At Per Scholas, leadership is about more than a title – it's a commitment to expanding economic opportunity, strengthening workforce ecosystems, and connecting learners to high-growth technology careers. Today, we are thrilled to introduce two accomplished leaders who have stepped into newly created Executive Director roles across New York & New Jersey and Texas. These new positions reflect Per Scholas' growth and its expanded impact in building technology talent pipelines across the country.
As Executive Directors, Suzanne Towns and Liza Ellen O'Connor will focus on strategy, partnerships, and resource development to expand access to technology careers. They will work closely with employers, government agencies, philanthropic organizations, and community partners to strengthen workforce ecosystems and support learner success. Across their respective regions, they will drive growth initiatives that connect learners to no-cost technology training in fields such as IT support, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, and more.
Meet the New Executive Directors:
Suzanne Towns – New York & New JerseySuzanne brings more than 20 years of experience in executive leadership roles spanning government, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors. She has led large-scale workforce and economic opportunity initiatives, developed cross-sector strategies, and designed programs that connect talent to opportunity. Suzanne is skilled at translating strategy into operational models and building partnerships that align stakeholders around shared goals.
Liza Ellen O'Connor – TexasLiza brings executive and C-suite leadership experience across education, workforce development, and economic mobility, including international advancement strategy at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani, and the University of Limerick, Ireland. She has also held leadership roles with NFTE and Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep. Liza is recognized for her ability to build high-impact collaborations and develop initiatives that expand pathways to meaningful careers.
A Vision for OpportunitySuzanne and Liza share a commitment to expanding access to high-growth technology careers and building partnerships that strengthen communities. Their leadership in these newly created roles reflects Per Scholas' growth and its mission to connect learners to opportunity while strengthening workforce ecosystems nationwide.
Welcome, Suzanne and Liza!