Elissa Brandolph

About Elissa Brandolph

I’m driven by the chance to work on things that matter—whether that’s building relationships, solving problems, or supporting missions I believe in. Over the past decade, I’ve managed multi-million-dollar humanitarian and development programs and grants across Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East, focusing on food security, nutrition, health, water and sanitation, economic recovery and climate resilience.I’m a strategic thinker who asks questions, connects the dots, and spots patterns that help improve how things work. I enjoy collaborating with others to bring clarity to ambiguity and move good ideas forward.I’m currently seeking a mission-driven role that blends program support, grants management, and strategy. I’m especially interested in work in sectors such as food security, livelihoods, climate, sustainability, water, education, or health.Feel free to connect or reach out to me at e••••••••@gmail.com.

Experience

1. Program Officer - Us Department of State

   Cherokee Federal

   Jul 2025 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   I supported the stand-up of a new foreign assistance office and oversee a $500 million portfolio spanning 26 awards across South America, ensuring alignment with Department of State policies and U.S. foreign assistance directives.

Education

• James Madison University

  BA, International Relations and Humanitarian Affairs

  2011 — 2013

• George Mason University

  Global Affairs

  2009 — 2011

Skills

• Training
• Sharepoint
• Microsoft Excel
• Powerpoint
• Social Media
• International Development
• Leadership
• Intercultural Communication
• Grant Administration
• Teaching
• Proposal Support
• Microsoft Office
• Social Networking
• Research
• Illustrator
• Spss
• Reporting & Analysis
• Qualitative Research
• Non-Profits
• Wordpress
• Access
• International Relations
• Government
• Nonprofits
• Administrative Assistance
• Editing
• Human Rights