Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) President and CEO Mark Stutrud was recognized with the Paragon Award: The Ken Daly Award for Excellence in Mentorship from Lutheran Services in America (LSA). Presented on Feb. 3, 2026, at LSA’s leadership summit, the award recognizes leaders who help shape the next generation of leadership, thereby producing organizations that are stronger, more resilient, and more deeply aligned with their mission.
LSA is a national nonprofit organization that brings together a network of leaders, partners, and funders to tackle issues that are critical to communities.
Stutrud has led LSSI for more than 11 years through a state budget impasse and a global pandemic, helping the organization emerge from both stronger than ever with a focus on whole-person care.
Reflecting on his leadership at LSSI, Stutrud said, “It has been my privilege to serve. The draw is the Call, serving at the intersection of faith and service, trusting in God’s provision, and leading.
At its Summit, LSA also recognized several other leaders, including Grace Araya, President and CEO of Concordia Place, Chicago, and Sven Schumacher, Executive Director, Lutheran Child and Family Services of Indiana/Kentucky, Indianapolis.
Congratulations to Mark for his leadership and commitment to strengthening LSSI’s programs and mission.
Pictured from left, Mark Stutrud, LSSI President and CEO; Grace Araya, Concordia Place President and CEO; Sven Schumacher, Lutheran Child and Family Services of Indiana/Kentucky Executive Director; and Alesia Frerichs, LSA President and CEO. Photo courtesy of LSA.
