Tania Lyon

About Tania Lyon

I’m a strategic leader designing scalable systems that expand access, connect people, and strengthen meaningful outcomes. As Director of Strategic Development at the nonprofit Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC), I lead initiatives bringing live virtual learning—including engaging live virtual field trips—to K–12 schools, senior living communities, and public networks. My work builds sustainable models connecting learners with cultural institutions—while honoring the human moments that give learning its power. I lead with long-term vision, collaborative execution, and the belief that systems work best when they honor human stories. My work blends strategy with care: • Leading with clarity, reflection, and a belief in the dignity of every learner • Designing systems and solutions for live, human-centered learning across sectors • Supporting K–12 educators with scalable programs that are easy to integrate and deliver real-time learning • Partnering with senior living teams to bring meaningful learning and fulfilling connection into daily life • Creating intergenerational programs that build bridges and invite new ways of learning together I’ve led initiatives in district, nonprofit, and national contexts—with a focus on learning design, professional development, partnerships, online learning systems, and systems-level change. Career highlights include: • Midwest Sales Executive with Art of Problem Solving • Talent Development & Academic Standards Coordinator, Mankato Area Public Schools • Led and co-led cross-functional teams advancing scalable learning systems, virtual programming, and MTSS-aligned supports • Created and scaled online learning systems as a teacher, district leader, and entrepreneur—expanding access to real-time, interactive learning in K–12 and broader education • Led design of MTSS systems to challenge and support advanced learners—contributing to state and national leadership • Educator Representative for Minnesota Department of Education (State ELA Standards Revision Team, Grant Review Teams, & Gifted Education Advisory Committee) • Past President and Executive Board Member, Minnesota Educators of the Gifted and Talented • National awardee and leadership contributor with the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) • English teacher and instructional leader rooted in voice, challenge, and equity I believe the future of learning lies in systems that scale with heart. If you’re working at the intersection of education, aging, or innovation—I’d welcome the opportunity to connect.

Experience

1. Director of Strategic Development

   Center For Interactive Learning And Collaboration Cilc

   Dec 2024 — Present

   Lead strategic initiatives to design and implement scalable systems that expand access to live virtual learning, connecting learners with world-class cultural institutions and experts• Build and sustain cross-sector partnerships that foster meaningful, human-centered educational experiences• Collaborate with my team on grant and foundation funding applications• Lead delivery of interactive programs and provide implementation support for educators and care teams• Champion opportunity, accessibility, and innovation in virtual learning across diverse audiences, geographies, and age groups

Education

• Minnesota State University, Mankato

  K-12 Principal License

• Augsburg College

  Bachelor’s Degree

  1986 — 1990

• University of St. Thomas

  Gifted, Creative, and Talented Certificate

  2015 — 2016

• University of St. Thomas

  Master’s Degree

  1994 — 1996

• University of St. Thomas

  Twice Exceptional and Underserved Learners Gifted, Creative, and Talented Certificate

  2015 — 2017

• University of St. Thomas

  Doctor of Education - EdD

  2003 — 2009