graphics

Work-integrated Learning Accelerator Network

The WIL advisory board serves as a strategic engine for the National Work-integrated Learning Accelerator. 


Drawing on expertise from industry, higher education, community partners, and workforce development, the WIL advisory board provides strategic guidance and actionable insight to strengthen the design, implementation, and scaling of work-integrated learning innovations nationwide. Board members identify emerging trends, illuminate barriers and opportunities, and shape inclusive, future-focused priorities that connect institutions with employers, elevate promising practices, and enhance student pathways into high-demand careers. Through thought leadership and network activation, the board advances a coordinated national movement to expand high-quality, equitable work-integrated learning for all learners.

Meet the board members

Cecily Barker McDaniel

Cecily Barker McDaniel,
PhD LinkedIn

Strategist

UNCF’s Institute for Capacity Building

Peter Beard

Peter Beard LinkedIn

Vice President, Policy and
Programs

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

Ashley Finley

Ashley Finley LinkedIn

Vice President of Research and
Senior Advisor to the President

American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U)

Scott Fleming

Scott Fleming LinkedIn

Executive Director

State Council of Higher Education for Virginia

Chris Mayer

Chris Mayer LinkedIn

Colonel
Director of Philosophy

United States Military Academy (West Point)

Dr. Mayer’s service as a board member reflects his views and not the views of the United States Military Academy, the United States Army, or the Department of Defense.

Dave Savory

Dave Savory LinkedIn

Co-Founder, VP of Experiential
Learning

Riipen

Jennifer Thornton

Jennifer Thornton LinkedIn

Chief Program Officer

Business-Higher Education Forum

Shawn VanDerziel

Shawn VanDerziel LinkedIn

President & CEO

National Association of Colleges and Employers

Work-integrated Learning Accelerator Network contributors

 
Julian Thompson
UNCF
Jeanette Wiseman
1EdTech
Maria Flynn
Jobs for the Future
Jason Tyszko
US Chamber Foundation
Alexandria Wright
West Ed Center for Economic Mobility
Kristen Fox
Business Higher Education Forum
Steve Russell
Bowling Green State University
Mara Woody
Riipen
Ian Davidson
SmartResume
Keith Look
Territorium
Jeffery Moss
Parker Dewey
Summer Robbins
Skillfully
Todd Schuster
Forage
Cathy Huang
Folio
Lindsey Rosenbluth
Podium Education
Christiana McFarland
SRI International, Center for Innovation, Strategy and Policy
Lilian Solorzano
Florida International University
Brian LeDuc
Learning Designed
Kate Cochran
Partnership for Student Success
Mayra Sandoval
Mathematica
Kevin Grubb
Strada Education
Ruth Watkins
Strada Education
Gilbert Zavala
Opportunity Austin

Stay in the loop

Don’t miss future opportunities to engage. Subscribe for updates on webinars, new resources, and upcoming cohort opportunities.

Follow us on LinkedIn