Dawn Melchiorre and Andreason Brown elevated to new Leadership Positions at State Membership Association

Forefront, the Illinois state membership association of philanthropy, nonprofits, advisors, social enterprises, and other organizations has named Dawn Melchiorre Chief Program and Policy Officer and Andreason Brown Chief Operating Officer.

“We are thrilled to promote Dawn and Andreason to these roles,” said Eric Weinheimer, Forefront’s President and CEO. “Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership and have greatly contributed to positioning Forefront as the leading resource and advocate for the social impact sector.” 

Dawn has served as Forefront’s Vice President, Member Engagement since 2016.  As Chief Program & Policy Officer, she will lead Forefront’s education programs, member networks, statewide partnerships, and strategic initiatives. Dawn will also oversee public policy/advocacy efforts.  Dawn previously served as Senior Director of Programs at the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Vice President of Clara’s and Policy Outreach Director at Voices for Illinois Children.  Dawn has also served on several nonprofit boards.

She earned a BA in Political Science and Communications degree from Loyola University of Chicago, an MS in Public Service and Public Policy degree from DePaul University, and an MBA in Nonprofit, Public, and Organizational Management degree from Concordia University.

Andreason joined Forefront in 2010 serving as Vice President, Finance & Administration then CFO prior to being named Executive Vice President & CFO in 2016.  As Chief Operating Officer, Andreason will support the overall strategic direction of Forefront, lead finance and administration, and ensure the smooth running of day to day activities.  Andreason will also develop and grow Forefront’s financial consulting and fiscal arrangement activities. He most recently served as Vice President, Finance & Administration and Assistant Treasurer for the Executive Service Corps of Chicago and Operations Director at the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference.

Andreason is Vice Chair of the African American Legacy Fund at the Chicago Community Trust and serves on several local and national nonprofit boards.  Andreason earned a BS in Economics degree from Central Michigan University and a MS in Nonprofit Management degree from DePaul University.