Laurie Laird

Laurie Laird is a Program Manager with the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange at Mobility International USA, which aims to increase participation of people with disabilities in inclusive international exchange programs. She has lived experience with a disability, and her career includes positions in higher education, philanthropy, and non-profit management, with a focus on advancing human rights and social justice as the constant thread in her work. She has managed programs at the Global Fund for Women, Santa Clara University, Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest, and the University of Portland and endeavored to ensure opportunities and support for the participation of people with disabilities. Laurie’s personal experience in international exchange took her to Ecuador where she studied and served as a Rotary Foundation Scholar. Since then, she has traveled extensively for work and pleasure, often on the tandem bike she rides with her partner. Laurie earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.