Hi, I’m Elise

Founder and Principal of BananaBox Consulting
MSW, Nonprofit Lifecycles Institute Consultant

Over the last 15+ years in the nonprofit and food systems world, I’ve worn a lot of hats—usually several at the same time. I’ve farmed, built SNAP incentive programs, cooked meals for 100+ people out of a kitchen the size of a closet, and grew a food recovery program during a pandemic—with zero on-site COVID infections.

So yes, I’ve been around the block. And probably carried a banana box while doing it.

I’ve also written grants, built logic models, coached executive directors, designed evaluation systems, facilitated strategic plans, and helped small but mighty teams cut through the chaos. That mix of big-picture thinking and practical know-how is what I bring to every project.

But what really shapes my approach?

I’m a community organizer — I believe that relationships are the root system of real change.

I’m a social worker — My time at Boston College shaped how I understand people and power dynamics. It taught me how to lead with both heart and structure.

I’m also an artist — which means I love finding creative, visual ways to make complex things clear. Just don’t ask me to do a quick sketch.

When you work with BananaBox, you get someone who’s been in your shoes, knows how to move things forward, and believes strategy should be useful—not just pretty.

Let’s build something that works (and maybe even have a little fun doing it).

Elise, A woman with long dark hair, glasses, and a warm smile, in her office with with framed pictures and a plant poster on the wall behind her.

“Elise brings a unique combination of deep sector knowledge and broad operational versatility. With over a decade of experience in the food sector, she is a true content expert—able to think systemically while never losing sight of the on-the-ground realities that drive meaningful change. She is also an exceptional thought partner: intelligent, creative, and strategic, with an instinct for how to move both people and projects forward.”

— Rachel Albert, Executive Director, Food Link

A circular badge with mountain graphics and the text 'Lifecycles 101 2025' in the center.

Affiliations and Awards:

  • Member, North American Food Systems Network

  • Member, Right to Food Community of Practice

  • Emerging Leaders Academy, Center for Philanthropy Education

  • Master of Social Work; Social Innovation and Change Management, Boston College

  • 2015 Good Food Access Award, Indy Food Council

  • Network-Based Community Organizing Training, Network Center for Community Change

  • Sustainability Leadership Fellow, Byron Fellowship 

Elise, packing up recovered food during the pandemic. She is wearing a face mask and stands at a table with boxes of bread, holding a loaf of bread. She is in a room with a window, metal shelves, and other boxes in the background.
A typical food recovery scene. Stacked boxes of bananas and other supplies on a folding table in a food pantry.
Colorful banners hanging in a store or market, with messages like "Thank you Seeds," "Thank you Tools," "Thank you Sun," "Thank you Rain," "Thank you Flowers," "Thank you Birds," "Thank you Bees," "Thank you Fruit," and "Thank you Mushroom."

Let’s Chat

Curious if BananaBox is a good fit? I’d love to hear from you.

Whether you’ve got a big idea, a messy challenge, or just need a strategic buddy to think things through—reach out. We’ll set up a free 30-minute call to see where you're at and what’s possible.