Eskinder Negash
About Eskinder Negash
Eskinder Negash - President and CEO
Eskinder Negash serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer, bringing extensive experience in refugee resettlement and community services. His leadership roles include overseeing operations, strategic planning, and high-level organizational management. With a career dedicated to humanitarian work, he provides valuable insights and direction in his current role.
Tenure at Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)
Eskinder Negash served as the Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) from 2009 to 2015. During his tenure, he managed a budget exceeding $1.5 billion and oversaw services for more than 850,000 individuals. His role involved directing programs and initiatives aimed at aiding refugees and providing crucial support systems.
Leadership at USCRI and International Institute of Los Angeles
Eskinder Negash held significant roles at both the United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) and the International Institute of Los Angeles. As Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at USCRI, he served for seven years, contributing to the operational effectiveness of the organization. Before that, he was the Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at the International Institute of Los Angeles for 15 years.
Committee and Advisory Roles
Eskinder Negash has been actively involved in various committees and advisory councils. He served as the Chair of the Joint Voluntary Agencies Committee of California and the California State Refugee Advisory Council. Additionally, he was a Board Member of the Coalition for Human Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) and part of the Secretary of State’s Advisory Committee for Public-Private Partnership in 2016.
Awards and Recognition
Eskinder Negash has been recognized for his contributions to the refugee community. In 2009, he received the 'Outstanding American By Choice' award from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The following year, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) honored him as one of ten distinguished individuals whose experiences represent the refugee journey. He is a naturalized U.S. citizen celebrated for his service and impact on his adopted country.