laura bennett
co-founder & ceo

With 25 years of nonprofit leadership under my belt, I’ve seen just about everything—but I’m still learning every day. I believe curiosity and a good sense of humor go a long way in solving complex problems.
Whether it’s untangling operational knots, fine-tuning governance, figuring out the best database, or crafting effective advocacy strategies, I bring a practical, hands-on approach and a deep commitment to helping organizations succeed in the moment and prepare for the future.
Throughout my career, I’ve led large-scale organizational overhauls, developed high-impact advocacy strategies, and built systems, programs, and strategies that have driven lasting change. My focus is always on creating practical, effective solutions that align with each organization’s unique needs and goals.
On a personal note, I live out in the country (truly the boonies!) with my husband, two lively (and lovely) daughters, eight cats (yes, you read that right), a one-eyed dog, and two guinea pigs. We love to travel, have adventures, and spend money we don’t have doing it. 😊
As I embark on my next adventure with Blue Octopus, I’m lucky to have Shelley as my business partner, collaborator, and friend. If you’d like to explore how we can help you reach your goals, feel free to reach out