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Alissa Carpenter
Build strategies and programs to effectively recruit, retain and engage top talent
Professional Background
Alissa Carpenter, M.Ed, is a dynamic and dedicated professional with an extensive background in higher education, workforce engagement, and inclusivity initiatives. She is the founder and principal consultant at "Everything's Not OK and That's OK," where she partners with educational institutions, nonprofits, and Fortune 500 companies to create impactful strategies for recruitment, retention, and employee engagement. Alissa’s career began in the world of higher education, where she directly supported students through various pivotal stages of their academic journey—from admissions to graduation. Her commitment to student development and well-being led her to develop numerous peer advising programs and innovative e-learning courses that address the diverse needs of the student body.
Throughout her career, Alissa has consistently demonstrated her passion for creating environments where individuals feel understood, engaged, and valued. She believes that by asking the right questions and practicing active listening, she can uncover the root causes of challenges faced by both students and staff. This unique perspective has shaped her vision for inclusive workplaces, where individuals can bring their whole selves to work and thrive.
Education and Achievements
Alissa Carpenter holds a Master’s Degree in Social and Comparative Analysis in Education from the esteemed University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication and Media Studies from Millersville University of Pennsylvania. This strong educational background has equipped her with the skills to analyze complex issues within higher education and organizational settings critically.
In addition to her formal education, Alissa has earned accolades for her contributions as a thought leader in her field. She has been a TEDx speaker, sharing her insights on the importance of inclusivity and engagement in the workplace. Alissa has also served as a podcast host for "Humanize Your Workplace," where she engages with thought leaders to explore how to create more welcoming environments across various organizations.
Alissa’s journey has included roles at prominent institutions, such as the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the Senior Associate Director of Advising at The Wharton School. In her various capacities, she has provided leadership in academic advising and human resources initiatives, always aiming to enhance the student and employee experience. This unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive environments led her to develop training programs focused on communication and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) principles, particularly through her work with "Everything's Not OK and That's OK."
Key Initiatives and Speaking Engagements
Alissa's unique approach to consulting includes programs like "DE&I Intention to Action: How to Be a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Changemaker," which empowers organizations to adopt actionable steps toward achieving inclusivity. In her role as an expert speaker, she has inspired countless audiences with her messages surrounding authentic engagement, proactive strategies for recruitment and retention, and the importance of listening to the voices of marginalized individuals.
Through her various initiatives, Alissa has focused on driving employee engagement assessments that identify areas for improvement, implementing mentorship and onboarding programs, and sourcing effective learning management systems. Her ability to blend her educational background with practical workplace solutions has set her apart as a go-to consultant in the industry.
Achievements
- Founder of Everything's Not OK and That's OK: Alissa launched her business to address gaps in employee engagement and inclusivity within organizations.
- TEDx Speaker: Alissa delivered a thought-provoking talk on inclusivity, which garnered praise and inspired many to reconsider their approach to workplace culture.
- Podcast Host: In her podcast "Humanize Your Workplace," Alissa has engaged with leaders and advocates, providing insights on fostering a culture of belonging.
- Forbes Contributor: As a contributor to Forbes, Alissa shares her expertise on engagement strategies and organizational development, reaching a broad audience of industry professionals.
- Innovative Program Development: Alissa has created training and educational programs focusing on DE&I, including programs to help organizations take actionable steps towards change.
Conclusion
Alissa Carpenter's career trajectory is a testament to her commitment to fostering inclusive and engaging workplaces. With her multifaceted expertise in higher education, HR consulting, and workforce engagement, she continues to advocate for a culture where everyone feels welcomed. Alissa's work not only transforms organizations but also empowers individuals to embrace their authentic identities within the workplace.
