From the first day as a freshman at South Dakota State University, Dr. Josie Ahlquist was hooked on campus life. She fell in love with the transformative possibilities of higher education and has been immersed in the academic environment ever since. Early in her career, when social media was a brand new force that intimidated some, Ahlquist found it fascinating and turned it into her passion and platform.

After 12 years of working on college campuses, Ahlquist began her doctorate at California Lutheran University. As graduation day neared, she decided to take a big leap. Instead of returning to campus work, she ventured out as an independent speaker, consultant, and author on digital engagement and leadership.

She is honored to have spoken with thousands of young adults, educational professionals, organizations, and executives on how to humanize technology, post with purpose, and prioritize building engaging online communities. Ahlquist has addressed in-person and virtual audiences ranging from 30 to over 3,000 worldwide, including at the NASPA Women’s Leadership Institute, NYU Abu Dhabi, and hundreds more.

One week before the COVID-19 pandemic stay-at-home orders were announced in the US, she submitted the final draft of her first solo book with Stylus Publishing: Digital Leadership in Higher Education: Purposeful Social Media in a Connected World. Upon its release in September 2020, the book was listed as an Amazon #1 new release for college and university student life.

Her work is also featured in the Handbook of Student Affairs Administration, The Journal of Leadership Studies, Contested Issues in Student Affairs, and more. She has been highlighted in Inside Higher Education and The Chronicle of Higher Education, and LinkedIn recognized her as a Top Voice in Education.

A true nerd at heart, Ahlquist continues to conduct grant-funded and award-winning research. She collaborates with Florida State University’s Leadership Learning Research Center, conducting research, creating curriculum, and teaching graduate and doctoral level courses.

Stay updated on digital leadership with her podcast, Josie and the Podcast, and follow her blog, which was named to the “Top 50 Must-Read Higher Education Technology Blogs” by EdTech from 2014-2021.

When not busy speaking, consulting, or conducting research, Ahlquist enjoys spending time with her rescue dogs, nieces and nephew, or exploring North America in her RV, Lady Hawk. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to stay up-to-date on her latest adventures!

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