Liz Marshall

Liz Marshall is a dedicated educator and community leader, committed to nurturing compassionate young people prepared to make a positive impact on both their local and global communities. Her journey towards this mission began on the sand dunes of Miniwanca during the 1980s, where she grew from staff kid to camper to summer staff under her mother Suzy, who served as the Girls Camp Director at the time.

While an undergraduate at Yale University, Liz honed her passion for leadership and education. She studied literature and history, took time away to work as an outdoor field instructor to fifth graders in Oregon, and then returned to complete her degree in American Studies. Following her time at Yale, Liz’s adventurous spirit led her to Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, where she took on the role of a program director. At this camp, she played a crucial role in creating a safe and nurturing environment for children with life-threatening illnesses, helping them experience joy and healing through transformative camp experiences.

Recognizing the power of education in shaping future leaders, Liz earned a master’s degree in education from Harvard University, where she refined her teaching and leadership skills. Her journey as an educator continued at Dana Hall School, where she taught high school English and developed a community service program, inspiring her students to excel academically and become thoughtful, responsible citizens.

In 2005, Liz returned to her roots in the role of Girls Camp Director at Miniwanca. As a dynamic leader, she played an integral part in fostering the personal growth and leadership development of countless young campers and staff. Her dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders shone through as she demonstrated a passion for the tools of four-fold balanced living.

After 14 years as camp director, Liz shifted her focus to the strategic and began as AYF Director of Advancement. Leveraging her skills to support the organization’s mission and growth, she led fundraising and engagement efforts including reunions and adult programs. As the pandemic hit, Liz pivoted and quickly developed AYF online programs including evening reflections and conversation circles for adult audiences.

In 2021, Liz was appointed as the AYF Vice President, a role that allowed her to continue to shape the future of the organization and empower young leaders on an even broader scale. She led a renewed focus on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, initiating the AYF DEI Committee. She led the organization in the work of creating a strategic plan to articulate the mission, vision, and values heading into AYF’s centennial.

Liz’s life and career are dedicated to the development of thoughtful, caring leaders who discover their best and share their gifts in the world. Every day, she is inspired by all who join the AYF in striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others and their communities.