Our StaffKara Kennedy has over 20 years of nonprofit experience in health care, voluntary health associations, and a youth-based organization. Kara has her Bachelor and Master in Social Work degrees and is a Certified Association Executive. Prior to joining Lumity in August 2009, Kara worked at Boys & Girls Clubs of America, American Lung Association of Metro Chicago, Alzheimer’s Association, and two community-based hospitals. Kara is a highly versatile professional with expertise in fundraising, program development and management, strategic planning, and organizational development.
phone ext. 204
Julie joined the Lumity team in 2004. She has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, focused on establishing efficient and effective administrative policies and procedures. As Director of Administration & Foundation Relations, she is responsible for office operations, facilities management, and human resources. She also works with the fundraising team, focusing on foundation grant management and relations. Julie holds a BA in Social Work and MS in Nonprofit Administration.
phone ext. 203
Maggie brings more than 30 years of financial management experience to Lumity, both in nonprofit and for-profit settings. Prior to joining Lumity, Maggie worked with nonprofit and for-profit entities, assisting staff, management, and boards on accounting and financial planning, and strategic planning. Maggie is responsible for managing and developing Lumity’s Finance Services and oversees the work of staff and contractors delivering those services. She holds an MBA in Finance and Economics.
phone ext. 205
Dale has over 30 years of technology and management experience in nonprofit, for-profit, and government agency settings. Dale brings experience building lasting solutions through teamwork and strategies based on solid business principles. Dale manages and develops Lumity’s technology solutions offerings and oversees the work of staff and contractors delivering those solutions. He holds a BA in Management.
phone ext. 217
Jonathan brings over 15 years of corporate consulting management and over 20 years of nonprofit operations management and development to his role as CTC Connect Program Director. His specialized skills include Network Structure, Basic Digital Literacy Instruction, Computer Solutions, Microsoft Suite 2000 Certification, Level 1 Tech training, strategic planning, and project management. Jonathan has presented clinical studies in social sciences, team building training and behavior sciences. Jonathan holds bachelor degrees in health science and counseling, and master degrees in counseling and divinity.
phone ext. 208
phone ext. 220
As the Director of the MS IT Academy, Melinda draws on her many skills honed from both corporate and nonprofit work experience. Melinda has worked as a corporate training consultant for over 15 years, and in nonprofits for over 20 years in operations, volunteer development, relationship building and financial accountability. Her specialized skills include Basic Digital literacy and IT Architecture. As a certified trainer of CitiGroup’s Marketing University, Melinda’s communication skills ignite her training and leadership courses. Melinda holds a BA and MA in Counseling.
phone ext. 210
phone ext. 218
Paula came to Lumity with a strong event planning and fundraising background. Paula is responsible for cultivating relationships with Lumity clients, partners, and prospects. She plans and organizes Lumity's fundraising events. Paula holds a BA in Nonprofit Project Management.
phone ext. 206
Raquel brings with her over 15 years of experience in nonprofit accounting. Raquel is responsible for all of Lumity's accounting functions. Prior to joining Lumity, Raquel worked as the Accounting Manager at Chicago Public Radio, the Accounting Manager at Golin Harris International, and Accounting Supervisor with CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning). Raquel’s education includes an MBA from Roosevelt University and an undergraduate degree from Chicago State University.
phone ext. 207
Jean brings over 15 years of experience in freelance work in design, production, and administrative services for nonprofits and small start-up businesses. She is responsible for the day-to-day management of the office functions, developing marketing plans and materials, managing npo.net, and maintaining Lumity’s website. Jean holds a BA in Social Work.
phone ext. 202