Rachael Carbone

Chief Development and Operations Officer, Chicago Scholars

Rachael Carbone leads the strategy and implementation of fundraising, communications and strategic engagement to elevate and achieve Chicago Scholars’ mission. She also oversees the teams responsible for organizational operations – the day-to-day of business management – that supports the incredible programming provided to some of Chicago’s most talented young leaders.

Prior to joining Chicago Scholars, Rachael spent 15 years with Heartland Alliance, ultimately as its Senior Director of Development. In that time, her passion for human rights and equity issues locally and globally, kept her motivated to exceed fundraising goals and to nurture a team of dedicated professionals in service to the organization and its courageous participants. This same passion for equity, service, and the inspiring Scholars themselves, is what led Rachael to Chicago Scholars. She believes that opportunity through education and leadership development will propel Chicago and its young people toward a more equitable and prosperous future and is honored to be part of a team dedicated to achieving that future.

Rachael has been driven to serve a greater good since her first job at age 14 when working as a peer tutor and mentor. She holds a BA in International Service and Humanities from Valparaiso University and an MPA in Public Affairs from the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

When not working, Rachael squeezes in every minute she can to enjoy time with her wife and son, and she stays connected to a close-knit group of family and friends in all corners of the globe. Rachael loves all that living in the great city of Chicago has to offer (food, theater, museums, the lakefront, the Cubs) and exploring other places, cultures, and people through travel.