Joanne Kelsey has a diverse and extensive work experience in the field of refugee services and advocacy. Joanne most recently served as the Director of Legal Services at Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area, starting in March 2023. Prior to that, Joanne worked as an Associate Protection Officer at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from August 2020 to January 2023. Joanne also has experience as a Principal at Kelsey Consulting, a Senior Consultant at Strategy for Humanity, and an Assistant Director for Advocacy at the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service. Additionally, Joanne worked as a Protection Officer at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and as the Director of Detention and Asylum Program at the Women's Commission for Refugee Women and Children. Joanne's career in refugee services spans over two decades, showcasing their dedication and expertise in this field.
Joanne Kelsey attended Cornell University from 1983 to 1987, where they earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Agricultural Economics. Following this, they pursued higher education at Boston College Law School from 1991 to 1994, obtaining a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
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Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area
Since 1917, Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), a human services and immigration relief and refugee welcome agency, has accompanied those in need throughout Maryland, Virginia, and the Washington D.C. metro area to foster resiliency, self-sufficiency, and access to opportunities by creating, connecting with, and engaging welcoming communities. Motivated daily by our belief in the inherent dignity of all, LSSNCA’s innovative participant-informed programs serve refugees, forced migrants, immigrants, children and youth, and underserved communities by filling in the gaps. Piloting initiatives like the area’s first camp for kids impacted by the HIV/AIDS crisis, originating local pro se asylum workshops for Afghan Allies, launching a Resource Center to serve as a community hub for all recently arrived program participants, and backing an array of ongoing mental health support services, alongside community partners, LSSNCA strives to create an inclusive community of well-being where people thrive.