Our Founder

Elizabeth founded Partners for World Health (PWH) in 2009, a Portland, Maine–based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving global health while reducing medical waste. PWH collects surplus and discarded medical supplies from healthcare facilities, then reprocesses, repackages, and ships medical consumables and equipment in container-sized shipments to underserved communities throughout Africa and Asia. In addition, the organization conducts multiple medical service trips each year, providing essential healthcare services and education aimed at improving standards of care in the countries it serves.

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PWH’s mission addresses both environmental and humanitarian needs. By diverting usable medical supplies from disposal, the organization reduces environmental impact, lowers healthcare disposal costs, and helps ensure that valuable resources reach those who need them most. A registered nurse by training, Elizabeth brings extensive experience in nursing administration in both the United States and abroad.

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As a healthcare leader, Elizabeth has demonstrated outstanding collaborative leadership, championed proactive change and fostered innovative solutions that bring people and organizations together. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply committed to the principle of giving back. As she often says, “We can all make a difference in our world; all we have to do is try.”

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Elizabeth holds graduate degrees from Boston University School of Medicine and Public Health, Saint Joseph’s College, and the University of Maine. She also earned undergraduate degrees from American University in Washington, D.C., and Northeastern University. Her work has been featured on CNN’s Great Big Story and in Oprah Magazine’s Sustainability Issue. Through her leadership and vision, she has become a recognized advocate for improving the medical supply chain and directing valuable resources to underserved populations. Her efforts have earned her numerous awards and speaking engagements with business and healthcare organizations.