Elisa Medina serves as a project administrator for service excellence in Human Resource Services (HRS) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). 

She holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Bucknell University and a master’s in social work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. In her current role, she works with hundreds of Administration and Finance employees, managers, and senior leaders to strengthen Universitywide service standards. Whether working one-on-one with employees or with teams or stakeholders, her expertise lies in driving strategic priorities, coaching, ensuring clear communication, and fostering a sense of belonging to all those with whom she interacts. 

As an associate certified coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation, she brings her coaching expertise to all of her work at UMB.  In her previous role at UMB, she provided career coaching to all UMB employees as the career development manager in HRS.  During this time, she also spearheaded the Future of Work Task Force and served on the planning team for the UMBrella Coaching Program.  As a leadership coach and trainer from 2012-2019 at the School of Social Work, she developed and led statewide leadership programs, impacting social work professionals' growth and development throughout Maryland. 

Medina’s professional life has been one of adaptability, having navigated career setbacks, successes, and multiple pivots, all while raising five sons — a testament to the myriad paths that can lead to a fulfilling career.  She continues to embody continual growth and reinvention, showcasing that the journey to professional fulfillment is as dynamic and diverse as the individuals who undertake it.