaniel Viets-VanLear as its inaugural Vice President of Youth Development and Impact. R...

06/10/2026

Celebrating 13 Years! Happy Work Anniversary to Candidate Placement Valerie Wheatley! Congratulations on this remarkable 13-year milestone. Your leadership and lasting impact as Chief Operating Officer at Clover New Orleans continue to inspire those around you. Wishing you continued success and another outstanding year ahead!

06/10/2026

Help us wish a very Happy Birthday to our Director of Marketing and Communications, Jamie Sheffler! We’re incredibly grateful for your contributions to KEES and the positive impact you make every day. Thank you, Jamie, for your continued dedication to serving our clients and supporting our team. Wishing you a wonderful day of celebration!

Learn more about KEES: www.kees2success.com

06/09/2026

As the second week of Pride Month 2026 begins, KEES proudly celebrates and supports a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse environment where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Happy Pride Month 2026!