Elizabeth O’Brien is an experienced nonprofit and international education leader with a background in advancing strategic initiatives and strengthening mission-driven organizations across the United States and Latin America. She brings expertise in organizational strategy, cross-functional team leadership, and systems design that enable teams to work effectively and sustainably.
Elizabeth recently served as Director of Programs & Operations at Community Spaces Network, acting as a close strategic partner to the Executive Director. She guided organizational planning; led operations across programs, people, communications, and events; oversaw recruitment and staff development; directed national conferences; facilitated cross-functional committees; and led a full organizational rebrand.
As Director of Recruitment at Volunteers Colombia previously, she managed national recruitment, onboarding, bilingual communications, and stakeholder engagement for multiple education initiatives in partnership with public and private institutions. Her earlier work—teaching in Colombia and Chile and in experiential learning with EF Education First—refines her ability to build strong international partnerships and support immersive educational programs. These experiences reinforced her commitment to youth-centered change, and helped shape the global perspective she brings to her leadership today.
As LALA’s Chief of Staff, Elizabeth aims to bring her strengths in strategic partnership, systems design, and team alignment to drive organizational clarity, operational excellence, and sustainable growth. She is committed to LALA’s mission and grateful to contribute to community-driven change in Latin America.
