i.c.stars announces Karin Norington-Reaves as new CEO

i.c.stars announces Karin Norington-Reaves as new CEO

Workforce development expert to lead i.c.stars’ national expansion

Chicago, Ill. – i.c.stars announces the appointment of Karin M. Norington-Reaves as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. A dedicated executive with a deep commitment to community development and workforce innovation, Norington-Reaves brings a wealth of experience, values, and a passion for mission-driven leadership.

Following an extensive nationwide search, the Board of Directors selected Norington-Reaves for her alignment with i.c.stars' mission of creating economic opportunity through technology education and leadership training for underserved adults. Her background in workforce development, public service, and community advocacy made her an ideal choice to lead the organization into its next phase of growth.

Richard Linden, vice chairman of the board of i.c.stars and chair of the search committee of alums, staff, and board members, commented, “Karin’s extensive experience and commitment to workforce development were critical factors in our decision. We are excited to see her advance our mission as we expand nationally and enhance our impact on the lives of our participants and the communities we serve.”

David Edelstein, chairman of the board, also expressed his enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “Karin Norington-Reaves embodies the qualities and leadership we sought in our next CEO. We are confident she will guide our national growth with vision and dedication, and we look forward to the positive change she will bring to i.c.stars.”

Norington-Reaves, a recognized national thought leader, has a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to workforce development and community advocacy, along with deep ties to Chicago's business, government, and community leaders. Her professional experience includes serving for over a decade as the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership (The Partnership), a position appointed by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. Under Norington-Reaves’ leadership, The Partnership helped more than 100,000 people gain employment, collaborated with 2,000+ employers, managed over $500 million in federal funds, and raised more than $150 million in philanthropic funds, including a $10.9 million grant awarded by the Walmart Foundation — the largest gift in the history of the foundation.

Reflecting on her new role, Norington-Reaves said, “I fell in love with i.c.stars nearly ten years ago when I had a chance to witness its power and impact as a guest at one of its ubiquitous high teas. I have sung its praises since then, so this is a full-circle moment for me. I'm honored to lead this phenomenal organization into its next chapter and to continue the work I'm passionate about — economic empowerment through workforce development. I'm excited to see how we expand i.c.stars across the country, elevating untapped talent from often overlooked communities and connecting our participants to transformative careers in information technology within the private and public sectors."

Outgoing CEO Sandee Kastrul, who co-founded i.c.stars in 1998, has been a driving force behind the organization’s success, transforming it from a modest initiative into a nationally recognized model for workforce development and social impact. Commenting on the transition, Kastrul said, “We are delighted to have Karin join us as our new leader. Her extensive experience and dedication to workforce development will be invaluable as we continue to empower underserved communities through technology and leadership training. I am confident she will inspire and lead us to new heights.” Kastrul will become Chief Innovation Officer and continue serving on the i.c.stars board.

For more information, visit icstars.org.

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