The Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy is pleased to announce the appointment of Elliott Gaskins as the organization’s Chief Development Officer.

Prior to joining the Barbara Bush Foundation, Elliott worked to impact the lives of children and families through his service at some of the nation’s premier nonprofit institutions, including Share Our Strength, the Aspen Institute, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Nature Conservancy, and America’s Promise Alliance. During his tenure at these organizations, he raised more than $250 million dollars; executed multiyear fundraising campaigns; led national special events; and created, designed, and implemented comprehensive strategic plans.

His commitment to volunteerism includes past service on numerous boards, including the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, College and Career Connections, and the Campagna Center, as well as service as a mentor and advisor for organizations including the Dwelling Place, the Manna House, Mentors, Inc., and Clean & Pure Kids.

“Over the course of his mission-driven career, Elliott has worked with national nonprofits to address some of today’s most pressing problems, from equity and environmental issues to public health and childhood hunger,” said Barbara Bush Foundation President Andrew Roberts. “We’re so pleased that he will now channel his wealth of expertise and deep passion for improving lives into advancing our work to build a more literate America.”

“Few issues are as important and urgently critical as ensuring that more children and families acquire the essential literacy skills needed to embrace all that life has to offer,” Elliott shared. “I am honored to have the opportunity to help make a transformative impact and bring us that much closer to a country where low literacy rates are a thing of the past.”

Elliott is a graduate of Temple University, where he excelled as a scholar and an athlete. He was an All American in track and field and is currently a university record holder for multiple events. A two-time Olympic Trials competitor, national championship finalist, and former American record holder, Elliott has represented the United States as a member of the Track and Field World Championship team.

A proud and grateful father and husband, Elliott resides in the Washington, D.C. area with his wife, three children, and Australian Shepherd. He can be reached at elliott@barbarabush.org.