Stephanie Beck Crawford: Executive Director, Beck Legacy Fund

I began my philanthropic journey in 1988 when my parents, Bill and Irene Beck, formed the William and Irene Beck Foundation and involved our family members.  From 2000–2011, I served as a member of its Board of Directors, where I was able to discover my own philanthropic voice and connect with like-minded charitable organizations.  Drawing on this experience and enriching relationships with friends and colleagues, I’ve recognized my passion for outreach to those individuals who need support to create their own successes. 

After a living in Chicago for over 20 years, in 2015 I moved to Kent, Connecticut and in January 2016, I married Michael Crawford in Kent’s Town Hall.  In 2017 we moved to Galena, Illinois.  Living in small towns has given me an increased appreciation of community as well as a new perspective regarding the assistance people need and how resources can be effected. 

I retired from Corporate America in 2022 and a new journey began! I volunteer for JDLF GIves, “working to expand access to healthy, sustainable local food for the benefit of our community, economy, and environment.” I work part-time at Galena Center for the Arts, a nonprofit supporting and showcasing regional artists in various mediums, music and theatre. This has rekindled passions I forgot I had - directing my first play, writing for Broad Ideas’ spoken word and displaying a written word piece in an exhibiit. I even won a scholoarship for Aspiring Artist! I also am creating a Junior Advisory Board and hiring an intern - both new to the Center and brining wonderful opportunities to the young adults of the Illinois/Iowa/Wisconsin Tri-State area.

In my spare time I practice yoga and am writing a novel.

Jeremy Bressman: Managing Director of Midwest Region Operations, Cushman & Wakefield

Professionally, I have worked in the commercial real estate industry for almost twenty years in various roles, and in my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and our family & friends, traveling, and attending University of Michigan football games. Go Blue!

Recently I have focused the majority of my philanthropic efforts toward Deborah's Place - an organization that opens doors of opportunity for women experiencing homelessness through permanent housing solutions and wrap around services. As a board member I currently lead the Board's fundraising committee, serve on the event committee, and as of Fiscal Year 2023, I will become the President of the organization's Board of Directors. Each and every time I see an un-homed individual sleeping on a park bench, struggling to find their next meal or seeking warmth on public transportation, it inspires me to devote more of my time and resources to such an impactful organization as Deborah's Place.

Ironically, I met Stephanie volunteering for another non-profit organization we were both passionate about - Jobs for Youth. While JFY is no longer, I am fortunate to have met Stephanie through it and am honored that we have not only become friends, but that she has confided her trust in me to be an Advisor to the Beck Legacy Fund.

Lisa Naugle: President, White Space Media, Ltd.

My background in database marketing for fundraising activities has allowed me to work with many fine non-profit organizations in the Chicagoland area.  It gives me great pleasure to lend assistance to Stephanie Beck and the Beck Legacy Fund.  Identifying and supporting organizations that improve the lives of young individuals who need a helping hand is a huge honor.

My personal charitable commitments include The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Meals on Wheels of Greater Illinois and Make-A-Wish Foundation.  I was introduced to the latter through my current involvement with the building materials supply chain.  Visiting the Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, Florida, was a life-changing experience.  The facility was made possible through the generous contributions of these manufacturers' materials and talent to construct the facility, which currently enjoys a very impressive roster of regular volunteers.

I'm excited to contribute my time and energy to help the Beck Legacy Foundation grow.  Through Stephanie's passion and vision, many young people will be assisted in reaching their dreams.

Sharada Sullivan: Managing Director, CBRE

Over my lifetime I have had unique access to resources and opportunities and I’ve benefited from amazing sponsors and mentors who shaped my career and personal growth. I am passionate about leveraging my network, influence and experience to help others grow… and I am involved with the Beck Legacy Fund because I love the mission and the organizations we choose to support.

As Managing Director with CBRE’s Global Workplace business I lead a team of 120+ that delivers commercial real estate services for a Fortune 500 company that supports and advances public safety. I partner closely with my client to drive transformation through global real estate strategy, energy, facilities, occupancy, project and transaction management.

When I’m not working I am learning, mentoring, leading FEI Chicago or supporting CBRE Women through both our Chicago and GWS Women’s Networks. I spend my free time doing Pilates, reading, walking my dog, and having adventures with my 11 year old daughter and my husband.