After a careful selection process, Karina Ayala-Bermejo has been selected as the new president and CEO of the Instituto del Progreso Latino, a key non-profit organization in the Chicago area.
Starting on October 16, Karina will lead the key non-profit organization with the mission to contribute to the fullest development of Latino immigrants and their families through education, training, and employment that fosters full participation in the changing US society.
Karina joins Instituto from Metropolitan Family Services where she served as General Counsel and Executive Vice President and the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Society of Metropolitan Family Services. Prior to Metropolitan, she worked for the City of Chicago in Mayor Daley’s administration as Acting Commissioner, First Deputy Commissioner, and Managing Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Human Resources
Karina is a highly regarded leader who has served in a variety of capacities in prominent Chicago entities. She brings to this role significant leadership experience both locally and nationally, a long-standing and deep commitment to the Latino and immigrant communities, and a proven dedication to invest in others and strengthen families.
“We are thrilled to have Karina join Instituto during this exciting time for the organization,” says Andrea Sáenz, Chair of the Instituto Board of Directors. “We are confident that Karina’s extensive experience and commitment to community investment will bring the right energy and expertise to lead Instituto into its next chapter of growth and impact.”
Karina spent seven years as the Director of Community Services for the Chicago Bar Association where she worked alongside other attorneys. She holds a Bachelors of Science from Loyola University Chicago and Juris Doctor from DePaul College of Law
