Foundation Team

  • Katie Calamos-Bifoss

    CEO

    Katie has been with the foundation since 2016. She graduated from Taylor University in 2016 and received her MBA from Indiana University in 2022. She seeks to understand the ultimate impact of each organization and strives to ensure the needs of our neighbors and met with the love of Christ. Katie and her family are members of Chapelstreet Church.

    “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58

  • Gabby Haugen

    Program Associate

    Gabby joined the foundation in the beginning of 2023 and has helped develop and improve our analysis for nonprofits to evaluate their effectiveness and programmatic results as the best ways to improve the lives of our partners. She comes from a background as a social worker and her unique perspective helps shape our understanding and effectiveness within our community. Gabby graduated with her Bachelors of Social Work and minor in Psychology from Aurora University in 2017 and again in 2018 with her Masters of Social Work. Gabby is a member of First Presbyterian Church of Aurora.

    “Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.” Ephesians 3:17

  • Jill Valentini

    Program Assistant

    Jill joined the foundation in 2022 part-time and has since helped improve the organization and processes within the foundation. She is the main point of contact for our nonprofit partners. Jill brings a variety of skills that has greatly improved the communication and connectedness of the foundation with our partners. Previously, she was the Communications Coordinator at Chapelstreet Church and has a Marketing degree from DePaul University. Jill and her family are members of Chapelstreet Church.

    “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” Proverbs 3:5-6

Board Leadership

  • Nick Calamos

    Chairman of the Board

    Nick Calamos is one of the founders and funders of NKC Family Foundation. He was the Senior Executive Vice President, Head of Investments/CIO for Calamos Investments. Nick is a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a M.S. in Finance. A Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Nick is a member of the Investment Analysts Society of Chicago.

    Nick uses his professional experience to benefit the foundation as board chair, helping navigate the investments, financials, legal, and leadership aspects of the foundation.

  • Kim Calamos

    Board Chair

    Kim is one of the founders and funders of NKC Family Foundation. Kim graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Biology, where she met Nick. Kim has dedicated her life to raising her family and has always been a defender of the least of these. her heart for animals, children, and the less fortunate have given us unique perspectives for the foundation.

  • Edward Jarosz, Jr.

    Board Chair

    Ed Jarosz is a successful business leader, high-impact executive, and partner to businesses seeking transformation.

    With over 30 years of leadership experience, Ed brings a balanced blend of strategic vision and resource allocation. For 14 years, Ed was the president and CEO of Edwards Medical Supply and grew it to become the nation’s leading provider of health products and services. Ed has served as Vice President of Business Development with Moore Medical (2009-2011), a McKesson Corporation company, serves on numerous boards, and partners with organizations looking to improve operating results and value creation.

    Ed holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Miami University in Ohio.