Lucia Ferrarese

Manager, Capital Disbursements

Programs

Lucia is a program and operations strategist dedicated to advancing social change through systems thinking, strategic program design, and leadership development.

Originally from the countryside of Argentina, she brings over a decade of experience in the social impact sector, managing global programs, supporting cross-functional teams, and leading strategic initiatives to strengthen organizational effectiveness.

Most recently at Acumen, Lucia led key operational and programmatic efforts across global leadership programs, online learning, and community-building initiatives. She led the implementation of Acumen’s first Spanish-language accelerator in Latin America and spearheaded fellowship selection processes across nine regions. From 2021 to 2023, she also led the Train-the-Trainer program, building a global network of skilled facilitators to expand Acumen’s reach. Her work has consistently focused on applying systems thinking to improve program design and enhance collaboration.

Earlier in her career, Lucia supported economic and sustainability initiatives at Environmental Defense Fund, and assisted with operations and legal negotiations at a diplomatic mission to the United Nations. She also advised graduate students at Columbia University, where she served as a TA and lecturer in conflict resolution strategies courses. She began her career in Argentina, providing legal counsel on government programs in underserved communities.

Lucia holds a Master’s in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from Columbia University and a Law degree from the University of Buenos Aires. A native Spanish speaker, she is passionate about implementing programs that empower communities to lead change. She lives in Brooklyn, NY, with her husband and daughter, and enjoys running and exploring everything the city has to offer.