Make
Resilient Optimism Your
superpower
Become a Catalyst for Good,
Be an Agent for Change
Resilient Optimism
- [ ri-ˈzil-yənt ] adjective
- [ äp-tə-ˌmi-zəm ] noun
Turning setbacks into stepping stones with an unshakable belief in transforming possibilities into meaningful change. An art, a skill, a practice.
It’s time to change what you think is possible.
We’ve all had moments of being cynical. It’s human nature.
But after over 25 years of experience in criminal justice, I’ve seen what happens when a bad day changes the trajectory of someone’s career. I’ve witnessed firsthand how binging on fear and outrage can narrow your vision of what is possible for an organization and its people. And I’ve also seen what happens when professionals choose differently.
change
begins
with YOU
When we challenge what we think is possible and dare to believe in something better, change begins.
In my keynote talk, I show organizational leaders how to adopt and practice resilient optimism—the most powerful tool for breaking out of stuckness and into bold action. It’s not about blind positivity; it’s about learning how to shift your mindset, reframe setbacks, and take concrete steps toward meaningful, lasting change.
No matter your professional role or background, you can make meaningful, sustainable change for the better. For all of us.
All it takes is stepping into possibility. Let’s rethink what’s possible—together.
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Alex, you have impacted my life greatly in the past three years, and I am better for knowing you. The way that you simply carry yourself, exuding GENUINE care and compassion for those you cross paths with, speaks to the heart of who you are as a person and is a model to strive toward.
Rachel Miller
Statewide Evidence-Based Practices
Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Corrections -
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Alex’s personality is engaging, her energy level is high, and her enthusiasm is contagious. She conveys a large amount of information effectively and deals with questions with skill and tact. One of our veteran chiefs said, I’ve been in the business for 40 years and this is the best training I have ever attended
William D. Burrell
Corrections Management Consultant,
Burrell Consulting, LLC -
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I consider Alex a mentor. Her technical expertise is unmatched and she provides a unique and effective way of delivering critical information to improve correctional work environments.
Jessica Dennis
Superintendent Ohio Adult Parole Authority
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Dr. Walker is a talented speaker, trainer, facilitator, coach, and mentor. She will inspire you & your team to discover new insights & grow in meaningful ways. You will look back at your decision to work with Dr. Walker as one of the best decisions you have made in your own professional development & that of your team.
Amanda Milligan
District Director Second District Iowa
Department of Corrections -
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Dr. Alexandra Walker’s training and coaching approach hinges on perfectly balanced energy, empathy, curiosity and humor as she validates experiences while introducing new strategies. She effectively models the skills she presents in a genuine way that highlights the reality that with commitment, improvement is possible. Her support extends well beyond training/coaching sessions as she engages in a thoughtful and responsive way to inquires about content or requests for more information and resources. She is amazing!
Karley Jorgenson
Director of MRRA Planning & Implementation, Minnesota Department of Corrections
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Anyone who is interested in mending the rift between innovative ideas and practical application can learn from Alex. She’s a true pioneer in empowering leaders to support their staff in bringing strategic initiatives to life.
Nicholas Powell
Director of Strategic Planning & Analysis, Georgia
Department of Community Supervision -
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Not only have you helped me continue to grow as a leader, but you have personally helped me through a rough patch in my career. I truly appreciate you taking the time out of your already busy schedule to meet with me and help me see alternative perspectives to the situation. Although it was not easy for me, you forced me to stop and consider the different views which has allowed me to learn and utilize this approach in my current leadership role.
Jason Perez
Supervisor, Ohio Department of Corrections,
Adult Parole Authority
alexandra
walker
Meet Dr. Alex
My career journey through the criminal justice system has been anything but easy, but it’s been guided by a deep belief in resilience and the power of transformation. From interning in restrictive housing at Rikers Island to serving as a member and vice chair of the Colorado Board of Parole, I’ve witnessed both the weight of judgment and the triumph of individuals overcoming adversity.
Today, as a speaker, author, and co-founder of the Alliance
for Community and Justice Innovation (ACJI), I’m committed to helping organization leaders and changemakers break through stuckness and redefine what’s possible.
Uplifting Conversations,
stories of hope
- Keynotes
- Motivational Talks
- Facilitation
impact
in action
Work with Dr. Alex
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Keynote Speaker
Remember Why You Started
I speak to organizational leaders in education, healthcare, government, and other large systems hungry to re-discover their motivation and passion to create change.
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Author
Resilient Optimism As a Superpower
Is it naiveté or hope? Is it futile or the only way to make the world a better place? Find your superpower. Get on the pre-order list for Dr. Alex’s forthcoming book in 2026.
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Co-Founder of ACJI
Criminal Legal System Innovation
At the Alliance for Community and Justice Innovation (ACJI), my partners and I show justice-oriented leaders how to create meaningful reform and tangible system alignment.
Embrace Setbacks. Become a Changemaker.
Book Dr. Alex to speak at your conference or event. Join her mission to inspire resilient optimism and bridge divides for organizational leaders who want to spark change.