Nonprofits | Philanthropy 2024: SORAYA CORREA

Correa assumed the positions of president and CEO of the National Industries for the Blind at the end of April. She replaced Kevin Lynch, who held the roles for 15 years before retiring from the nation’s largest employment resource for people who are blind or visually impaired. Lynch spent 44 years with the NIB and associated nonprofits.

The NIB manufactures products under the SKILCRAFT brand, including office products; professional-grade tools; safety equipment and hardware; and niche and textile products that meet military requirements. The NIB and associated agencies employ more than 5,200 people who are blind or visually impaired.

Correa has a background in government procurement as a contracting and program management professional. She held several leadership positions at the Department of Homeland Security, including chief procurement officer, before retiring from the government agency in 2021. During her government career, she received the Distinguished Public Service Medal from the Department of Homeland Security and the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Service.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management and operations from National Louis University in Chicago.