Wheaton Resident Named New Chief Operating Officer of Chicago Lighthouse
Wheaton resident Pamela Tully has been named the new chief operating officer of The Chicago Lighthouse, one of the nation's most comprehensive social service agencies assisting people who are blind, visually impaired, multi-disabled and Veterans.
An Oklahoma native who grew up in Birmingham, Michigan, Ms. Tully is a former executive with both ITW and the United Way.
"I am thrilled to be here," she smiled, noting that she has been a long-time admirer of the "groundbreaking initiatives" that The Lighthouse has developed on behalf of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Ms. Tully is no stranger to the agency, having served on the board of directors for the past four years. She also was familiar with its successful track record through her work with the United Way.
"The Lighthouse is universally respected as an organization without peer, a trendsetter in providing critical services to the blind and visually impaired community," Ms. Tully noted.
She recalled first getting involved with the agency through her friend and board colleague Judy McCaskey.
"Judy mentioned that The Lighthouse was looking for new board members at the time and so she introduced me to Dr. Szlyk, who became president in 2008. One thing led to another and I was delighted to be offered a seat on the board!"
Noting that the tumultuous U.S. economy over the past few years has posed unprecedented challenges to non-profit organizations, Ms. Tully saluted The Lighthouse for not only coping but actually thriving during this period.
"It is quite a tribute to the leadership of Dr. Szlyk and her managers who have worked tirelessly in coming up with creative ways to maintain existing Lighthouse programs, develop new ones to assist people who are blind in finding jobs, and tap into alternate revenue sources to keep the agency financially sound."
Asked about her own goals, Ms. Tully responded that she wants to assist in the continued expansion of The Lighthouse's call center, employment and Industry programs.
"Maintaining a healthy growth in these areas is vital to securing employment for people who are blind or visually impaired while at the same time bringing in needed revenue for our agency services."
A graduate of Boston University who earned an MBA from Duke University's prestigious Fuqua School of Business, Ms. Tully says that she is a proponent of a holistic managerial approach that emphasizes strong teamwork.
"I am very optimistic about The Lighthouse's future and look forward to working with everyone here in continuing to fulfill our historic mission!"
When asked how she likes to unwind after a busy day at the office, she smiles, "I love spending time with my family. We enjoy all kinds of sports like soccer, softball and basketball. I also love listening to music and reading."