Elena Lotano is the Government Relations Intern for EdTrust-Tennessee. In this role, she assists the team by summarizing bill and committee activities to inform our legislative strategy meetings. She also monitors legislative developments in the Tennessee General Assembly, specifically focusing on issues that align with EdTrust-TN’s priorities.
Before and additionally to EdTrust, Elena works as a 1:1 job coach in the Community-Based Transition Program at Harris-Hillman School, where she helps MNPS students with Alternate Academic Diplomas build the skills needed for independent living, employment, and success in post-secondary education or training. Before that, Elena worked at TNSTEP as the Government and Community Affairs Intern, and for the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities as the Policy Intern.
Prior to moving to Nashville, Elena designed and implemented youth development programming in New Orleans as the Community Coordinator for Community Works of Louisiana, increasing access to innovative in-school, afterschool, and summer programs, with a focus on narrowing measurable disparities in opportunity and outcomes. She also worked as a Registered Behavioral Technician in both school and clinical settings, supporting children with developmental disabilities through behavior support services and skill-building interventions.
Elena earned a bachelor’s degree in both political science and social policy from Tulane University, with minors in public policy and music. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in public policy from Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College, specializing in education policy and quantitative methods. Elena is originally from New Jersey.
Proudest Moment
In 2025, I wrote an op-ed about early childhood programming in Louisiana, and was featured in my go-to newspaper, The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate. It was quoted in a letter to the editor, who also happens to host a Louisiana news podcast that I listen to every morning. It was so exciting to see my work recognized by some of my biggest role models!
What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work? (Ex. Hobbies, volunteer work)
I enjoy yoga, making jewelry, and playing my electric piano.
Why are you passionate about working at Ed Trust?
Growing up, I watched my mom fight a constant uphill battle as an immigrant trying to navigate the special education landscape for my younger brother who has autism. I have seen first-hand how all-consuming systematic barriers to education can be, but I have also experienced how efficient policy can dismantle those barriers and support student success.
