We partnered with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago on the search for a Vice President of Community and Government Engagement. Catholic Charities provides a host of social and professional services that strengthen, nourish and support individuals, families, and communities across the city and the state.

Our work resulted in the recruitment of Tenisha Jones to the role.

In this role, Jones is responsible for Catholic Charities’ goal of becoming the region’s most trusted partner for mission-driven people and organizations seeking to serve those in need. Under Jones’ leadership the organization strives to effectively leverage Catholic Charities’ scale, scope, and service history to partner even more deeply with parishes, community groups, government entities, and other key stakeholders.

Jones has nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit/civic engagement, and a track record of taking strategic initiatives to new heights.

Previously, Jones worked as Chief Operations Officer at West Side United, a Chicago nonprofit that builds community health, economic wellness, and vibrant neighborhoods on Chicago’s west side.

Jones also served in key positions at Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

As a leader with Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s Internal Education Transition and Racial Equity Rapid Response teams, Jones played key roles in shaping the city’s educational policies and ensuring a just response and recovery from Covid-19. Jones is a results-driven community development expert with vast experience in program strategy management, fiscal and operational oversight, change management, and relationship-building.

Jones served as a Civic Leadership Academy Fellow at the University of Chicago, Harris School of Public Policy, and the Chicago Urban League Impact Fellowship.

She sits on several volunteer and professional association committees, including the Chicago Equity Network, Chicago Cares, and Austin Coming Together.

Jones holds a BA in Psychology from National-Louis University. She is pursuing a Master of Urban Planning and Policy (MUPP) at the University of Illinois Chicago.