Welcoming Lisa as ESNDC’s New Executive Director

We’re excited to share that Lisa is serving as the Executive Director of ESNDC. She brings a wealth of experience in community and economic development, along with a strong track record in nonprofit leadership. Her background in economic and workforce development positions her well to guide the organization into its next phase of growth and community impact.

Lisa also brings an entrepreneurial spirit to her leadership, drawing on her experience as a serial entrepreneur to support nonprofit organizations and uplift small business entrepreneurs of color. Her work consistently centers on creating pathways and bringing resources to support underrepresented communities to thrive—an approach that aligns closely with ESNDC’s mission to foster the development and sustainability of East Side neighborhoods.

As a resident of the East Side for more than 30 years, Lisa offers a deep, lived understanding of the community’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities. She values collaboration across sectors and is committed to building partnerships that foster a more just and equitable community where everyone can thrive. This long-standing connection to the community informs her leadership with authenticity, vision, and care.

Lisa holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul and an M.A. in Management and Leadership from Concordia University in St. Paul. She is the proud mom of three, and outside of work, she enjoys spending time in the pool with her youngest, exploring hiking trails while traveling, practicing yoga, and checking destinations off her travel bucket list—both with and without her children.

Executive Director Bio:

Lisa serves as the Executive Director of ESNDC, bringing a wealth of experience in community and economic development along with a strong track record in nonprofit leadership. Her extensive background in economic and workforce development positions her to guide organizations and initiatives toward meaningful growth and lasting community impact. She brings an entrepreneurial spirit to her work, drawing on her experience as a serial entrepreneur to support nonprofit organizations and uplift small business entrepreneurs of color.

Lisa holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul and an M.A. in Management and Leadership from Concordia University in St. Paul. She is the proud mom of three, and outside of work, she enjoys spending time in the pool with her youngest, exploring hiking trails while traveling, practicing yoga, and checking destinations off her travel bucket list—both with and without her children.