Alison Witherspoon’s career as a strategic leader in higher education has centered on creating pathways for access to high quality education throughout one’s lifetime. Currently serving as Director of Lifelong Learning at Quinnipiac University, Alison provides leadership to advance flexible and effective learning pathways to a wide range of non-traditional learners through programs focused on executive education, professional workforce development, industry certifications, and pre-college youth experiences. Prior to joining Quinnipiac University, Alison drove innovation and strategic program development at private and public universities, focusing on online learning, institutional effectiveness, organizational learning, accreditation, and assessment. She has a track record of partnering with faculty and administration to advance enrollment and other growth initiatives. Alison’s research centers on learning, innovation, leadership, and team processes. Alison holds an EdD in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University, a Master’s in Public Service Management from DePaul University, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Southern Illinois University.