James Fawley

James Fawley is the Interim President and CEO at Morton Arboretum. James has also served as Board Director for Dupage Symphony Orchestra from January 2013 to June 2019. In this role, they were responsible for accounting, reporting, and overall administration of the symphony's finances, as well as soliciting funds and conducting annual reviews of the symphony's Treasurer. Additionally, they sat on the Governance Committee.

Prior to their work with the Dupage Symphony Orchestra, James was with Coskata, Inc. from January 2009 to June 2013 as Vice President, Strategic Business Development. In this role, they were responsible for developing and executing Coskata's strategic business plan, which included identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, negotiating and structuring transactions, and leading the company's business development team.

James has a long history of involvement with music, having performed with the Symphony since 2007 and currently serving as its Principal Violist. James also has a passion for making symphonic music accessible to everyone and fostering the talent of local musicians. This passion has led him to their current role at Morton Arboretum, where they are working to make the Arboretum a world-class destination for plant science and conservation.

James Fawley has an MBA in finance from the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, where they graduated with high distinction. James also has a BA in economics from the University of Chicago, where they graduated with honors.

James Fawley reports to Gerard T. Donnelly, President & CEO. They work with Kris Bachtell - VP, Collections & Facilities, Preston Bautista - VP of Learning & Engagement, and Alicia Lavire - VP of Marketing & Communications.