August 9, 2024

Washington, DC - The Global Campaign for Education-US (GCE-US), a broad-based coalition of over 80 members dedicated to ensuring universal quality education for all children, announced the appointment of Giulia McPherson as its next Executive Director, effective August 16, 2024. 

McPherson has 20 years of leadership experience in the humanitarian and development sectors and most recently served as Vice President of Advocacy & Operations at Jesuit Refugee Service/USA. In this capacity she led federal policy and advocacy efforts, oversaw a national community engagement program, and coordinated all institutional operations. As an active member of GCE-US, McPherson chaired the GCE-US Education in Emergencies Working Group, developed and executed a strategy to raise the profile of education in conflict and crisis settings, and increased federal funding for these critical programs.

“On behalf of the GCE-US Board of Directors, we are excited to welcome Giulia in this new capacity,” says Ngozi Lawal, GCE-US secretary and search committee chair. “In these tumultuous times, the importance of investing in education and youth around the world is more important than ever. Giulia’s extensive experience strengthening organizations, building coalitions, and advancing key policy priorities made her uniquely qualified for this position. We look forward to her continued contributions to our community in the years to come.” 

McPherson has a Bachelors in Political Science from Villanova University and a Masters in International Development Studies from The George Washington University. She serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for Educate2Envision International, Chair of the Board of Directors for AMP Global Youth, a program of Americans for Informed Democracy, Treasurer of the Board of Directors for American Jesuits International, and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Nourishing Bethesda. Giulia received the 2022 Distinguished Alumna Award from her alma mater, the Academy of the Holy Cross, and was honored as a Top 20 in 2022 Advocacy Professional from the Advocacy Association and one of The Hill’s Top Lobbyists in 2023.

“I am both honored and excited for the opportunity to serve as Executive Director of GCE-US,” says McPherson. “GCE-US is a remarkable organization with an incredibly bright future. I look forward to partnering with our Board, members, and staff as we continue to advance GCE-US’s mission to ensure that access to education is a priority for decision makers here in the U.S. and around the world.”

To schedule an interview with Giulia McPherson, please send an email to gmcpherson@gce-us.org.