Leadership

Elizabeth Orshanski

Elizabeth Orshanski is the Co-Founder and CEO of LumeTrails, where she helps guide the organization’s mission to empower women to enter, re-enter, and advance in meaningful professional careers through mentorship, resources, and community.

Originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, Elizabeth immigrated to the United States and experienced firsthand the challenges many women and immigrant families face when navigating new professional systems and opportunities. Growing up between cultures shaped her deep appreciation for resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community support. These experiences helped form her commitment to creating pathways for women who are navigating career transitions or seeking new professional direction.

After moving to Washington, DC, Elizabeth developed a strong interest in international affairs, public service, and cross-cultural collaboration. She earned her bachelor’s degree in International Trade and Foreign Language from the University of Alabama in Huntsville, where she focused on global systems, policy, and international engagement. 

Professionally, Elizabeth works in national security program management and operations, supporting high-visibility Department of Defense initiatives and international partnerships. She has extensive experience coordinating large, multi-stakeholder programs, managing cross-functional teams, and supporting senior leadership decision-making.

Elizabeth helped found LumeTrails after recognizing how many capable and driven women encounter barriers when navigating career transitions, re-entering the workforce, or seeking meaningful professional growth—challenges she observed both in her own immigrant community and throughout her professional network. Inspired by these experiences, she wanted to help build a platform where women could access mentorship, practical resources, and a supportive professional community.

Through LumeTrails, Elizabeth hopes to foster a network that equips women with the tools, connections, and confidence needed to pursue careers that are both impactful and sustainable.

Nicolette Kilgo

Nicolette Kilgo is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of LumeTrails, where she helps guide the organization’s mission to empower women to enter, re-enter, and advance in meaningful professional careers through mentorship, resources, and community.

Originally from Alabama, Nicolette grew up with a deep appreciation for service, resilience, and community. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of North Alabama before pursuing a master’s degree in International Security Studies at Royal Holloway, University of London. Her academic and professional experiences shaped a strong commitment to public service and to helping individuals navigate complex systems and career paths.

Professionally, Nicolette works in strategic communications, legislative affairs, and policy, supporting senior leaders and congressional engagement on national security and workforce initiatives. Her work often focuses on translating complex policy and data into clear, actionable strategies that support both institutions and the people they serve.

She helped found LumeTrails after recognizing how many talented women face barriers when transitioning careers, re-entering the workforce, or seeking meaningful professional direction. Inspired by the experiences of women in her own life and community, she wanted to help create a space where women could find mentorship, connection, and practical guidance as they navigate their professional journeys.

Through LumeTrails, Nicolette hopes to build a supportive network where women feel empowered to pursue careers that are both fulfilling and sustainable.