Sonja Nelson

About Sonja Nelson

I’m a purpose-driven strategist and systems thinker committed to advancing equity where…

Experience

1. Interim Chief Executive Officer

   Rise Together Innovation Institute

   Aug 2025 — Present · Columbus, OH, US

   As Interim CEO, I lead the strategic, operational, and partnership development of the Rise Together Innovation Institute (RTII)—a social innovation institute advancing equitable systems change across Franklin County. RTII serves as a connector, convener, and accountability partner for cross-sector initiatives that strengthen the region’s collective capacity to support resident well-being and economic mobility.In this role, I focus on building RTII’s infrastructure for long-term sustainability and measurable impact. Key priorities include:– Strengthening organizational systems, policies, and governance to prepare for executive transition and growth.– Leading public-sector engagement and managing key funding partnerships, including fiscal agent and accountability responsibilities that ensure transparency, compliance, and impact reporting.– Overseeing RTII’s core projects, team performance, and strategic alignment with community outcomes.– Cultivating partnerships and frameworks that position RTII as a regional catalyst for innovation and equitable impact.Through this interim leadership period, I’m focused on ensuring operational excellence while building the foundation for RTII’s next chapter—where collaboration, data, and resident-driven design redefine how communities rise together.

Education

• DeVry University

  Bachelor

  1999 — 2002

• Keller Graduate School of Management

  MBA

  2002 — 2007