Jono Anzalone

Jono Anzalone, EdD, is a Lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Southern Maine (College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences). He also serves as Executive Director of The Climate Initiative, a nonpartisan organization focused on educating and mobilizing youth for climate action. Previously, he held senior leadership roles in disaster response, including Head of Disaster and Crisis Preparedness, Response, and Recovery for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (Americas/Caribbean region), and Vice President of International Services at the American Red Cross (Washington, DC).

• Education: EdD in Higher Education Administration (University of Nebraska, 2020); MS in Economics (University of Nebraska, 2006); BA in Political Science/Economics/Modern Languages (Creighton University, 2002)

Research interests emphasize disaster preparedness, humanitarian response systems, climate resilience, and leadership in crisis management. His field experience spans over 20 countries, including deployments during major disasters like the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Awards include the Harvard Meta-Leader of the Year (2017) and CEM® certification.

• Grants & Advocacy: Led USAID donations management during Haiti earthquake; chaired National VOAD Advocacy Committee (2012–2015)

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with Red Cross networks and The Climate Initiative to develop youth engagement programs in climate action and disaster readiness.