Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Pandemic Challenges
Dan Ross assumed the role as the third President in CFNIL's 67 year history on July 1, 2020. Ross’s deep and relevant professional experience elevated him to the top of a pool of highly qualified candidates. With proven executive management skills, a demonstrated commitment to philanthropy and community engagement, and extensive leadership experience, he was selected following a search that was led by CFNIL’s Organizational Preparedness Committee with assistance from FurstExecutives.
Ross has served as CFO of Fehr Graham since 2019. In that role he managed all the administrative functions for the firm, which employs over 150 people in ten offices across three states. Prior to this role, Ross was employed by Williams-Manny, Inc., for 14 years, achieving the title President and CFO. In this role he was responsible for all day-to-day and strategic activities of the company. During his tenure the firm increased agency revenue by 100%, was recognized as the Best Overall Place to Work and Best Workplace Culture, and undertook seven acquisitions.
Ross has extensive community involvement and board service, including: Immediate Past Chairman – SwedishAmerican Health System; Vice Chairman – Rockford Chamber of Commerce; Past President – Discovery Center Museum and Financial Executives International. He was selected as one of Rockford’s 40 Leaders Under 40 by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
A Rockford-area native, Ross received a BS in Finance from the University of Illinois and an MBA with Distinction in Strategic Management from DePaul University. He and his family reside in Rockton, Illinois.
Dan will discuss the problems that the Foundation has had during the pandemic and how they have managed to keep operating. This will be an interesting and informative program. One in which you will want to invite guests or prospective members to join us. All you need to do is forward the Zoom invite information to them and encourage them to join our Zoom Meeting. Becky Rundquist, who is a friend of Dan will introduce him.