Marybeth Bognar

Background

About Marybeth Bognar

Empathy is my super power. Feminist and participatory methods are my tools of choice. I have 15 years of experience using innovative, participatory, and intersectional approaches to achieve impact as defined by those closest to the issues. Currently I am a program lead and gender specialist at IDEO.org, where I work at the intersection of gender and human-centered design innovation. Design outcomes under my leadership and management have included those on intersectionality, and at the intersection of gender and climate. I also serve as an emerging leader on the Ohio Environmental Council, working to achieve local impact drawing from my global, gender equity experience. Prior to IDEO.org, I worked briefly as a compost truck driver just outside of NYC, as I wrestled with the immense challenges that stop INGOs and funders from achieving meaningful impact. This helped me take a step back for perspective, and use my hands and body directly to work on a climate and environmental issue. I worked with the International Legal Foundation on programs that serve people accused of crimes in conflict-affected countries, including launching a gender responsive reentry program for women and girls released from prison in Afghanistan. I conducted feminist research and advocacy with the Center for Women’s Global Leadership, including through its 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, and published research on refugee education in Lebanon. I proudly served in an advisory role to advance girls’ education with She’s the First. I hold a MS in Global Affairs-Gender Studies from New York University, and a BS in Communication Public Advocacy from Ohio University.