Lillian Cho

Lillian Cho is a seasoned community organizer and creative placekeeping advocate with over two decades of experience in social justice, public art, and community engagement. Currently self-employed, she focuses on consulting for various community-based organizations and initiatives.

Professional Background

• Community Engagement: Lillian has worked extensively with social justice organizations, cultural groups, and public agencies to promote racial equity, inclusion, and access. Her notable projects include serving as the project lead for the Urban Essex Coalition for Smart Growth, where she collaborated with community activists and planners to enhance safety and accessibility in historically marginalized neighborhoods in New Jersey.12

• Consulting Practice: Lillian maintains a consulting practice that emphasizes leadership transitions, resource planning, and program design for nonprofits. Her clients have included prominent organizations such as the Asian American Writers’ Workshop and the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs.1

• Previous Roles: Before her current consulting work, she was the executive director of the Asian American Arts Alliance, where she advocated for equity among NYC's diverse immigrant populations. She has also played a significant role in launching community initiatives like the East Orange Sustainable Food Alliance.13

Education and Affiliations

Lillian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and East Asian Studies from Colgate University. She is also an alumna of the LNY24 Fellowship at the Coro New York Leadership Center. In addition to her consulting work, she curates events for Lincoln Center Out of Doors and serves on several nonprofit boards, further demonstrating her commitment to community arts and engagement.1

Personal Interests

In her personal life, Lillian has a background in performing arts as a member of the community taiko group Soh Daiko. She resides in New Jersey with her family and pets.1

Through her work, Lillian Cho exemplifies a dedication to enhancing community spaces through art and engagement, making significant contributions to the field of public art and social justice.