Who We Are
Founder & CEO
Theresa Burns is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Affinity Leadership (IAL), where she leads with a vision to reimagine leadership pipelines and create spaces where underrepresented leaders can thrive.
With more than two decades of experience spanning classroom teaching, district leadership, and national edtech consulting, Theresa has built a career at the intersection of education, technology, and equity-driven innovation. She has guided large-scale technology adoptions, supported superintendents and school systems nationwide, and partnered with leading organizations to ensure tools and strategies drive meaningful outcomes.
Theresa’s work is anchored in the belief that representation matters, innovation matters, and courage matters—and that leadership must be cultivated with care, strategy, and community.
Beyond IAL, Theresa is a trusted advisor, keynote speaker, and connector of people and ideas. Her mission is clear: to empower the next generation of leaders and to build an ecosystem where they can sustain impact for years to come.
About Us
Our Values
At Institute of Affinity Leadership, we believe in the power of collaboration, creativity, and innovation. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates different perspectives and ideas.
Contact Us
Do you have a question or comment about Institute of Affinity Leadership? We'd love to hear from you. Get in touch with our team today and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.