• About Paul Daugerdas: A Multifaceted Professional and Philanthropist

    Paul Daugerdas, a native of Wilmette, Illinois, is widely recognized as a distinguished consultant, attorney, and certified public accountant. With an extensive background spanning the financial, legal, and accounting industries, he has solidified his reputation as an accomplished professional throughout his illustrious career. Beyond his professional endeavors, he has actively engaged in charitable work, significantly impacting various organizations.

     

    Academic Background

     

    Paul's dedication to academic excellence was evident from an early age. He completed his high school education at St. Laurence High School in Burbank, Illinois, graduating with honors in 1968. Subsequently, he pursued higher education at De Paul University, achieving remarkable milestones. 1972, he graduated with honors, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Commerce from De Paul University's College of Commerce. He also earned his CPA Certificate from the University of Illinois the same year. Continuing his academic journey, he achieved a Juris Doctor degree with honors, cum laude, from De Paul University's College of Law in 1974.

     

    Career History

     

    Significant roles in esteemed financial, legal, and accounting organizations have marked Daugerdas's professional journey. He commenced his career as a staff member at Arthur Andersen & Co., eventually progressing to the manager position and finally becoming a partner in 1984. From 1974 to 1994, he held various key positions. He showcased his expertise in mergers, acquisitions, and reorganizations as a member of the Mergers, Acquisitions & Reorganizations Tax Specialty Team. As the Head of the Central Region Financial Markets Team, he oversaw tax and audit personnel involved in financial markets encompassing commodities, futures, stocks, bonds, swaps, and various over-the-counter financial instruments and products. He also served as the Head of the Chicago Office "On Call" Team and contributed as a member of the Financial Valuation Services Specialty Team at Arthur Andersen & Co.

     

    In 1994, Paul Daugerdas joined the Law Offices of Altheimer & Gray as a partner, assuming the role of Head of the Tax Department and making valuable contributions as a member of the Steering Committee. From 1999 to 2002, he served as a Shareholder/Partner at the Law Offices of Jenkens & Gilchrist, overseeing the management of the Chicago office and co-directing the Tax Practice. While at Jenkens & Gilchrist, he demonstrated his business acumen by serving on the Management Advisory Committee.

     

    Involvement in Charity

     

    In addition to his professional accomplishments, Daugerdas has made substantial contributions to charitable causes. Notably, he has actively supported The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northern Illinois. He assumed the role of Chairman and President of the foundation in 2002 and 2003, leaving an indelible impact on children facing critical illnesses. From 1996 to 2008, he held various positions within the foundation, including Board Member, Treasurer, Finance Committee Member, and Wish Granter. His dedication to philanthropy extends beyond The Make-A-Wish Foundation, as he has consistently contributed to numerous charities, including museums and civic organizations, since the mid-1970s.

     

    Personal Life and Interests

     

    Throughout his life, he has cultivated diverse personal interests that complement his professional pursuits. One of his primary hobbies is reading, a passion he developed during his grammar school years. He finds reading exciting and informative, as it stimulates his thoughts and provides entertainment. While his interest in philosophy, religion, and theology emerged earlier, his profound focus and commencement of a theology degree program began during his time in Milan.

     

    Paul Daugerdas's journey through the financial, legal, and accounting industries showcases his unwavering dedication and expertise. From his exceptional educational achievements at De Paul University to his notable positions in prestigious organizations, he has firmly established himself as a respected professional. Moreover, his unwavering commitment to philanthropic causes, particularly his leadership role at The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northern Illinois, demonstrates his determination to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As he continues exploring his interests in reading and theology, his multifaceted life inspires all those who strive for excellence in their chosen paths while endeavoring to make a difference in the world around them.