Earlene Avalon – A Life Interwoven with Compassion and Leadership
A Personal Journey Rooted in Advocacy
Earlene Avalon’s journey began in Dorchester, Massachusetts, during her senior year at Dorchester High School in 1992, when an immediate family member was diagnosed with cancer. This life-altering moment transformed Avalon into a staunch advocate, not just for her family member but for her community. She navigated the complexities of medical forms, administrative processes, and care resources for her loved one with such success that other family members, friends and neighbors began seeking her help on how to access better healthcare. And she helped many of them get the care they needed.
Her experience with advocacy, particularly in underserved communities, fundamentally shaped her career aspirations. Despite earning a full scholarship to the University of Virginia, Avalon returned home after one semester to support her family. Over the next year, she worked various jobs to help pay bills while her family member underwent medical treatment.
When her family member’s health improved, Avalon transferred to Mount Ida College and eventually to Suffolk University, where she graduated with a degree in chemistry and secondary education. Her academic journey was anything but linear—spanning six years and marked by persistence and resilience.
“For me, being part of a team that supports the health and wellbeing of others is truly one of the most important things anyone can do.”
-Earlene Avalon
Professional Beginnings in Healthcare
As a first-generation college graduate, Avalon’s drive to help others inspired her to continue her education. She pursued a master’s degree in public health at Tufts University School of Medicine, while simultaneously working in the healthcare sector. Her roles ranged from lab technician, to telephone operator in a large medical practice, and even in the field of tissue/organ donation, where she surgically removed tissue and organs to help transform devastating loss into hope and lifesaving treatment for others — an intimidating but meaningful job that deepened her commitment to healthcare, advocacy and education.
During this period, she also worked at Shriners Burn Hospital in the reconstructive unit, providing administrative support on the unit for children undergoing reconstructive surgery. Witnessing the vulnerability of her young patients, Avalon’s empathy and compassion were amplified.
Balancing Work, Family, and Education
Avalon took a decade-long pause from formal education to focus on her growing family and career. During this time, she worked full-time in public health, bought a house, and raised her two children. Her drive to help others, however, remained undiminished. When her children were 3 and 4 years of age, she returned to academia, eventually earning her doctorate in health professions education from Simmons College in 2009.
The experience of balancing work, education, and family informs Avalon’s approach to leadership today. “While many of my family members or friends could not understand some of the challenges I endured during this time, they were patient and understanding and offered much needed support”. My personal experiences have definitely shaped the leader and educator I am today.”, she said.
A Career in Workforce Development
Avalon’s career in workforce development began in earnest at Massasoit and Bunker Hill Community Colleges, where she created academic and professional development programming to support first-generation, low-income, and disabled students. Later on, she was the Assistant Dean of Health Professions, where she oversaw degree and certificate programs in the allied health fields. Her work in these roles laid the groundwork for her enduring commitment to equity and access in education.
In 2006, Avalon joined the Boston Public Schools’ Health Careers Academy (now the Edward M. Kennedy Academy for Health Careers) as a student development officer. Health Careers Academy was once located on the Boston campus of Northeastern University. There, she facilitated experiential learning opportunities and partnerships, further honing her expertise in student support services and workforce development opportunities designed for high school students.
After earning her doctorate, Avalon transitioned to Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH), where she led workforce development initiatives for over a decade. At BCH, she helped entry-level workers, such as technicians and administrative staff, transition into clinical professions. “This job exposed me to the longstanding challenges people often face trying to access the higher education system,” she explains. Avalon’s efforts transformed lives, enabling workers to achieve personal and professional milestones, such as becoming nurses, buying homes, and supporting their families.
Returning to Northeastern and the Lowell Institute School
Avalon joined Northeastern University as an adjunct instructor while working at BCH, eventually transitioning to a full-time leadership role at the College of Professional Studies. Today, she serves as a faculty Program Lead and is the Director of the Lowell Institute School, which provides bachelor’s degree completion programs in science, technology, and engineering for students with two years of college credit or an associate degree.
The Lowell Institute School, founded in 1903, was initially designed to educate industrial foremen. Over a century later, it continues to address workforce needs, now focusing on STEM fields critical to the modern economy.
In her dual roles, Avalon also oversees the Healthcare Administration, Health Science, and Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical programs. These programs cater to diverse student populations, including working adults and those seeking to transition into healthcare or advance their careers.
Mentorship and Community Building
Avalon’s leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in mentorship and community engagement. “I can closely identify with our students coming through CPS,” she says, reflecting on her own experiences as a first-generation college graduate. She frequently meets with students for informal check-ins, offering guidance and connecting them with resources such as tutoring and career development services.
Under her leadership, the Lowell Institute School emphasizes creating professional networks, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing structural barriers to education. “Mentorship can have a tremendous impact on one’s future career plans,” Avalon notes. She is committed to embedding mentorship opportunities into LIS programs, ensuring students feel supported throughout their academic and professional journeys.
A Vision for the Future
Avalon’s goals for LIS extend beyond academic success. She is focused on increasing community engagement, fostering alumni networks, and creating platforms for mentorship and professional development. By building a strong talent pipeline in the Greater Boston area, LIS contributes to regional workforce and economic development.
Avalon’s passion for multidisciplinary collaboration is also evident. She encourages students to engage with diverse disciplines, recognizing that cross-pollination of ideas can lead to innovative solutions.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Leadership
Throughout her career, Earlene Avalon has remained steadfast in her commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and education. From her early days navigating healthcare for her family member to her current role leading the Lowell Institute School, she has consistently worked to break barriers and create opportunities for underserved populations.
Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and leadership. As Avalon continues to guide LIS students and programs, her vision of empowering the next generation of STEM and healthcare leaders remains as strong as ever.
