The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) has named James Patterson as its next president. Patterson assumed his new role as the fourth president in CFNIL’s 72-year history on August 18, 2025.

Patterson’s experience with CFNIL spans 25 years and progressively responsible roles, including, most recently, Senior Program Director. In that role he has coordinated the annual distribution of millions of dollars in grants via competitive and discretionary programs, effectively managing relationships with dozens of organizations, hundreds of nonprofit staff, and countless community volunteers. He was selected following a search by a hiring committee made up of members of the CFNIL Board of Trustees with assistance from FurstExecutives. 

“James has contributed greatly to our growth and success, fostering strong relationships within the community and championing various initiatives that have made a lasting impact. We are proud of his accomplishments and are confident that James will bring the same dedication and vision to his role as President,” says Steve Schmeling, Chair of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Board of Trustees. “We look forward to watching James lead the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois into the next chapter of service and community engagement.”

Patterson has a deep and abiding commitment to advancing the work of mission-driven organizations. He started his nonprofit career at Lifescape, where he served as Fund and Volunteer Development Supervisor. In that role he recruited, trained, and coordinated more than 700 volunteers, directed public relations, events, and donor solicitation efforts, and managed the Meals on Wheels program. 

Patterson has extensive community involvement including Chairman – Local Board of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program of FEMA; Committee Chair and Steering Committee Member – Bridges to Prosperity Upward Mobility Coalition; Past Secretary and Current Member – Cosmopolitan Club; Founding Chair – Northern Illinois Leave A Legacy, Speakers Bureau Committee. 
“I am deeply honored to accept the role of President of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois,” said Patterson. Over the past 25 years this work has truly become my life’s calling, and I look forward to building on CFNIL’s legacy of impact and strengthening our region for years to come.” 

Originally from Mattoon, Illinois, Patterson received a BS in History with Secondary Teacher Certification from Northern Illinois University. He and his family reside in Roscoe, Illinois.