Reverend Dr. Stan Chu Ilo

Board Adviser

Reverend Dr. Stan Chu Ilo has been a guiding force in Rose Kantiono’s journey as a nonprofit leader. Through their collaboration in Canadian Samaritans for Africa, he served as her mentor, sharing invaluable knowledge and practical skills on how to establish and manage a nonprofit organization. His mentorship not only strengthened Rose’s leadership capacity as board director, adviser, volunteer and project coordinator of the organization, but also inspired the vision behind the Kantiono Foundation, ensuring its programs are rooted in sustainability, equity, and community impact. As a Board Adviser of Kantiono Foundation, Father Stan Chu Ilo brings unparalleled expertise and vision to the Kantiono Foundation. His deep knowledge of theology, ethics, and social development, combined with his global experience in education and humanitarian work, strengthens the foundation’s mission to empower youth and promote equity in education. Father Stan provides strategic guidance on program design, ensuring initiatives are inclusive, culturally relevant, and aligned with global best practices. Through his extensive network of academic institutions, faith-based organizations, and development partners, he opens doors for partnerships, funding opportunities, and advocacy platforms. His commitment to social justice and youth empowerment resonates strongly with the foundation’s core values, making him an invaluable force in shaping impactful projects across Africa and beyond.

About Reverend Dr. Stan Chu Ilo

Reverend Dr. Stan Chu Ilo is a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Awgu, Nigeria, and a globally respected scholar, educator, and advocate for social justice. He currently serves as Research Professor of World Christianity, Global Health, and African Studies at DePaul University in Chicago, where he also teaches Catholic Studies. His work bridges theology, intercultural dialogue, and development, with a strong focus on empowering marginalized communities.

Reverend Father Stan holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in Theology from the University of St. Michael’s College at the University of Toronto and a Doctorate in Education from the University of South Africa. His academic expertise spans theology, ethics, and the sociology of education, equipping him to lead transformative projects that address poverty, equity, and inclusion.

Beyond academia, Father Stan is deeply committed to pastoral and humanitarian work. He founded Canadian Samaritans for Africa, a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating poverty and empowering women across Africa. He also serves as chaplain for Nigerian immigrants and volunteers in prison ministry through Kolbe House in Chicago, offering spiritual care and reintegration support.

A prolific author and thought leader, Father Stan has written or edited more than 17 books, including Church and Development in Africa and A Poor and Merciful Church. His writings explore themes of social ethics, African Christianity, and the role of the Church in promoting justice. He is also a frequent commentator for global media outlets such as CNN African Voices, Al Jazeera, and The Huffington Post.

Father Stan’s influence extends globally through his role as Coordinating Servant of the Pan-African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network (PACTPAN) and his collaborations with Vatican working groups. His advocacy for inclusive theology and youth empowerment has earned him international recognition, including the Afro-Global Award for Global Leadership Impact.

Through his scholarship, ministry, and humanitarian vision, Father Stan Chu Ilo exemplifies leadership that unites faith, culture, and social transformation—making him a powerful voice for hope and justice across Africa and the global Church.

Publications & Media Involvement

Dr. Ilo has authored or edited 17 books, including titles such as A Poor and Merciful Church, Someone Beautiful to God, Handbook of African Catholicism, and Ecological Ethics for Cosmic Flourishing. His academic articles and essays number over 50, and he contributes to mainstream and faith media including CTV, Al‑Jazeera, CNN African Voices, the Catholic Register, and the Huffington Post.

Humanitarian Leadership

Father Stan is the founder and former President of Canadian Samaritans for Africa (CSA), a nonprofit aiding rural African women via micro-credit, agriculture, water, sanitation, and skills training. Since 2003, CSA has delivered over 40 projects in Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and the CAR.

Projects include the Enugu water-supply system for 10,000 residents, recognized by UNESCO’s Mondialogo Awards, the U.S. EPA, and the U.S. State Department. CSA continues to support displaced and impoverished communities across Central and East Africa.

Awards & Honors

Afroglobal Television Excellence Award for Global Impact (2017), celebrating his leadership and contributions through CSA.

Projects under his leadership have gained recognition from UNESCO, U.S. EPA, and the U.S. State Department.

Pastoral & Community Engagement

Dr. Ilo regularly conducts retreats, spiritual retreats, and workshops for congregations and clergy across North America, Europe, and Africa. He serves as a chaplain to Nigerian immigrant communities in Chicago and volunteers at Kolbe House, supporting individuals affected by incarceration.

Contacts