Dianne is an executive leader and social entrepreneur with demonstrated success in developing innovative solutions in social and economic justice. She is an expert in education, workforce, and youth development with a wealth of experience in strategy, policy, and organizational development. She has extensive experience in the creation of scalable programs and cross-sectoral partnerships, as well as deep knowledge in the development of sustainable systems and operations. She has been recognized by the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for her work with local communities in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, by Hispanic Lifestyle as a “Latina of Influence,” and by 100 Hispanic Women National, Inc., for her achievements throughout her professional career. She is an Afro-Boricua who grew up in Bedford-Stuyvesant. She holds degrees from Columbia and Harvard University and has focused her life on supporting community transformation through access and opportunity.
Prior to joining El Puente, Morales founded StillRising, a social impact management and leadership consulting firm focused on strengthening leaders and supporting organizations working toward social justice and racial equity to address historic disparities and transform communities. Under StillRising, Dianne launched The Leadership Network—to amplify impact and support BIPOC leaders who are working on issues related to equity and social justice in their communities through education and human services; Diaspora Despierta—to elevate the powerful, people-centered work being done in Puerto Rican communities post Hurricane Maria; and, POC Execs—to create spaces for executives of color to come together, strengthen relationships and build community.