Dr. Ann Nielsen

Senior Specialist, Educator Pipeline

anielson@niet.org

Dr. Ann Nielsen is an accomplished educator and scholar committed to advancing educational excellence and promoting student success. With an expansive career trajectory, Dr. Nielsen's professional contributions reflect her dedication to educational improvement. She previously served as the Director of the Office of Global Engagement in the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University. In this capacity, she led global educational initiatives and projects, embodying her commitment to educational knowledge dissemination, publishing on topics such as climate literacy, teacher professionalism, and educational workforce transformation.

Prior to her work in international education, Dr. Nielsen served as the TAP Director in the Arizona Ready for Rigor Grant. During her time as TAP Director, she oversaw the implementation of the TAP System in 59 schools across the state of Arizona. As TAP Director, Dr. Nielsen also held the pivotal role of product owner of the Arizona Ready for Rigor’s Data Dashboard and was project lead for the innovative Re Ma Reflection Journal App. These visionary efforts integrated educational technology and real time student data to strategically impact teaching and learning for all students.

Her expertise in education extends to grant writing, program development and evaluation, having secured substantial grants and managed initiatives aimed at enhancing teaching practices globally. Dr. Nielsen's accomplishments have earned her numerous awards and leadership roles, underscoring her influential presence within educational circles. She remains deeply committed to advancing education's transformative potential, fostering sustainable development, and promoting the growth of educators and learners worldwide.

Dr. Ann  Nielsen

Why are you passionate about working at NIET?

I am passionate about working at NIET because of the positive impact the organization has had (and continues to have!) on educator development through teacher leadership. I have always admired NIET’s interest in working collaboratively with educators, from within the field to improve the profession. I look forward to elevating and connecting educators across the country in our virtual learning platforms.

What do you do in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy my family! I love gardening with my husband of 27 years, caring for our two dogs (Ozzie and Fritz), cheering on my son who is a collegiate swimmer at West Virginia University and loving on my new grandson! I also enjoy yoga and master’s swimming and look forward to doing some open water swims soon!

What was your favorite subject in school and why?

My favorite subjects in school were creative writing, art and PE! I loved to write stories, be creative and play sports!