Katharine Keller, a seasoned professional in nonprofit fundraising, will take on the role of director of development at Injustice Watch.

Most recently, Keller spent three years as senior manager of institutional partnerships at the Better Government Association and its Illinois Answers Project investigative newsroom. In that position, she spearheaded foundation and corporate fundraising efforts, doubling the group's grant revenue while expanding major events and sponsorship opportunities.

Before that, she was director of advancement and strategic partnerships at Forefront, Illinois's leading network for nonprofits, philanthropists, and social impact organizations. There, she landed grants and sponsorships to support flagship initiatives like the Mission Sustainability Initiative, capacity-building programs for nonprofits, and the Racial Equity Collective.

Earlier in her career, Keller dedicated 12 years to cultivating corporate, foundation, and government partnerships for the Lions Clubs International Foundation's grant programs. She also worked as communication director at CCS Fundraising, managing volunteer and donor outreach for LCIF's $200 million worldwide campaign focused on preventable blindness and eye health capacity.

"I'm excited to join Injustice Watch and drive the expansion of its fundraising and partnership initiatives," Keller stated. "Ongoing and fresh backing from donors and grant makers is essential for amplifying Injustice Watch's investigative journalism and community influence. With broader support from champions at every level, we can keep delivering reliable insights and innovative resources to ensure accountability in our courts and justice system."

Launched in 2015, Injustice Watch is a acclaimed nonprofit news outlet dedicated to probing equity and justice challenges within the Cook County court system. Keller arrives as Amanda Miley steps away from the development and operations leadership role after nine years of service. Miley will assist during the handover as a senior advisor.

"We recognized the challenge of replacing someone with Amanda's impact," noted Jason Schumer, Injustice Watch's interim executive director. "Yet I'm fully confident in Katharine's ability to step up immediately, thanks to her extensive fundraising background. I'm eager to collaborate with and draw insights from her expertise."

Keller holds a bachelor's degree in English literature, emphasizing journalism, from Calvin University, along with a certificate in Integrated Marketing Communications from DePaul University's Kellstadt Center. A Cook County native, she currently resides in the area's western suburbs.

She begins her new position on May 14.