Lillian Ruiz

Lillian Ruiz is a seasoned entrepreneurial executive, consultant, and executive coach with a profound expertise at the convergence of information, social innovation, and civic identity. She is the Founder of Ci-X Strategies, a consultancy aimed at empowering mission-driven businesses, enhancing constituent relationships, and optimizing operational efficiency while keeping the organizational mission at the forefront of strategies. With a rich background as COO and co-founder at the National Trust for Local News and Civil Media, Lillian has a track record in portfolio strategy, project financing, ecosystem sustainability, and operational leadership in the realm of technology and media. Her career has been dedicated to fostering products and spaces that encourage respect, harmony, and civic unity. Lillian is actively involved in various initiatives such as Chair of the Tiny News Collective, advisory member to the Legal Clinic Fund for Local News, and as an instructor at the Craig Newmark School of Journalism. Her recent research on the sustainability demands of community media outlets has significantly impacted the discourse on local news sustainability, equitable capital access, and succession planning.