Chicago State Foundation Announces Three New Members to Board of Directors

Chicago, IL — July 28, 2026 — Building on a year of growing philanthropic momentum and expanding partnerships, the Chicago State Foundation (CSF) has elected three accomplished business and civic leaders to its Board of Directors. Their appointments reflect the Foundation's continued investment in strategic leadership as it advances student success and supports the long-term growth of Chicago State University (CSU). Joining the Board are: Mark Miller, President, Advocate South Chicagoland Area and President, Christ Medical Center Bernard Williams, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Print Communications Mike Jackson, Head of Engagement & Inclusion, Walgreens

Collectively, these leaders represent nationally recognized expertise in healthcare, business, workforce development, organizational leadership, and community engagement. Their experience will help guide the Foundation as it expands philanthropic support, strengthens corporate and community partnerships, and creates greater opportunities for CSU students.

Mark Miller serves as President of Advocate South Chicagoland Area and President of Christ Medical Center, leading one of Illinois' premier academic health systems, includingfour hospitals and more than 50 sites of care. A respected healthcare executive with nearly two decades of leadership experience, Miller is recognized for advancing operational excellence, improving health outcomes, and fostering meaningful community partnershipswhile developing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Bernard Williams is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Print Communications, a third-generation, minority-owned commercial printing company headquartered near Chicago. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its capabilities through strategic growth and innovation while maintaining its longstanding reputation for exceptional quality, customer service, and print excellence. Williams and his
wife, Bianca, are deeply committed to serving their community through initiatives focused on mentoring, literacy, education, and youth development. Together, they actively support organizations and programs that create opportunities for the next generation.

Mike Jackson serves as Head of Engagement and Inclusion at Walgreens, where he leads enterprise-wide strategies focused on employee engagement, workforce development, inclusion, and organizational culture across a workforce of more than 215,000 employees. Throughout his career, Jackson has advised executive leaders and boards across the healthcare, financial services, higher education, and consumer products sectors, bringing extensive experience in organizational transformation, governance, and leadership development.

"The Foundation is entering an exciting period of growth, and attracting leaders of this caliber positions us to deepen our impact," said Kimberly Evans, Chair of the Chicago State Foundation Board of Directors. "Mark, Bernard, and Mike each understand what it takes to build strong organizations and create opportunities for others. Their leadership will help us strengthen partnerships, broaden our reach, and ensure more Chicago State students have the resources they need to succeed."

"Chicago State University is writing one of the most exciting chapters in its history," said Melanie Sillas, President of the Chicago State Foundation. "As momentum continues to build, our Board must reflect the caliber of leaders who share our vision for the future. Mark, Bernard, and Mike each bring extraordinary expertise and a deep commitment to expanding opportunity. Their leadership will help us accelerate philanthropic growth, strengthen our partnerships, and create even greater possibilities for our students."

About the Chicago State Foundation

The Chicago State Foundation is the official philanthropic partner of Chicago State University. The Foundation inspires alumni, corporations, foundations, and friends to invest in student success, academic excellence, and the University's long-term growth. Through strategic philanthropy, the Foundation expands educational opportunities whilestrengthening Chicago State University's impact across Chicago and beyond.

About Chicago State University

Chicago State University, founded in 1867, is the oldest public university in the Chicago Metropolitan area. The University’s four colleges offer over 95 undergraduate and graduate degree-granting and non-degree programs. CSU is committed to equity in education, serving as the only U.S. Department of Education-designated four-year Predominantly Black Institution in Illinois. The University’s continued value to students and the State of Illinois is demonstrated by the ranking by a Harvard economist that places CSU in the top 4 percent of public and private universities nationwide in supporting its graduates’ economic mobility. The University serves as a prominent community anchor and civic space on the greater south side of Chicago by leading a multitude of athletic, educational, cultural, and recreational activities. Visit csu.edu.

Chicago State University