Blessings in a Backpack is proud to share that Chief Financial Officer Otis B. Usher has been named a Not-for-Profit Company Finalist for the 2025 CFO of the Year® Awards.

Presented by Financial Executives International (FEI) Chicago Chapter, the awards recognize senior financial leaders for excellence in management, strategic vision, and community impact.

With more than five decades of experience across not-for-profit, private, and public sectors, Otis is known for his leadership, innovation, and operational excellence. Since joining Blessings in a Backpack, he has strengthened financial infrastructure, improved reporting and analytics, and guided strategic initiatives that advance the mission of providing hunger-free weekends for children nationwide.

Blessings in a Backpack CEO Erin Kerr says, “His steady guidance, strategic insight, and commitment to excellence have strengthened our organization and helped us grow our impact on kids across the country. It’s an honor to work alongside you as we continue building a stronger, more sustainable future for Blessings in a Backpack.”

Before joining Blessings, Otis held senior financial roles at the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), PLS Financial Services, and Jefferson Wells International. He also served as President of the FEI Chicago Chapter from 2014–2016 and received the FEI National Distinguished Service Award in 2017.

Blessings in a Backpack congratulates Otis on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his continued leadership in helping the organization expand its impact nationwide.

The 2025 Chicago CFO of the Year® Awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Marriott Magnificent Mile in Chicago. Finalists from across sectors will be honored, and winners will be revealed at the event.