President
After seeing two wonderful CYT productions in 2009, four of Dr. Daniel Wolfe’s seven children decided to participate in their first CYT production in 2010, with two more participating over the years (his youngest is still actively participating). After nearly 30 productions of serving backstage and actively involved as the HYPE (High School Youth Pursuing Excellence) Parent Leader in DuPage Chapter, Dan became a board member in 2017. Being able to combine being both a lawyer and a psychologist into a professional career as a jury consultant, Dan brings an unique perspective to the board (if you want to check out the CBS show “Bull” you will get a flavor of what he does). Dan and his wife Cathy of 36 years have participated in musical theatre since high school and were blessed that their children “caught the bug” themselves. A true blessing to be part of the CYT community and serving with the other truly gifted board directors and staff. 
Micah 6:8

Secretary
Wade is a serial entrepreneur with an executive background in a variety of successful startups. Wade learned Korean in the US Army at the Defense Language Institute. He honed his leadership skills as a sergeant in the US Army, where he led a squad of Korean and US soldiers on the Demilitarized Zone in South Korea. He accomplished deployments of millions of dollars’ worth of equipment and soldiers to the National Training Center in California as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Post-military, he forged a career in Information Technology, working as an IT executive in three separate startups in quick succession which have all successfully exited via sales to larger entities.

His wife Lori launched the Milwaukee chapter of CYT Chicago. They have 5 children together. Wade is also active in his local church and serves Jesus as a board member and adult Sunday School teacher.

Executive Director

Aleece found CYT through a church friend that invited her young family to see a production of “The Wizard of Oz”. She and her husband, Chip, were amazed at the quality of the show, but more so, the heart of the organization. They didn’t know a company existed that so beautifully blended the performing arts as a means to reflect the beauty of Jesus. At that time, her children were too young to participate, so they waited patiently to jump into programming. 13 years and countless shows later, her life has never been the same. Her prayer for those that participate in CYT is that students and parents alike will walk away with a greater understanding of who God is and how He uniquely designed each of us to use our gifting for the good of those around us and for His glory alone. Aleece’s favorite role she’s ever played is wife to her husband of 30 years (and high school sweetheart) and mom to 2 incredible young women, Tahlia and Ella. She also loves her goofy mutts Scout and Alfie even though they shed an absurd amount of hair on the daily.

Eirik's parents were on and off broadway actors, so theater runs in his family. His own family has been involved in CYT since the first show of the DuPage chapter in 2004. Eirik's wife, Jeanne, founded the Kenosha chapter in 2009 after the family moved to Wisconsin. Eirik's whole family has been involved in CYT with Jeanne continuing to teach and direct, three children graduating from CYT, two children currently in the program, and one child running a spotlight at most Kenosha shows. With so much family involvement, Eirik has seen firsthand what CYT can do for its students! As a pastor and an MBA, he brings both ministry and business experience to the board. Eirik is passionate about CYT's powerful combination of introducing kids to Jesus, while maturing them in the performing arts. Seeing kids grow in their knowledge and love of God, as every child's extraordinary dignity and creativity is encouraged and celebrated, is a great joy for him and his family. Eirik is grateful to be able to serve on the board!  

  Treasurer

Diana has served CYT faithfully as a parent volunteer and Costume Chair for more than ten productions. Professionally, she brings strong experience in management, supply chain, technology, project management, budgeting, communication, public speaking, and problem-solving. Diana's heart for CYT is rooted in helping build a safe, welcoming, Christ-centered community where students and families can grow in faith, confidence, character, and relationship with one another.

Chris joins the Board with a strong background in healthcare IT, software implementation, system thinking, documentation, process improvement, and operational support. Since his family first became involved with CYT, Chris has served faithfully in sound and technical roles across many productions. He also brings meaningful experience in church ministry, A/V leadership, IT adminostration, and nonprofit school board service, along with a deep appreciation for CYT's impact on students and families.

Chip brings a lifelong love for theater arts, extensive experience in child discipleship and family ministry, and professional leadership through his work with Awana Clubs International. Many in our community know Chip as a CYT director, teacher, parent, and longtime volunteer, including his service as Tech Chair in Aurora. His blend of ministry leadership, theater background, and passion for reaching and discipling the next generation is a tremendous blessing to CYT Chicago.