Insight. Integrity. Impact.

by Erin Brown

Writing and sharing what I've learned helping mission-driven organizations navigate complexity, strengthen how they measure impact, and build more equitable systems.

Multiple hands of diverse people placed together in the center, symbolizing unity and teamwork.

About me

Erndala (ERN-duh-luh) is my home for sharing what I've learned — and where I'm always open to new collaborations. It's rooted in clarity, curiosity, and systems thinking, born from a blend of personal passion and collaborative work, centered on equity and insight. (My spouse jokes the name is how I "earn a dollar" — really, it's a long-time nickname.)

I bring over 15 years of experience in global development, nonprofit leadership, and MEL strategy. I've partnered with foundations, government agencies, and grassroots leaders to strengthen gender equity reporting, shape global campaigns, build cross-sector coalitions, and design learning systems that drive meaningful change.

I hold an M.Sc. in International and Development Economics from the University of San Francisco and a B.Sc. in Economics, with a minor in Philosophy, from the University of South Dakota.

I've lived in six countries and seven states, and I'm especially interested in how systems actually show up for people in practice — not just on paper. These days I'm based in Seattle with my spouse, our twin boys, two cats (also twins), and a corgi named Burt.

More about my background on LinkedIn →


Focus areas

Strategy & systems

how organizations turn a mission into a workable plan.

Measurement & learning

Impact and evaluation tools and reporting that help you understand what's actually working.

Equity & power

research and frameworks for organizations doing this work seriously.


In their words

  • Erin's ability to manage complex tasks and handle difficult situations — including clients and donors with competing agendas — was instrumental in the success of our program. She has my highest recommendation."

    — Bolormaa Amgaabazar, World Bank Country Representative, Timor-Leste

  • Erin was my mentor during my time as an Ambassador at Inspiring Girls USA, a global charity dedicated to empowering middle and high school girls to reach their full potential. Erin devoted herself to this mission and genuinely cared for the girls in my cohort. She helped us build the inner confidence we needed to pursue our dreams. Today, I am an aspiring physician, thanks to the successful women role models she introduced to me.

    — Riya Janardhan, Former Inspiring Girls USA Ambassador

Where I've shown up

A few of the people and places I've worked, collaborated, and volunteered with over the years.


Say hello

Always glad to connect

— whether it's about a piece I wrote, an opportunity, or just a thought.