Who We Are

The Lights On Collective (LOC) was founded by social entrepreneur couple, April Kates-Ellison and Shaun J. Ellison, who are committed to helping others reach their full potential. Their vision and mission revolve around helping others shine, bringing light to the world, and creating positive change.

April and Shaun have over 40 years of combined experience in nonprofit and corporate sectors and have successfully collaborated for over 20 years of marriage. They now realize their goal of jointly running a mission-driven nonprofit organization and believe their experience, expertise, and enthusiasm are central to its success.

LOC is supported by a forward-thinking Board of Trustees, a hardworking Engagement Committee, a dynamic Light Agent Community, and a diverse Alliance Group to help advance its mission. These entities bring different and broad-based talent, skills, and viewpoints to the organization. This robust mix of experience, expertise, and perspective helps fuel LOC’s mission and vision, maximize its strategy, and optimize its operational framework. In turn, LOC can accelerate the delivery of high-level value and impact to its clients, which include individuals, organizations, and communities.

Apri Kates Ellison is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder of The Lights On Collective

April has an extensive background in association and public service management, with more than 25 years of experience in consulting, coaching, and development across membership, leadership, board governance, member operations, diversity and inclusion, fiscal management, strategy, and coalition building. She strongly believes that building capacity, capabilities, and courage is essential to helping others operate at their best.

In her previous role as a C-Suite executive in association management, April led a team of 55 members across a budget of more than $9 million, while providing multiple consulting services to dental societies, dental schools and other dental organizations.

As a visionary leader at heart, April sees her experience and expertise as a divine opportunity to not only extend her service, but to support individuals, organizations, and communities in a greater way.

You can read more about April’s work and experience on her profile.

Shaun J. Ellison is Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CO-Founder of The Lights On Collective

Shaun is an experienced investor, as well as a business and social entrepreneur. He has certifications in both nonprofit and for-profit business ownership. As the Chief Operating Officer, his experience across both the private and public sectors enables him to make strategic decisions for leadership. He handles day-to-day operations internally and supports organizational strategies externally.

Shaun advocates for progressive action and positive transformation, both personally and professionally. He is a well-respected thought leader with a reputation for being highly regarded by colleagues and peers.

Shaun’s contagious enthusiasm for positive change is demonstrated in his unwavering commitment to the mission of LOC. He believes this is the time to pave the way for individuals, organizations, and communities to realize their full potential.

Who We Are

Apri Kates Ellison is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder of The Lights On Collective

Shaun J. Ellison is Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CO-Founder of The Lights On Collective

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