Kayce Ataiyero
Kayce Ataiyero is the Chief External Affairs Officer at The Joyce Foundation, where she leads strategic communications and oversees the Journalism Program and the Lend A Hand community grants fund. As a member of the Foundation’s leadership team, she drives initiatives that amplify the work of grantees, support journalism that serves the public interest and invests in community organizations. Kayce has built a career bridging communications, journalism, and politics, leveraging her expertise to advance media philanthropy. Before joining The Joyce Foundation in 2018, Kayce held senior communications roles across government, including serving as Director of External Affairs for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office and leading communications for U.S. Congresswoman Robin Kelly, the Illinois Governor’s Office, and the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office. An award-winning journalist, she previously wrote for major publications including the Chicago Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirer, The Raleigh News & Observer, and Washington Post. Her background in reporting informs her strategic approach to media, storytelling, and public engagement. Kayce serves on the boards of Media Impact Funders, where she is Chair, and the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights. She has been recognized as one of Illinois’ Top 50 Women Leaders by Women We Admire, a Notable Black Leader and Executive by Crain’s Chicago Business, and one of Chicago’s most influential Black leaders by the Chicago Tribune. In October 2025, she delivered a TEDx Talk titled “Local News: The Thread to Reknit Our Community Ties,” highlighting the critical role of journalism in strengthening civic life. Kayce holds a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Maryland and is passionate about supporting local communities, discovering new experiences, and cultivating meaningful connections both personally and professionally.
• University of Maryland - B.A.
• Economic Club of Chicago
• Media Impact Funders
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Find the work that truly speaks to you and you’ll find your path. Stay open to new experiences and possibilities, and don’t be afraid to take up space unapologetically—your voice, perspective, and presence matter.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the current climate that has made work in the social justice sector fraught with risk. At the same time, this moment in which society is realizing the consequences of poor leadership is an opportunity to build coalitions of support for stronger moral leadership, to continue advocating for equity and accountability despite the obstacles, and to demand better for all who deserve better from our country.