Her Story
About Liz
Liz Caslin-Turner is a nationally recognized education advocate and leader dedicated to expanding access, equity, and opportunity for students who have historically been underserved. With more than a decade of experience spanning K–12 education, higher education, government, and community partnerships, Liz has built a career focused on creating pathways for student success. Her passion for education was shaped by her own experience as a student with dyslexia and an IEP, inspiring her commitment to ensuring that every learner receives the support, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive.
Liz currently serves as Senior Coordinator of Urban District Initiatives at Otterbein University, where she leads strategic partnerships between school districts, higher education institutions, and communities to improve college access and postsecondary success. She also serves as an adjunct professor at Columbus State Community College, supporting students through teaching and mentorship. Previously, Liz spent six years with the Ohio Department of Higher Education, where she advanced to Senior Program Manager of Postsecondary and Technical Education, overseeing statewide initiatives involving colleges, technical institutions, curriculum development, workforce alignment, and federal funding programs.
A graduate of Capital University, Liz holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, principal licensure, and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education degree. She is the creator of The 5 Labels Theory, independent research exploring systemic inequities in education, which she presented through a TEDx talk and at national conferences. Beyond her professional work, Liz remains deeply committed to civic engagement, serving on the Columbus City Schools Academic & Facility Alignment Committee, the NAACP Columbus Education Committee, and the Board of Directors for Pint Sized Protesters. Recognized for her leadership and advocacy, Liz continues to champion student-centered systems that create meaningful opportunities for all learners.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Liz
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being blessed and grateful for each opportunity. Maintaining humility and authenticity. My family, my religious beliefs, and my students who are my biggest fans.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Make sure that whatever you're doing for work, you're passionate about. Because if you're passionate about it, it fills your cup, and it never really feels like work.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Have a passion for learning yourself. Having that natural love for learning is so crucial. Wanting to make an impact and being eager to learn best practices.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Funding is the biggest challenge. Education ebbs and flows based on the economic stance, and funding inhibits essential programming that helps students.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I am a woman of faith and won't make decisions without consulting my spiritual advisor. Service and civic service are big parts of who I am, along with volunteering and pouring back into the community.
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