Emily Moroney
Emily Moroney is a dedicated education leader serving as College Manager at Cincinnati Public Schools, where she oversees all college partnerships and student success initiatives from kindergarten through graduation. In this role, she manages dual enrollment programs, scholarship opportunities, and district-wide events such as College Week, while leading and supporting counselors across grades 7–12 in academic, social-emotional, and post-secondary planning. Emily is committed to ensuring that every student has the guidance, resources, and opportunities they need to reach their post-secondary goals.
As district lead for school counselors, Emily provides professional development, training, hiring support, and accountability oversight. She spearheads graduation strategies, integrating state requirements into master schedules early and aligning coursework with students’ long-term aspirations. Additionally, she manages credit recovery programs, federal and state grants, and scholarship distribution, ensuring that students who fall behind are given the tools and support needed to succeed. Her approach is holistic, proactive, and centered on creating sustainable pipelines for student achievement.
Emily brings a strong background in higher education and nonprofit service to her work, having earned an M.S.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Dayton and a B.S. in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Wilmington College. She is an active member of professional organizations including NODA, NASPA, and ACPA, and volunteers with nonprofits such as World Vision, Heifer International, and St. Vincent de Paul (Cincinnati). Grounded in the belief that impactful education is a universal right, Emily emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and community partnerships, constantly seeking ways to remove barriers and expand opportunities for students across her district.
• The University of Dayton - MS.Ed.
• World Vision
• Heifer International
• Women’s Breast Cancer Society
• St. Vincent de Paul (Cincinnati)
• Upspring
• Cooperative for Education
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to faith, resilience, and community. My faith guides me to follow God’s will, even when the path is uncertain or uncomfortable. Some of my most meaningful achievements—like moving to Baltimore and later Denver—came from trusting the doors to open and close as they were meant, rather than choosing comfort or certainty. Embracing challenges and persevering through difficult moments has revealed opportunities and growth I would have otherwise missed.
Equally important is the support and wisdom of my community. I live by the principle of Ubuntu—“I am, because we are.” While I value reflection and strategic thinking as an introvert, mentors, peers, and teams have been essential in challenging, guiding, and trusting me to lead through uncertainty. Their insights and support have been instrumental in shaping both my personal and professional success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to never accept the limitations others may try to place on you. If you can dream it, you can achieve it. Ask hard questions, challenge assumptions, and don’t take “no” at face value unless there’s clear evidence to support it. Trust in your potential and pursue the work you believe you are meant to do. Along the way, understand that you will face setbacks and obstacles—but each challenge can be overcome, and there is always a way forward.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating entrenched red tape and policies that are often disconnected from the realities educators and students face on the ground, which can limit innovation and meaningful impact.
At the same time, there are significant opportunities to create positive change. Strengthening community and campus partnerships, expanding dual enrollment and scholarship access, and reimagining policy with input from front-line practitioners can increase both affordability and access, ultimately improving outcomes for students.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are faith, community, perseverance, and service. I am deeply committed to creating access and fostering innovation in education, guided by the principle of Ubuntu—“I am, because we are”—and the belief that meaningful change comes through collaboration and dedication.
Locations
Cincinnati Public Schools
Coventington, KY 41014