Today, ConTextos is proud to open a new chapter with the appointment of Dr. Cecilia Cardesa as Global CEO. Katie Hill, the Chair of ConTextos’ Board of Directors, shared, “With gratitude for what has come before and excitement about what lies ahead, the ConTextos Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome Dr. Cecilia Cardesa as our new Global CEO. The work of ConTextos has never been more urgent, in Chicago, El Salvador, and beyond, and under Cecilia’s leadership we are ready to meet the moment.”
Dr. Cardesa brings nearly three decades of executive leadership marked by strategy, growth, and innovation across sectors. Since 1997, she has guided organizations, teams, and research initiatives through expansion and transformation. Whether overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, shaping legislative policy, or advancing trauma-informed scholarship, her career has centered on building and scaling programs, strengthening governance, and forging partnerships that create lasting impact. She brings a distinctive ability to study how systems, culture, and human behavior interact—translating those insights into pedagogical frameworks and organizational strategies that turn research into sustainable growth.
“As we move through this season of evolution, I am honored to build upon the legacy of every person who has authored the story of ConTextos over the past 15 years and those who are currently contributing to our mission. Together, we are weaving the next phase of our collective vision—nurturing ConTextos as a space for social dialogue, care, and restoration. I am grateful to boldly and humbly lead us into the future we are tending,” says Dr. Cardesa.
Coinciding with this leadership transition, ConTextos is unveiling a newly redesigned website—a symbolic step into this next phase of growth. More than just a new look, the redesign reflects who we are today: dynamic, bold, and deeply rooted in our communities. Explore and connect with our stories at contextos.org.
With Dr. Cardesa’s leadership and the dedication of our teams, ConTextos is ready to shape stories that matter for the next 15 years and beyond. If our story has moved you, we invite you to join us by financially supporting our mission. Every donation—large or small—sustains our work with students, authors, educators, and communities at the heart of what we do.
About ConTextos
ConTextos believes in the transformative power of stories and education to heal and build stronger, more resilient communities. We work with communities in Chicago, El Salvador, and beyond to promote literacy, critical thinking, and emotional resolve.
ConTextos Celebrates 15 Years of Transformative Work and
Welcomes a New Chapter with
CEO Dr. Cecilia Cardesa
This year marks a powerful milestone for ConTextos: 15 years of amplifying voices, transforming lives, and reimagining education through stories. What began in three pilot schools in El Salvador has grown into a diverse network of learners and communities in Chicago, El Salvador, and across borders. Our work has supported children, youth, and adults to read, write, and reflect together—building dialogue that strengthens resilience and connection. Through challenges and transitions, we have remained true to our mission: to harness the power of stories for personal and collective transformation.