Melanie Sillas is a public service leader with more than 15 years of experience across the nonprofit, higher education, and government sectors. She currently serves as President of the Chicago State Foundation, where she leads the University’s philanthropic strategy, advances high-impact partnerships, and strengthens student success through transformational fundraising.
A proud first-generation college graduate, Melanie’s personal journey fuels her commitment to mentorship, equity, and expanding opportunity for students who are forging new paths for themselves and their families. Her leadership has helped modernize development operations, deepen donor engagement, and elevate Chicago State University’s visibility as an anchor of educational access on Chicago’s South Side.
Before joining the Chicago State Foundation, Melanie served as Vice President of Membership and Development at Chicago United, overseeing the recruitment and stewardship of nearly 100 member companies and directing the organization’s largest annual event. She previously held fundraising roles with World Business Chicago, the University of Chicago, the Chicago Urban League, and Chicago Youth Centers.
Melanie serves on the Board of Directors for Ladies of Virtue, a nonprofit empowering Black girls ages 9–18 through mentorship, leadership development, and career readiness. Her service reflects her deep commitment to investing in the potential of young women and advancing community-centered leadership.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Illinois (2005), a Master of Science in Public Service Management from DePaul University (2008), and a Certificate in Fundraising Management from North Park University (2014).