Nicki Anderson of Naperville, IL, joined DuPage Foundation on July 9 as its director of strategic partnerships. In her new role, she will lead in engaging local businesses, government and community leaders, private foundations, and others in the Foundation’s mission.

Specifically, Anderson will focus on education, outreach, and the launch of a countywide giving circle to broaden support for the Foundation’s Community Impact grant program, which is seeing increasing requests as needs grow within our community. A portion of Anderson’s position is being generously underwritten for three years by an anonymous funding partner.

“We are delighted to welcome Nicki to our team,” said Mike Sitrick, JD, CFRE, president & CEO. “Her leadership experience in the community, combined with her passion and drive, make her the perfect candidate to build meaningful connections that will advance our mission.”

An active community leader, Anderson most recently served as the creator and director of Benedictine University’s L.E.A.D.S. Women’s Undergraduate Leadership Program. Before that, she was president & CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce where she led an organizational restructuring and successful capital campaign. Anderson was formerly owner and CEO of Reality Fitness, a columnist for the Chicago Tribune and Daily Herald, and a member of the Naperville City Council. She is a published author, recipient of numerous community awards, and currently serves as a Loaves & Fishes Community Services board member and an Alive Center advisory member. Anderson and her husband, Bill, live in Naperville. They have four grown children and two grandchildren.

"Stepping into this new role is incredibly energizing,” said Anderson. “The Foundation’s momentum in cultivating philanthropy and connecting donors to local needs is inspiring, and I’m eager to contribute by building strong community partnerships that ensure the continued growth of the Foundation."