The Ion Center for Violence Prevention has announced Chris Bochenek as the recipient of the Icon Award, recognizing her more than 15 years of service and lasting contributions as a member of the Ion Center Board of Directors.
Chris played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction and long-term success of the Ion Center. Throughout her tenure, Chris helped guide the organization’s strategic growth, strengthen community partnerships, and advance its mission to serve survivors of power-based personal violence.
“Chris’s generosity, advocacy, and belief in our mission have inspired countless others to get involved. Chris reminds us that real change happens when compassionate people choose to act,” said Christy Burch, Ion Center CEO. “The Icon Award recognizes individuals whose vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication leave a lasting mark—not only on our organization, but on our community. Chris embodies those qualities in every sense.”
As vice president and senior program manager for the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation, Chris brought extensive experience in philanthropy and community investment to her board service. She played a key role on both the Board of Directors and Development Committee, helping advance major initiatives and foster collaboration among community partners. Her dedication has strengthened the Ion Center and supported its ability to meet the evolving needs of survivors and their families.
Chris has been a key leader at the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation since the organization’s founding in 2006. As a founding staff member, Chris has played an integral role in shaping the Foundation’s work and advancing its mission to strengthen communities throughout Greater Cincinnati. Prior to joining the Foundation, Chris built a distinguished 28-year career with U.S. Bank. Her experience included 25 years in Institutional Trust and Custody Services, Employee Benefits, and Trust Operations, followed by three years in Private Client Services, where she served as Vice President and Regional Operations Manager. Throughout her banking career, Chris developed deep expertise in financial services, operations leadership, and client-focused program management—skills that have continued to inform her work in philanthropy.
She is widely recognized for her steady leadership, operational excellence, and long-standing commitment to community impact. Her approach is grounded in collaboration, strategic thinking, and a strong understanding of both institutional systems and local community needs. A lifelong resident of the Cincinnati region, Chris values her deep connection to the community she serves. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Christopher, for 39 years, and together they have two children, Alex and Grace.
Reflecting on her involvement with the Ion Center, Chris said, “Over the years working with Ion, I’ve seen firsthand how lives can change when someone feels safe, heard, and supported. The Ion Center’s mission matters deeply to me because it’s about breaking cycles of violence and restoring dignity—one person, one family, one community at a time.”
She will be honored with the Icon award at the Ion Center’s Toast for Hope 50th Anniversary Golden Gala, happening on Friday, October 30 from 6:30-10:30 p.m. at the Newport Car Barn. For more information about the Golden Gala, please visit onecau.se/tfh26.
Ion Center for Violence Prevention