Leadership Transition Announcement
A Message From VOCEL’s Board of Directors
Effective April 1, VOCEL Co-Founder Jesse Ilhardt will become our new Executive Director. VOCEL’s Co-Founder Kelly Powers, who served in this role since 2013, is transitioning to the role of Chief Operating Officer at the Carole Robertson Center for Learning.
Jesse and Kelly have been working together side-by-side, in lockstep since they co-founded VOCEL in 2012. We will be forever grateful for Kelly’s contributions, vision, and passion in helping to build VOCEL into what it is today.
We are thrilled to welcome Jesse to the executive director role. Her experience as a co-founder and background in early childhood education are perfectly suited to further enhance the organization. Jesse’s passion for our programs, commitment to the experience of each of our stakeholders, and deep care for VOCEL’s ongoing success will continue to serve our VOCEL community well.
Thank you for supporting and following VOCEL’s important work. We look forward to partnering with you to grow our impact as we enter this next chapter in VOCEL’s story.
Barbara Koren, Chairperson
Louis Hellebusch, Vice Chair
Board of Directors, VOCEL
A Message from Jesse Ilhardt
Nearly nine years ago (long before my 3-year-old James was even a figment of my imagination), VOCEL became my first baby, and I felt immense gratitude for the privilege to build such an innovative, responsive organization.
Fueled by this gratitude and a deep dedication to VOCEL’s success, I am ecstatic to serve as VOCEL’s Executive Director – to lead VOCEL in partnership with this team, this Board of Directors, and this community of supporters.
VOCEL has never been stronger. Reaching more than 300 young children, parents, caregivers, and educators across Chicago, VOCEL has become a known and reputable innovator. Sustained by a growing annual budget, a diversified donor base, and a cash reserve, VOCEL’s programs continue to evolve.
Now as we embark on the next phase of our journey, I thank you for your belief in VOCEL and look forward to working with you to help ensure every child has the foundation to learn, grow, and lead.
With appreciation & enthusiasm,
Jesse Ilhardt, Co-Founder & Executive Director
A Message from Kelly Powers
Leading VOCEL has been the most rewarding endeavor of my career, filled with experiences I never dreamed possible. I have been humbled and honored to build this organization with Jesse and with you – our steadfast VOCEL Village who make this work possible.
Helping this organization flourish solidified my passion for early education and after an incredible nine years, I am excited to take that passion and commitment to the Carole Robertson Center for Learning where I will continue to work on behalf of children and families, and I couldn’t be more confident in VOCEL’s future with Jesse at the helm.
You are an instrumental part of a village of supporters that helps VOCEL thrive, and it has been an honor and a privilege to work with you. Thank you for your ongoing loyalty and support.
With gratitude,
Kelly Powers, Co-Founder