Today it is our privilege to feature Dr. Jane Ali, who graduated from the Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Leadership program in February 2024. With years of experience behind her, Dr. Ali has shaped a powerful philosophy of educational leadership rooted in service. Keep reading to learn more about her inspiring journey and what’s possible when passion meets purpose in education!
The journey of an educator is often shaped by a confluence of personal passion, professional dedication, and transformative experiences. As an Assistant Professor on the Continuing Track at University Canada West (UCW), within the Department of Leadership & People Management, my academic path has been defined by over two decades of service in special education and adult learning, grounded in a philosophy of Authentic Transformative Servant Leadership. My approach to teaching, mentoring, and leadership is not confined to the walls of a classroom; it is a lifelong mission to empower learners through inclusion, innovation, and integrity.
My academic credentials reflect a trajectory of intentional growth and specialization in educational leadership. With a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Learning from Aspen University, an MA in Educational Leadership with a minor in Adult Education from Trinity Western University, and a BA in Arts Leadership, I have built a foundation deeply rooted in understanding diverse learners. Complemented by a Graduate Certificate in Coaching and Facilitation and professional certifications such as Project Management and Cognitive AI in PM, my academic preparation is tailored to both traditional and emerging challenges in higher education. Each of these qualifications has expanded my perspective, helping me craft curricula and teaching strategies that are practical, inclusive, and transformative.
Over the last 20 years, I have committed myself to working with children and adults with special needs—an experience that has deeply influenced my teaching philosophy and leadership style. Whether serving as an Education Assistant in K–12 settings, developing curriculum for adult learners, or leading university-level courses, my focus has always been on empowering others. My time in the classroom and as an educational leader has taught me that effective leadership does not reside in power, but in influence, mentorship, and mutual growth. I believe that true leaders are also followers—individuals who listen deeply, encourage autonomy, and uplift the voices around them.
My current role at UCW, where I teach courses such as Leadership in a Global Context and Change Management, is an extension of this lifelong mission. These courses challenge graduate learners to confront complex leadership dynamics and to explore how global forces shape management practices. As course lead, I guide faculty to engage with innovative and enhanced curriculum as well as learning technology in their teaching practice. My aim is to nurture reflective practitioners who are adaptive, empathetic, and strategic—qualities essential for today’s leaders.
Beyond my academic roles, I have led various teams in career colleges and private institutions, developed compliance frameworks, and consulted on curriculum design for institutions across Canada. These roles have required more than administrative expertise—they have demanded collaboration, innovation, and a strong moral compass. Whether developing a Pharmacy Technician Program in accordance with CCAPP standards or guiding new degree applications through DQAB, I have continuously leveraged my leadership skills to ensure educational quality, relevance, and compliance.
The COVID-19 pandemic, despite its challenges, marked a significant turning point in my educational and professional life. The isolation period, while emotionally taxing, provided a unique opportunity to pursue academic work with deep focus. I am grateful to my employer at the time, who supported my dual engagement in work and doctoral studies. This period taught me the true value of resilience, adaptability, and gratitude—lessons I now pass on to my students, who themselves face increasingly complex educational and professional environments.
My research contributions, including my dissertation The Undiagnosed Adult Learner and the Educator, reflect a commitment to scholarly inquiry that is grounded in lived experience. As a published scholar and conference presenter, I continue to explore the intersections of leadership, adult education, and inclusive learning. Currently, I am engaged in research exploring the role of artificial intelligence in academic writing, a topic that merges my interest in innovation with ethical concerns in pedagogy.
Service remains a central component of my academic identity. At UCW, I serve on the Faculty Engagement Committee and lead industry engagement initiatives. Externally, my roles in community outreach programs reflect a belief in education as a communal endeavor. As a facilitator for new immigrants and an advocate for inclusive program design, I view service not as an obligation but as an extension of my leadership ethos.
At its core, my career has been a tapestry of perseverance, empowerment, and purpose. It has included moments of disappointment and disagreement, but also instances of profound inspiration and impact. I am honored to contribute to a field where the work is not only about knowledge transfer, but also about personal and societal transformation. As I look ahead, I remain committed to advancing leadership education that is inclusive, evidence-based, and responsive to the changing needs of our global community.
My journey is far from over. As an Assistant Professor and lifelong learner, I continue to evolve—embracing change, nurturing others, and fostering a future where leadership is measured not by authority, but by the ability to transform, uplift, and serve.
Dr. Ali presented her dissertation research at Aspen’s Spring 2025 Research Colloquium. Click here to watch the recording.
Quality education is crucial. It empowers individuals and strengthens communities. With dedicated leaders like Dr. Ali paving the way, the future of education looks bright. If you’re ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, explore the education programs offered at Aspen and start your application today!