Allison Billings

Why I work at Impact on Education:
When I returned to Colorado in 2016, I was astonished to learn how under-resourced our public schools are. I was also shocked by the racism that I observed, specifically towards immigrant families who were learning English. When I was presented with an opportunity to make change that would bring more resources to all students and specifically help level the playing field for those who most need additional support, I was hooked. 

What makes me smile:
Sunny days on the ski slopes, soft serve ice cream, hikes with friends, and a clean house.

Favorite teacher:
John Calimano was a Vietnam War veteran and my high school civics teacher, but he was much more than a teacher to me. Cal taught us all to research diligently, think critically, speak persuasively and dream big. A mentor to me for decades after I left his classroom, Cal was a father figure who loved his students fiercely, believed in our potential and molded many of the students he taught into activists and leaders who, decades later, continue to stand up for what they believe.

More about me:
I fell in love with the Rocky Mountains at age 12 on a family vacation to Colorado. I moved to Denver in 2001 and lived here until 2008, but left for 8 years, returning to Boulder in 2016. I live with my husband who is a professor at CU, our twin daughters, a dog named Waffle and a cat named Milkshake. When I’m not at work or handling mom duties, you can find me on the ski slopes or hiking trails. I love board games, trivia nights, neighborhood walks, and I always welcome suggestions for books to read, places to travel and hidden restaurants to try. 

Ask me about:
International travel, how to make good guacamole, and moving across the country with twin infants and a 13 year old dog (not recommended).