Alison’s interests lie in the relationship between philanthropy and place. She is particularly interested in how philanthropic giving can shape more liveable and inclusive cities. Alison has experience in strategic communications and public affairs at the European and local level and has volunteered with various urban policy and development initiatives including serving on the Mayor of London’s Youth Professional Panel for Infrastructure. Most recently, Alison worked for a London-based startup offering a digital solution to facilitate place-based engagement and consultation. She is currently living in Chicago, where she is pursuing independent research. 

Alison holds bachelor’s degrees in political science and philosophy from Wellesley College and a master’s degree from the Bartlett School of Planning at University College London.