On April 15, we were happy to host a successful conversation and reception in Washington, D.C. to welcome Maysa Jalbout as the new Director of Education Cannot Wait (ECW). The gathering brought together GCE-US members and partners, along with colleagues from across the global education and humanitarian community, to mark this important leadership transition.

During the event, Maysa shared her vision for ECW’s next decade—emphasizing the need to accelerate support for children and youth whose education has been disrupted by conflict, displacement, and climate-related crises. She spoke about strengthening locally led responses, deepening partnerships across the humanitarian–development nexus, and ensuring that ECW’s investments translate into meaningful, measurable learning outcomes for the most marginalized learners. Her remarks underscored both the urgency of the moment and the opportunity to build on ECW’s strong foundation.

Following her presentation, Maysa engaged in a dynamic question-and-answer session with attendees. Participants raised thoughtful questions about ECW’s new strategic framework, approaches to financing, collaboration with civil society, and how the fund will continue to elevate youth voices and local leadership. Maysa responded with clarity and candor, outlining her priorities while inviting continued dialogue and partnership.

Maysa steps into the role at a pivotal moment for education in emergencies, as conflicts and climate-related disasters continue to disrupt learning for millions of children worldwide. Her arrival coincides with ECW’s tenth anniversary, the launch of a new strategic framework, and a $600 million replenishment campaign focused on locally driven solutions. With three decades of experience across education policy, philanthropy, and global development, she brings deep expertise and vision to this next chapter for ECW.