Thursday, June 11, 2026
Lombard, IL – AgeGuide, the Area Agency on Aging for Northeastern Illinois, announced today that Chief Executive Officer, Marla Fronczak, will retire in December of this year, concluding a remarkable career dedicated to improving the lives of older adults, veterans, and communities throughout the region.
Since joining AgeGuide in 2010 and being appointed CEO in 2016, Marla has led the organization through a period of tremendous
growth, innovation, and impact. Her vision, passion, and unwavering commitment to older adults positioned AgeGuide as a trusted leader in aging services and advocacy across Illinois and beyond.
The AgeGuide Board of Directors has begun a search for the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer and is committed to ensuring a thoughtful and seamless transition.
“Marla’s leadership has helped shape AgeGuide into the strong, respected organization it is today,” said Ralph Feese, Chair of the AgeGuide Board of Directors. “For the past 15 years, she has led with vision, integrity, and compassion. She has strengthened services for older adults, built lasting partnerships, and inspired those around her to think bigger and work together to improve the aging experience. Her impact extends far beyond AgeGuide, and her contributions to the aging network will be felt for years to come. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and look forward to building on the foundation she created.”
Throughout her tenure, Fronczak championed initiatives that brought communities together around aging issues, including the creation of AgeGuide’s Aging Summit and podcast. She strengthened collaborations with local governments, health departments, service providers, and advocates, and helped 12 communities achieve national Dementia Friendly recognition. Her leadership also extended statewide and nationally through service on numerous advisory groups and commissions dedicated to improving the lives of older adults.
Despite the upcoming leadership transition, AgeGuide’s mission remains unchanged: to be a vital resource and advocate for people as we age by providing thoughtful guidance, supportive services, and meaningful connections.
“It has been the privilege of my career to serve alongside so many dedicated people who care deeply about older adults and caregivers,” said Fronczak. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. The relationships we have built, the partnerships we have strengthened, and the lives we have touched will always be among my greatest professional achievements. While I look forward to the next chapter, I have complete confidence in AgeGuide’s future and in the talented staff, Board members, Advisory Council, and community partners who will continue this important work.”
Fronczak will continue to serve as CEO through December 2026 and work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure a successful transition.
For questions regarding this announcement, please contact Marla Fronczak at (630) 293-5990.
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About AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois
AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois is a nonprofit organization responsible for developing and coordinating a network of services for older adults throughout an eight-county area in northeastern Illinois. AgeGuide informs and advises public and private agencies and the general public of the needs of older persons living in the area, and acts as an advocate on their behalf. Other information about AgeGuide, topics of interest to older adults, and links to other resources are available at the Agency’s website: www.AgeGuide.org.
