Blake Ryan grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina, with deep family roots in New Orleans, a city she now proudly calls home. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Global Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in International Affairs and Leadership from Arizona State University.
Blake’s professional journey reflects her commitment to community empowerment, immigrant justice, and service. She has worked in refugee resettlement as an employment case manager, supporting newly arrived families as they seek job opportunities and navigate workforce integration to achieve self-sufficiency. In addition, she has experience in community organizing and civic engagement, contributing to local and national campaigns focused on expanding access, strengthening communities, and advancing equity.
Blake is passionate about building welcoming, connected spaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued. She loves the community in New Orleans, spending her free time discovering new restaurants and events, getting outside, and spending time with friends and family.