CHICAGO – Today, award-winning technology and leadership workforce nonprofit, i.c.stars, announced that its Co-Founder and CEO Sandee Kastrul is transitioning to a new role as the Chief Innovation Officer for the nonprofit’s Innovation lab.
During Sandee’s 25 year tenure as CEO, i.c.stars went from an idea to transforming the lives of over 1,000 underserved young adults with technology-based workforce development, community leadership training, internships, and job placement. With a vision to change not only the lives, and ultimately, the communities in which i.c.stars graduates live, the program has also changed employer perceptions and practices around hiring non-traditional talent.
As the Chief Innovation Officer, Sandee is poised to expand i.c.stars’ impact beyond its core program through strategic partnerships with higher education institutions, corporate employers, and community collaborators. As these initiatives develop, one constant will remain unchanged: Sandee’s unwavering belief in technology as the great enabler of social, economic, and community transformation. This enduring belief has not only fueled i.c.stars’ success, but will continue to propel it forward with the imminent launch of the Innovation Lab.
“I am so proud of how far we’ve come and for the opportunities ahead of us,” said Kastrul. “We believe that diversity is the ultimate driver of innovation, and that’s why I am so excited to build and innovate into our next era.” The organization is doubling down on growth, which means going deeper in its existing markets, and launching training in new cities. In her new role, Sandee will oversee partnerships, pilot programs, and expansion.
i.c.stars is seeking a new CEO who embodies the qualities that have defined the organization: visionary thinking, a deep-seated passion for technology, and a commitment to community development. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in nonprofit management, the ability to inspire and engage, and a deep commitment to driving social change through technology.
This transition marks a new chapter for i.c.stars and a chance to deepen its impact.
For more information about the transition, partnerships, or hiring from i.c.stars, please contact: Elizabeth Ferruelo at EFerruelo@icstars.org
