Successful investors often channel their expertise into nonprofit board service. They bring financial acumen, governance experience, and networks that can benefit arts organizations, healthcare institutions, and educational entities.
Reeve Waud serves on multiple nonprofit boards alongside his investment activities. These roles span healthcare, arts, and civic engagement, reflecting interests beyond portfolio company returns.
Northwestern Memorial HealthCare Financial Oversight
Reeve Waud serves on the Finance Committee of Northwestern Memorial HealthCare (NMHC), which oversees one of Chicago’s largest hospital systems. NMHC operates 11 hospitals and employs more than 33,000 people.
The Finance Committee handles significant responsibilities. It oversees NMHC’s approximately $3 billion capital budget, making decisions about facility construction, equipment purchases, and technology investments. The committee also manages a $2.5 billion endowment that includes more than $500 million in private equity, venture capital, real estate, and other alternative investments.
This board service aligns with Reeve Waud’s professional expertise. His 32 years in private equity, managing approximately $4.6 billion in assets through Waud Capital Partners, provides relevant experience for evaluating alternative investment opportunities and capital allocation decisions.
Reeve Waud also serves on the Northwestern Memorial Foundation board, the philanthropic arm supporting NMHC’s fundraising and stewardship activities.
Art Institute of Chicago Trustee
Reeve Waud serves as a Trustee of the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the nation’s leading art museums. His responsibilities include serving on the museum’s Finance Committee and Photography Committee.
Trustee positions at major cultural institutions typically involve fundraising, strategic planning, and financial oversight. The Art Institute maintains extensive collections, operates educational programs, and manages a large endowment requiring sophisticated investment management.
The Photography Committee role suggests personal interest in that artistic medium. Committee members often advise on acquisition priorities, exhibition planning, and collection development within their area of focus.
Economic Club of Chicago Leadership
Reeve Waud holds a leadership position as First Vice Chair of Programs at the Economic Club of Chicago. This civic organization convenes business and community leaders to discuss economic issues, policy questions, and industry trends.
The Programs role involves planning events, inviting speakers, and shaping discussions that engage Chicago’s business community. Past speakers at the Economic Club have included CEOs, government officials, economists, and thought leaders across industries.
This position provides networking opportunities and keeps Reeve Waud connected to Chicago’s business community. These relationships can inform investment decisions, facilitate introductions to potential portfolio company executives, and support deal sourcing efforts.
Additional Civic Engagement
Beyond these current roles, Reeve Waud has served on other nonprofit boards. He was a trustee of St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, and served on the Illinois State Police Merit Board. These positions reflect engagement in education and public safety oversight.Reeve Waud founded Waud Capital Partners in 1993 and has led or overseen more than 500 company acquisitions throughout his career. The firm specializes in healthcare and software/technology investments, completing more than 460 transactions since founding.
