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Kirstin Chernawsky
Executive Director, Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation · Chicago, IL
The Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation is proud to welcome Kirstin Chernawsky as its Executive Director. A respected nonprofit executive, public sector leader, and breast cancer survivor, Kirstin brings a wealth of experience in organizational leadership, strategic growth, and community impact to the Foundation's mission of eradicating breast cancer through research, education, and innovation.
Most recently, Kirstin served as Assistant Secretary for Programs at the Illinois Department of Human Services, where she oversaw six major divisions, helped guide statewide initiatives serving thousands of Illinois residents, and led complex, cross-sector efforts focused on improving outcomes and expanding access to essential services. Prior to her state leadership role, she served as Executive Director of Erie Neighborhood House, where she successfully grew the organization's budget, expanded services, and strengthened community partnerships.
As a breast cancer survivor, Kirstin brings a deeply personal connection to Lynn Sage's mission. Her leadership will help advance groundbreaking research, expand equitable access to clinical trials, and support the next generation of breast cancer physicians and researchers.
"Breast cancer impacts one in eight women in their lifetime, a statistic that underscores the urgency of our work," said Chernawsky. "As a survivor, I am honored to lead the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation in advancing cutting-edge research, launching impactful and diverse clinical trials, and investing in early-career physicians."
Kirstin holds a Master of Science in Public Service Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from DePaul University and has completed executive education through Harvard Business School. Her achievements have earned her recognition including Crain's Chicago Business 40 Under 40 and the Executive Service Corps Executive Director of the Year Award.
Under her leadership, the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation is poised to expand its impact, strengthen research collaborations, and accelerate progress toward a future without breast cancer.