Alexandria Burns
Alexandria Burns is a dynamic nonprofit leader and higher education professional with more than 15 years of experience dedicated to advancing student success, workforce development, and community impact. Based in Dayton, Ohio, she currently serves as Director of Programs & Operations for Bottom Line Ohio, where she leads strategic program design, operational excellence, and cross-sector partnerships aimed at supporting first-generation and under-resourced students on their path to college and career success. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to building systems that not only improve outcomes but also create equitable opportunities for students to thrive.
Throughout her career, Alexandria has built a strong foundation in higher education administration, career development, and experiential learning. Prior to her current role, she held leadership positions at institutions such as Sinclair Community College, Wright State University, and Earlham College, where she led large-scale workforce initiatives, career coaching programs, and student engagement efforts. Her ability to translate vision into action has been demonstrated through the successful development of internship pipelines, career readiness programs, and community-based learning experiences that connect students with real-world opportunities. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she excels in fostering high-performing teams, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and driving continuous improvement across programs and operations.
Alexandria is widely recognized for her people-centered approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of empowering teams, cultivating inclusive environments, and leading with empathy and purpose. Her professional philosophy centers on the belief that meaningful impact is achieved when individuals feel supported, valued, and inspired to contribute their best. In addition to her organizational leadership, she actively engages with the broader community through board service and partnerships that advance education and career access across Ohio. Her contributions have earned her honors such as being named a 2026 “Woman to Watch” by the Better Business Bureau – Dayton & Miami Valley, reflecting both her professional excellence and her growing influence as a changemaker in the nonprofit and education sectors.
• Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP)
• Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF)
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate
• Mental Health First Aid USA
• Career Coaching Intensive
• Marquette University - MEd
• Golden Roses Recipient
• 2026 Woman to Watch
• Cincinnati HigherEd Movers and Makers
• 2025 Dayton's Most Influential
• Advisory Board Member for Nonprofits in Ohio
• Advisory Board Member for University Systems in Ohio
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being people-focused. I care not just about projects, but about the individuals behind them—their capacity, their needs, and how they work best. I lead with the person first, ensuring they have the tools and support to succeed, and learning what drives their ambition and motivation.
Many of my career opportunities have come through recommendations, not applications, which I believe reflects my genuine curiosity about others and their stories. For me, success has always been about the person, not the system—prioritizing relationships and understanding people has been central to my growth and trajectory.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from a mentor who told me, “Try everything. Even if you don’t like it, it’s a way to test-drive your options and learn what’s right for you.” I carry that philosophy with my teams, encouraging them to take on new opportunities—if it’s not the right fit, they’ve still gained experience and insight. Saying yes can open doors, whether it’s new skills, connections, or unexpected opportunities, and every experience adds value to your growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to stay curious. Ask questions—why, how, and how come—and let that curiosity guide both your professional and personal growth. Curiosity fuels learning, keeps your passion alive, and helps you develop a clear perspective. When you speak or share ideas, lead with intention and purpose, not just to be seen. Have a perspective, contribute thoughtfully, and engage fully at the table—you’ll make the most meaningful impact that way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe one of the biggest challenges in my field right now is a lack of intentionality and perspective. Many opinions—about education, career paths, or workforce trends—are shared without evidence or thoughtful context, and there’s a hesitancy to speak up, especially as discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion evolve. The opportunity, however, lies in those willing to share informed perspectives and speak truth with evidence. By doing so, we can guide others, highlight success stories, and help shape meaningful professional and educational journeys.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in work and life are job security, time, and intentional boundaries. I want to understand not only the immediate impact of my work, but its longer-term effects. Instead of “work-life balance,” I focus on maintaining a healthy rhythm—setting boundaries around my day to protect my time, energy, and peace. This intentional approach keeps me effective, fulfilled, and present both professionally and personally.
Locations
Bottom Line
Dayton, OH 45404