Elizabeth Hargrave

Elizabeth Hargrave is an American game designer, applauded for her innovative method of integrating nature into board games. Her game "Wingspan" won the 2019 Kennerspiel des Jahres for the best connoisseur game of the year, making a significant impact on the industry. The game, distinguished for its theme, component quality, accessibility, and gameplay, has been praised by critics and players alike. Hargrave's unique approach to game design has earned her features in various esteemed publications, including The New York Times.

In addition to "Wingspan," Hargrave has designed several other games, each exhibiting her signature nature-themed style. "Tussie-Mussie," a game about the Victorian "language of flowers," was brought to life through a successful Kickstarter campaign. She also developed "Mariposas," a game about migrating monarch butterflies, which was published in 2020 by Alderac Entertainment Group. More recently, Hargrave released "The Fox Experiment" and "Undergrove," a game revolving around mushrooms, in 2023.

Alongside her game design career, Hargrave has also spent over 20 years in health policy, with a focus on programs for the elderly and low-income individuals. This in-depth understanding of health policy, combined with her extensive experience in the board game industry, provides an interesting intersection of expertise. Hargrave is not only known for her award-winning designs but also for her advocacy for greater female representation in game design, making her a prominent figure in both the gaming and health policy sectors.