Stephanie Rust serves as Chief Programs Officer responsible for the Institute's program design, delivery and impact, including oversight of NDI's regional and functional teams. 

Ms. Rust is a global development executive with 25 years of experience providing thought leadership, program design, and strategic management in the areas of democracy, education, environment, and community development.  She has worked in over 20 countries around the world and has extensive geographic experience in Europe, Asia and Latin America. She specializes in the integration of capacity development, institution building, knowledge management, and partnership practices to shape locally-driven solutions.

Previously Ms. Rust was Director of the Office of Overseas Programming and Training Support at Peace Corps where she led development, implementation, and oversight of programming and training systems for over 60 country posts around the world. Prior to that she was Vice President of International Programs at the Institute for Sustainable Communities where she managed a portfolio of innovative climate programs and led the civil society practice. She has held senior management positions with the Initiative for Social Action and Renewal, The Nature Conservancy and the International Rescue Committee. Ms. Rust holds a Master’s Degree in International Training and Education from American University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Northwestern University.  She is fluent in Spanish with strong Portuguese and Slavic language skills.