Steve Hartley

Steve Hartley is a returning CGLA staff alum who has served as Director of Development since March 2026. Steve previously served as CGLA’s Development Manager in 2014, making his return to the organization a meaningful full-circle moment.

Before returning to CGLA, Steve served as Principal Consultant at Grounded Consulting Group, where he helped nonprofit organizations navigate complex fundraising challenges and develop strategies for sustainable growth. His nonprofit leadership experience also includes serving as Director of Fund Development at the Institute of Food Technologists, Executive Director of the Chicago Baseball and Educational Academy, and Executive Director of Foundations of Music.

Prior to his work in nonprofit leadership and development, Steve spent ten years as a teacher in Chicago and Cook County.

Throughout his career, Steve has focused on strengthening nonprofit organizations through thoughtful fundraising strategy, organizational leadership, and meaningful engagement with donors and communities. He holds a Master of Nonprofit Administration from North Park University and a Master of Education from the University of Illinois Chicago.