Liza Heavener

Liza Heavener is a prominent figure in the realm of philanthropy and social entrepreneurship, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer at NEXUS, a global network focused on connecting next-generation philanthropists, impact investors, and social entrepreneurs. She has a robust background in federal politics, having spent nearly a decade engaged in grassroots and campaign strategies, as well as working directly with the United States Congress.1 4

Career Highlights

Chief Operating Officer at NEXUS: Liza has been instrumental in advancing the organization's mission to mobilize young leaders for impactful change.2
Chair of the NEXUS Working Group on Animal Welfare and Biodiversity Conservation: In this role, she focuses on educating and empowering members to address critical issues related to animal welfare and environmental conservation.3 5
Healthcare Lobbyist: Before joining NEXUS, Liza worked as a healthcare lobbyist where she led national advocacy programs for large membership organizations.1 4

Notable Achievements

Documentary Feature: Liza appeared in the internationally acclaimed documentary series "Rise of the Eco-Warrior," which highlights efforts to combat illegal deforestation and protect endangered species in Borneo.5
Advocacy and Education: She has spoken at numerous conferences, including keynotes at significant events like Microsoft’s ISTE conference, sharing her insights on social impact and advocacy.1 4

Educational Background

Liza earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Mennonite University, where she studied Business, Political Science, and Psychology. She also attended Howard University for a brief period focusing on Business and Marketing.3 4

Personal Insights

Liza emphasizes the importance of collaboration between financial resources and innovative ideas to drive meaningful change. Her commitment to creating a better planet extends beyond human welfare to include environmental stewardship.4 5

In addition to her professional roles, Liza serves as an advisor to various organizations such as the Millennial Action Project and is actively involved with the Alumni Council at her alma mater.2 6