Alison Olig, J.D.
Chief Operating Officer
Alison ensures the effective operations of the organization’s business functions including providing strategic financial guidance and ensuring financial integrity and accountability. She directly oversees the daily operations of finance and accounting, human resources, information technology, facilities management, office management and project management functions. Alison is a solutions-oriented and mission-driven leader, with a diverse portfolio of experience and education in nonprofit executive and fiscal leadership. From an early age Alison was drawn to the impact of nonprofits and felt called to bring her business and relational skills to this work. In addition to the operational work of managing staff teams, accounting and audits, technology and websites, facilities, and HR, Alison has developed a strong ability to understand the stories financial reports tell and the strategic planning that can result when properly analyzed.
Alison has worked for a range of nonprofits in terms of mission and makeup, yet has a consistent record of improved fiscal and operational health with an emphasis on sustainability. She enjoys coaching, mentoring, and supporting staff development, and creating organizational structure, procedures, and systems. She is most proud of the relationships she builds through her work with staff, boards, and mission stakeholders.
Alison holds a J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School, and a B.S. in Finance from Iowa State University. She also holds an executive certificate in Nonprofit Financial Management. In addition to her professional work, Alison has held a variety of nonprofit volunteer roles, ranging from board service to patient advocacy.
At the age of 13, Alison was diagnosed with a rare cancer and underwent a year of complex treatment that pulled her out of school and away from the life she knew. The relationships she made and support she received from teachers, school administrators, tutors, and social workers helped her navigate that time, and contributed to who she is now. She is honored to join the Search Institute team and support such important work.
