KEES Client Partner, Mutual Ground, taps Sylvia Acosta Chávez as its next CEO

Mutual Ground, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and substance abuse, has announced the appointment of Sylvia Acosta Chávez as its Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2026. Sylvia will report to the Mutual Ground Board of Directors and serve as the organization’s chief executive, responsible for leading its strategic vision, operational growth, and community impact. The executive search, led by KEES CEO Heather Eddy and Senior Project Manager Randi Blasutti, reflects the success of the partnership between Mutual Ground and KEES.

“The Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome a leader who embodies both the professional expertise and the connection to the Aurora community necessary to guide Mutual Ground into its next chapter,” said Board President Dr. Renae Franiuk. “With a proven track record of organizational growth and a deep-seated dedication to survivor-centered services, Sylvia is uniquely positioned to lead our team and advocate for the individuals and families who rely on us every day.”

Sylvia’s leadership journey at the Spanish Community Center (SCC; Joliet, IL) began in 2018 as Family Advocacy Center Director, where she strengthened and stabilized support services by implementing quality assurance systems, enhancing compliance frameworks, and overseeing critical emergency assistance efforts for families across Will and Kankakee Counties. She later advanced to Executive Director, leading SCC through a period of transformational growth that more than doubled the organization’s operating budget while expanding integrated services in early childhood education, adult education, social services, and immigration services across multiple communities, creating a stronger continuum of care for families. Throughout her leadership, she has led initiatives focused on improving equity, addressing service gaps, and increasing access to culturally responsive care. Sylvia brings extensive experience in public systems leadership, fostering cross-sector partnerships, navigating complex regulatory environments, and translating strategy into meaningful community impact.

“I am incredibly honored to lead Mutual Ground, an organization whose mission is rooted in safety, healing, and hope,” said Sylvia. “Stepping into the CEO role is deeply meaningful because my connection to Mutual Ground is also personal. As a child, I received support through the organization following experiences of domestic violence and sexual abuse. During one of the most difficult times in my life, I was met with compassion, dignity, and genuine care. That experience shaped both who I am and the leader I strive to be. It showed me that the impact of an organization extends far beyond the services it provides— it can help people feel understood, valued, and empowered to move forward. I am humbled by the opportunity to work alongside the team, Board, and community partners as we build on Mutual Ground’s legacy and continue advancing comprehensive programs and resources for survivors.”

Sylvia holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Political Science from Aurora University. She serves on the 12th Judicial and Governor J. B. Pritzker Domestic Violence Fatality Review teams and is fluent in Spanish with professional experience in interpretation. She actively supports local community missions, serving on the boards of Guardian Angel Community Services, Zonta Club of Joliet, and Greater Joliet Area YMCA.

Mutual Ground partnered with KEES, a leading executive search firm for nonprofit and public sector leadership, in December 2025. The process attracted a highly talented and diverse pool of candidates. The search was led by Board President and Search Chair Dr. Renae Franiuk (Aurora University), supported by Search Committee members Marlene Deck (Compass Mortgage, retired), Neil Harnen (TrustBank Wealth Management), Jessica Moreno (Waubonsee Community College), and Jessica Phillips (Ulta Beauty).

“Sylvia’s leadership through organizational transitions and deep community involvement stood out as exceptional,” said Heather Eddy. “Her ability to stabilize complex programs while driving strategic growth makes her an ideal fit for Mutual Ground. KEES was honored to partner closely with the Board throughout the nonprofit CEO search process to identify a leader whose personal and professional values aligned with the organization’s mission of safety and healing. Congratulations to Sylvia and the entire Mutual Ground team on this exciting chapter.”