The Board of Directors for Oak-Leyden Developmental Services is excited to welcome Bertha G. Magana as its new Executive Director. She replaces Robert Atkinson, former CEO who retired this past summer.
Ms. Magana is a visionary leader who brings demonstrated experience in both non-profit and educational sector management, board governance and organizational change management to Oak-Leyden. Ms. Magana has served as Interim Executive Director since last October and has already provided many valuable contributions to the organization, including her work with the Board of Directors to improve the management and organizational structure. She has received numerous commendations for her community involvement, and she has already helped to improve the organization’s efforts to reconnect with and cultivate important funding relationships and to build key corporate and community partnerships.
Ms. Magana has served previously as the executive director of several non-profits and was an independent consultant and Associate Vice President with The Alford Group. Ms. Magana is an LGC Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow and an LBG Fellow Association Board Member; a former Member of the Board of the Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Foundation for Women. She holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Illinois College of Law and is a graduate of the University of Illinois-Chicago, with a focus in political science and psychology departments.
“I’m honored to have been selected,” says Ms. Magana, “I’m eager to get started officially at Oak-Leyden Developmental Services, continuing to learn about our various programs and community initiatives. I look forward to meeting the many people who help make our work so meaningful.”
Board President Melissa Wyatt stated, “We are confident that Bertha’s experience, knowledge, and integrity are a great match for the work, staff, and friends of Oak-Leyden Developmental Services. Together with the staff and the Board of Directors, we will continue to advance our mission by empowering children and adults with developmental disabilities to reach their highest potential.”
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2016. The mission of the organization is to help children and adults with developmental disabilities to meet life’s challenges and reach their highest potential. In addition to its main office in Oak Park, there are several program services and group homes in Oak Park, Berwyn, Elmwood Park, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Melrose Park, Northlake, River Forest and Westchester. Oak-Leyden is proud to be recognized for its quality residential and vocational adult services, and services for children with developmental disabilities or delays.
