Before joining EPNA, Charlene practiced law for almost twenty years and was a partner at a large Chicago-based litigation firm. 

She successfully counseled a variety of clients from the risk management arena all the way through complex trials.  Prior to and subsequent to her law firm experience,  worked at various non-profits in legal, administrative and data analytic capacities.

At EPNA, Charlene works with prospective and current merchants, as well as referring partners. Charlene is responsible for coordinating the Small Business and Women-Owned Business Enterprise certifications and relationships, overseeing EPNA’s CSR Legacy Initiative for non-profits, as well as ensuring compliance with the Sustain Evanston 2019 initiatives.

Charlene spearheaded the process when EPNA became certified in January 2019 as a WBE by The City of Chicago and Cook County, the only credit card processing company to have the distinction.  In June 2019, Charlene successfully obtained for EPNA WBE certification from the Midwest Chapter of the WBE National Council.  The certification processes are rigorous, and EPNA is pleased to be recognized as a thoroughly vetted and responsible business.  EPNA knows that customers are not just looking for payment acceptance, but that they are looking for a credit card processor that they can trust, and that provides the solutions that will help them grow their business. With the WBE certifications, EPNA offers additional benefits to those merchants doing business with governments or companies that have WBE Participation Goals.  EPNA is excited to grow together with merchants who can benefit from its certifications.

Charlene also has expanded the reach of EPNA’s Corporate Social Responsibility program, the Legacy Initiative, through which EPNA offers the lowest rates in the indistry to its chosen non-profits.  Many of EPNA’s merchants and referral partners have a charitable arm, and the Program was initially offered as an added benefit for them.  “We see our merchants and partners work very hard, often volunteering their own time, to support their charitable causes.  It’s rewarding to contribute financially to the causes that are near-and-dear to their hearts.”   

Charlene is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, and is a cum laude graduate of The John Marshall Law School.  She resides in Evanston, Illinois with her husband and three children.