Chris Maksylewicz

Executive Director

An educator, scholar, entrepreneur, multi award winning content creator and storyteller, Chris Maksylewicz is a master of transformative engagement. Chris is currently the Executive Director of The Erika Legacy Foundation, a leading national charitable foundation that has redefined how our communities think, talk and act regarding suicide and mental health issues. Under Chris’ leadership, The Erika Legacy Foundation is committed to funding initiatives that support scientific research regarding the brain and body while also studying the social, personal and economic conditions that lead to suicide, using those findings to implement effective approaches to suicide prevention.

Prior to joining Chris held leadership positions in various industries that culminated in creating Mad Hatter Marketing, a company named for his eclectic one-of-a-kind style. Mad Hatter specializes in creating highly engaging and captivating branding, marketing, communications and events. His experience with Mad Hatter has also made him a sought-after speaker on the topics of marketing, leadership, engagement, and creativity by design. He has also served on numerous charitable boards and committees throughout his career.

Outside of his work, Chris is an avid memorabilia and pop culture collector, mentor, content creator and self-proclaimed “Twitch” Mayor.