Elizabeth Le'anani Coffee

Elizabeth Le’anani Coffee is the Director of Storytelling at the H. E. Butt Foundation, where she leads narrative change efforts that reflect and deepen her love for San Antonio—the city that formed her, and which she now helps shape in return. Rooted in the Hawaiian practice of aloha, Elizabeth’s connection to place is expressed through love for people. Specifically, through the love of the diverse, dynamic, and compassionate people of San Antonio.

With more than 12 years of experience in nonprofit and community engagement across South Texas, Elizabeth brings deep skill in convening, connecting, and incorporating community voice. She believes trust is the foundation of community repair and works toward it through collaborative storytelling and cross-sector partnerships.

Elizabeth holds a Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. Previously a research associate with the Lake Institute on Faith and Giving, she studied American patterns of generosity and gathering, particularly in religious life. She currently chairs the board of The Impact Guild, a local design lab focused on the reallocation of private assets for community benefit.

Photo credit: Josh Huskin