Lillian Anne Abreu, Ph.D., is a professor, researcher, nonprofit leader, and author currently working on her first novel, La Intellectual. With more than three decades of leadership experience spanning social services, philanthropy, nonprofit management, and higher education, she is dedicated to advancing equity, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities that foster lasting social impact.

Dr. Abreu earned her Ph.D. in Social Welfare from Florida International University’s Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, where her research focused on social and economic mobility among Hispanic women in the United States. She also holds a Master of Science in Fundraising Management and Nonprofit Administration from Columbia University, a Master of Science in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, and a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Florida State University.

Throughout her career in Florida, Illinois, and New York, Dr. Abreu has led initiatives that empower underserved populations through research, program development, strategic partnerships, and advocacy. Her work has focused on strengthening organizations, expanding access to resources, and developing innovative solutions that address complex social challenges.

Recognized for her ability to bridge research and practice, Dr. Abreu has helped organizations achieve meaningful growth and sustainable impact through expertise in fundraising, nonprofit administration, social policy, and evidence-based program evaluation. In recent years, she has championed the integration of artificial intelligence and data-informed tools into organizational operations, enhancing decision-making, increasing efficiency, and improving outcomes for program participants. She also mentors professionals and students on the responsible adoption of AI, emphasizing ethics, transparency, and human-centered innovation.

A collaborative and forward-thinking leader, Dr. Abreu is passionate about working across disciplines to design and implement strategies that expand opportunity, promote well-being, and drive positive social change. Her work reflects a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening institutions, and fostering more equitable communities.

Dr. Abreu resides in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, where she enjoys an active community life and spending time with family, friends, and her rescue dog, Kenny.

Follow Lillian on LinkedIn @lillianaabreu