Meet Alison.
I am passionate about empowering girls and women to live life fully, intentionally and courageously, through my work as a nonprofit CEO, as a leadership consultant, and as a speaker and writer. In my work and writing I seek to help others to step out of their comfort zone, get back up after setbacks and lead with empathy.
In my writing, including my blog “Birth of Adventure”, I share stories of travel, courage, and family. Navigating the painful losses of two parents and two brothers gave me the important realization that we have only one life – and so I intend to live my life fully and seek to help others to do the same.
My own zest for adventure and courage has been honed for decades, from my first job bottle feeding calves on a farm in Ontario, Canada to navigating the boardroom as a CEO.
Growing up as one of nine children in a blended foster family including sister to three siblings with developmental and physical disabilities, I learned empathy, responsibility, how to stay calm in chaos, and the importance of family. I strive to carry out these values in my work and with my family.
My extensive international experience includes studying abroad in Mumbai, India; as a teacher for students with autism in London, UK; as an international recruiter in Toronto, Canada, among others, and in talent development and nonprofit management in America. My nonprofit work and board leadership includes career counseling for women through the New York State displaced homemaker program and nearly 10 years at Girl Scouts of Western New York, where I currently serve as the CEO.
My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies from the University of Guelph, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Medaille College.
I’m happiest spending time with my family: my husband David, adult kids Sarah, Hannah and Ben, son-in- law Liam, and dog Louie, and I’m beyond the moon excited for the birth of our first grandchild due this fall. I also love being an auntie to my nieces and nephews and a sister, cousin and niece in my sprawling extended family spread out around the world.
I love reading (especially when sitting by the water), love to travel and love to cook (and eat). I look forward to sharing my stories with you and hope to learn yours too.