CGLA Leadership Update

Dear colleagues and partners, 

We are writing to inform you of an upcoming leadership transition at CGLA and to recognize the important contributions of our dedicated Executive Director, Aisha Cornelius Edwards. 

Since joining CGLA in 2013 and returning as its Executive Director in 2022, Aisha has led our staff and community with her lived experience and a deep commitment to advancing justice. Under her leadership, CGLA has continued delivering impactful, holistic legal services to thousands, and strengthened our resolve, that meaningful systems change is possible when communities work together, including those with lived experiences. 

Through our new Strategic Advocacy Team, and a deepened engagement with our Leadership Council of directly impacted leaders, Aisha has positioned CGLA to be a champion for strengthening local and statewide criminal legal system transformation -- notably participating in the coalition work that helped Illinois pass the bipartisan Clean Slate Act -- one of the most comprehensive automatic record-sealing laws in the nation that will provide more than two million neighbors increased access to meaningful employment and opportunities.  

We now celebrate Aisha and the staff’s meaningful contributions and look toward CGLA’s next decade of impact. We are grateful for Aisha’s continued service during this transition, and I thank our dedicated CGLA staff, Leadership Council, pro bono volunteers, supporters, donors, and my fellow Board members for their unwavering commitment to CGLA and our 53-year history of serving Chicago. 

In preparation for Aisha’s planned transition out of her leadership role later this year, the Board of Directors has launched a national search for our next Executive Director, a mission-driven leader to guide CGLA into its next chapter of impact. 

Applications for Executive Director are now open.

CGLA Executive Director Position

With gratitude, 

Chanda Rice

Chair, CGLA Board of Directors

Member, CGLA Board of Directors (2013 - present)

Volunteer, CGLA (2008 - present)