Envision Unlimited is thrilled to welcome Theresa Dear as Chief Human Resources Officer. Theresa brings extensive Human Resources experience that will further support our efforts to ensure a best-in-class culture and a workplace of choice. Most recently, she served as Chief People Officer at Vivent Health, where she transformed HR into a high-performing, technology-driven, people-focused department across seven states and 18 locations. Theresa successfully decreased employee attrition rate, drove diversity and engagement initiatives, oversaw seven mergers, and guided the organization through change and leadership transitions, strengthening culture, streamlining processes, and optimizing benefits.
Portrait of Theresa Dear
“I am inspired by Envision Unlimited’s mission to promote choice, independence, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities,” said Theresa. “Growing up in foster care, I witnessed the critical support that nonprofits provide to those in need, which shaped my passion for giving back and driving meaningful change. This work aligns with my leadership experience and role as CHRO, where I aim to identify, discover, and reimagine how services can be improved, measured, and translated into more successful and satisfying experiences for members. I look forward to joining the talented team in advancing programs and services that empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.”
Prior to Vivent Health, Theresa held senior HR and consulting leadership roles at HR4Non-Profits Inc., Metropolitan Family Services, and Verizon Communications, working with national nonprofits, government agencies, and large corporate organizations. She has also served in leadership and advisory roles with numerous organizations, including nine years as a Board Chairman and 20 years as a National Board Member of the NAACP, where she chaired the national CEO search committee. Additionally, she has contributed as a facilitator at Northwestern University and as an Adjunct Professor at Keller Graduate School.
“Theresa is a strategic executive with a proven track record in driving high-impact results across nonprofits and complex organizations,” said Envision Unlimited CEO Mark McHugh. “Her expertise in strategy, engagement, talent, operations, and human resources advisory will bring strength and stability to our team during this unexpected transition. We are thrilled to welcome her and sincerely thank the KEES team for their thoughtful and deliberate approach throughout the search process.”
Theresa holds a Master of Science in Industrial Relations and Human Resources Management, and a Bachelor's degree in Communication and Organizational Development from Loyola University Chicago.