The Newly Appointed Board Members Will Bring Fresh Energy and Diverse Expertise to Propel Chicago Foundation for Women’s Mission Forward
CHICAGO – The Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new board members: Fraya Lynn Hirschberg with PricewaterhouseCoopers, Emily Lonigro with LimeRed and Naila Alexander with PricewaterhouseCoopers. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge to the organization, with backgrounds in philanthropy, health care, government, finance and development.
“I am thrilled to welcome to our team these exceptional women, who bring a wealth of knowledge, diverse expertise and a shared dedication to our mission,” said Jessica Sohl, Board Chair of Chicago Foundation for Women. “Their unique perspectives will enrich our efforts to empower women, girls and marginalized communities. Together, we are poised to drive meaningful change and create a more equitable future for all.”
Through grantmaking, advocacy, leadership and organizing for change, CFW has been putting in the time, talent and money to work for women, girls, trans and gender non-binary individuals who lack economic security and opportunity, freedom from violence and equitable access to health care and services for nearly 40 years.
The newly appointed board will help further CFW’s efforts for a tangible and positive impact on the city’s most vulnerable populations and women and girls:
Fraya Lynn Hirschberg, Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
With more than 25 years in consulting, Fraya Lynn Hirschberg boasts a seasoned background accentuated by her pivotal roles at renowned firms. She has garnered extensive expertise in operational enhancement, strategic planning, procurement optimization, business process re-engineering, and adept project management. Having served as Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) since 2011, she has been the driving force behind augmenting efficiency and financial performance. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Fraya’s commitment extends to her roles on the Governance and Board Development Committee at Girls on the Run Chicago and as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Gamma Phi Beta Foundation. .
“I am honored to join the Board of Chicago Foundation for Women, an organization dedicated to driving positive change for vulnerable populations,” said Fraya Lynn Hirschberg. “I am excited to contribute my expertise in operational efficiency and digital tools to further the Foundation’s mission. Together, we can create a lasting impact that uplifts women, girls and marginalized communities.
Emily Lonigro, President & Founder / LimeRed
Emily Lonigro is an activist, small business owner, entrepreneur, teacher, mother, partner, writer, speaker, and gardener. Emily has founded many organizations and companies over the last two decades. Currently, she runs two companies: LimeRed, a social impact- branding agency and Even Made, teaching home construction skills “for everyone else.”
Founded in 2004, LimeRed is an award-winning social impact branding agency with international-scope clients. At Even Made, she develops workshops and training programs to teach home improvement skills to people traditionally left out of that learning. Even Made encourages people to try out the trades and to build confidence and generational wealth through home improvement. She is the Business Leadership Chair for We The Change, a group of international women CEOs of corporations. She is also the fundraising chair of her school’s PTA.
She previously served on the board of Free Street Theater, We Will, and previously taught in the media department at Columbia College.
“As a passionate advocate for social impact and empowerment, I am excited to become a part of the Chicago Foundation for Women’s Board to help drive positive change,” said Emily Lonigro. It will allow me to expand my commitment to community building and gender equality. Together, we can forge a path towards greater opportunities and inclusivity for all.”
Naila Alexander, Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
Naila Alexander is a trailblazing female leader and a vital voice within the BIPOC community, driven by a profound commitment to effecting change in underserved areas. Having conquered traditionally male-dominated industries while often being the sole woman and person of color in the room, Naila attributes her success to her supportive network. Now, as a board member of Chicago Foundation for Women, she channels her gratitude into action, providing essential support for women and women of color to thrive and fostering a legacy of achievement.
“Joining the Chicago Foundation for Women’s Board is a significant step for me as I share the commitment to uplift underserved communities. As a woman of color who has navigated male-dominated fields, I understand the importance of representation and support,” said Naila Alexander. “My journey, supported by a strong network, fuels my drive to pay it forward and empower others. Through this role, I aspire to contribute to a legacy of success, ensuring that women and women of color have the resources and opportunities to thrive.”
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About Chicago Foundation for Women
Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW) invests in women and girls as catalysts, building strong communities for all. CFW funds organizations working to solve the biggest problems facing women and girls: economic insecurity, violence, and lack of access to health care and information. Since its founding, CFW has invested more than $48 million in hundreds of organizations, leveraging the generosity of more than 2,200 donors, impacting more than 300,000 women, girls, trans, and gender nonbinary individuals in our region. In addition to grantmaking, CFW invests in developing women leaders and advocates, and brings together diverse coalitions to collaborate, share resources, and develop solutions. Learn more at www.cfw.org.