Amelia Lobo ’99

Amelia hails from Costa Rica. She obtained a BA in Economics with Concentration in Gender and Women's Studies (now Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies). Her particular academic interest has been understanding poverty and social movements within the context of economics. She has spent her professional career working largely with organizations that address issues of equity through asset-building. Prior to returning to Grinnell as a full-time staff member, her work was mostly with local and national community economic development organizations. In addition to her BA, she holds an MBA and Masters in Corporate Finance from INCAE in Costa Rica. INCAE is best known for its studies in sustainability and economic development in Latin America.

She has had the pleasure of working with many Grinnell College staff and faculty. From 1995-1999 she worked in the dining hall (TBD/Food Line/Salad Bar/Checker/Saturday Belgian Waffles); for the Escort Service (you read that right; the "Escort Service" walked students home at night if they were afraid to walk alone); as a tutor; and for the Campus Safety Office. In 2011, she taught a short course "Microfinance in the US" under the auspices of the Wilson Program. Since 2017, she has been working as a major gifts officer in the development and alumni relations office. She spends a considerable amount of time away from the office. Her regions are: New York City Metro area; New York State; Virginia; Maryland; Washington, D.C.; Des Moines, IA; and southern Ohio. 

Amelia is married to a Grinnellian, Michael Jenkins '98 and lives in Des Moines with her poodle, George, and a small flock of chickens.