Chad Erik Hayward, 50, of Sawyer, passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. His life was marked by a deep commitment to service, a strong faith, and an exceptional ability to bring people together for the greater good.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University, where Chad Hayward studied Political Science and History.
Early Life and Education
Chad was born on December 29, 1973, in Yankton, South Dakota, to the late Jerald and Sharon (Seefeld) Hayward. He spent his childhood on a South Dakota farm, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for community. After his childhood on a South Dakota farm, Chad went on to study Political Science and History at Oklahoma Wesleyan University.
Career in Public Service
Chad's career was defined by his dedication to public service and his ability to make a positive impact on the world. He worked in nonprofit marketing in Oklahoma and Colorado then spent over a decade in Washington D.C.
He served as the press secretary for US House Representative Jim Ryun (KS), campaigned for US Senator John Thune (SD), and then served in the Bush Administration in the office of USAID.
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During his time in the Bush Administration, Chad played a crucial role in three significant foreign aid initiatives:
- Establishing the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)
- Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)
- The Faith-Based and Community Initiative
One of his most significant achievements was mobilizing the faith community to partner with the US Government, enhancing the effectiveness of aid delivery.
Leadership at Accord Network
Following his service at USAID, Chad took on the challenge of reviving the Accord Network, an association of Christian relief and development NGOs. Chad turned Accord into a thriving 120+ member coalition.
He served as CEO of Accord Network for 17+ years, leaving a legacy of Christ-centered collaboration among Accord’s 120 member organizations. With masterful efficiency and innovation, Chad built Accord as an enduring relational coalition of more than 120 partners whose trust and collaboration in transforming the lives of the global poor are unprecedented.
Under his leadership, the Accord Network flourished, becoming a model for trade associations by prioritizing the well-being of frontline workers, supporting executives, and fostering technical excellence.
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The Accord Network, where Chad Hayward served as CEO for over 17 years.
He is remembered as a faithful servant and kind soul. A quiet, creative, and steady leader, he had the gift of seeing others and cultivating opportunities for them to thrive during his long tenure at Accord.
Faith, Funding and Foreign Aid | Michael Cerna
Personal Qualities and Legacy
Chad Hayward was known for his integrity, humility, and genuine interest in others. He was a remarkably gifted and steadfast leader of Accord. He exemplified integrity and professionalism, and greatly strengthened the quality of the Accord coalition of Christian humanitarian organizations.
In every interaction, Chad brought gifts to the individual before him: more interested in them than in anything he has to say, moving seamlessly between incisive dialogue on key issues in our world … lighthearted humor … personal vulnerability … and earnest spiritual thoughts.
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His slightly-tilted smile pair well with his kind heart and sharp mind. He’s disarmingly humble, yet equally capable and possessed of insight and vision.
The root of this vitality is Chad’s faith: a vibrant confidence in God’s presence and goodness that - even in great trials - casts its light over Chad’s face and also from it.
Remembering Chad Hayward
Many who knew Chad have shared their memories and condolences.
J. Chad Hayward brought people together and persisted in bringing people together. I lament the loss of his ‘can-do’ optimism and relational warmth in listening to and connecting diverse people and viewpoints.
He has led well in each place he’s served - steady, faithful, diligent, wise. But Chad’s true legacy is the person he’s become - a man in whom the rest of us catch firsthand glimpses of what it looks like to be increasingly formed into the image of Jesus Christ - and also the person he encourages and helps others to become.
Funeral Information
A funeral service will be held 11 AM, Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Sawyer Highlands Church, 13100 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer. MI 49125, with Reverend Mike Mercer and Pastor Joe Koehler officiating. Friends may meet with the family from 5-7 PM, Friday, February 2, 2024 at Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, Boyd Chapel 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery, Lakeside.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Scholarship Fund of Accord Network, 2551 New Morning Avenue, Henderson, NV 89052 or through online donations in honor of Chad.
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