LISA DEFENDIEFER

Community Activation Director

As Community Activation Director at Neighborhood Strategies, Lisa leads projects focused on placemaking, public space management, and community activation. With more than 30 years of nonprofit and public-sector experience, she brings deep expertise in establishing and advising special improvement districts while supporting community planning initiatives, redevelopment strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Her extensive experience as Deputy Director of Operations & Advocacy for the Capital Crossroads and Discovery Special Improvement Districts has uniquely shaped her approach as a community planner. Overseeing safety, outreach, beautification, and public space operations across downtown Columbus, she has developed a deep understanding of how policy, partnerships, and place-based strategies intersect to support thriving community environments. Recognized nationally for her ability to coordinate law enforcement, social service agencies, businesses, and residents, she applies this experience to develop practical, equitable strategies that enhance public spaces and support thriving downtown and neighborhood districts.