Lutheran Services Carolinas names new executive director of New Americans Program

Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC) is thrilled to announce that Nixmarie Ruiz has been named Executive Director of its New Americans Program.

LSC’s New Americans Program is designed to welcome refugees to the United States and help them on their journey to achieve self-sufficiency. LSC offers the New Americans Program in Raleigh, Salisbury, and Asheville, North Carolina, and in Columbia, Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Greenville, South Carolina.

“Nixmarie is a passionate advocate for refugees and immigrants, and a proven, collaborative leader,” LSC President and CEO Ted Goins said. “Her commitment to LSC’s vision and mission will translate into abundant living for thousands escaping death and persecution and those searching for freedom and a better life.”

Ruiz has over eight years of experience in the human services field. She holds a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology from the University of Puerto Rico in Ponce and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Anderson University.

Ruiz joined LSC in 2019 as the home study and post-release case manager for unaccompanied immigrant youth in South Carolina. She was named Immigrant Services Program Director in 2022.

In that role, Ruiz oversaw LSC’s Survivors Assistance Program and its Home Study and Post-Release Services.

“I have been deeply inspired by the organization’s mission and vision. My commitment to LSC has only grown stronger over the past five years as I have witnessed the profound impact we have on the lives of the most vulnerable, helping them achieve the abundant life they deserve,” Ruiz said. “I remain enthusiastic about LSC’s continued efforts to serve those in need and am dedicated to advancing our mission in these evolving times.”

For more information on LSC’s New Americans Program, visit https://lscarolinas.net/new-americans-program/