I am writing to share some important news. As of February 28, 2018, I will step away from my role as CEO of UpGlo.
This past year, I reflected on a wonderful, productive, and meaningful 11 years with Upwardly Global. When I was promoted to CEO of UpGlo, I set out a vision for our work: I wanted to see us reach a truly meaningful level of impact in the individual lives of immigrants and refugees, and to create real, lasting change within in the eco-system touching immigrant and refugee lives, so that we could ensure lasting change for our newcomers beyond the direct work of our organization. With nearly 1,000 job placements annually, 5,000 alumni contributing to our workforce and communities, a national roster of engaged employer partners, and a growing list of government agencies, NGOs, and education providers who are leveraging UpGlo’s tools, training and platform for more impact in their local work…I see this vision having taken root in real, meaningful ways.
Of course, this has been a vast team effort. I’m thankful to our board and leadership councils, the many partners who generously invest in our work, the courageous immigrants and refugees who seek to make this country their home, and the talented members of the UpGlo staff who work every day to turn our shared vision into reality. Today, Upwardly Global is the strongest it has ever been—with outstanding programs, solid financial strength, an excellent board, a great brand, and the best team around.
Our board has already begun a search for my successor with the consulting firm Bridge Partners. We are very lucky to have Rebecca Tancredi, a nine-year UpGlo veteran and our National VP of Programs, serving as our Interim CEO. Rebecca was hired in 2009 to launch our Chicago office in partnership with the state of Illinois. She has been instrumental in helping UpGlo to elevate its mission from a local program to a national organization, and brings more than 20 years experience in talent management. She fully assume CEO responsibilities on February 1st.
I will remain actively involved with UpGlo as an ambassador, friend, and advisor to the staff and board of directors. UpGlo has been and will remain an important and meaningful part of my life, and I look forward to continuing to build on our success. As we make this transition, I ask all of you to continue your service with and support of us. Never has there been a more important time for newcomers to know there is a community that stands with them. We still have much work to do and we hope we can count on you to continue to do it with us.
Any questions should be sent to: Rebecca Tancredi, VP of Programs and Interim CEO, rebecca@upwardlyglobal.org; or Kenneth Cox, VP Development Strategy, kennethc@upwardlyglobal.org.
Thank you,
Nikki Cicerani
President and CEO, Upwardly Global