Russlynn Ali

Russlynn Ali has extensive experience in education and civil rights advocacy, currently serving as Chief Executive Officer at XQ Institute since 2015, where the focus is on creating innovative learning opportunities for students. As Managing Director of Education at Emerson Collective since December 2012, Russlynn coordinates investments and partnerships aimed at enhancing U.S. education. Previously, as Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education under President Obama from 2009 to 2012, Russlynn led efforts to strengthen civil rights enforcement in education. Russlynn also co-founded The Education Trust–West and served as its Executive Director, advocating for educational justice for marginalized students. Additional roles include serving as President's Liaison at the Children's Defense Fund and holding various positions in legal and research capacities within education policy. Education includes degrees from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, American University, and Spelman College.