About our CEO
As president and CEO, Rachel Lustig leads with vision, collaboration and a deep commitment to expanding opportunities for the individuals, families and communities LSS serves.
Rachel Lustig
President and CEO
Rachel Lustig has served as president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio (LSS) since May 2023. With more than 20 years of experience addressing poverty, health disparities and community well-being, Rachel is known for bringing together public, private and nonprofit partners to tackle complex challenges and create lasting change.
Her leadership has earned widespread recognition, including being named a Columbus Smart Business Smart 50 honoree in both 2025 and 2026 and a Columbus Business First Women of Influence honoree in 2026. She also has been recognized as a finalist for Columbus Magazine’s CEO of the Year for a Large Nonprofit, the inaugural Health and Humanity Champion by the Human Service Chamber, a Columbus Business First 40 Under 40 honoree and one of National Catholic Reporter’s “12 Catholic Women Under 40 Making a Difference.”
A respected voice in Central Ohio’s nonprofit and business communities, Rachel serves on the board of the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio and previously chaired the Human Service Chamber of Franklin County. She has also been a featured speaker at Columbus Metropolitan Club forums on issues shaping the future of nonprofit leadership and community impact. Through her visionary leadership, Rachel champions the belief that hope grows when people see the possibility of a better future and are empowered to help create it.
