Her Story
About Lori
Lori Waltz serves as Executive Director of Leadership Seacoast, a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing informed, engaged community leaders throughout the Seacoast region of New Hampshire and southern Maine. With more than 12 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and over three decades of involvement in the nonprofit sector, Waltz has built a career focused on civic engagement, equity, community impact, and collaborative leadership. Her journey began after she was inspired by a television program featuring Elizabeth Dole, which motivated her to volunteer to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence. She later transitioned from the corporate sector into nonprofit leadership, serving as a development director before advancing to executive leadership. In her role at Leadership Seacoast, Waltz leads a seven-month community leadership program that equips emerging and established leaders to better understand complex regional issues and take informed action. Her areas of expertise include thought leadership, organizational leadership, inclusive leadership, fundraising and development, coalition building, facilitation, and civic engagement. She also remains active as a facilitator encouraging community dialogue and engagement around local government decisions. Waltz holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Keene State College and earned the Certified Community Leadership Practitioner (CCLP) credential through the Association of Leadership Programs. Waltz attributes her professional approach to the values of integrity, optimism, and endurance, which guide her work and commitment to strengthening communities. She encourages individuals entering the nonprofit sector to understand their personal “why,” emphasizing that purpose and passion are essential to navigating the field. While she recognizes that nonprofit careers can present challenges, including compensation that may be lower than in the for-profit sector, she believes the sector offers abundant opportunities to create meaningful change, build relationships, and contribute to causes that improve the lives of others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lori
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my ability to meet people where they are. I believe in listening without judgment, understanding different perspectives, and adapting my approach to connect with individuals in a meaningful and authentic way. This approach has enabled me to build strong relationships, foster collaboration, and create environments where people feel respected, valued, and empowered to contribute.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the nonprofit sector is to recognize that there is no shortage of opportunities to make a meaningful impact and build a rewarding career. However, the field also comes with significant challenges, including compensation that is often lower than in the for-profit sector. For that reason, it is essential to understand your “why” and remain connected to the purpose that motivates you. A strong sense of purpose, combined with resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous growth, can help you navigate the challenges while making the most of the many opportunities the nonprofit sector offers.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in the nonprofit sector is the abundance of meaningful work and the ability to create positive, lasting change in communities. At the same time, the field faces significant challenges, particularly when it comes to compensation, which is often lower than in the for-profit sector. Despite these challenges, the nonprofit sector continues to offer tremendous opportunities for individuals who are passionate about service, community impact, and advancing important causes.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe the values that matter most in both my work and personal life are integrity, optimism, and endurance. Integrity guides me to act with honesty, accountability, and consistency, while optimism helps me remain focused on possibilities and positive outcomes, even when circumstances are challenging. Endurance gives me the resilience to remain committed, persevere through obstacles, and continue moving forward with purpose.
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