Centers for Independence welcomes new CEO Leif Elsmo
Elsmo brings extensive knowledge and experience from UChicago Medicine’s Urban Health Initiative to address health equity
MILWAUKEE (Oct. 3, 2023)—The Centers for Independence (CFI) Board of Directors is excited to announce the selection of a new CEO, Leif Elsmo, following the retirement announcement of outgoing CEO Teri Zywicki one year ago and an extensive search of candidates.
“The board has been very engaged in the search process and implemented a disciplined approach to identify a diverse pool of strong candidates from around the country,” said Zywicki.
Elsmo comes to CFI with a distinguished career as Executive Director, Community & External Affairs, at UChicago Medicine (UCM) working to build UCM’s Urban Health Initiative into a nationally recognized model of health equity.
“He brings significant experience to the position with a deep understanding of healthcare and public policy, as well as strong community networking and outreach skills,” said Zywicki. “I’m confident Leif will build on what we have accomplished to date and exponentially move us forward in our effort to achieve health equity among the diverse populations we serve.”
Throughout his career, Elsmo has demonstrated his commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion (DEAI), fostering change to drive a more equitable environment inclusive of diverse people, ideas and fields of science. Elsmo’s experience in public policy, community organizing and engagement, and strategic planning make him the ideal fit to drive the mission and vision of CFI into the future.
Beginning Oct. 3, Zywicki will start a period of transition to Elsmo that will run through the end of the year. During that time, Zywicki and Elsmo will work together, along with the board and senior leadership, to ensure continuity for all programs, staff and clients.
CFI thanks Zywicki for her leadership since 2018. During her time as CEO, CFI has aligned its priorities and services to match its established values—driving the organization forward towards its shared mission and vision while building financial stability.
“During my tenure at CFI, we have been able to coalesce around a set of values and a singular vision that has guided our work and allowed us to focus on what we do best,” said Zywicki. “This approach has brought the leadership, the board and the staff together as an organization.”
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About Centers for Independence (CFI)
The Centers for Independence (CFI) has strengthened communities by integrating health care and social services for 85 years. CFI is committed to the Science of Hope and a trauma-informed approach to care. Visit cfihope.org for more information.