Eli Saavedra-Villatoro began the role of Implementation Director in 2026. He brings over a decade of leadership experience in building collaborative, multi-sector initiatives that advance equity and improve outcomes for children and families. As Implementation Director at Ready for School, Ready for Life, Eli leads the operational execution of the organization’s strategic priorities, ensuring that every child in Guilford County enters school developmentally on track.

With a background in public health, nutrition, and project management, Eli has successfully guided complex coalitions and community-based programs from concept to impact. Prior to joining Ready Ready, Eli served as Executive Director of Core Health Alliance, where he developed the infrastructure and governance framework for a county-wide health equity coalition, and as Health Equity Officer for Guilford County Department of Public Health, where he spearheaded initiatives addressing food security and organizational equity.

Eli is passionate about fostering collaboration, leveraging data for continuous improvement, and creating systems that center community voice. A bilingual leader committed to inclusion and measurable impact, Eli holds a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Public Health, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).