News

Alumni Spotlight with Nancy Dalton


Mandisa Thomas
September 8, 2023
Alumni Stories

In her current role, Nancy Dalton, SHRM-SCP, leads products and leading products and services for under-served customer segments. She also serves as a Food Research & Action Center board member.

Nancy discusses her current role

I currently lead Community Experience and Customer Marketing for Amazon Access. Amazon Access develops programs and services that expand access and equity and lower the cost of convenience. Our core programs include the ability to purchase groceries online with SNAP EBT and Prime Access, which provides qualifying government assistance recipients with all of the benefits of a Prime membership at 50% of the cost. I am passionate about this work as our programs help improve the quality of life in underserved communities. This is personal as I grew up on food stamps, now known as SNAP. My Mom had to take several buses to get to the grocery store – only to face discrimination when using food stamps for payment. Ordering groceries in the comfort of her home would have increased dignity in her shopping experience and saved time. Part of my role is working with community-based organizations focused on Hunger relief and other wrap-around services to expand their reach and impact. It is amazing to use the scale of Amazon to support the community’s needs.

Reflecting on her favorite course in the program

My favorite lesson occurred during our Community and Collaboration course. We were introduced to the concept of Asset Framing, which views people and communities through their assets and aspirations versus through a lens of challenge or deficit. This had a profound effect on me and has changed the way I approach my work. I now focus more on employing design justice principles and proactively seek ways to co-create solutions with community partners. It has broadened my perspective and served as a springboard for learning and discovery.

Her advice do you have for future applicants

I would tell future applicants they can excel in this program while navigating a demanding career and personal life. It is designed to fit into your schedule and offers practical tools that you can use to enhance your work delivery. The faculty is exceptional and always available to help you along your journey. My advice to future students is to embrace the opportunity to learn with and from your classmates. I found the Convening on-campus and weekly discussions invaluable. This program enables you to connect with change-makers from across the globe, who all have a passion for social good. They have inspired me with their stories, challenged my mental models, and embraced my ideas. I have grown as a leader and social innovator through this experience.

Thank you, Nancy! Follow our page to hear from more brilliant Changemakers. Looking to learn more about our Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy(SIS)? Sign up for our information sessions or watch previous recordings from last year.

SIS graduates are eligible to apply to the Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership (NPL) in an accelerated, on-campus, or online format. The NPL program is a ten-credit master’s program; SIS Alumni must complete six credits to graduate.

Applications for the 2024 Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy are now live! Follow our page for more important information.