Title: Executive Director

Company: Rockford Health Council

Location: Rockford, Ill.

Garnering 16 years in the nonprofit sector, Becky Kendall continues in her ninth year as executive director of Rockford Health Council. Prior to this, she was vice president at United Way of Rock River Valley, serving the community in any way she could, charitably. This position actually fell into her lap; she was chairman of the board and the executive director resigned, so she was appointed a search committee and the board wanted her to accept the position. Ms. Kendall’s greatest strength is being a mentor and being a bridge builder.  

As a woman in today’s world, Ms. Kendall feels that relationships and mentors along the way have contributed to her career. What makes it more exciting is that it is not just health care, it is the quality of health that impacts the community. The advice she can give to the younger generation of women entering the workforce is, “Follow your dreams and set goals to what you want to accomplish. Build relationships and be passionate about what you are doing.” Through this advice, Ms. Kendall found her greatest accomplishment was being respected by all members of the community.

To keep herself abreast of changes in the profession, Ms. Kendall holds memberships with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Crusader Community Health Foundation, and Rockland Association of Minority Managers. During her free-time, she enjoys going to the theatre and traveling.