Presenter Bio - Ali Martin Scoufield
Ali Martin Scoufield (she/her) is a scholar-practitioner with twenty years of experience working and leading in higher education. Ali believes in the importance of blending research with practical application and demonstrates this as a Doctoral Teaching Fellow and Research Assistant at Cleveland State University (CSU). Ali is also the Program Manager for the Center for Refugee and Immigrant Success. In these roles, Ali can center the lived experiences of individuals and promote environments committed to equity, access, and belonging.
Ali is a seasoned higher education leader with over 20 years of experience in student affairs. Previously serving as Associate Vice President and Dean of Students, Ali has led a diverse range of functional areas, including basic needs access, counseling services, student conduct, disability services, residence life, and student wellness. Known for her strategic vision and student-centered approach, she has a proven track record in supervision, strategic planning, budgeting, crisis management, and fundraising.
A passionate advocate for student access and equity, Ali has championed initiatives that provide critical support to students in need. She spearheaded on-campus pantry programs, emergency grant processes, and fundraising efforts aimed at ensuring basic needs are met for all students. Her expertise and commitment to creating inclusive, supportive environments inform her approach to leadership.
Currently, Ali is a PhD candidate at Cleveland State University, where her research focuses on the barriers disabled students face in higher education. She holds a BA in History from Western New England University, an MS in College Student Personnel from Miami University, and an MLS in Human Rights & Social Justice from Southern Methodist University. Ali also holds several certifications, including Dispute Resolution & Conflict Management from SMU, Women’s Leadership from Case Western Reserve University, and Higher Education Teaching from Cleveland State University.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Ali enjoys spending time with her family in the Cleveland area.
