Executive Director
Meet Liz Gianessi
Liz is an experienced nonprofit leader with a strong track record in education, development, and mission-driven strategy. She brings a deep commitment to enhancing the quality of educational experiences and a passion for building sustainable, community-rooted organizations.
Liz’s background includes leading individual and institutional fundraising initiatives across both domestic and international NGOs, as well as managing strategic partnerships that advance long-term impact. Her experience includes fostering collaborative public-private partnerships that complement government education efforts by addressing critical needs and enhancing program quality. She has played a key role in securing support from diverse stakeholder groups, including alumni, families, and philanthropic partners, most notably through her work at the United States Military Academy at West Point.
In addition to her fundraising leadership, Liz has served as a preschool and after-school program director, grounding her work in firsthand experience with educators, students, and families. Her approach is collaborative, equity-focused, and aligned with a commitment to empowering learners and fostering educational growth across communities.
Liz holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership from American Public University.