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Sally Reasoner
People + Culture Strategic Projects Lead at The Heritage Group
Professional Background
Sally Reasoner is a dynamic leader in workforce development and talent identification who currently serves as the Vice President of Talent Identification at Ascend Indiana. Her role at Ascend Indiana—a prominent non-profit organization aimed at enhancing Indiana’s workforce and economy—positions her at the forefront of connecting individuals with invaluable internship and job opportunities. Guided by her commitment to fostering economic growth and improving talent pipelines, Sally is pivotal in linking students with scalable and rewarding career paths through the innovative Ascend Network platform. Her ability to cultivate meaningful connections between students, faculty, and administrative staff across 14 institutions of higher learning in Indiana is a testament to her dedication to building a robust workforce.
Sally's extensive experience includes high-level positions that showcase her expertise in talent initiatives and strategic project leadership. Prior to her time at Ascend Indiana, she held several influential roles at TechPoint, Indiana’s leading technology industry organization. As the Director of Talent Initiatives and IndyX Initiative Lead, Sally was instrumental in promoting talent development initiatives that aligned with the state’s technology sector needs. Her strategic vision and collaborative approach have significantly impacted the recruitment and retention of talent within Indiana's robust technology ecosystem.
In her journey, Sally has also completed the illustrious Orr Fellowship, which provided her with the opportunity to immerse herself in the entrepreneurial culture of Indiana. Sally’s previous role as an Internal Operations Associate at FinishMaster further enhanced her operational acumen, which she continues to leverage in her current responsibilities.
Education and Achievements
Sally Reasoner's academic foundation is grounded in a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from DePauw University, an institution known for its commitment to liberal arts education and developing critical thinking skills. Her studies not only equipped her with a thorough understanding of political and social dynamics but also instilled in her the values of leadership and service that she embodies today.
In addition to her formal education, Sally has garnered a wealth of experience through various roles that emphasize her capabilities in leadership, operations, and talent management. She has successfully led projects and initiatives that engage diverse stakeholders, from educational institutions to government entities, showcasing her versatility and adaptability in changing environments.
Sally has also been a strong advocate for kinship and sisterhood as the former President of the Iota Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma, where she fostered leadership and community engagement among her peers. Her practical contributions extended to being a Partnership Development Intern at the U.S. Department of Education and a Governmental Affairs Intern at the Ohio Historical Society, where she gained insights into policy-making and governance.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Sally Reasoner has achieved numerous milestones that reflect her commitment to talent development and workforce enhancement. Some highlights of her achievements include leading initiatives that resulted in the creation of new talent pipelines, enhancing diversity and inclusion within Indiana’s job markets, and developing strong collaborations that bridge the gap between academic institutions and industry needs.
Her role in developing the Ascend Network is particularly noteworthy, as this online platform serves as a critical resource for students seeking employment opportunities in their field of study. The platform not only promotes internships and job placements but also fosters a sense of community among students, thereby enhancing their personal and professional growth.
Sally’s contributions have not gone unnoticed; she has earned recognition among her peers for her innovative approaches to aligning education with industry demands. Her passion for strengthening Indiana's economy through robust talent identification and development strategies continues to position her as a leader in the field.
In summary, Sally Reasoner is a dedicated professional with a profound impact on workforce development in Indiana. With her extensive background in political science, her strategic leadership roles, and her commitment to fostering connections among students and job opportunities, Sally is continuously making significant strides to enhance the employment landscape in Indiana.