MICHELLE DEHAVEN QUAST, The Foundation for Northwest Illinois

Michelle DeHaven-Quast is an executive leader with nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. As CEO, she leads The Foundation for Northwest Illinois in quest of fulfilling its mission, inspiring donors and empowering community partners for a stronger Northwest Illinois.

Michelle has an extensive background in nonprofit leadership, having held strategic roles at all levels of management including donor development, strategic planning, and marketing. Prior to her work at the Foundation, she served in key positions with the March of Dimes and Arthritis Foundation, Discover Center Museum, and the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

A native of Stephenson County, with family roots branching throughout northwest Illinois since the mid-1800s, she understands the unique value of living in northwest Illinois. Through her personal and professional life experience, coupled with the values engrained in her as a youth, Michelle believes our communities and our region will be at their strongest when everyone openly works in concert toward common goals, goals which ensure all northwest Illinois residents experience inclusion and there is equal access to opportunity for all.