About Eleanor
Working through the body, mind, and heart, Eleanor Rouse Kootsey writes and facilitates workshops for those interested in connecting more deeply with their authentic selves and their concept of a Higher Power, and from that place, creating greater fulfillment in life, work and relationships.
Eleanor is also the Executive Director of Higher Achievement in Richmond, an organization working to close the middle school achievement gap for young people in underserved communities. She previously served as National Development Director for Girls For A Change launching GFC chapters in Arizona and Virginia and cultivating national partners for the program’s expansion. She has been avolunteer coach for the Binford Middle School Girl Action Team and the United Way’s Emerging Leader program. Eleanor has partnered with Floricane Consulting to co-design and facilitate NextSteps, a life and career transition workshop, and was a presenter at the 2010 WomanKind Conference in Richmond, Virginia.
Eleanor has trained in embodied leadership, women’s personal growth, and contemplative spiritual practice. Her background includes coach training with Doug Silsbee, leadership development with Bounce, and workshops with Sofia Diaz, Katherine Woodward Thomas and Claire Zammit, Regena Thomashauer, David Deida and other teachers. She is a dedicated yoga student and spiritual seeker in many forms. Eleanor is a grateful member of St. James Episcopal Church.
Eleanor grew up the youngest of five daughters in Newport News, Virginia. She holds a B.A. from Northwestern University and has worked in the nonprofit sector since 1991 managing Merce Cunningham Dance Company and the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet and raising more than $5 million for the arts, public education and girl empowerment. She has lived all over the United States and currently resides in Richmond, Virginia.
