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CAEL Pathways Blog

Q&A With CAEL Staff: Elizabeth Warner

by CAEL on Mar 21, 2025

As senior director of event operations, Elizabeth Warner, CMP, oversees CAEL's diverse suite of professional development offerings and other events. Warner, who joined CAEL as a higher education intern in 2009, holds a B.A. in English literature from DePaul University and received a certified meeting professional (CMP) credential from the Events Industry Council. 

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What's your favorite example of CAELs impact?
As CAEL's senior director of event operations, one of my favorite reflections of CAEL's impact is to observe the connections made at our annual conference between worforce developers and postsecondary organizations. It feels great to see our community reenergize and make the connections that can lead to positive gains for adult learners in the communities our members represent.

What drew you to CAEL?
CAEL's commitment to the power of education and the ripple effects that a family and broader community might feel when an adult learner is able to complete their college degree and advance to a higher-paying and more fulfilling career.

If there's one piece of advice you could give adult learners and one piece of advice you could give to institutions/organizations committed to better serving them, what would it be?

I'd advise adult learners to know their "why," and refer to that as a touchpoint throughout their experience as challenges arise. I'd also suggest that adult learners speak to an academic advisor early in the process to make sure that the program they are looking at feels like a good fit for them. Also, don't forget to look at CAEL's CPL Provider Network, and our member list to ensure that the program you are looking at is adult learner friendly. As for those committed to serving adult learners, my advice is to keep learning. Train more advocates at your organization in adult learner friendly practices, become a member of CAEL, be active in the community, and learn from others about how to build strong partnerships between yourself and regional employers. 

What gives you the most hope about the future of the adult learner ecosystem?
Strengthening the adult learner ecosystem is a net good for all entities involved. Relevant education created skilled workers who are ready for the future of work. Adult learners are resilient and motivated, and when organizations are in their corner, the ripple effects benefit communities and families. Children with parents who hold a college degree are more likely to pursue one themselves. The fact that a thriving ecosystem means gains for all participants gives me hope.
 

What is the last book/movie you read/watched?
I've got young kids, so the last book I read was If I were a Whale. My 2-year-old loves it!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy going on adventures with my husband, daughter (5) and son (2). It is so fun to introduce them to new experiences!
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