Hephzibah’s history of strong leadership continues with the selection of our newest leader, Jason Patenaude, as Chief Executive Officer effective June 24, 2024.
“Jason brings a growth-oriented mindset to the new role of CEO at Hephzibah and his extensive financial, fundraising and executive leadership experience at both for-profit and nonprofit organizations will undoubtedly enhance his stewardship of Hephzibah,” says Jennifer Ellis-Jackson, board president, who led the nationwide search in partnership with a deeply committed board committee and with the professional support of Bridge Partners Executive Search.
Patenaude has three decades of experience leading nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Before joining Hephzibah, he served as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Schuler Education Foundation, supporting college access for high-achieving, low-income, and underrepresented students. He has also worked as COO for Reading in Motion, a Chicago-based early literacy organization; COO of Cricket Media, a leading creator of award-winning books, magazines, and digital products; and President of the Carus Publishing Company. He received a B.A. from Bates College and an M.B.A. from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.
“I look forward to working with the leadership and staff of Hephzibah and the broader community to support children and families. As adoptive parents, my wife and I understand how enriching it can be to form a family through the kinds of foster and adoption programs that Hephzibah provides. Also, as a multi-racial family living here in Oak Park, we’re deeply committed to supporting Hephzibah’s contribution to our diverse and inclusive community,” Jason says.
“Hephzibah has been supporting our community for more than 125 years, so I feel a deep responsibility to honor that tradition of excellence and collaborate with everyone to extend that excellence well into the future,” Jason continues.
We can’t wait to see what’s next. Welcome to the team, Jason!