2nd Class, 2003-2005
Field Placement: Fundación Nacional para el Desarrollo (FUNDE), El Salvador
Ilisa partnered with a local think tank to ease the situation of farmers impacted by the Central American coffee crisis. In an impact study sponsored by the European Union, she researched supply chains for coffee growers in El Salvador and conducted a study of the US market for specialty coffees to inform create business strategies for small coffee producers seeking to enter the market.
Policy Placement: American Red Cross, Washington, DC
As a member of the food programming unit, Ilisa developed case studies to take a critical look at the Red Cross’ programs from a nutrition point of view. She also developed data management tools to better monitor and evaluate on-going field programs.
Pre-Fellowship Education/Experience:
Ilisa received an MS in Development Management and an MBA with a focus on International Business from American University. She served as a development consultant in Guatemala for Trickle Up, a microfinance program, conducting intensive field research among the project’s beneficiaries to improve the program’s effectiveness and impact. She is fluent in Spanish.