GIVING BACK | DuPage Foundation Welcomes Clarice Swanson as Its New Advancement Associate

Local non-profit is growing their team

DOWNERS GROVE– Clarice Swanson joined DuPage Foundation on May 20 as its advancement associate, reporting to Michael Trench, vice president for advancement. In her new role, Swanson will focus on data management, research, event support, gift processing, donor cultivation and stewardship, and playing a lead role in event planning—especially the Foundation’s Annual Benefit.

Swanson is a lifelong Chicago area resident with a background in fundraising, events, project management, and community engagement. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communication and media arts with a minor in Music from the University of St. Francis and possesses a strong passion for community and the arts. This is exemplified by her volunteer leadership role as vice president of membership for the Downers Grove Choral Society.

“Clarice brings a wealth of experience to the DuPage Foundation team,” said Michael Trench, vice president for advancement. “Her proven track record positions her to make a significant impact from day one. We’re delighted to welcome her aboard!”

Swanson’s experience has helped her frame a strong career trajectory within not-for-profit development. She has worked in event planning at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, coordinated programming at New Lenox Public Library, and most recently served as special events coordinator at her high school alma mater, Loyola Academy, in Chicago’s north suburbs. In this role, Swanson excelled in leading a variety of “friend-raising” events, helping plan and successfully execute two major annual fundraisers, and has actively contributed to a host of communications, cultivation, stewardship, and volunteer engagement efforts.

“I am beyond thrilled to continue my not-for-profit journey with DuPage Foundation,” said Clarice Swanson, advancement associate. “I have seen the positive impact the Foundation has made on organizations in my own community, and I look forward to being a part of that legacy.”

Swanson plans to pursue an online Master of Arts in the area of creative enterprises with Emerson College in Boston. With her passion and enthusiasm for DuPage Foundation’s mission, we are confident she will be an outstanding addition to the advancement team. 

About DuPage Foundation

DuPage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) community foundation, is DuPage County’s champion for philanthropy. DuPage Foundation manages more than $140 million in assets and has awarded more than $90 million in grants since its founding in 1986. Individuals and organizations seeking to provide impactful support to address critical issues in DuPage County and beyond can create powerful customizable gift solutions and partnerships through DuPage Foundation. Learn more at dupagefoundation.org. Doing a world of good in our own backyard.®