Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, information technology, and security.

Driven by a commitment to service, Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago provides essential support to over one million individuals annually, irrespective of faith, ethnicity, race, or gender, through a comprehensive network of over 150 programs across Cook and Lake counties.

Leadership Roles at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago

  • Chief Financial Officer - Elida Hernandez
  • Chief Operating Officer - Patrick Dunne
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - Todd Maxwell
  • Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer - Frank Burr
  • Accounting Professional - Cynthia Smetana
  • Elida Hernandez - Chief Financial Officer

    Elida Hernandez, the Chief Financial Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, manages the comprehensive financial strategy and oversight for the organization. Hernandez ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability across all programs, including childcare, senior housing, and food pantries, which collectively serve over one million individuals annually. This role involves meticulous budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the organization's mission in Cook and Lake counties. The Chief Financial Officer safeguards the financial integrity of operations, enabling the continued provision of essential services like HIV/AIDS counseling and immigration assistance. By maintaining robust financial controls, Elida Hernandez directly contributes to the organization's capacity to serve diverse communities regardless of background. Hernandez's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively leveraged to maximize social impact.
    Elida Hernandez

    Patrick Dunne - Chief Operating Officer

    Patrick Dunne, the Chief Operating Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, directs the operational execution of the organization's extensive service delivery model. Overseeing the day-to-day functions, Dunne ensures the efficient deployment of resources across more than 150 programs that serve over one million people annually. This leadership involves optimizing the delivery of critical services such as childcare for low-income families, nutrition programs for seniors and children, and housing assistance. Dunne's focus remains on enhancing the operational capacity to meet the growing needs within Cook and Lake counties. The Chief Operating Officer drives the integration of volunteer efforts with staff initiatives, ensuring a cohesive approach to service provision. By streamlining processes, Patrick Dunne directly supports the organization's mission to provide vital assistance to vulnerable populations.

    Todd Maxwell - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Todd Maxwell, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the organization's extensive operations. Maxwell guides the execution of over 150 programs designed to assist over one million people annually across Cook and Lake counties, encompassing services from childcare to refugee assistance. This dual role ensures alignment between strategic vision and operational effectiveness, driving the organization's mission forward. The President & Chief Operating Officer oversees the integration of services, such as senior housing, food pantries, and health fairs, to maximize community impact. Maxwell's leadership is critical in fostering a culture of service and ensuring the efficient delivery of aid to those in need, regardless of faith, ethnicity, race, or gender. By championing strategic initiatives, Todd Maxwell directly enhances the organization's ability to respond to community needs.
    Todd Maxwell

    Frank Burr - Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer

    Frank Burr, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, directs the organization's technology infrastructure and information security protocols. Burr ensures the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data supporting over 150 programs that serve more than one million individuals annually. This critical role involves implementing robust IT systems and security measures to protect sensitive information related to services like childcare, senior housing, and health fairs. The Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer oversees the technological framework that enables efficient service delivery across Cook and Lake counties. Burr's expertise is vital in maintaining secure operations and safeguarding against cyber threats, ensuring the continued trust and reliability of Catholic Charities' services. By managing technology and security, Frank Burr directly supports the organization's mission to provide essential aid.

    Cynthia Smetana - Accounting Professional

    Cynthia Smetana, the Accounting Professional at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, manages key financial record-keeping and reporting functions. Smetana supports the accurate tracking of financial transactions across the organization's diverse programs, which serve over one million people annually, including childcare, senior services, and food pantries. This role is integral to maintaining financial transparency and accountability for all operations within Cook and Lake counties. The Accounting Professional ensures that financial data is meticulously organized and compliant with relevant regulations, facilitating effective financial management. Smetana's dedication to precise accounting practices directly supports the organization's ability to allocate resources efficiently and continue its vital mission of service. By ensuring accurate financial documentation, Cynthia Smetana contributes to the overall operational stability.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago?
    Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago is led by Elida Hernandez (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Dunne (Chief Operating Officer) and Todd Maxwell (President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago’s executive team?
    The executive team of Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago includes leaders such as Elida Hernandez (Chief Financial Officer), Patrick Dunne (Chief Operating Officer), Todd Maxwell (President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago have?
    Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer, Accounting Professional.