Elena's primary responsibilities are to implement an informed and cohesive organizational strategy, serve as the organization’s public leader, inspire and motivate engagement among key stakeholders, effectively lead the Student U staff, and oversee the organization’s financial management. The primary functions of the role include vision and thought leadership, building public awareness and understanding of Student U’s vision, mission and values, fundraising, and overseeing, developing and coaching Student U’s Leadership Team.

Elena Maina

Student U Executive Director

Elena's Why:

I value the diversity and beauty of human experience.  No two human souls are the same, and we all have different needs and dreams for our lives.  I chose to work at Student U because this organization supports individual expression by deeply investing not only into each student’s academic life, but into their personal well-being and family life, too.  Student U views each student as the whole asset to their community that they really are.

Elena outside of Student U:

When I am not at Student U, I am usually tending vegetables in my home garden, finding gems to read at the Durham Public Library, attending DPS events at my kids’ schools, or experimenting in the kitchen.  

Advice Elena finds valuable:

Students, don’t be afraid to fail! Because there is no one exactly like you, your existence is crucial and immensely valuable. This value does not diminish because of a failure.

Other organizations Elena is involved with:

Teach for America Alumna (Phoenix 2010)

Colleges:

University of Florida
Arizona State University

Course of study:

Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics
Bachelor of Arts in English
Master of Education in Secondary Education

Student U start date:

January 7, 2019

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