Marcilena Shaeffer

Marcilena Shaeffer is the Manager of Membership at AIA Chicago. In this capacity, Marcilena provides critical support in the growth and cultivation of a vibrant community for members whether someone is joining for the first time or is a long-standing member. Her goal is to ensure that each member feels valued and empowered in their profession and within the chapter.  
 
Prior to joining AIA Chicago, Marcilena’s career spanned the breadth of nonprofit administration before she finally transitioned into fundraising and database management in 2022. With her experience, she hopes to leverage data-driven insights to maximize each member’s experience and benefit within AIA through learning opportunities and the development of meaningful connections. 
 
She earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame and completed the Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences (MAPSS) at the University of Chicago. When she is not managing spaces for professional growth, Marcilena is also an author and podcaster.