Our Leadership
Leadership in Literacy
Working Together to Inspire Lifelong Readers
At Reach Out and Read Illinois, we believe early literacy is a shared responsibility—and a powerful opportunity to build healthier futures for children. Our leadership reflects this commitment across generations. From pediatricians and nonprofit professionals to passionate teens, our boards work together to guide, support, and elevate our mission: integrating books and reading guidance into pediatric care from birth through age five.
Our Board of Directors
The Reach Out and Read Illinois Board of Directors brings together a dedicated group of leaders with expertise in pediatrics, public health, education, communications, and nonprofit development. Their vision and oversight help drive strategic planning, community engagement, and resource development to expand our reach and deepen our impact across the state.
Audrey Brewer, MD, FAAP
Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Clare Crosh, DO, MS, FAAP
Advocate Health Care
Aimee Crow, MD, FAAP
NorthShore University Health System
Dalilah Earley
Community Leader
Mindy Etheridge, RN, MSN, CLC, CPST
Advocate Medical Group – Evergreen Park Pediatrics & Orland Park Pediatrics
Mary Kate Fleming
Rush University Medical Center, Physician Liaison, Surgery
Lisa Ferguson
Professional Development Facilitator & Instructional Math Coach, Erikson Institute
Ashley Fischer, MD
Carle Health Pekin East Pediatrics
Susan Ford
Special Projects Manager, C+R Research
Lori Frumkin
Chicago Public Library
Amber Garwood, APRN
SIU Center for Family Medicine – Decatur
Janea D. Harris
Author, Poet and Community Leader
Mariana Glusman, MD, FAAP
Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Section of Primary Care, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Stacy Laurent, DO
University of Illinois at Chicago
Carol Lewke*
Community Leader
Niru Mahidhara, MD, FAAP
Pediatrician, University of Chicago Medicine
Judith Neafsey, MD*
Pediatrician
Preethi Raghupatruni, MD, FAAP
Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Natalie P. Santiago, MD, FAAP
Physician
Beth Volin, MD, FAAP*
Rush University Medical Center, Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Donna Weigel
Community Leader
*Advisory Board Emeritus Committee
Our Teen Advisory Board
The Teen Advisory Board (TAB) is a youth-led group that brings fresh energy and a peer-driven perspective to our mission. These high school students from across Illinois support Reach Out and Read by organizing book drives, spreading awareness about early literacy, and building community through reading.
TAB members gain leadership experience, deepen their understanding of social impact work, and use their creativity to advocate for young children and their families.
Interested in Getting Involved?
Whether you’re a healthcare leader, a student, or a supporter of early literacy, there are many ways to contribute. Contact our team to learn more about board membership, volunteer opportunities, or how to support Reach Out and Read Illinois.
