February 11, 2026
Agency Veteran Maria Balice Returns as EVP to Lead Corporate Communications Practice and Help Position Agency and Clients for the Future
With a backdrop of media company consolidation and contraction, Chicago public relations firm L.C. Williams & Associates (LCWA) marked a major milestone: 40 years in business. The agency also appointed 30-year communications veteran and LCWA alum Maria Balice as executive vice president to lead the firm’s corporate affairs work.
Founded in 1985 by the late Louis C. Williams, L.C. Williams & Associates was built on the steadfast belief that research should be an integral part of any public relations program. Grounded in research-driven strategy, LCWA has delivered award-winning work for a wide range of clients. From Fortune 1,000 and large- privately-held companies to start-ups and non-profits, LCWA has built a reputation for deep expertise in home improvement, food and beverage and healthcare.
As a full-service agency serving national clients, LCWA has evolved over the last 40 years to provide a digital-first communications approach. LCWA recently earned several top industry awards, including:
- PRNEWS Platinum Award for Content Marketing Campaign
- PCC Silver Trumpet Award for Integrated Marketing Communications
- PRSA Chicago Skyline Award for Content Marketing, Business to Consumer
“The communications landscape is more tumultuous than ever, but LCWA has weathered it all with clients who have counted on us for decades to deliver high-impact communications and results,” said Kim Blazek Dahlborn, president and CEO of LCWA. “We’re thrilled to welcome Maria back to the team as LCWA embarks on year 41 as an independent firm that puts clients first.”
Balice re-joined LCWA in November. In the 20 years between her first stint and her return, Balice led communications programs that shaped reputation, built brand equity and drove stakeholder trust for Fortune 500 companies, global non-profits and high-profile public initiatives. Her experience spans thought leadership and advocacy, strategic partnerships and issues management.
“Maria is one of many LCWA ‘boomerangs,’ which is a testament to the culture we’ve built over the last 40 years,” said Dahlborn. “With her expertise and experience, LCWA can deliver even more value to our clients.”