Clarice Swanson joined DuPage Foundation on May 20 as its advancement associate, reporting to Michael Trench, vice president for advancement. In her new role, Swanson will focus on data management, research, event support, gift processing, donor cultivation and stewardship, and playing a lead role in event planning—especially the Foundation’s Annual Benefit.
Swanson is a lifelong Chicago area resident with a background in fundraising, events, project management, and community engagement. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Arts with a minor in Music from the University of St. Francis, and possesses a strong passion for community and the arts. This is exemplified by her volunteer leadership role as vice president of membership for the Downers Grove Choral Society.
“Clarice brings a wealth of experience to the DuPage Foundation team,” said Michael Trench, vice president for advancement. “Her proven track record positions her to make a significant impact from day one. We’re delighted to welcome her aboard!”
Swanson’s experience has helped her frame a strong career trajectory within not-for-profit development. She has worked in event planning at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, coordinated programming at New Lenox Public Library, and most recently served as special events coordinator at her high school alma mater, Loyola Academy, in Chicago’s north suburbs. In this role, Swanson excelled in leading a variety of “friend-raising” events, helping plan and successfully execute two major annual fundraisers, and has actively contributed to a host of communications, cultivation, stewardship, and volunteer engagement efforts.
“I am beyond thrilled to continue my not-for-profit journey with DuPage Foundation,” said Clarice Swanson, advancement associate. “I have seen the positive impact the Foundation has made on organizations in my own community, and I look forward to being a part of that legacy.”
Swanson plans to pursue an online Master of Arts in the area of creative enterprises with Emerson College in Boston. With her passion and enthusiasm for DuPage Foundation’s mission, we are confident she will be an outstanding addition to the advancement team.
