J. Michael Durnil, Ph.D.

Meet Dr. J. Michael Durnil, VIA's Chief Advancement Officer, a seasoned executive leader renowned for his strategic foresight and commitment to mission-driven organizations. With a background in charting operations and fostering sustainability across nonprofit, educational, and media-based organizations, Dr. Durnil will elevate VIA's mission and expand its reach, harnessing the power of strategic partnerships and innovative approaches to advance revenue in pursuit of the organization's goals.

Most recently, Dr. Durnil served as the executive director of the for - profit National Spelling Bee. Prior to that role, he served as President and CEO of the Simon Youth Foundation, where he significantly expanded community economic support through innovative national dropout prevention programs and scholarships. From 2008 to 2010, Dr. Durnil served as Interim President and Senior Vice President at GLAAD, overseeing strategic planning and operations. He also held various leadership positions at Roosevelt University for over 15 years, including diverse appointments as Campus President, Senior Student Affairs Officer, and Vice President for Governmental Affairs and University Outreach.

A native of Decatur, IL, Dr. Durnil holds a post doctorate certificate from Harvard University, a Ph.D. from Loyola University-Chicago, as well as MS and BS degrees from Illinois State University. He is a Fellow of the American Council on Education and has been honored by his alma maters and local community for his outstanding achievements and contributions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Durnil is a dedicated advocate for the arts and local governance, recognized for his contributions to community development and cultural enrichment, serving on numerous international, national, and regional boards. He has been recognized for his contributions to the arts, receiving accolades from the Educational Theatre Association and showcasing his talents on stage and screen.

Outside of the office you can find Michael in a theatre, either on stage, backstage or in the audience. If not the theatre, then he will be in the kitchen preparing his entry into the next baking competition.

His top strengths are Kindness, Humor, Gratitude, Fairness, and Hope.