Paula Talley is executive director of holistic student supports and workforce alignment at Achieving the Dream, where she leads the design and delivery of market-driven services focused on advising, dual enrollment, workforce alignment, and holistic student supports. She helps institutions implement scalable, student-centered strategies that improve momentum, increase credential attainment, and connect learning to career opportunities. Paula partners with state systems, philanthropies, and colleges nationwide to drive reforms aligned with institutional goals and labor market needs.
With over 20 years of experience in community colleges and nonprofit leadership, Paula brings deep expertise in translating complex challenges into actionable strategies. At the Charles A. Dana Center at The University of Texas at Austin, she led math pathways and corequisite reform efforts across multiple levels. At Temple College, she oversaw developmental education, first-year experience, tutoring, TRIO, ESL, and adult education.
A former math instructor at both secondary and postsecondary levels, Paula has also taught first-year experience courses and advised students, grounding her leadership in firsthand classroom and advising experience. Known for building cross-functional teams and securing major grants, she delivers high-impact coaching and tools that help institutions move from vision to action. She is a frequent presenter at national conferences.
Education
M.A. and B.A. (Mathematics Education) | The University of Texas at Austin
Past Experience
Manager for Professional Learning and Higher Education | Charles A. Dana Center, University of Texas at Austin
Division Director, Mathematics Professor | Temple College