Lou Ness is the Cofounder of Forward Effect™, a seasoned leader in public service, Vietnam war veteran, an ordained Deacon in the Episcopal Church, and is a Fellow with the University of Illinois Leadership Institute.

As a former executive director for nonprofits, Lou has led teams and organizations in successful mission-driven initiatives. She holds a Master’s Degree in Mediation and has solid experience resolving disputes ranging from board rooms to neighborhoods, and is also a certified Organization and Relationship Systems Coach (ORSCC). Lou combines her experience with facilitation and coaching skills to create a unique, transformational training experience.

More recently, Lou walked from Rockford, Ill to Washington, DC, meeting with groups, churches and individuals throughout seven states, rallying for “Hear Our Cry, Marching for America’s Poor”. In her spare time, Lou is an avid gardener and enjoys spending time with her family, friends and two dogs.