“There’s Always a Story Beneath the Surface”: A Conversation with Suzanne Ehlers

Suzanne Ehlers is CEO and Executive Director of USA for UNHCR, the nonprofit organization mobilizing American philanthropy in support of the UN Refugee Agency and millions of people forced to flee their homes.

Suzanne’s journey has taken her from growing up in Texas to Cornell University, the Peace Corps in the Central African Republic, and leadership roles at Population Action International and the Malala Fund before assuming her current position.

Along the way, she’s developed strong convictions about the power of curiosity, compassion, and human connection — and what it takes to lead organizations tackling some of the world’s most difficult challenges.

We begin with how the values she learned growing up helped shape a lifetime of service and a remarkable career in international philanthropy.