Letter From the Board of Directors

The Lilac Tree is pleased to welcome Candace A. Browdy as our new Executive Director, succeeding Lorraine C. Murphy, who, in November, announced she would be leaving after 7 years as Executive Director.

Under Lorraine’s leadership the organization built upon its strengths, developed donors and built new and strengthened current relationships with partners and supporters.  The Lilac Tree benefitted from Lorraine’s commitment to the mission, focus on clients, visionary leadership and dedication to building a sustainable operation.  Lorraine is leaving The Lilac Tree to spend more time with her family but hopes to remain involved as a volunteer.

Candace comes to The Lilac Tree with 20 years of non-profit management, fundraising and program experience.  She primarily focused on helping first generation, low-income students access educational opportunities.  For almost 10 years she served as the Executive Director of the Schuler Scholar Program.  Prior to Schuler, Candace was the Executive Director of the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund and before that the Chicago International Charter Schools.

Candace’s passion for The Lilac Tree mission stems from her own divorce experience.  She has a deep understanding of the emotional, financial and legal challenges women face at the separation, divorce and post-decree life stages. As a mom of two teenagers she also understands the difficulty of navigating these challenges while raising children. Candace is excited to build upon the current work of The Lilac Tree and create even more opportunities for women who lack access to financial, legal and supportive resources.

Candace and Lorraine have been working in transition during June and effective July 1, 2018 Candace leads Lilac Tree into our 28th year serving women.

Please join us as we say goodbye to Lorraine and welcome and good luck to Candace.

Thank you for your continued support of The Lilac Tree.

Sincerely,
Mark Smith        Nanette McCarthy
Board Chair       Board Chair-Elect