Gayln Piper

Gayln Piper joined the Robert R. McCormick Foundation as Director of Special Projects, bringing nearly two decades of nonprofit leadership in program strategy, audience engagement, and organizational growth. In this role, she partners across departments to advance strategic initiatives, strengthen cross-functional collaboration, and support grantmaking efforts that deepen the Foundation’s impact.

Piper previously served for 18 years at Cantigny, most recently as Director of Public Programs. She led the strategy, design, and execution of more than 100 annual programs and events, managing staff and volunteers to deliver high-quality, mission-driven experiences. She launched and executed three successful years of Christmas at Cantigny, an event that generated significant revenue and strengthens Cantigny’s reputation as a vibrant, year-round destination. Throughout her tenure, she also oversaw the park and First Division Museum education programs serving students onsite and through outreach programs totaling over 35,000 students.

Earlier, Piper held leadership roles at the First Division Museum which served more than 160,000 annual visitors. She oversaw public programs, publishing a newspaper and books, and major conferences. She led collaborative partnerships with educators nationwide, and played a key role in the museum’s reopening following a major renovation.

Piper holds a Certificate of Museum Studies from Northwestern University and a bachelor’s degree from Augustana College. She serves on the Board of Education for Lombard Elementary School District 44.