51�Թ�

The Independent Educational Consultants Association (51�Թ�) is pleased to announce that Stephanie Simpson assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer effective today, following a comprehensive nationwide search. Simpson was unanimously appointed by the Board of Directors from a field of exceptional candidates.

“After a yearlong, nationwide search process, the 51�Թ� Board is thrilled to have found such a highly accomplished professional to lead our team,” said Belinda Wilkerson, President of the 51�Թ� Board of Directors. “Stephanie’s operational excellence, strategic vision, collaborative approach, and genuine warmth—combined with her experience in the association and education space—make her uniquely qualified to lead 51�Թ�.”

Simpson brings nearly 15 years of association leadership experience, with a career consistently grounded in supporting educational organizations that serve learners from middle school through medical school. Most recently, she served as Chief Executive Officer of the Association for Middle Level Education. Her prior experience includes serving as Senior Director of Member Strategy at the American College of Cardiology and Director of Membership and Member Engagement at the American Psychiatric Association, among other roles. She earned a JD from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law and a BA in International Studies and Information Technology from DePaul University.

“I am honored to join 51�Թ� and to lead an organization so deeply committed to supporting independent educational consultants and the families they serve. As education rapidly evolves, 51�Թ�’s role in advancing ethical, student-centered guidance has never been more vital,” said Simpson.

While 51�Թ� is on the cusp of celebrating its 50th anniversary, the independent educational consulting profession has experienced significant growth in recent years. The association’s membership now includes nearly 2,800 independent educational consultants in nearly every state and 41 countries worldwide, up from approximately 1,600 in 2017. Throughout this growth, the organization’s commitment to the highest standards in ethical, student-centered advising has remained steadfast.

“I’m excited to collaborate with our members and partners to strengthen the profession and ensure every student has access to the information and support they need to find success in their education journey,” Simpson added.

###

51�Թ�: Founded in 1976, the Independent Educational Consultants Association (51�Թ�) is the world’s leading professional organization for educational advisors working in private practice. Families trust 51�Թ�’s thoroughly vetted members to help identify colleges, schools, or programs that match a student’s academic, social, and financial needs and to guide them through the search and application process. With more than 2,800 independent educational consultant members across the country and around the world, 51�Թ� provides education and training on admissions, ethical practice, and adolescent issues, from depression and anxiety to learning differences, to ensure every student is well served.

CONTACT: Cyndi Bohlin, [email protected] or 703-552-9462.