Susanne E. Jalbert, PhD

As a committed global gender equity advocate, economic development activist, and a women’s rights political strategist, Susanne E. Jalbert, Ph.D., is currently the Chief of Party of the United States Agency of International Development (USAID)-Iraq Durable Communities and Economic Opportunities project implemented by Chemonics International. 

 In Colorado, Dr. Jalbert is connected to a strong community of fellow activists who advocate for women, peace, and security issues at home and abroad. When in Colorado, she invests in next generation learning opportunities with multiple universities to open pathways to career possibilities.  Dr. Jalbert is passionate about mentoring women to become activists, successful entrepreneurs, and effective global professionals.  She is proud to partner with intergenerational citizens in the local community to amplify international lessons.

 Basing her family, life, and international career from Colorado, Dr. Jalbert has employed economic development as an essential growth tool to create a more equitable, safe life for women in more than 50 countries over the last 30 years. A veteran gender justice activist, her international work has focused on countries broken by war, political transition, and instability.  Notable leadership assignments include USAID-Afghanistan Women in Government, USAID-Afghanistan Herat Consulate diplomat, Iraq business services director, USAID-Moldova Anti-Trafficking Initiative, and senior advisor to more than 35 USAID implementing partners. Further, she has conducted ground-breaking research to counter human trafficking and to strengthen women entrepreneurs. In this work, Dr. Jalbert’s efforts have focused determinedly on building a future of hope, dignity, and improved economic potential for women from her home-base of Fraser to Baghdad, Kabul, Chisinau, and beyond to about 45 countries.

Dr. Jalbert earned a B.A. from St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California; then, her Master’s Degree and Ph.D. from Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins.  She is also CSU’s 2011 Distinguished Alumni awarded by the College of Applied Human Sciences. Celebrating their 50 anniversary in March 2023, she and her husband, Bill, have one beautiful adopted daughter from Moldova, a wonderful son-in-law, and two dynamite grandsons.  An avid hiker and skier, she enjoys her time in Grand County between assignments to rest, recover, and then return to her work abroad.