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CO-Founder & COO, LUMO
B.S., Marketing,1999
What role do you play in the entrepreneurial ecosystem?
I co-founded and lead a leadership development and coaching company that empowers leaders and organizations to create thriving, human-centered workplaces. Through our work, we challenge the status quo, cultivate transformational leadership, and help businesses build cultures where employees can grow and succeed. Additionally, I serve as Board Chair for a nonprofit focused on supporting parents facing mental health challenges related to childbirth, ensuring equitable access to resources and advocacy. Finally, I have volunteered, mentored and coached loads of women and entrepreneurs along their journey.
What are some of your best memories of your time at Clemson?
Clemson is where I built lifelong friendships, developed confidence as a leader, and learned the value of community. Some of my favorite memories include early-morning practice on Lake Hartwell, late-night study sessions with my roommates, celebrating winning regattas with my crew teammates – including my now husband, and the unwavering support of faculty and mentors who saw my potential before I fully recognized it myself. Of course, nothing quite compares to the energy of game days in Death Valley!
What were the key inflection points in your career after you left Clemson?
Several moments shaped my journey:
Taking a leap into entrepreneurship after 20 years in the corporate world, recognizing the need for leadership development that prioritizes people, not just performance.
Becoming a parent and navigating the challenges of balancing career growth with family life, which deepened my passion for workplace policies that support caregivers.
Joining the board of a nonprofit dedicated to perinatal mental health, reinforcing my belief in the power of advocacy, and community-driven change.
What are your personal and professional dreams?
Personally, I want to continue fostering a strong, connected family while creating experiences that allow us to explore the world together. Travel, curiosity, and shared adventure are deeply important to me as well as serving our community together.
Professionally, I aspire to influence systemic change in how organizations approach leadership, equity, and well-being. I also hope to expand my impact through thought leadership, writing, and mentoring the next generation of female change-makers.
What would you recommend students do to maximize their remaining time at Clemson?
Take smart risks—say yes to opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Build relationships with professors, mentors, and classmates; your network will be invaluable long after graduation. And most importantly, invest in your personal growth—leadership isn’t just about titles, it’s about how you show up for others and for yourself. Lastly, remember to take time to REST and take care of yourself, too!
What else should we know about you?
I’m deeply passionate about reimagining leadership in a way that prioritizes people, equity, and well-being. I believe that the best leaders are those who stay curious, challenge outdated norms, and never lose sight of their values. Also, I never turn down a good book recommendation or a meaningful conversation over coffee!
Connect with Elena on LinkedIn
Connect with LUMO on LinkedIn
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