Introducing Rachel Lyons as Chicago Appleseed’s New Executive Director
The Board of Directors of Chicago Appleseed Center for Fair Courts is excited to introduce Rachel Lyons as the organization’s new Executive Director, effective today, Monday, April 13, 2026. Rachel will take over from immediate past co-executive directors Stephanie Agnew and Naomi Johnson to lead the organization’s team of dedicated researchers and advocates fighting for fair, equitable, and accessible courts in Cook County and beyond.
“The Board extends our gratitude to Naomi and Stephanie for their continued dedication to Chicago Appleseed’s mission throughout this transition,” said Donncha Carroll, President of the Board of Directors. “We’re thrilled that Rachel has joined us to support Chicago Appleseed’s next chapter and look forward to what we can accomplish together with her leadership.”
Rachel Lyons graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a BA in Anthropology and received her Master’s in Social Justice and Community Development from Loyola University Chicago. After moving to Chicago in 2013, Rachel worked in faith-based organizing and volunteered with the Chicago Community Bond Fund (CCBF) before joining the staff in 2022. She ultimately served as co-executive director until 2024. She remains active on the board of CCBF and also organizes with Chicago Community Jail Support. Prior to joining Chicago Appleseed, Rachel served as interim executive director of the Alliance of Filipinos for Immigrant Rights and Empowerment (AFIRE). Learn more about Rachel here.