Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to service, Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago provides essential support to over one million individuals annually, addressing critical needs across Cook and Lake counties through a comprehensive network of over 150 programs.

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, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, Hernandez ensures the sustainable funding of over 150 programs serving more than one million people annually across Cook and Lake counties. This leadership role involves managing financial compliance, optimizing expenditures for childcare, senior housing, food pantries, and health services, and securing the financial integrity of the organization. By maintaining robust financial controls, Elida Hernandez directly supports the delivery of critical aid to low-income families, seniors, mothers, children, and refugees. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic financial planning underpins the organization's capacity to meet evolving community needs and expand its reach throughout the region.
    Elida Hernandez

    Patrick Dunne - Chief Operating Officer

    Patrick Dunne, the Chief Operating Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, oversees the execution of all operational strategies and program delivery. Managing the day-to-day functions across childcare, HIV/AIDS counseling, senior services, food pantries, and immigration assistance, Dunne ensures efficient and effective service provision to over one million individuals annually. This critical role involves optimizing resource deployment, enhancing operational workflows, and maintaining high standards of service quality throughout Cook and Lake counties. By streamlining operational processes, Patrick Dunne directly contributes to the organization's ability to reach vulnerable populations with essential support. The Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational excellence drives the organization's mission forward, ensuring seamless delivery of vital services to those in need across the region.

    Todd Maxwell - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Todd Maxwell, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, leads the overall strategic direction and operational execution of the organization. Maxwell directs all facets of service delivery, encompassing childcare for low-income families, HIV/AIDS counseling, nutrition programs for seniors and children, senior housing, food and clothing pantries, health fairs, and immigration assistance. This executive leadership role involves fostering partnerships, driving organizational growth, and ensuring the effective management of over 150 programs across Cook and Lake counties. By championing strategic initiatives, Todd Maxwell ensures the organization's sustained impact and its capacity to serve over one million people annually. The President & Chief Operating Officer's vision guides the organization's mission to provide comprehensive support to diverse communities.
    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 cybersecurity initiatives. Burr oversees the implementation and maintenance of IT systems that support over 150 programs, ensuring seamless data management for services like childcare, senior housing, and refugee assistance. This dual role involves safeguarding sensitive information, enhancing digital security protocols, and leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency across Cook and Lake counties. By fortifying the organization's digital defenses, Frank Burr directly protects the integrity of services provided to over one million individuals annually. The Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer's strategic technology leadership ensures robust and secure operations, enabling the organization to effectively meet community needs.

    Cynthia Smetana - Accounting Professional

    Cynthia Smetana, the Accounting Professional at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, manages critical accounting functions supporting the organization's extensive service network. Smetana contributes to the accurate financial record-keeping for over 150 programs, including childcare, senior nutrition, and immigration assistance, ensuring compliance and fiscal responsibility. This role involves detailed transaction processing, financial statement preparation, and supporting audits to maintain the integrity of financial data across Cook and Lake counties. By meticulously managing accounting processes, Cynthia Smetana directly supports the efficient allocation of resources to serve over one million people annually. The Accounting Professional's dedication to financial accuracy underpins the organization's ability to sustain its vital community support initiatives.

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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.