Outstanding Volunteer Award

     Linda I. Celesia
Linda I. Celesia’s lifelong commitment to voluntarism is evidenced in many of Chicago’s leading institutions. She serves as president of the board of directors of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago; sits on the National Advisory Board and on the Chicago board of Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS); and is a member of the board of directors for both The Fortnightly of Chicago and the Friends of the Oak Brook Public Library. Additionally, Linda has served as a volunteer leader on the Loyola University Medical Auxiliary, the Classical Art Society of The Art Institute of Chicago, and the SOS Children’s Village board.

In the early 1990’s, Linda became a member of the gala host committee and the “Adler Council,” a support organization for the Adler Planetarium. In 2002, she founded the Adler Women’s Board, serving as its first president, from 2002 to 2004. Today, the Women’s Board raises over $500,000 annually for the Adler’s science education programs.

Since founding the Adler Women’s Board, Linda has helped raise over $3 million for science education and research. She is currently serving her second term as an Adler Trustee, helping the museum complete a $35 million fundraising campaign.

Prior to moving to Chicago, Linda served on the Greater Madison Area Task Force on Fire Prevention, the United Way Appropriation Board, and the Elvejhem Museum of Art Women’s Board in Madison, Wisconsin. She also played a key role in the League of Women Voters in Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Born and raised in Canada, Linda learned about the importance of volunteer work from her parents. Her parents helped raise funds for Shriners Hospitals and Meals on Wheels, and were active in their church—Linda’s first volunteer role was as a Sunday school teacher. Through their example, Linda’s parents served as her role models in philanthropy and taught her to give back to the community.

A graduate of McGill University in Montreal, Canada, Linda received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology/Medical Technology. She applies her scientific knowledge to volunteering in art, education, and political organizations. In all of these roles, Linda actively seeks out ways in which to positively influence young women within the community.

Linda Celesia is a skilled leader, and her voluntarism has had a lasting impact on many organizations and communities. Her time and expertise receives the support of her husband, Gastone, and her two daughters, Gloria and Laura.