Lorelle Atkinson

About Lorelle Atkinson

I help leaders and institutions strengthen trust, expand their reach, and position communications as a core driver of strategy.As Vice President for Communications and Marketing at the Aspen Institute, I serve as chief strategist and steward of the Institute’s brand. I oversee Aspen’s communications and marketing strategy and lead its in-house agency, providing counsel and creative direction for more than 30 public policy programs. My focus is on ensuring Aspen’s voice reflects its role as a trusted convener of ideas and leaders.Previously, I was Vice President for Congressional and Public Affairs at the Millennium Challenge Corporation, the U.S. government’s foreign assistance agency created by President George W. Bush. During the Obama administration, I oversaw all aspects of MCC’s domestic and international communications — from media relations and executive communications to events, digital strategy, and outreach — and strengthened relationships with Congress, NGOs, businesses, and the U.S. public. I also served on the Investment Management Committee, which approved $1 billion annually in development grants worldwide, and led the rollout of initiatives including Power Africa, Feed the Future, Let Girls Learn, and the Open Government Partnership.I later founded LCA Consulting, advising mission-based and global development organizations and companies on brand strategy, narrative, and audience growth.In addition to my executive role, I’m a frequent speaker and moderator, sharing insights on leadership, communications strategy, and the role of storytelling in public life. I’ve appeared on panels and podcasts across sectors and enjoy helping audiences think differently about the power of narrative.I’ve also served on several boards, including Washington Women in Public Relations and the Rise United Education Fund. A Texas native, I now live in Northern Virginia with my family.

Experience

1. Vice President Marketing Communications

   The Aspen Institute

   Feb 2020 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   Lorelle is the Vice President for Communications and Marketing at the Aspen Institute. She leads their in-house communications agency for 30+ public policy programs and oversees the Institute\'s marketing arm, setting its strategic and editorial direction. She also oversees communications for the Institute\'s first enterprise-wide initiative, the Aspen Partnership for an Inclusive Economy, a $26 million corporate partnership with Mastercard.