UnidosUS (formerly National Council of La Raza)
Lisette Orellana Engel currently serves as the Director of Economic Policy at UnidosUS since April 2024, following a significant tenure with the Justice + Joy National Collaborative where roles included Vice President of Policy and Systems Change. Prior experience includes leadership positions such as Executive Director at The Dwelling Place, Inc., Tax Program Manager at Community Tax Aid, and Community Services Program Coordinator for the City of Gaithersburg. As a National Advocate with the National Crittenton Foundation, Lisette focused on issues impacting women and girls, particularly young mothers of color. Educational achievements include a Master of Public Administration from the University of Baltimore and a Bachelor's in Communication Studies from the University of Maryland Global Campus.
UnidosUS (formerly National Council of La Raza)
UnidosUS (formerly National Council of La Raza, NCLR)—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. Through its network of nearly 300 affiliated community-based organizations (CBOs), UnidosUS reaches millions of Hispanics each year in 41 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. To achieve its mission, UnidosUS conducts applied research, policy analysis, and advocacy, providing a Latino perspective in five key areas—assets/investments, civil rights/immigration, education, employment and economic status, and health. In addition, it provides capacity-building assistance to its Affiliates who work at the state and local level to advance opportunities for individuals and families.