Nicole Taylor is a strategic organizational leader whose career has focused on strengthening the systems, structures, and teams that enable mission-driven organizations to thrive. She currently serves as Director of Operations at The Mellon Foundation, where she leads strategic and cross-functional initiatives spanning organizational effectiveness, infrastructure, risk management, security, and operational excellence. Previously, she served as Chief Operating Officer at Color Of Change and Associate Vice President at The Posse Foundation.  Nicole’s relationship with the International Legal Foundation began as a Fellow and grew through progressively senior roles, including Program Director and Managing Director. During her tenure, she led the expansion of ILF’s office in Palestine, the establishment of offices in Tunisia and Myanmar, and the development of legal assistance programs in countries around the world. She also led program performance, partnerships, and advocacy efforts, helping strengthen ILF’s global reach and institutional capacity. Nicole began her legal career as a staff attorney at the Public Defender Association of Philadelphia, advocating for underserved communities. She holds a J.D. from Howard University School of Law and a B.A. from Spelman College.