élan evolutions, LLC was co-founded in January 2014 by Valerie and Chris Beichner.  Our purpose is to empower mission-driven leaders, igniting their ability to reach exceptional value and enabling them to achieve their full potential.  We are your trusted partner for individual and organizational transformation, empowerment and strategies that elevate you to new heights.

Chris Beichner (he,him) is our Co-Founder and CEO.  He is an experienced entrepreneur, certified executive coach, and nonprofit leader with a 25-year career, including the last 16 years as a nonprofit CEO. As the driving force behind élan evolutions, LLC, a leading consulting and coaching firm specializing in empowering nonprofit clients, Chris brings extensive executive experience in community development, economic development, and land conservation.

Chris began his professional journey as an intern with a regional economic development corporation in rural Pennsylvania, swiftly earning five promotions in eight years. His impact was evident as he created and led statewide technology programs, implemented rural telecommunication policies, diversified funding streams, and formulated regional business attraction strategies.  In his role as Director of Community Development and Planning, Chris facilitated departmental growth and expanded key programs, including greenways planning, municipal outreach, and energy efficiency initiatives.

Assuming the role of Executive Director at the Mount Washington Community Development Corporation, a community development corporation in Pittsburgh at the age of 29, he orchestrated a significant organizational transformation, regaining community trust, doubling funding, and launching essential programs like community housing strategies, business retention initiatives, and workforce development programs.

Serving as the President and CEO of the Allegheny Land Trust, Chris has overseen substantial growth in budget, staff, and programming. His leadership led to the establishment of a pioneering Community Conservation focus area, targeting urban conservation efforts in Environmental Justice and food insecure communities. Chris initiated the Three Rivers Agricultural Land Initiative (TRALI), dedicated to conserving at-risk food-producing gardens in the Pittsburgh region. In 2016, he expanded the organization's impact by acquiring the assets of anow defunct environmental education nonprofit.

Throughout his career, he has raised over $35 million, leveraging an additional $270 million in public and private investments.  He has achieved successful turnaround and growth strategies for various nonprofits, grew and diversified revenue streams, wrote and implemented numerous strategic and fundraising plans and helped recruit, retain and develop staff and board members.

A lifelong resident of western Pennsylvania, Chris resides in the Pittsburgh region with Valerie and their four children.