Biography: Acooa Ellis has a long track record of driving strategic initiatives and fostering impactful collaborations. As the Principal of ABLE Endeavors, she applies extensive expertise in strategic leadership and change management to guide organizations toward achieving their missions. She is widely known for her ability to convene diverse stakeholders—including system actors, community partners, and elected officials—to co-create sustainable solutions for complex challenges, particularly in areas of housing stability and equitable opportunity. 

Acooa holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Iowa in psychology and sociology, and a Masters of Public Policy from the University of Minnesota's Humphrey School of Public Policy with a concentration in community economic development, providing a strong academic foundation for her practical expertise.

Her career showcases a consistent ability to translate vision into tangible results. With previous roles as Senior Vice President for Community Impact at Greater Twin Cities United Way and Executive Director of the Partnership for Equitable and Resilient Communities, Acooa has demonstrated leadership in orchestrating large-scale public-private partnerships. Her high-integrity and decisive approach, coupled with a deep appreciation for intersectional analysis and strategic problem-solving, positions her to provide insightful governance, ethical leadership, and valuable strategic direction to organizations navigating complex environments.