Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa Appoints New Executive Director
Ottawa, ON – 05/13/2026 — The Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa is pleased to announce the appointment of Carolina Palacios as its new Executive Director, effective June 1, 2026.
Carolina brings over 20 years of experience in the Canadian non-profit sector and in public and private institutions in Colombia, where she grew up. She has held senior leadership roles for more than a decade. Carolina joins Elizabeth Fry Ottawa from Oxfam Canada, where she was Deputy Executive Director for 4 years, leading on organizational strategy, culture, planning, reporting, risk management, safeguarding, and anti-racism, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization. Her previous experience includes positions in program development, quality and learning at World University Service of Canada and Cuso International. In all her roles, Carolina has focused on advancing gender equality and justice, using community-centred approaches to address the root causes of complex social challenges.
“Carolina is an accomplished, values-driven leader whose experience and vision strongly align with Elizabeth Fry Ottawa’s mission,” said Eileen Dooley, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Her strategic mindset, collaborative leadership style, and deep understanding of equity, justice, and systems change will be invaluable as the organization continues to strengthen its impact and services for women and gender-diverse people in Ottawa involved with the criminal justice system.”
Carolina holds a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business. She earned a Master’s degree in Conflict Studies from Saint Paul University and the University of Ottawa. Carolina also holds a postgraduate diploma in Armed Conflicts and Peace from the Universidad de los Andes and a Bachelor’s degree in Government and International Relations from the Universidad Externado de Colombia. She is fluent in English, French, and Spanish.
Reflecting on her appointment, Carolina said: “I am deeply honoured to join the Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa and to work alongside its dedicated Staff, Board, Volunteers, Donors, and Community Partners. Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa’s unwavering commitment to feminism, dignity, equity, and inclusion for women and gender‑diverse individuals speaks powerfully to my values and lifelong purpose. I look forward to building on the organization’s strong foundation while strengthening collaborative relationships so that those most marginalized in our community are supported, empowered, and affirmed in their full humanity.”
Carolina takes over the role from Betsy Chaly, who has served the Society since 2024. During her tenure, Betsy led critical strategic changes that strengthened the organization’s ability to advance its mission and prepare for the future. The Board of Directors is very grateful for Betsy’s tremendous contributions and looks forward to this next chapter under Carolina’s leadership.