Alex Cornwell

Executive Programs Director, Chicago Lights

Alex Cornwell is the Executive Programs Director at Chicago Lights, a dynamic youth development and social service organization. She oversees the mission impact of the five community outreach programs of Chicago Lights and partners with the Executive Director on organizational oversight and growth.

Ms. Cornwell began her career working with youth living in therapeutic residential programs as a mentoring specialist prior to coming to Chicago Lights in 2005. Most recently she held the position of Director of Tutoring and Summer Day for Chicago Lights. Ms. Cornwell is the Vice Chair of the Norwood Park Local School Council – a Chicago Public Elementary School – and co-founded the Norwood Park School Equity and Inclusion Committee.

She currently serves on the Racial Equity and Social Justice Committee of Chicago Women in Philanthropy and was honored last year for her work on that committee at the CWIP Annual Meeting. Additionally, she has been active in Chicago collaborative efforts, serving on many committees with Thrive Chicago, Peace Hub Chicago, Mentor Illinois, and Chicago City of Learning.

Ms. Cornwell has her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, is a licensed foster parent, and lives in Chicago with her spouse, three children, and dog.