Brooke Rayford

As the senior manager of communications, Brooke leads The Fund’s efforts to elevate the stories of Chicago’s school leaders and strengthen the organization’s brand across the city and nationwide. Through strategic communications, digital engagement, and cross-functional storytelling, she prioritizes impact by deepening connections with educators, the broader community, and champions of access and equity. 

Brooke’s background in journalism deeply influences how she shows up in her work. These instincts have guided her across education-focused organizations, where she has developed campaigns that celebrate culture, strengthen relationships, and connect audiences to the people behind the mission. 

Prior to her transition to the nonprofit sector, Brooke was a local television reporter in Florida and Maine where she covered SEC and New England sports and survived numerous hurricanes and winter storms. She’s also a proud HBCU and Northwestern-Medill graduate.

Outside of work, Brooke enjoys fitness, exploring new food, and rooting for her home team, the Dallas Cowboys — and Golden State Warriors!